At OrthoArkansas, we believe admiration isn’t earned by titles. It’s earned by trust. It’s earned by the moments we stand with you through injury, treatment, surgery, and recovery. We’re proud to be named one of Arkansas’ Most Admired Companies in 2025. But what truly matters is the trust you place in us for your orthopedic care.
From your first visit to your final follow-up, every member of our team has one goal: to restore your movement, dignity, and quality of life. Whether it’s helping a high school athlete back onto the field or a grandfather back onto the golf course, your goals become our goals.
And while we’re honored by the recognition, the real admiration belongs to you: For your resilience. Your grit. And your determination to return to doing what you love.
Play and Stay
We’re proud to be named one of Arkansas Money & Politics’ Most Admired Companies. From world-class gaming and luxurious accommodations to indulgent spa treatments and exceptional dining, every experience is designed with you in mind.
Thank you, Arkansas, for making Oaklawn your destination for entertainment, relaxation and celebration.
WHAT WE DO
Everbranch invests in real estate and in businesses that enhance connectivity with the outdoors, led by people of exceptional character. We o er more than capital: we mentor, support, and connect operators within a growing ecosystem of mission-aligned companies. Together, we preserve heritage and build lasting value.
EVERBRANCHGROUP .COM
FEATURES JUNE 2025
ADAPT OR DIE
The RPM Group, celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, doggedly hung on during the COVID-19 pandemic and emerged as one of Arkansas’ top real estate firms.
TAKING ROOT
Driftwood Farms has become a staple in the local microgreen industry, and owners Kristen and Brian Gardner’s journey has been one of resilience.
It is easy to drive past shops and offices and take them for granted, but commercial real estate is important to most every city.
The real estate market is famously fickle, marked by ever-fluctuating interest rates and a constant tugof-war from a buyer’s market to a seller’s market.
Title services are one of the more significant aspects of the homebuying process, but they are also increasingly targeted by criminals.
EverBranch puts its investment money where its environmental mouth is when it comes to developing a portfolio.
Founded by physicians in 1996, Highlands Oncology is one of the largest physician-owned cancer programs in the country.
It takes more than keen finance skills to achieve managing the more than $800 million in assets that are entrusted to Meridian Investment Advisors.
Dr. Suzanne Yee has been an active industry force who has spearheaded innovations in care and set standards for patient satisfaction.
Readers picked the businesses and companies they respect most — this year’s “2025 AMP Most Admired Companies” list.
Advisors say that life insurance is an important piece of investment strategy, but many Americans are missing out.
Insurance is just as important on the farm as it is in the skyrise, and crop insurance plays a vital role in America’s farming.
After trailing male counterparts for decades, the number of female insurance professionals has come on strong and changed some things.
Little Rock may still be searching for ways to fund much-needed sports venues, but metro communities outside the capital city are picking up the slack.
PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER
Heather Baker | hbaker@armoneyandpolitics.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Dwain Hebda | dwain@armoneyandpolitics.com
SENIOR EDITOR
Mark Carter | mcarter@armoneyandpolitics.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Mak Millard | mmillard@armoneyandpolitics.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Darlene Hebda | darlene@armoneyandpolitics.com
COPY EDITOR
Sarah DeClerk | sdeclerk@armoneyandpolitics.com
STAFF WRITERS
Doug Crise | dcrise@armoneyandpolitics.com
Alex Hardgrave | ahardgrave@armoneyandpolitics.com
TO ADVERTISE call 501-244-9700 email hbaker@ armoneyandpolitics.com
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CONTRIBUTORS
Justina Parker, Lori Sparkman, Brennan Abbey, Jason Burts, DeWaine Duncan, Tracy Matson, Ryan Parker, Randy Scott
ON THE COVER
Photographer Jason Burt photographed Karen and Kris Upton of the RPM Group on the roof of the Tower Building in downtown Little Rock. RPM celebrates its 70th anniversary this year. Thank you to Simmons Bank for their assistance in arranging this shoot.
The story starts on page 12.
FEEDBACK
STARTUP JUNKIE’S FUEL ACCELERATOR SETS THE STAGE FOR ECONOMIC IMPACT IN ARKANSAS
Fuel is a WIN, WIN, WIN! Proud Alum. Ryan D. Sheedy
2025 AMP DYNAMIC DUOS: GLENN AND AARON GRIMES
Impressive work!
Keith Pisarich Jr., M.S.
SIMMONS BANK TECH DAY HIGHLIGHTS GROWING IMPORTANCE OF AGENTIC AI
Congratulations Sherry Vesper & Ann O’Connor Madea - looks like it was another amazing event!
Angela Shortreed
MARLAR, SMITH RECEIVE PROMOTIONS AT SOUTHERN BANCORP
Privileged to work with them both!
Kara Stockwell
UA TEAM AWARDED $10M TO CREATE STATE CRISIS HUB
Congratulations! Your passion, commitment, and excellence, plus a great team, will create and extend a highlyconnected system that will benefit many Arkansans. Under-addressed mental health issues impact many lives. Bringing together an integrated platform can significantly reduce those impacts, improving the quality of life for scores of people. Good luck!
Mike Herston
WILDFLOWERS BOOSTING ARKANSAS’ ENVIRONMENT, ECONOMY Very interesting! Thanks!
Blair Hollender
ARKANSAS’ ELLIS RECEIVES NATIONAL SOFTBALL HONOR
Well-deserved Bri! So proud you’re a Hog!!
Natalie S.
TOP ONLINE ARTICLES
May 5 — May 30
1 Condition Critical: Dan Wright of Arkansas Farm Bureau Dishes on the State of Farming in Arkansas
2 Olivia and John Randal Tyson Named to Tyson Foods Board of Directors
3 Hear Again America Seeks to Show Arkansas What It Has Been Missing
4 Tyson Announces It is Phasing Out
5 The White Sands of Arkansas: Sheridan Operation’s Crushed Quartz Coming to a Golf Course, Pool or Ball Field Near You
6 FoxDen Capital Acquires U.S. Pizza Co., Plans for Brand’s Growth
7 Arkansas Secures $141M for Ebbing Air National Guard Base Expansion
8 Hot Springs Arena League Football Team Wiseguys Debuts May 31
9 Ivanka Trump To Speak at Heartland Summit in Bentonville
10 AKA Sorority Conference Brings Over 4,000 Attendees to Little Rock
Farmers & Merchants Bank and The Bank of Fayetteville recently announced the hiring of Kirby Jett as vice president, community development officer II.
Jessica Schroader has received the University of Arkansas HopeTexarkana’s award for outstanding faculty member.
The board of trustees at Philander Smith University in Little Rock recently announced that Maurice D. Gipson will take over as the university’s 15th president and CEO.
By Mark Carter
BOY, INTERRUPTED?
Writing recently in Christianity Today about “the male malaise,” freelance writer, Federal Reserve analyst and men’s ministry leader Domonic Purviance referenced an observation from anthropologist David Gilmore about how manhood is defined.
Gilmore wrote in Manhood in the Making that most cultures across the globe generally define manhood in rather simple terms — around the abilities to provide, protect and procreate.
That traditional outlook is on the decline in the wake of events that have dominated the early 21st century — a double-loop roller coaster that has turned many societal mores and cultural institutions on their heads and delivered sweeping social changes.
CNBC reported last fall that men in their prime working years — ages 25 to 54 — are dropping out of the workforce in greater numbers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated 6.8 million men in the U.S. were neither working nor looking for work.
Education, the report said, was a key indicator of a man’s work status. CNBC quoted Nicholas Eberstadt, economist at the American Enterprise Institute, who called a long-term decline in labor-force participation among able-bodied men “a tremendous worry for our society, our economy and, probably, our political system.”
College-educated men are less likely to leave the workforce, studies have found, and yet fewer young men are opting for college after high school graduation. (In Arkansas, the public and private sectors each have bent over backwards to make other paths, some of them quite lucrative, available to graduates.)
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
The June issue of Arkansas Money & Politics is not taking a summer break — more like a summer boost.
Longtime central Arkansas real-estate developer Kris Upton and his wife, Karen, adorn the cover this month as we focus on real estate. Upton’s RPM Group is celebrating 70 years in business in 2025. Our commercial real estate coverage includes input from such iconic Arkansas firms as Moses Tucker Partners, Cushman Wakefield | Sage Partners, Colliers | Arkansas, Kelley Commercial Partners and more.
On the residential side, we speak with firms such as The Janet Jones Co., ESQ. Realty Group and Lindsey & Associates about how the market has evolved since the COVID-19 pandemic, and Metro
Purviance wrote:
“The transition to a high-skill, service-oriented economy requiring greater training and education has particularly disadvantaged men — especially those who, in another time, would’ve earned a living through manual labor. The proportion of men dropping out of the labor force continues to rise, and many of those with jobs suffer stagnant wages. Meanwhile, the education gap between the sexes has widened, with women now earning the majority of college degrees each year.
“Sometimes when this issue is raised, there is an impulse to dismiss it: Why don’t men try harder? Or why don’t they simply get rid of their outdated view of manhood? That attitude is a mistake. The male instinct to provide is not just a social construct; it is fundamentally rooted in how males are wired.”
The longstanding argument to my wife that I am simply not wired to wash the dishes (or clean the bathrooms or go to baby showers, etc.) is indeed a social construct of my own making. Men as a whole, however, have struggled to find their place in this new social age, one that is still evolving. Living in the South, it is reassuring to still hear people answering with “yes, ma’ams” and “yes, sirs” and holding the door for ladies. (Not a bad idea to do so for anyone, really.)
But I’ve noticed such institutions fading among the younger generations.
Roles are evolving, for sure, but different segments of society are defining them in drastically dissimilar ways. It will be interesting to see where the cultural pendulum settles.
By Heather Baker
SUMMER BOOST
Disaster Specialists provides some insight about how homeowners can weather the storm.
Other packages in the June issue include insurance. We will look at the big picture for various components of the industry in the state, feature Dennis Bost’s State Farm agency and J.T. Ferstl of Ferstl Valuation Services, as well as highlight some of the top women in the field.
We also have features on Summerwood Sports’ expansion plans in Saline County and Driftwood Farms’ organic offerings, which can be found on menus throughout the Little Rock area.
And, of course, June is Most Admired Month at AMP. This month, we feature readers’ preferences for “Most Admired Companies” in a host of categories, from bank to roofer.
As always, thanks for reading. Hit me up with any comments or story ideas at hbaker@ armoneyandpolitics.com. Heather Baker
NAVIGATING YOUR HOMEOWNERSHIP JOURNEY
By Brennan Abbey
Purchasing, building or renovating a home is one of the most significant financial decisions consumers will make. Lenders understand the complexities of the process and are committed to helping their clients make informed decisions that align with their goals. Whether someone is a first-time homebuyer, planning to build a dream home or looking to renovate, here are some key insights to guide that journey.
With June being National Homeownership Month, Arvest Bank’s “Buy It. Build It. Boost It.” seminars bring together industry professionals to share tips for homeowners at each stage. Here, we will share some of the advice from mortgage lenders and real estate loan advisors.
BUYING A HOME: MAKING SMART MORTGAGE DECISIONS
Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but navigating the mortgage process can feel overwhelming. Here are a few essential factors to consider:
� Know the loan options: Arvest offers a variety of mortgage loans, including conventional, FHA, USDA and VA loans. Understanding these options can help prospective owners choose a loan that best fits their financial situations.
� Evaluate the total cost: Look beyond the interest rate. Consider factors such as loan terms, fees, and whether the loan will be serviced locally or sold to another lender. Keep in mind, the benefits of having a local bank are most clear after one experiences damage during a natural disaster or some other catastrophe where homeowners are typically able to start the recovery process a lot faster with their local representatives.
� Work with an experienced lender: A knowledgeable mortgage lender can provide guidance tailored to a borrower’s needs. Choose a bank that uses tools such as Mortgage Coach, like Arvest does, which helps compare loan options visually to help clients make the best long-term decision.
BUILDING A HOME: PLANNING FOR SUCCESS
When building a home from the ground up, it can be easy to get caught up in the fun design details, but the process requires careful planning and financial preparation. Here is how to set things up for success:
� Secure a construction loan: Unlike traditional mortgages, construction loans provide funds in stages as the building progresses. Understanding the draw schedule and inspection process is crucial to ensuring timely disbursements.
� Budget for the unexpected: Construction projects often come with unforeseen costs. Setting aside extra funds can prevent financial stress if changes or delays occur.
� Choose the right builder: A good builder is key to a smooth construction process. Have detailed conversations up front about expectations, timelines and potential challenges to minimize surprises.
‘BOOSTING’ A HOME: MAXIMIZING VALUE AND EFFICIENCY
Whether one is upgrading a current home or purchasing a fixer-upper, renovations can enhance both comfort and property value. Here are some tips for a successful renovation:
� Explore financing options: A home equity line of credit or a rehab loan can provide the necessary funds for remodeling projects. Understanding the appraisal process and how renovations impact the home’s value is essential.
� Prioritize high-impact upgrades: Investing in durable materials such as quartz countertops, laminate flooring and energy-efficient appliances can offer long-term benefits while keeping maintenance costs low.
� Plan for hidden costs: Older homes often reveal unexpected expenses once renovations begin. Working with experienced contractors and having a contingency budget can help homeowners manage surprises effectively.
Whether homeowners are buying, building or “boosting,” they can turn thier visions into reality by making informed choices and working with trusted professionals.
Brennan Abbey is consumer lending sales manager and senior vice president for Arvest Bank in Little Rock.
Brennan Abbey
SEVEN STRATEGIES FOR BROKERS IN A COMPETITIVE MARKET
By Tracy Matson
In today’s evolving healthcare landscape, brokers play a critical role in helping businesses navigate the complexities of employee benefits. However, with increasing competition and rising client expectations brokers must go beyond simply offering plans — they must also become trusted advisors.
Strong client relationships are the key to long-term success and in a competitive market, differentiation comes down to value, service and trust.
Here are seven strategies to help brokers build and maintain stronger client relationships in 2025 and beyond:
1. EMBRACE A CONSULTATIVE APPROACH
Brokers who act as strategic partners rather than transactional vendors will have a w edge. That means proactively assessing clients’ needs and providing tailored solutions. Instead of focusing solely on cost, highlight plan features that align with a company’s goals, such as wellness programs, telehealth options or value-based care initiatives. By positioning yourself as an extension of your client’s HR team, you become indispensable.
2. LEVERAGE DATA AND TECHNOLOGY
Employers want data-driven insights to make informed benefits decisions. Brokers who utilize analytics tools to track healthcare utilization, cost trends and employee engagement can provide more strategic recommendations. Digital platforms that offer real-time reporting, predictive modeling and AI-driven plan customization will set brokers apart from competitors. Clients will appreciate data-backed solutions that optimize both cost savings and employee satisfaction.
3.
PRIORITIZE COMMUNICATION AND EDUCATION
Clear, consistent communication fosters trust and helps clients feel confident in their benefits decisions. Regular touchpoints — whether through quarterly reviews, newsletters or educational webinars — keep clients informed of industry changes and new opportunities. Additionally, simplifying complex insurance jargon and providing decision-support tools ensures clients and their employees fully understand their coverage options.
4.
STAY AHEAD OF INDUSTRY CHANGES
Healthcare regulations, compliance requirements and carrier offerings are constantly shifting. Brokers who proactively update clients about legislative changes, new plan designs and emerging trends position themselves as knowledgeable, forward-thinking advisors. Being the first to bring solutions such as innovative cost-containment strategies or alternative funding options builds credibility and long-term loyalty.
5.
OFFER YEAR-ROUND SUPPORT
Client engagement shouldn’t end after open enrollment. Successful brokers provide ongoing support, assisting with claims resolution, employee education and plan adjustments throughout
the year. By maintaining a high level of service year-round, brokers reinforce their value and increase client retention.
6. DIFFERENTIATE THROUGH PERSONALIZATION
Every business has different benefits needs, and a one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it in today’s market. Personalizing plan recommendations, addressing specific workforce demographics and tailoring communication strategies make clients feel valued. Going the extra mile, whether by customizing benefits workshops or providing specialized compliance assistance, demonstrates a commitment to client success.
7. BUILD STRONGER CARRIER PARTNERSHIPS
Brokers who cultivate strong relationships with health insurance carriers can negotiate better plan options, pricing and service levels for their clients. Partnering with carriers that prioritize innovation and customer service ensures that clients receive the highest quality benefits solutions.
At QualChoice, we work closely with brokers to provide flexible, high-value plans that meet the needs of employers and employees alike.
In an increasingly competitive market, brokers who focus on building strong, trust-based client relationships will thrive. By taking a consultative approach, leveraging technology, prioritizing communication and staying ahead of industry changes, brokers can position themselves as invaluable partners.
By working with health insurance providers such as QualChoice, brokers can help businesses navigate the complexities of healthcare benefits with confidence and ease.
Tracy Matson is director of sales for QualChoice, the Arkansas-based health plan provider and a subsidiary of Centene Corp. in St. Louis.
Tracy Matson
Network Services Group Protects Against Cyberattacks
NO COMPANY IS IMMUNE TO ONLINE THREATS.
Hackers are constantly at work trying to wreak havoc on the efficiency and bottom lines of Arkansas businesses by stealing valuable data and, in some cases, extorting the companies financially.
“Both could contribute to a tarnished reputation,” Network Services Group CEO Ryan Flynn said. “The reputational risk could be more valuable to a business than the interruption or the financial loss.”
For peace of mind in a scary world, Network Services Group offers an array of services to protect business clients.
“NSG offers network cybersecurity protection tools following industry best practices to allow a business to focus on their core competencies and leave the network security concerns to NSG,” Flynn said.
The NSG team also knows it is important to educate companies about cybersecurity risks. NSG can provide monthly cybersecurity training videos with testing and phishing campaigns designed to reinforce the lessons. It also has a cybersecurity consulting division to help companies ensure compliance with various regulations such as HIPAA.
Beyond cybersecurity, NSG offers information technology, phone systems and cloud and artificial intelligence consulting, allowing the company to meet its clients’ every tech need.
Ryan Flynn, CEO
A PROVEN POWERHOUSE
Paschal Air, Plumbing & Electric expands world-class home services in Little Rock
In a bold move to deepen its footprint in central Arkansas, Paschal Air, Plumbing & Electric has opened its 10th location in Little Rock, marking a significant milestone for the Springdale-based company. Founded in 1968 by Randall Paschal, the firm has grown from a regional HVAC specialist into a powerhouse offering heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical services across Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas. The new Little Rock office launched in June positions Paschal to deliver faster, more responsive service to a growing customer base in the state’s capital.
“Establishing a physical presence in Little Rock allows us to be closer to our customers,” said Brian Wood, general manager of the Little Rock location. “It streamlines our operations — cutting down on delivery and parts procurement times — ensuring we can address customer needs with unmatched speed and efficiency.”
A One-Stop Solution for Home Services
Paschal’s expansion into Little Rock builds on its 2022 entry into central Arkansas through acquisitions in Searcy and Hot Springs. What sets Paschal apart is its unique
trifecta of services — HVAC, plumbing and electrical — all under one roof. The integrated approach simplifies the customer experience, offering a single point of contact for homeowners’ diverse needs.
“Most home service providers specialize in one or two areas,” said Jake Winchell, director of sales and marketing. “With Paschal, customers have one trusted number to call for any issue, whether it’s a furnace repair, a plumbing emergency or an electrical upgrade. It’s convenience redefined.”
The company’s commitment to excellence extends beyond service delivery. Paschal prioritizes flexible scheduling for both customers and technicians, ensuring seamless experiences.
“We’re not just a service provider; we’re a customer service organization,” said Charley Boyce, CEO. “Our focus is on building lasting
relationships with our customers and creating a workplace where our people thrive.”
Investing in People and Community Paschal’s growth is not just about expanding its footprint but about making a difference. The Little Rock office is projected to employ 15 to 25 staff in its first year with plans to scale to 30, 50 or even 100 employees as demand grows. With a workforce of approximately 350 across its locations, Paschal fosters a culture of recognition through its employee-of-the-month program honoring both technicians and support staff. As part of the initiative, the company donates to local nonprofits chosen by its employees, reinforcing its commitment to community impact.
Education and workforce development are also at the heart of Paschal’s mission. The company operates an in-house trade school and partners with Arkansas technical colleges and workforce organizations to nurture the next generation of skilled professionals.
“Collaborating with trade schools and local institutions is incredibly exciting,” Wood said. “It allows us to invest in Arkansas’workforce and build stronger communities.”
A Vision for Growth
Paschal’s Little Rock expansion taps into an existing customer base, including residents with second homes in Hot Springs, Heber Springs and northwest Arkansas.
“We’ve been serving Little Rock customers for years,” Winchell said. “Now, with a centralized location, we can better meet their needs at their primary residences while creating new job opportunities.”
Looking ahead, Boyce envisions continued growth into new markets.
“We’re building a world-class business with world-class people,” he said. “There are customers out there who deserve exceptional service, and we’re committed to delivering it in Arkansas and beyond.”
For Little Rock and the state of Arkansas, Paschal Air, Plumbing & Electric represents more than a service provider. It is a partner in progress, delivering innovative solutions and fostering economic growth. gopaschal.com
Chris Mangrum, central Arkansas service manager, from left, Brian Wood, Little Rock general manager, and Charley Boyce, CEO
Kris and Karen Upton
(Photo by Jason Burt)
FAITH IN THE FUTURE
By Doug Crise
After 70 years, RPM Group is still able to change with the times
TThere is a lot on Kris Upton’s plate.
As co-owner of iconic, Little Rock-based real estate firm RPM Group, Upton has 300 employees and nine business locations under his purview. At any given moment, Upton’s focus swings from commercial properties to residential property management and from investment opportunities to residential sales.
He has been at RPM since 2003 and has ascended through the company to the point where, as co-owner of the firm with his wife, Karen, lifelong security is his if he wants it. Running the show has proven invigorating for Upton simply because he enjoys showing up for work, and at RPM, he is not alone in that feeling.
“One thing I’ve learned in various leadership roles is the importance of continually enriching our culture,” Upton said. “It’s not just a concept we reference — it’s a living part of our organization. We treat culture as a stakeholder at every decision table. That perspective shapes how we
build teams, make operational decisions and, ultimately, how we serve our clients.”
Just like with everyone in the real estate world, that culture was tested severely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Few then were interested in acquiring or developing properties, whether residential or commercial. RPM, celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, doggedly hung on and emerged as one of Arkansas’ top real estate firms. Upton, in the process, emerged with strong feelings about how workplace culture can keep an enterprise intact during moments of crisis.
“We don’t just train for procedures; we build a culture of ownership and responsiveness,” Upton said. “That’s how we scale without losing the high-touch service our clients and tenants expect.”
Part of that culture means a constant state of reevaluating how business is done. Consumers are changing, marketing is changing, and technology is changing. All that upheaval presents challenges for a large company. An organization of more than 300 cannot turn on a dime. For Upton, it comes down to finding people with an eagerness to work on a shifting landscape.
“Over the past several years, we have seen major shifts in the residential real estate landscape, most notably driven by
advancements in technology and consumer expectations,” Upton said. “The availability of realtime market data and the elevated quality of social meda marketing have changed how buyers and sellers engage with the process.”
Like so many other industries, the real estate profession is still figuring out how to make artificial intelligence fit into its established operations. Upton recognizes AI as a tool, but with that tool comes vast amounts of data that needs to be interpreted and explained to stakeholders and customers. That is why real estate agents at RPM are more than just salespeople; they are first-class data interpreters, as well.
“Artificial intelligence has only accelerated these changes,” Upton said. “It streamlines access to information but also increases the importance of expert interpretation. As consumers gain greater visibility into listings and market trends, the role of a seasoned real estate agent becomes even more critical. Our value lies in translating raw data into informed decisions, positioning clients with an edge and first-move advantage in a competitive environment.”
“Over the past several years, we have seen major shifts in the residential real estate landscape, most notably driven by advancements in technology and consumer expectations.”
— Kris Upton, RPM Group
Upton wants his agents armed with as much data as possible, but numbers alone are not why RPM has experienced tremendous growth. At the end of the day, real estate has been and always will be a people business, and a good old-fashioned personal touch never goes out of style.
“Recent data shows that agent-led transactions have yielded stronger outcomes for both buyers and sellers, particularly when it comes to negotiating and closing transactions,” Upton said. “Top-performing agents have always known that relationships drive results. Prospecting and personalized client service are irreplaceable. Marketing and promotion, while essential, must support and not replace that human connection.”
New technology and the reams of data that come with it are not the only changes RPM is
facing. The market itself is in a constant state of flux. Buying a home is inarguably more difficult than it was a generation ago, and soaring interest rates in the housing market have not helped. The flipside is that interest in renting has grown and has emerged as both a short-and long-term solution.
RPM has been able to pivot to both sides.
“In terms of renting versus buying, we’ve seen a growing divide shaped by interest rate volatility, housing affordability and lifestyle flexibility,” Upton said. “While many buyers remain eager to purchase, rising mortgage costs and limited inventory have kept some on the sidelines, opting instead for rentals that offer short-term security and less financial commitment.”
RPM has met the surging interest in renting with more than 1,000 apartment units and single family homes, all with an array of maintenance services available to tenants. Whereas renters are seldom a priority for most diversified real estate firms, RPM prides itself on providing renters with the same white-glove
RPM properties include a historic house in downtown Little Rock converted into offices (opposite), an office building in west Little Rock (top) and storage units in south Little Rock.
(Photos provided)
treatment as those looking to purchase. Due to changes in the economy, the marketplace for rentals has boomed, and RPM has met the demand with expert service and manpower.
“Renting has become more competitive, especially in desirable neighborhoods, driving up demand for well-managed properties,” Upton said. “This shift underscores how important it is for agents to guide clients not just toward a transaction but toward the right decision for long-term goals— whether that means finding the right rental now or preparing to buy when timing aligns.”
Upton said “real estate has always rewarded well-timed action.” That means covering all the bases. With a biggerthan-ever roster of agents, brokers and managers, RPM is
poised to remain among the state’s best when it comes to real estate.
It will not be due to luck.
“Growth is only sustainable if it’s anchored in service,” Upton said. “That’s been a foundational belief at RPM Group for 70 years, and it’s even more relevant today. We’ve structured our company to empower local decision-making. Whether it’s an agent helping a first-time buyer or a commercial property manager assisting a long-term tenant, we believe the best service happens when people on the ground are trusted to act quickly and personally.”
RETAIL
BUILDING BUSINESS
Commercial real estate drives economic activity across Arkansas
By Sarah DeClerk
It is easy to drive past stores and offices without considering the people who find homes for those businesses, but commercial real estate is important to most every city. Consider the excitement that occurs when Aldi, Costco or, say, Buc-ee’s announces a new location. From bustling northwest Arkansas to the capital city’s historic downtown, commercial real estate is making an impact on the Natural State. Here is a look at some aspects of the industry in Arkansas.
Hank Kelley, owner and CEO at Kelley Commercial Partners, scouts for locations for companies such as Target and T.J.Maxx, and he was integral in bringing Costco and Trader Joe’s to Little Rock.
Traffic patterns, area housing and local institutions all factor into where companies decide to locate, he said, adding that existing retailers also play a role as businesses seek co-tenancy with complementary stores.
“If you’ve been out to the Costco there, you see all the growth that’s happened around it since they’ve been there,” he said. “They’re a real driver of business because their membership is a really great customer for a lot of other customers.”
Kelley Commercial also played an active role in the redevelopment of Little Rock’s Breckenridge Village. Now with a thriving restaurant scene, Kelley said he looks forward to the opening of Film Alley and plans to recruit compatible nonrestaurant businesses to the shopping center.
One of his most recent achievements is helping bring a Starbucks to the Village Shopping Center at the corner of Asher and University avenues, a move that could enhance the community around the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
“We take a lot of pride in making that happen there,” he said. “It wasn’t easy, but it will be a nice addition to that intersection, and it will stimulate some other things to happen on that site because the customers that come into Starbucks will look around and go, ‘Hmm, what else?’”
Hank Kelly
OFFICE LAND
Colliers | Arkansas manages some of the most notable office properties in Little Rock, including Riverfront Plaza, Westlake Corporate Park, the Victory Building, the Lyon Building and Kirkpatrick Plaza.
Isaac Smith, president of Colliers | Arkansas, helped acquire, sell and develop more than 50 acres around Bass Pro Shops in Little Rock and spearheaded the development of Central Commerce Center, a 200,000-square-foot industrial facility along Interstate 40 in North Little Rock — and there is still more to come.
“Our development team is working hard to bring The Middle, a mixed-use retail center, to life at Rodney Parham and Cantrell Road [in Little Rock],” he said, “and we’re also excited to be working with CTEH to develop their new headquarters on Northshore Drive in North Little Rock and grow their presence in Arkansas.”
Ease of access is top of mind when it comes to helping clients find office space, he said, and as with other areas of real estate, a convenient location is essential. Amenities are also key.
“Many companies now are bringing their employees back to physical offices, and the demand for space has increased recently,” he said. “Many corporations are also interested in creating a campus-like community for their employees to ease their transition back to the office and are customizing their spaces accordingly.”
A good example, he added, are the renovations underway at the new First Security Bank campus, the former Windstream headquarters off Rodney Parham Road in Little Rock.
While physical structures are undoubtedly an important part of commercial real estate, some deals have nothing to do with buildings. Mark Knight, partner and CEO at DDK Forestry & Real Estate, works with a range of companies looking into land for reasons ranging from investment returns to resource development.
This year, he said, the company plans to bring multiple timberland packages larger than 2,000 acres to the market and are shopping several high-value listings across Arkansas, including a 156-acre property at Koban Lake and a 185-acre property on Garrison Road, both in Pulaski County.
“In addition, we have upcoming sealed-bid land sales in Cleveland and Columbia counties, reflecting a continued demand for quality rural properties,” he said.
In recent years, he added, there has been increased demand for rural properties that offer a range of agriculture, recreation and conservation benefits, as well as an increased interest in land that supports sustainability goals.
DDK partners with Chestnut Carbon, a company in the voluntary carbon market that develops large-scale afforestation projects that deliver carbon removal credits.
“Chestnut Carbon is setting a new standard for how land can be managed as both a financial and an environmental asset,” Knight said. “We’re thankful for the opportunity to work with companies like Chestnut Carbon and look forward to continuing to assist businesses with their land and resource needs.”
The company plans to continue growing across the South and sees northwest Arkansas as an intuitive fit for expansion.
Isaac Smith
Mark Knight
Tom Allen Chris Moses
NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
Much has been written about the population boom in northwest Arkansas, and with the opening of the new Walmart home office in Bentonville driving new residents and businesses to the area, commercial real estate is more important than ever.
Tom Allen, president of Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners, said the local commercial real estate market has grown tremendously over the past 20 years.
“To see the true Class A market come into this area with office and retail, and now we’re starting to see some growth here in industrial, as well, has been a lot of fun,” he said. “It’s been very fast paced, and it’s unmatched in many markets across the country.”
Landing a Topgolf and opening Pinnacle Hills Promenade were two major milestones for the flourishing Pinnacle Hills area in Rogers, he said. His team also worked on The Ledger and Founders Plaza in Bentonville, two major projects distinguished by their unique designs.
It is hard to put a finger on where the next Pinnacle Hills will be, he said. In addition to Pinnacle Hills and the area around the Walmart campus, the Interstate 49 and U.S. 71 corridors are desirable to investors, he added, and he expects Pleasant Grove and downtown Springdale to blossom in coming years.
“I don’t know that the Pinnacle area can be actually replicated and duplicated,” he said. “By the time I’m long gone, there will be another Pinnacle in this area, but I’m not sure where that will be.”
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Commercial real estate plays a role not only in urban development but in redevelopment. Chris Moses, principal, president and CEO of Moses Tucker Partners, has a passion for rehabilitating run-down structures and putting them to good use.
“The personality of any downtown, in my opinion, has to do with their historic building stock, along with new builds, but the character of those downtowns, which date way, way, way back, the historic buildings kind of speaks that language,” he said. “Part of our mission at Moses Tucker is not only to identify those situations but to restore and adaptively reuse buildings that others have turned their back on.”
The firm recently completed a $35 million renovation of the Bob R. Brooks Jr. Justice Building, formerly the Boyle Building, which will now serve as the office of the Arkansas attorney general. Relocating state agencies to decaying downtown areas can be key to kickstarting renewal efforts, Moses said.
“Those are the anchor tenants, and certainly, we want private sector and a good mix of office, retail, hospitality and multifamily, but at the end of the day, these cities and the state need to make an impact,” he said, “That impact needs to be pointing directly at some of the infill opportunities throughout Arkansas.”
Moses Tucker recently acquired the M.M. Cohn Building next to the Boyle Building, and although the project is currently in the planning stages, Moses said he plans to do “something significant” with the landmark structure.
D iantha W est F ar M
712± Acres | $4,950,000 Jefferson County, Arkansas
• 653.27± tillable acres, fully irrigated
• Highly improved with 535± tillable acres leveled and zero grade
• Strong history of rice production
• Near the famous Bayou Meto WMA
• Borders famed Circle T Hunting Club
W olverton M ountain
C attle r an C h
891± Acres | $5,200,000 Conway County, Arkansas
• Excellent commercial cattle operation location
• 560± acres of fence & cross-fenced pastureland
• Custom-built, 8,605± sq. ft. home & garage
• Beautiful views from atop Wolverton Mt.
912± Acres | $6,500,000 Desha County, Arkansas SOLD!
• 850.46± improved tillable acres
• Historical crop rotation of rice, soybean, & corn
• Fully irrigated
• Excellent headquarters site h arper F a M ily F ar M
TOP LAND DEALS OF 2024
Take a look at some of the top Arkansas land deals of 2024 from a few of the state’s prominent land firms
Alluvial Land Co.
Property: Cache River Timber County: Monroe
Acres: 490
Sale price: $7.5M
Property: Gould Farm County: Lincoln
Acres: 2,400
Sale price: $7.4M
Property: Lomas Farm County: Desha
Acres: 1,266
Sale price: $6.4M
Property: The Duck Bowl County: Lonoke
Acres: 290
Sale price: $5M
Property: Batesville Ranch and Timberland
County: Independence
Acres: 1,900
Sale price: $3.8M
Arkansas Land Co.
Property: Departee WRP County: Jackson
Acres: 1.062
Sale price: $3M
Property: Grady Farmland County: Lincoln
Acres: 670
Sale price: $2.4M
Property: Hickory Ridge Timber County: Cross
Acres: 320
Sale price: $2.2M
Property: Cache River Duck Timber County: Woodruff
Acres: 148
Sale price: $1.8M
Property: Twin Oaks Club County: Prairie
Acres: 655
Sale price: $1.7M
Lile
Real Estate
Property: Goosehead Ag County: Lonoke
Acres: 1,515
Sale price: $13.7M
Property: Hollywood Plantation County: Desha
Acres: 1,911
Sale price: $12.9M
Property: Fulkerson Farm County: Pulaski
Acres: 1,683
Sale price: $8.2M
Property: Delta Wings Farm County: Desha
Acres: 1,942
Sale price: $7.4M
Property: Beedeville Farm County: Jackson
Acres: 760
Sale price: $4.6M
Wellons Land
Property: Bayer Cropscience County: Arkansas
Acres: 470
Sale price: $35.2M
Property: Big Creek Sporting Club County: Prairie Acres: 530
Prominent Commercial Real Estate Firms in Arkansas and Their Leadership
Editor’s note: This is simply a list of a few of the state’s prominent commercial real estate firms listed with owners, principals and/or managing directors, as listed on the firms’ websites.
Colliers | Arkansas
Colliers | Arkansas is the largest commercial real estate firm in the state with more than 23 million square feet of commercial space leased and managed and more than 130 employees located in offices in Little Rock, Rogers and Hot Springs.
Leadership
• Isaac Smith, president
• Denise Hanson, principal/EVP/ director of property management
• Steve Lane, managing director, NWA
• Brian Gehrki, managing director, Hot Springs
Moses Tucker Partners
Headquartered in downtown Little Rock, Moses Tucker Partners is a fullservice commercial brokerage, property management and development real estate firm. It is one of Arkansas’ largest commercial brokerage and management firms, having 11.6 million square feet of commercial space under management and 125 employees.
Leadership
• Chris Moses, principal/president/CEO
• Fletcher Hanson, principal/EVP/ principal broker
• Paul Esterer, principal/managing director, NWA
Lindsey & Associates
Based in Fayetteville, Lindsey & Associates is the leading real estate company in northwest Arkansas and has 50 years of experience in commercial and residential markets, additional offices in Rogers and Bentonville, and more than 200 agents.
Leadership
• John David Lindsey, principal broker
• Suzett Sparks, managing broker, Rogers
Kelley Commercial Partners
Kelley Commercial Partners, headquartered in Little Rock with an office in Springdale, is an EOS firm and the state’s exclusive ChainLinks member, which allows it to connect with a network of CRE firms across the country.
Leadership
• Hank Kelley, CEO
• Daryl Peeples, president/principal broker
• Jay Pearcy, principal broker, NWA
Cushman Wakefield | Sage Partners
Sage Partners was founded in northwest Arkansas in 2005 and became affiliated with Cushman Wakefield in 2018. With offices in Rogers and Little Rock, Sage manages more than 5 million square feet with an estimated value of more than $750 million with $100 million in annual receipts.
Leadership
• Marshall Saviers, SIOR, CEO/ principal
• Tom Allen, CCIM, president/principal
• Ryan Gipson, principal/managing director, LR
Haag Brown Commercial Real Estate and Development
Established in 2010, Jonesboro’s Haag Brown Commercial Real Estate and Development has grown to become the region’s largest CRE firm. It specializes in project development, tenant representation and investment advising for commercial properties in Arkansas and surrounding states.
Leadership
• Greg Haag, CCIM, principal broker
• Joshua Brown, CCIM, co-founder
RPM Group
RPM Group, based in Little Rock, recently celebrated its 70th anniversary. The firm now employs more than 300 employees operating out of nine sales offices throughout central Arkansas. RPM has closed more real estate transactions and real estate sales volume than any competitor in the state since its inception.
Leadership
• Kris Upton, owner/president/CEO
‘CAN’T GO WRONG IN REAL ESTATE’
Buyers, sellers adjusting to higher rates, brokers say
By Alex Hardgrave
The real estate market is famously fickle, marked by ever-fluctuating interest rates and a constant tug-of-war from a buyer’s market to a seller’s market. Right now, though, Arkansas agents say the market is experiencing calm waters.
“I wouldn’t call it a buyer’s market or seller’s market,” said Beau Durbin, co-owner and principal broker at ESQ Realty Group in Hot Springs.
Bob Bushmiaer, executive broker at The Janet Jones Co. in Little Rock, said the market, if anything, is leaning toward a buyer’s market but noted that experts are “on the fence” about that. That is because home prices are still appreciating in value.
One thing that is causing hesitation in the market is interest rates, which have been hovering between 6 percent and 7 percent for a 30-year-fixed rate mortgage.
“It really hurt the first-time homebuyer and that starter home, but that’s a problem across the country,” said Suzett Sparks, managing broker at Lindsey & Associates in Rogers.
The higher interest rates have changed the landscape from what it was during the COVID-19 pandemic, when there were historically low interest rates and many people were moving.
“We’re not in the frenzy we were in in 2021 and 2022 during COVID, but we certainly have a healthy real estate market in Hot Springs particularly,” Durbin said.
Durbin said Hot Springs is less affected by high interest rates because many buyers pay cash there.
Bushmiaer, who has been in the industry for almost 20 years, said he has seen both high and low
interest rates and that rates may be making buyers “feel stretched.” He added that rates are also balancing the market compared to what it looked like during 2020, when people were buying houses quickly and for prices way above asking price.
“[Buyers are] not in a rush,” he said. “They want to make sure they’re getting value for their money. They’re just being more diligent on their research and what they’re wanting to buy.”
People are also adjusting to current interest rates being the new normal, Sparks said.
“They kind of acclimate to a 7 percent or 6.5 percent [rate],” she said.
Durbin said that everyone is “price sensitive” right now, sellers included, and stressed that sellers need to make sure they are pricing their homes correctly.
“We’re seeing buyers want a deal,” he said. “We’re seeing sellers sometimes thinking their property is worth more than it is, and we as agents sometimes have to make recommendations to our clients that they don’t want to hear.”
Bushmiaer has been telling his sellers they may have to be more patient when it comes to waiting for their homes to sell than a few years ago.
“The days of getting multiple offers or even offers way over asking price are long gone, but if you still price your home correctly, if you market it correctly and have it ready for showings, your home will sell,” he said.
Even with the higher interest rates affecting
Bob Bushmiaer of the Janet Jones Co. in Little Rock said experts are on the fence about whether residential real estate is experiencing a buyer’s or seller’s market. Above, a former listing in Little Rock. (FIle photo)
Suzett Sparks
Beau Durbin
Bob Bushmiaer
The
both buyers and sellers, Arkansas Realtors are staying busy.
Sparks said the team at Lindsey & Associates has had the busiest beginning to a year it has ever had.
She said even though it can seem to be an expensive time to buy, renting is also expensive, and renters are not making a long-term investment that will appreciate over time like real estate will.
“You can’t go wrong in real estate,” Sparks said.
Concerns about housing inventory have subsided somewhat as interest rates have leveled, easing the buying boom that took place when the rates were at their lowest, Bushmiaer said.
Sparks said the state still has a housing crisis and pointed to a recently passed bill broadening the ability to build auxiliary dwelling units on properties.
Arkansas House Bill 1503, which was recently signed into law, allows homeowners in the state to build one ADU “by right” on a residential lot without the need of additional zoning approval, public hearings or special permits.
Another change making waves in the residential real estate market is the National Association of Realtors requiring Realtors to have buyers sign a written buyer agreement before an agent shows them properties.
days of getting multiple offers or even offers way over asking price are long gone, but if you still price your home correctly, if you market it correctly and have it ready for showings, your home will sell.
— Bob Bushmiaer,
about inventory have subsided as rates leveled. Above, a house under construction in northwest Arkansas. (File
broker at The Janet Jones Co.
Concerns
photo)
I think when people move to Arkansas from other areas, they really want green space. They want a yard. They’re moving here with the vision of having those options they haven’t had before.
— Suzett Sparks, broker at Lindsey & Associates
Some of the mandatory provisions of a written buyer agreement include disclosing that broker’s commissions are not set by law and are negotiable and how compensation amounts are determined, among other information.
“It’s really aiming to be transparent and have a relationship with the buyer,” Bushmiaer said. “It shows our value and worth as a Realtor and what we’re going to do to work for them on their behalf.”
He said it is similar to a type of agreement that already existed when a seller lists a home with an agent.
“We’re treating buyers like sellers,” he said.
Another aspect of being an agent is also making clients aware of the risks of scams that can occur during real estate transactions. With the rise of more technology, scamming has been on the rise too.
“It’s absolutely happening in northwest Arkansas, and it’s very concerning,” Sparks said.
Sparks warned other Realtors that fake IDs are out there, and it is not just enough to get a copy of someone’s ID anymore. It is best practice to call, use video conferencing or meet in person, she said. She suggested buyers never wire money without talking to someone. With that, they should double check wiring instructions and make sure they are sending it to the right place.
“Figure out your best practices to protect your investments,” Sparks said.
Ultimately, brokers want to make sure their clients end up safely in the home of their dreams.
There are many common factors the agents said buyers now want in homes, including open concepts, big garages, spaces for outdoor living and newer homes instead of fixer-uppers.
“I think when people move to Arkansas from other areas, they really want green
space,” Sparks said. “They want a yard. They’re moving here with the vision of having those options they haven’t had before.”
Being a Realtor in the northwest Arkansas region, Sparks said she sees a lot of people relocating for work.
Durbin said another factor that brings people from other states to buy homes in Arkansas is the affordability.
“It’s less expensive to live in Arkansas than a lot of places,” he said “There are so many things to do here. That’s what drives a lot of people here, and I think that will continue. I see that as an upward trend for sure.”
He said people move to Hot Springs for the fun activities available, including access to the beautiful lakes.
Bushmiaer said a lot of the clients he works with who have moved from out of state comment how nice Arkansans are and that they enjoy the way life is lived in the Natural State.
“It may be a little slower pace of life,” he said, “but there is still a ton to do, and I love it. Arkansas is a great place to buy a home. It’s a great place to call home.”
Realtors say newcomers to Arkansas are looking for green space, such as that available at the west Little Rock house pictured above. (File photo)
Northwest Arkansas continues to see an influx of new residents, prompting more new subdivisions like the one pictured above in Centerton. (File photo)
SAFE and SECURE
Title company thrives despite new threats in marketplace
By Dwain Hebda
Over the course of a real estate transaction, one of the seemingly more routine steps is that of title services. In fact, not only is the legal transfer of ownership from one party to another one of the more significant aspects of the process, title services are also an industry increasingly targeted by criminals and fraudsters.
Brian Scott, co-founder and managing member at Commerce Title & Closing Services at Little Rock, has spent 41 years in the business. He said the emphasis on data security has never been higher or had more at stake than at present.
“Fraud has become a huge problem. I know some people want to blame [artificial intelligence], but this all started before AI got involved,” he said. “The three biggest problems we see as an industry are wire fraud, seller impersonation fraud and just simple misrepresentation. We know of stories in which buyers received wiring instructions from what they thought was a title company, and they wired money to fraudsters. We know of situations where title companies received fraudulent wiring instructions for mortgage payoffs and wired mortgage payoffs to fraudsters.
“There have been situations where fraudsters have impersonated sellers and been able to illegally take title to a property. We were told of a case recently in northwest Arkansas where a person had inherited three acres of land.
The person’s husband was driving by the property, and he saw a house was being built on it — discovered somebody had stolen their land, for lack of a better word. None of these happened through our company, but they are very real examples of what’s going on out there, and I fear it’s going to get worse.”
According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers lost a total of $12.5 billion to mortgage fraud in 2024, a 25 percent increase over 2023. Of that, investment scams accounted for $5.7 billion, followed by imposter scams at $2.95 billion in losses.
The CoreLogic Mortgage Application Fraud Risk Index increased by 8.3 percent year over year in the second quarter of 2024, and 1 in 123 applications showed signs of fraud. The number of occupancy misrepresentation cases, in which perpetrators falsely claim investment properties as primary residences, has tripled since 2020.
States with the highest rates of mortgage fraud included New York, Florida, California, Connecticut and New Jersey. In three of the states, the problem is getting substantially worse, growing by double digits since mid-2023. Those states include California, up 14.6 percent; Connecticut, up 10.8 percent; and Florida, up 10.2 percent.
“The biggest change came in the mid-’90s with
technology and the internet,” Scott said. “Up until then, all of the research we did and all the closings — everything — was done with typewriter and by hand. When the early to mid-’90s rolled around, we started converting over to different software programs, and in the late ʼ90s, software systems became web based. Basically, we could do more with fewer people, and we could do it quicker, and it cut out a lot of mistakes, but it also opened things up to fraud.
“Bottom line, when a transaction closes, whoever the seller is — or whoever is acting as the seller — is going to receive the proceeds. The Realtor’s going to get a commission. The surveyor may earn a fee, but we’re left holding the bag via title insurance at the end of the day.”
Scott said Commerce Title & Closing Services, which he co-founded with Mike Sage in 2009, has beefed up its security protocols accordingly in the name of protecting its
clients. He said while some of those steps have lent a little extra time and effort to the process, it is a small price to pay compared to having one’s money or property snatched out from under them.
“The simple fact of it is if we don’t physically have sellers of real estate come into our office, we have a very strict protocol we follow before we close a transaction,” he said. “These protocols are in place for the client’s protection, and we don’t negotiate with these protocols.”
The current environment is just the latest chapter in Scott’s long career in the title business, one that started in high school more as a means of last resort than a conscious career move.
“My mom was a teacher at Joe T. Robinson [High School in Little Rock], and in August of 1984, she was prepping her classroom for the ’84-’85 school year. I’d been 16 for about
Co-founders Brian Scott, left, and Mike Sage (Photo by Lori Sparkman)
three weeks, and she said, ‘You don’t have a job, so you’re going to come help me get my classroom ready.’
“The work-study director walked by, and I asked him if he had any friends in offices needing some help because I didn’t want to flip burgers. He gave me the name of a title company that had moved in four or five months earlier, and they needed somebody to come in and just do a bunch of grunt work, for lack of a better word. That turned into 41 years.”
Scott and Sage formed the company after years of working for other firms with the belief that the right people
really long tenure in this business. Collectively, we’ve probably got 250 or 260 years of experience.
“Mike and I feel like if we take good care of our employees, they will take care of us, and they have. It’s all about the team. It’s everybody all working together.”
As for what is still appealing to him personally about the industry after all of these years, Scott said that, too, comes down to people.
“I meet some really neat people every day doing real estate closings, some of the neatest people you can ever imagine,” he said. “One of the coolest things is when you see a
“Fraud has become a huge problem. I know some people want to blame [artificial intelligence], but this all started before AI got involved.”
— Brian Scott, Commerce Title & Closing Services
combined with the right system rooted in professionalism and customer service would produce a superior experience for clients. Time and time again over the years, they have been proven correct, growing to 15 employees, 11 of whom reside locally. Commerce Title & Closing Services now serves all of Arkansas and is also licensed in Mississippi. The company will soon begin servicing a third state, although Scott declined to elaborate on which one.
“The success of our company, it’s not me doing all this,” he said. “I couldn’t do this without Mike, and we couldn’t do this without being arm in arm with our employees. We’ve got some really good employees, some of whom have some
young couple come in here, and they’re 30 years old, and they’re buying the first house, and they’re wide-eyed, and they’re giddy. Walking them through the process, it’s a real privilege to get to be a part of that life event, and every time I do a closing, I keep that in mind. I try to envision how things look from their side of the table, from their perspective.
“The other changes I have seen in this business, such as the changes in technology, force you think a lot to stay ahead of things. It’s a mental challenge, which I think is fun, but I’m telling you, it’s really all about the cool people I get to meet and get to work with. That is my favorite part of this job.”
CHOOSING A TITLE COMPANY
All title and closing companies are not the same, so be prepared to shop around and ask questions. The following are some tips offered by Brian Scott, co-founder at Commerce Title & Closing Services in Little Rock, about choosing a professional who is the right fit.
• Experience matters: Always ask about the experience of the employees at the company. I’ve got 41 years, my business partner has 28, and we have several employees with 19, 20, even 30 years. The experience of the staff in doing closings makes a big difference in the customer experience.
• Mine data locally: The heart of a title company is in the quality of the title research. Something people don’t usually think about asking is how a company is searching the public records to see what liens exist
and things like that. Make sure this is being done inhouse versus being farmed out to a third party.
• Listen to your gut: Don’t be afraid to ask around. Call somebody the company has closed for, and see what they think. Most people rely on their Realtor’s recommendation, but people do have a choice, and you should go with someone you feel good about.
• Substance over style: When choosing a company to work with, focus on what’s really important, like experience and expertise. We’re kind of a no-frills title company, for example. We’re not going to have the biggest office, we’re not going to have the most expensive furniture in the lobby, but we are going to give people a fair deal and take good care of them at a good price.
EverBranch Capital Group leverages love of outdoors into investment opportunities
By Dwain Hebda
Joe Carter looked out his window onto the Colorado landscape. The scene was breathtaking, from the towering mountains and soaring skies right down to the bees buzzing in the lavender. As workspaces go, it is a pretty sweet setup and a constant source of inspiration for the CEO of Little Rock-based EverBranch Capital Group.
Carter, a former CEO of Cornerstone Insurance Group and Snyder Environmental, has a degree from Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford in England and studied at Harvard Business School in Boston. Above all that, though, he is fundamentally an Arkansan, particularly in his love for the outdoors, and that comes out when he talks about this newest venture.
though it isn’t), so prominent is the outdoor ethos.
What EverBranch does do, more so than other companies in its class is put its investment money where its environmental mouth is when it comes to developing a business portfolio. Specifically, the company favors such asset opportunities as ranches and agricultural-based lands that have the potential for infrastructure improvement, purpose-aligned development and outdoor-focused operating companies, all of which have something to do with preserving and enhancing the outdoor experience either directly or tangentially.
“Our stakeholders are very interested in the outdoors; we think the best way to practice [environmental, social and governance] may not necessarily be through forcing a partisan agenda, just getting people outside,” he said. “Helping people experience what we in Arkansas take for granted creates a sense of connection. The beauty of a creek and the importance of it being clean for this generation and future generations shouldn’t be a partisan issue, and it wouldn’t be if more people were connected.”
Carter is fond of such statements and thrills to the idea of people returning to the woods and water as a way of settling differences and finding common ground. In fact, one visit to the EverBranch website suggests to the uninitiated that the company is in the business of selling wild real estate or arranging guided hunts (even
Operating somewhat like a venture capital group but without the outside money, EverBranch participates in such companies and holdings, be it through acquisition or simple investment. Current holdings and partnerships include iCONX, an excavation company that performs wildfire mitigation, habitat management and ranch infrastructure services; SABO Outdoors, an app that connects outdoor enthusiasts with landowners for short-term land rentals; and Traumamed Solutions, a manufacturer of firstaid equipment geared toward first responders, the military and outdoor adventurer customer segments.
Another firm, Full Curl Ranch — a Colorado-based real estate venture looking to revolutionize the way ranches are marketed between buyers and sellers — is slated to join the EverBranch portfolio this summer.
Carter said while the company looks at the usual markers of sound management, scalability and solid financials as a matter of
Joe Carter
If the approach sounds very altruistic, it is not. Carter and team are dyed-in-the-wool capitalists interested in — and good at — generating revenue.
course, the EverBranch system also incorporates some decidedly unconventional approaches to its work.
“Typically, private equity is going to come in, and they’re going to make an acquisition and do controlling interest of an entity that’s already at scale,” he said. “Venture capital is going to make a controlling investment in a startup or a minority investment. We do some of both.
“In the case of iCONX, we’re actually purchasing the assets of another entity to help it have scale, and we’re bringing all of the things that private equity would bring to that firm, which includes rebranding and the ability to do much larger projects than they would be able to do without us. SABO, on the other hand, is an example where we’re basically funding a tech startup and we don’t have controlling interest.”
The SABO Outdoors investment characterizes the venture’s maverick approach, underscored by leadership’s appreciation for the people behind the companies it takes an interest in as much as the balance sheet of the company itself.
“We’re a little bit unusual in that people drive us more than money,” he said. “The founders of SABO are two disabled veterans who we think the world of, and we were happy for them to have the controlling stake. There’s a high degree of trust there, and they’re interested in us for our ability to help coach them as business leaders, so while we don’t have controlling interest per se, it sure feels like we have controlling influence.”
If the approach sounds very altruistic, it is not. Carter and team are dyed-in-the-wool capitalists interested in — and good at — generating revenue. However, it is the process and values by which they generate that revenue that sets them apart from your average investment mill. As Carter likes to point out, theirs is not a particularly new philosophy, just one that all too often gets superseded by other demands.
“I think in a good business, it’s not unusual to say ‘We can do the right thing and build the right infrastructure and have the long view and be in it for each other and not just this quarter’s profit,’” he said. “That alone doesn’t make you a unicorn; there are tons of businesses out there that operate that way and are really impressive in all the things they do.
“Unfortunately, in the publicly traded sphere and in the sphere of traditional private equity or even family firms that tend to be more focused on quarterly results, what can happen in those environments is the people and the stakeholders just
get pushed aside. Essentially, [companies] say, ‘This quarter’s numbers matter more than all of the stakeholders, and we’re going to take a short-term view rather than a long-term view.’ In that space, we are very unique.”
Carter said under the EverBranch philosophy, stakeholders — a dynamic group that includes employees, partner firms and their employees, and the communities where they operate — are more allies than names on the accounts payable ledger. Keeping these groups aligned and symbiotic are key elements to day-today operations and long-term success, he said.
“One of my business school professors, former president of the Dallas Federal Reserve Rob Kaplan, talks about leadership in terms of vision, priorities and alignment,” he said. “When you are stakeholder-centric, it is easier to accomplish the establishment of priorities and alignment of the organization because you’re not in opposition with stakeholders. I think if we are stakeholder-centric and if we do the right thing, the money will take care of itself.
“As far as our future success, again, I really think it’s going boil down to that ability to establish the right priorities and create stakeholder alignment and really focus on keeping the oars hitting the water at the same time. We have to identify the right priorities, certainly. We have to have the right vision that motivates everybody to try and engage. That is not only inspiring, but, in times of tumultuous change, it allows us to navigate turbulent waters efficiently.”
With Carter at the helm, EverBranch is a company that puts its investment money where its environmental mouth is. (Photos provided by EverBranch)
When Disaster Strikes
METRO DISASTER SPECIALISTS LEADERS GIVE TIPS FOR AVOIDING, FIXING HOME DAMAGE
Central Arkansas has been battered by severe weather this year, including ice storms, floods, tornadoes and fire-risk conditions.
That has left many Arkansans dealing with home damage.
Leaders at Metro Disaster Specialists in North Little Rock have been busy working to help restore both residential and commercial places after the storms.
“It was multiple days of heavy rain,” CEO Britt Stewart said of the flash flooding in April. “After that, we had that storm come through with straight-line winds. I think we had close to 30 houses that had trees on them.”
Stewart said flooding can contribute to trees falling because the ground becomes oversaturated with rain water.
By Alex Hardgrave
If a tree or limb does fall on a home, the home owner first needs to contact someone who can remove the tree, and Metro can give recommendations for companies to work with for that step of the process, he said.
Next, Metro’s team will come in and assess the damage, working with the insurance companies to estimate the price of restoration for the home owner. Metro’s professionals then complete the restoration job precisely and efficiently, including repairs.
“Something that goes hand in hand [with storm damage] is water damage because typically when a storm comes through, wind-driven rain comes through and affects the structure,” said Payton Smith, chief operating officer.
If a home is flooded, Smith said the Metro Disaster Specialists team will come in and set up drying equipment, do mitigation, and move items and furniture into another room or a storage facility.
Stewart also asked that people be aware that electricity can get damaged during a storm and pose a risk for electrocution, which is why it is important to have a knowledgeable and trusted team onsite once damage occurs.
While damage is sometimes inevitable and unavoidable, there are ways homeowners can avoid certain catastrophes.
Smith said he recommends trimming tree limbs that hang over homes or power lines to help try to avoid damage.
Marketing Director Meredith Pierce said families should stay weather aware to keep themselves safe.
Especially for something like fire or flood damage, it is a good
idea to have a full video of the home and its contents taken beforehand, Smith said. Once the damage occurs, be sure to take many photos, as well.
Metro Disaster Specialists is different from many other companies because it is full service, he added. Any damage that needs fixed, the team can handle.
“We’ve worked from small closets in a house to a whole house,” Smith said.
He urged homeowners to have a trusted contractor and not go with a “fly-by-night” company that may come into the area after a large disaster occurs. That avoids having to have a second company come in if the first company does not complete the restoration well.
Pierce said even if someone is worried about the cost of damages, they should not wait too long to have the damages fixed, since problems could become worse.
Metro Disaster Specialists estimators work with insurance companies to agree on the scope of work.
“The estimator works with the homeowner and insurance company to develop the scope of repair, and then, once that scope is developed, we put a price to it with insurance standard pricing,” Smith said.
The team’s best advice after tragedy strikes is to work with someone who is trustworthy and will do the job correctly.
“Have a company that genuinely cares,” Smith said. “A lot of times, people have never been through something like this before. It’s the most vulnerable moment of their whole life.”
COO Payton Smith, left, and CEO Britt Stewart (File photos)
Meredith Pierce, marketing director
For over 40 years, Kelley Commercial Partners has delivered trusted, fullservice commercial real estate solutions—combining expert guidance, handson management, and a help-first mindset to support owners, investors, and communities across Arkansas.
For all of your commercial real estate needs, let us be your partner to success.
TO PUTTING CLIENTS FIRST
SECURITY
BLANKET
Life insurance an important piece of investment strategy, but many missing out
By Mark Carter
AAmerican consumers still struggle with certain aspects of life insurance, though total premiums paid for individual policies set a record for the fourth consecutive year in 2024.
Life insurance premiums in the United States totaled $16.2 billion last year, according to financial services research firm LIMRA. Life insurance represents a sound security blanket, even if it can feel confusing and intimidating to some consumers.
Still, the overall number of life insurance policies issued saw positive growth in 2024, and there were roughly 134.2 million individual policies and 118 million group policies active in 2023, the American Council of Life Insurers states.
Fifty-two percent of respondents to LIMRA’s Insurance Barometer Study reported having life insurance, either their own policy or a group policy through their employer, while ACLI reported that 57 percent of Americans employed in private industry had access to life insurance through their employers.
There remains some confusion among consumers about life insurance, however. A 2024 Corebridge Financial survey found that just 20 percent of respondents knew that a term life policy typically ends with no refund if the policyholder outlives the term, and a mere 6 percent could correctly define life insurance rider. (Correct answer: an add-on to a policy that provides extra coverage or features.)
It is no wonder, then, that more Americans are not up to speed: LIMRA’s research found that an estimated 102 million Americans were uninsured and underinsured when it comes to life insurance in 2024. That is about 42 percent of adults.
Jason Prather, managing principal at Legacy Capital in Little Rock, specializes in estate planning among other areas, and life insurance represents a major component to his work. Prather said consumers should look at life insurance as an important part of their wealth management.
“Properly designed life insurance planning plays an extremely vital role in comprehensive wealth management,” he said. “The income-taxfree nature of a life insurance benefit, in addition to its critical function of protecting families and
their income in the event of an unexpected tragedy, can also be used for many other strategic planning purposes.”
Prather said life insurance helps his clients preserve their estates by offsetting estate tax exposure and allowing for the fluid transfer of wealth to children, grandchildren and even future generations. He added that life insurance policies can be designed to help supplement other retirement assets by providing a tax-free income stream.
“Life insurance is also frequently used for estate equalization in the event a family is transferring its business and not all of the children desire to be involved in the ongoing operation of that business,” he said.
Life insurance policies are also used as a component of philanthropic giving.
“Life insurance is not only used as a safety net to protect against an unforeseen event such as the unforeseen death of an individual; it is a strategic asset class that simply performs differently than all other asset classes and is always a great complement to a diversified wealth management plan,” Prather said.
Many Americans these days are forced to prioritize expenses and may see life insurance as one with which they can live without. The Corebridge survey found that among respondents who did not purchase life insurance, the No. 1 reason — cited by 22 percent of respondents — was “more important financial obligations.”
Other reasons included no dependents/don’t like to think about death, 20 percent; can always buy it later, 15 percent; good health/too complex, 11 percent; already have enough to provide for loved ones, 7 percent; and complicated process/previous bad experience, 4 percent.
Consumers would be well served to reevaluate their finances and where life insurance fits, Prather said. He noted a current economic climate that Jason Prather
“Now more than ever, life insurance should be viewed not only as a means to protect one’s family but as a strategic and stabilizing addition to a thoughtful diversified asset allocation.”
— Jason Prather, Legacy Capital
includes potential inflationary pressures, volatile markets, unpredictable interest rates and uncertain tax policies.
“We advise our clients and the various other advisors we work together with to consider using permanent life insurance as a key component of their overall asset allocation strategy,” he said. “Unlike traditional investments, permanent life insurance functions as its own distinct asset class largely uncorrelated to the performance of stocks
and bonds. That, combined with the very favorable tax treatment of life insurance, makes it a powerful tool for reducing overall portfolio volatility, as well as protecting family assets and wealth in the event of an untimely death.”
Investing in life insurance provides dividends that may not be obvious at first glance. Prather said allocating a portion of a client’s wealth to a properly designed life insurance policy provides both security and stability “that no other asset class can provide.”
“Numerous studies have shown that integrating permanent life insurance into a diversified portfolio will enhance the long-term performance and reduce overall risk exposure to that portfolio,” he said. “The unique benefits provided by permanent life insurance, such as guaranteed growth, downside protection, tax-deferred accumulation, taxfree access to policy values and the tax-free death benefit, make permanent life insurance a valuable and versatile addition to a client’s overall asset allocation and financial plan.
“Now more than ever, life insurance should be viewed not only as a means to protect one’s family, but as a strategic and stabilizing addition to a thoughtful diversified asset allocation.”
Term vs. Whole
Term
• Premiums locked in for a fixed period
• Can usually be renewed at the end of the term
• The most affordable option in most cases
• Holds no cash value
• Includes a guaranteed death benefit
• Has no surrender value if policy is dropped
Whole
• Fixed premiums locked in for life
• Coverage lasts for life of policyholder as long as premiums paid
• More expensive than term
• Builds cash value, which can be accessed during life of policyholder
• Includes a guaranteed death benefit, but amount is reduced if cash drawn out
• Surrender value possible when policy is dropped
Staying Insured on the Farm
America may resonate more of an urban vibe these days, but it remains one of the world’s most important breadbaskets — and Arkansas one of its more agricultural states.
Insurance is just as important on the farm as it is in the skyrise, and crop insurance plays a vital role in America’s farming by providing stability in farming income when extreme weather results in large crop losses for farmers.
“Crop insurance covers 136 crops and 604 varieties of crops with 36 different insurance plans that provide protection for more than $200 billion in value for crops and livestock each year,” said Stephen Rikard, Pulaski County agency manager at Farm Bureau Insurance. “Crop insurance protects more than 90 percent of America’s planted acres today.”
The current federal Farm Bill provides funding for insurance products through the Federal Crop Insurance Program. Rikard
said that indemnifies producers against losses in yield, crop revenue, margin total farm revenue and other losses due to weather-related events.
“New crop insurance programs may be introduced under a [new] Farm Bill,” Rikard said. “The Farm Bill is important for the continued support for funding and management of the FCIP.”
Beyond the federal provisions, farmers are protected through policies such as Farm Bureau’s Ag Promise, a comprehensive farmowner’s policy that can be customized to meet the insurance needs of large commercial farms with row crop, poultry or livestock operations.
The Ag Promise covers the standard potential losses experienced on a farm but also meets the needs of those operations engaged in agriculture-related tourism or entertainment activities.
“The Ag Promise can also be tailored to meet needs for novice farms, small landowners or farms with ‘agritainment’ risks, such as a pumpkin patch or corn maze,” he said.
“Policyholders can choose from a wide array of endorsements to cover both their personal property and liability exposure.”
Stephen Rikard
The Brantley Farm in Lonoke County (File photo)
Rikard said crop insurance covers 604 varieties of crops and 36 different plans. (File photo)
Adapting to Changing Times
Employee benefits still a valuable tool
By Doug Crise
Jason Everett knows firsthand the kind of difference employee benefits can make.
“My wife is a cancer survivor,” said Everett, a Greenbrier native and owner of two Globe Life insurance agencies in Arkansas. “I know what it did for us. We had a cancer policy, so it helped with outof-pocket costs and co-pays and deductibles and time off work.”
Everett has long since found financial security, since his agencies routinely produce some of the top sales figures in the entire Globe Life company, but even now, he
struggles to fathom the bite his wife’s medical costs could have taken out of his family.
“Her policy paid us, directly, over $96,000,” Everett said, “so to think about that, we actually didn’t have to pay one red cent out of our pocket. We weren’t out any money due to her cancer diagnosis because we had this policy in place.”
Everett considers his role one of protection. Insurance benefits may not save lives in a medical sense, but they can deflect costs that, left uncovered, can permanently alter an entire family’s lifestyle and state of being. Intensive care,
emergency transportation, pharmaceuticals, medical tests, physical rehabilitation and time off work all come with an ever-increasing price tag few can conquer on their own.
Signing up for benefits provided by employers through an insurance producer is still the best way to ensure fiscal stability during a time of crisis or change, he added. “I’ve seen just recently a family that has a child, and they had a $10,000 cash policy,” Everett said. “This family could take off work and be there for their child without worrying about the
financial loss of having to be there.”
None of that is a new concept. Globe Life, for example, has been around since 1900, and most of the challenges facing employees and their families have remained the same.
“I mean, the core principal is still all about customer service and taking care of the client,” said Greg Hatcher, who has run the Hatcher Agency in Little Rock since 1990. “It’s helping them navigate their needs to find the best price and then have someone do the service.”
He paused for a moment.
“Is it harder than it used to be?” Hatcher asked rhetorically. “Yes.”
Hatcher, like Everett, has been wildly successful in the benefits business, but given the rapid-fire changes that have happened around the industry over the past few decades, he has hardly been able to coast. More and more regulations and challenges emerge yearly, and benefits producers have to keep a lot more information in their heads than they did a decade ago.
“Today, compliance issues fall more on the agent,” Hatcher said. “Enrollment of the employees falls more on the agent. Benefit communication falls more on the agent. We build benefit portals. We do call centers to help enroll people. We do a lot more things than we used
to do back in the day.”
Hatcher said the amount of information an agent has to master when walking an employee through benefit options is at an all-time high.
“When I hire a new employee, I tell him it takes me two years to get him trained,” Hatcher said. “That’s the difference. I told my staff today in a staff meeting you have to evolve and change or you’ll learn a valuable lesson from someone who will.”
John Starling, owner and president of the benefits firm JTS, agreed that the landscape has changed dramatically in just 10 years. Like Hatcher, he believes fervently that customer service is still king and handshakes and phone calls still mean something.
The process of service has been turned on its ear over the past decade, though, and companies that provide benefits are trying to ride the wave.
“We have software that we use that,
Insurance benefits may not save lives in a medical sense, but they can deflect costs that, left uncovered, can permanently alter an entire family’s lifestyle and state of being.
now, because the data is so vast, we have predictive software where we know where the claims are coming from,” Starling said. “We can actually predict future claims and then amend the plan design based off what we see as possible claims and things that are coming down the road. The data is huge, and I don’t see a lot of people using it like we do. We have six or seven dedicated artificial intelligence specialists. That’s all they do.”
The efforts are an attempt to help employers care for their workforce and employees to protect their families in an environment where it is increasingly difficult to do just that.
“Our state has seen a significant rise in the cost of health care coverage in the last few years,” said George Burks, senior vice president for sales and account management at USAble Life, which is headquartered in Little Rock. “As a result, employers have been forced to raise deductibles and increase out-of-pocket maximums.”
It is, by anyone’s estimation, a tough landscape.
“The most dramatic change is the increase in the pharmaceutical cost,” Starling said. “You know, back in the late ’90s, health insurance was nothing. I mean, it was an afterthought, but back then, drugs were probably somewhere between 4 and 8 percent of the total spent. Now it’s 40 to
The core principal is still all about customer service and taking care of the client.
—
Greg Hatcher, The Hatcher Agency
50 percent. That’s unsustainable, the way it’s growing.”
If there is a positive on the horizon, Starling thinks it will take the form of President Donald Trump’s recent executive order aimed to curb the prices presently being set by pharmaceutical companies. Should everything go as planned, employees and providers will be afforded a bit of breathing room on the prescription front.
“There’s going to have to be something on the pharmaceutical side,” Starling said, “100 percent, and, I mean, no politics involved, but the executive order Trump pushed out is an absolute no-brainer.”
Even with a possible break on the cost of medication, the cost of protection in this day and age remains high. Everett agreed that employers today have to withstand a lot just to offer the same rate on benefits as a generation ago.
“One of the biggest changes happened during the Obamacare health care reform,” Everett said. “A lot of companies got in a place where, with the rate increases, they realized they couldn’t continue to offer all the extra coverages because all their normal stuff was going up in price.
Then the smaller companies were forced to where they can’t actually provide anything.”
The insurance business has always required a good head for numbers, a dash of salesmanship, and the ability to communicate with clients and support them through difficult times, but as benefits producers step into the gap between the needs of employees and the costs of care, creativity and a solution-oriented approach is also a necessity.
“Voluntary benefits are being purchased to help offset some of these higher limits that an employee must cover,” Burks said. “A wellrounded company benefit offering will allow employees to choose products like accident, critical illness or hospital indemnity to help protect the financial wellness of their employees.”
An interesting by-product of the changing landscape is that employee benefits themselves have become a booming business. Everett’s door is constantly open for those looking for a new career path, and Starling said more and
A well-rounded company benefit offering will allow employees to choose products like accident, critical illness or hospital indemnity to help protect the financial wellness of their employees.
— George Burks, USAble
Life
more agencies are growing as they look for people with specialized skill sets.
Just leave your presumptions at the door, Hatcher said. It all still comes down to serving people, but the nature of doing that seemingly changes day to day.
“Our job is not to be stuck like people get where they say, ‘I don’t want to change. I don’t want to do this,’” Hatcher said. “You have to constantly embrace and be ready for it. You have to realize that every time they change something, it’s to our advantage because we’re going to move and adjust and not sit there and complain about it.”
Cut through all the red tape, and the matter remains a simple one at heart. Employees want basic protection for themselves and their families. Employers largely want to provide just that but desire efficiency and cost effectiveness in order to meet those needs. Getting to where both sides feel aided and protected is the name of the game, and even in a new landscape, it all comes down to helping the customer.
“If I see value in it and my co-workers see value in something, we immediately act on it,” Starling said. “The national firms, it’s funny, but it seems like a lot of them are just peddling insurance. My thing is if you’re just peddling insurance, you’re not going to be in this business that long.”
Founded in 1990 by Greg Hatcher, The Hatcher Agency has been Arkansas’ leading employee benefits agency since its inception and has grown to become the largest organically developed agency in the nation. We offer group medical benefits to employers of all sizes, delivering what we call “Outrageous Service.” As the top producer for all major health carriers, we are able to guarantee the Lowest Price in the market.
THEY’VE GOT YOU COVERED
In Arkansas’ insurance industry, women are changing the game
By Dwain Hebda
The times they are a-changin’ in the insurance field, and women are leading the way. After trailing male counterparts for decades, the number of female insurance professionals has come on strong and, in the process, changed the way the industry solicits, advises and services clients. A report from McKinsey & Co. found women make up more than 50 percent of the insurance workforce, including 80 percent of claims and policy processing roles, 57 percent of underwriting positions, and 55 percent of insurance sales agent roles. Leadership and executive roles have been slower in coming at 30 percent and 18 percent respectively, but the study found more
companies are actively looking to close the gender gap across the board.
The timing of the surge could not have been better. According to statistics by the trade group Women in Insurance & Financial Services’ Los Angeles chapter, 102 million Americans are underinsured or uninsured, creating a wealth of opportunity for anyone entering the field.
Arkansas Money & Politics reached out to three women in the insurance field to gain a better understanding of what drew them to their careers and how they have found success in delivering peace of mind to their policy holders.
onica Treat Treat insurance agency, north little rock M
If ever there was an insurance protege, it is most surely Monica Treat, who was recruited into the insurance field when she was still a teenager.
“My grandpa had been in the insurance industry in the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s, and he was really successful,” she said. “I was graduating high school, and he was like, ‘Well, I’m going to come out of retirement, and we’re going to start an agency together,’ so he sent me to insurance school at 18 years old, and I sat in these classes, not knowing what a deductible was, not knowing what a premium was — like, the most basic insurance terms.
“I kind of could read the room, you know, and I’m like, ‘Well, it feels like everybody else knows what this stuff is, so I better not raise my hand.’ Looking back on it, it makes me giggle how green I was, but I got my license at 18, and he never came out of retirement. Isn’t that great?”
Treat put her newfound knowledge to work while she was in college and opened her own shop at the tender age of 25. In hindsight, she has a hard time saying what worked against her more in the respect department: being young, being female or being attractive.
“I think that at 25, you know, cute female, young, it’s just this unfortunate trifecta where it’s hard to be taken seriously, if I can just be real about it,” she said. “It wasn’t necessarily the client base that I had a hard time being taken seriously by. It was more by my colleagues or people that I had to connect with in the hierarchy of the insurance world. I really had to hold my own and let them know I’m not here to be cute — I’m not here to really be anything other than someone who wants to be successful and be taken seriously.
“It was a challenge, and looking back, I just had to have the tenacity to push through. I watched my mom do that; she was a woman in a man’s world, working in the wholesale business. She would go to auctions, and she’d be right up there, bidding on a car next to the men, and she’d hold her own. I’m really grateful that I got to watch her compete in a male-dominated industry. That set me up to handle this business successfully, and over time, I started being respected.”
Treat not only showed her resilience and determination but also her eye for opportunity. Seeing an emerging business niche in the Medicare marketplace, she planted her stake and has never looked back.
“I really leaned into the Medicare market, even though I really didn’t know what I was doing,” she said. “It was right around the time that Medicare Advantage plans came into the market, and they were so confusing. I felt like more of a consultant than
I did a salesperson, and I really enjoyed that feeling. It was more like helping people than feeling like I was selling something.”
Today, 18 years later, Treat is still helping people in a certain phase of life figure out the best course of action for protecting themselves against the future unknown.
“My target client would be someone who is getting ready to turn 65,” she said. “Somebody who’s 64 and 6 or 9 months old is generally getting bombarded with information about Medicare and all the plans that are available. They’re confused. They’re overwhelmed. They do not want to learn all the ins and outs. They just want somebody to consult them.
“They come in, and we go over their entire health scope. Then we look at the different plans, and we decide together what we think is going to be in their best interest. We’re an independent agency, and we are not married to any one carrier, so we can independently shop for their insurance, and they know we’re looking out for their best interest.”
After nearly two decades in the industry, Treat said she has seen the ranks of other female agents steadily grow. She said she would offer one piece of advice to any woman considering insurance as a career.
“I think if I could speak any gift into women, it would be the gift of confidence because I think that confidence will take you a lot of places in life where knowledge and expertise necessarily won’t,” she said. “Whenever I see women in business, so many of them have so much ability, but yet I think a lot of them lack in confidence. I just want women to believe in themselves that they can really get out and do anything that they put their minds to.
“The hardest part is just going out and doing it. I think we look at successful people and think, ‘Oh man, they had it all figured it out,’ but anybody in business knows that someone who’s successful failed their way there, figuring it out as they went. It was a completely imperfect process, but they had the confidence to keep going and the tenacity to see it through.”
charlotte potts
charlotte potts state farm insurance, little rock/north little rock
As a highly successful insurance professional and someone for whom each new day reveals itself in myriad unexpected ways, Charlotte Potts has learned to roll with the punches and remain a calming force for clients whose lives have been turned upside down by storm, fire or auto accident.
If there is one thing that is sure to get her dander up, however, it is the thought of people in crisis having their situation made worse by poor customer service and slow action by their insurance agent. It is a mantra she preaches to her team until it is second nature to them, even as her business has grown and her office locations have doubled.
“The answer to everything in this business is a great team,” she said. “You have to have a great team surrounding you. I can’t answer 110 phone calls in a day all by myself. There’s no way to do that. I’m proud to say many of our team members have been here a long time, but the newer ones are just as important. That’s why we maintain a culture of education and open communication.
“We have team meetings every single morning at both offices, and I have a team lead at both places. If anything’s wonky or if anything needs to be discussed, they can talk about the day before and anything else that needs to be addressed at those meetings.”
Potts’ operational philosophy comes into sharper focus when one considers she started her professional life as a teacher, a job that immediately carried over into the insurance field.
“I use education every single day,” she said. “If you can teach someone how their insurance policy works or doesn’t work, right, then they walk away knowing at least what they’re paying for. If I asked 10 adults — professionals or just anybody in their mid-30s — who have been driving for 20 years, ‘How exactly does your insurance work?’ almost all of them really don’t know the answer, so we use education every day.”
Potts left education to pursue pharmaceutical sales and, along the way, picked up a master’s degree in corporate training. She made the switch to insurance because she saw it as more consistent.
“I moved to insurance because I felt like it was an insulated career field, meaning everybody has to have certain types of insurance by law,” she said. “Anybody with a driver’s license and an automobile is a potential client for us. Same goes for anybody who rents a place or owns a home or has a desire to have life insurance.
“I also saw it as an industry where I didn’t have to worry about my income if a national account manager lost an account
in the pharmaceutical realm. I felt [insurance] gave me more control over my career.”
Potts proved a natural and steadily built up a large clientele, the secret to which comes down to how well the office performs after the sale, when people need help.
“At the end of the day, there’s not a tangible insurance product,” she said. “Every single time you buy an insurance product — life insurance, disability, homeowners, jewelry, auto — you buy a piece of paper that lays in a drawer, and it doesn’t do anything until somebody’s had a bad day. That’s exactly what insurance is. Then, on a really bad day, you go dust it off, and you’re like, ‘OK, what do I do here?’
“Sometimes in the event of a catastrophe like that, you don’t know what to do, and that’s where your agent comes in or the agent’s team. Many people have had lots of different claims, and they know exactly what to do, and they don’t need help, and they don’t want us calling and bugging them. For those who do need help, they’re looking for someone to call them back quickly. An agent’s office team should always be there to listen and to help.”
For as stressful at the job can be at times, such as in the wake of tornadoes and other destructive weather, Potts remains a strong advocate for the industry and promotes careers in insurance at every opportunity.
“It’s a best-kept secret, being an insurance agent, for anyone who has a servant’s heart and an ability to serve people well,” she said. “In addition to the financial service pieces, like life insurance, auto insurance and disability insurance, a lot of people don’t know that we actually do investments. I have my securities licenses, and I can write mutual funds and IRAs, I can start 401(k)s for companies. Nobody thinks about State Farm for that. As an industry, we have to do a better job of saying, ‘Hey, this is not just about writing auto insurance.’
“I can absolutely create legacies with what we do, and I love that. That’s my favorite part. I have a neon sign on my Little Rock office that says, ‘Be a difference maker,’ and with every interaction, we try to be that difference maker.”
b renda henson
henson insurance services, pea ridge
After 30 years in banking going all the way back to her college days, Brenda Henson was ready for a change. That opportunity came 10 years ago in the form of an invitation by her brother-in-law, who was already in the insurance business, to make the career switch.
Henson, owner-agent of her firm, got a short break-in period with a women on her brother-in-law’s staff and, in short order, was dropped into the deep end to figure things out from there. She said she was surprised at how well her skill set in banking transferred over to insurance.
“It’s interesting,” she said. “I deal with Medicare primarily, and so there’s a lot of education involved, explaining how things work. You get the facts. You learn their situation. You find out what they are needing to do, what they can do and then, really, just help that person choose a product that’s right for them. That’s really what it amounts to, and that’s the same thing I did in mortgage lending.”
While not everyone can say they have established and grown a small business for a decade the way Henson can, as far as being a woman in the insurance industry, she said does not necessarily consider herself that unique. She does, however, think there are differences in men’s and women’s respective natures that come into play when dealing with clients.
“When you’re dealing with clients, especially those that we see who are older, I think empathy is something that is valuable,” she said. “I think it’s just nature’s way that women sometimes have ways to maybe show empathy differently than men do.
“I know that compared to my brother-in-law or even my son, who works with me, I have a different style than they do. Their style’s not wrong. Their clients love them, but it’s just a different way of relating to people, and maybe that’s the empathy part of it.”
While many of her clients fundamentally want the same thing as they did 10 years ago, Henson said the buying public also offers some important differences in how they relate to and what they want from their insurance agent.
“One thing is they’re more educated [about insurance] because they’re coming out of the workforce,” she said. “They’re used to computers, they’re used to technology, and so they’re able to self-educate a little bit more. That causes some of them to come in with more predisposed notions, which are not always right or applicable to them,” she said. “That’s where we come in and help take what they think they know and kind of put it all in perspective for them.”
Henson said leveraging technology is a given in this day and age, something that helps her balance the need for convenience
and responsiveness while still providing a high level of customer service. It also plays another operational role, that of safety.
“When I first started, I know there were agents that would still do house calls, but I think as time has gone by, it’s not as common as it once was,” she said. “If you have a number of clients — and we have a number of clients — it’s not possible to drive around and see everyone. Plus, when I first started, I got into a couple of precarious situations that I probably didn’t need to be in because I went to a stranger’s home where you don’t know what you’re going to encounter. Technology has helped with that a great deal.”
Another element that is starting to make the traditional dining table presentation a thing of the past is that even with technology, the complexity of forms and processes make doing business in the home increasingly impractical.
“Just to enroll someone, you can take a laptop, you can take an iPad, and I did that,” she said, “but now there’s so many extra requirements from [Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services] and all the insurance companies that you’d almost have to drag a U-Haul behind you to have everything you need in order to service someone in the field.”
Henson’s second career act has been a success not only from a business perspective but from a personal one in that she gets to work with family — currently with her son and, previously, with her daughter-in-law. She said she would encourage other young people, men and women alike, to look at insurance as a rewarding and profitable career.
“To be successful in this business, I think you have to like people, and you have to like being able to help people. I find women in particular like those aspects in a career,” she said. “Another thing I would want people to know is insurance is the kind of career that gives you the ability to basically take things as far as you want. You can limit the growth of your business to give you more time for your family or other interests, or if you’re looking to grow something, there’s nothing that’s going to stop you from growing it as large as you like.”
Dennis Bost: Insurance still comes down to relationships
When Dennis Bost talks about commitment to home and family — two central tenets of his role as a longtime State Farm agent — he is not kidding.
Bost has spent about 12 of his 21 years with the company running his own agency in Little Rock. Prior to that time, he was a member of the State Farm corporate structure, where he eventually reached a crossroads in his career. His supervisor wanted him to transfer with the company to Kansas City, but the native Arkansan saw staying in the Natural State as more conducive to raising his young family.
Sticking to his guns as a husband and father paid off professionally as Bost’s has grown into one of the most decorated agencies in the state. It is an accomplishment he comes by honestly, since his father was equally successful at his Arkadelphia agency for 40 years. To this day, Bost credits his father for some of the most critical pieces of wisdom that has underpinned his career, both spoken and demonstrated.
“In 1997, a major tornado hit Arkadelphia, and seeing how he was able to be there for his customers and help them out and help them recover from it really opened my eyes [to the industry],” he said. “After college, I came back, and Dad said, ‘Why don’t you just work for me for a little bit?’ During that time period, when people would pass away who had life insurance that he had written, I saw again how he’d helped so many different people. I was like, ‘You know what, this is a pretty cool industry.’
“Dad always told me, ‘You don’t work for State Farm. You have a fiduciary responsibility to State Farm, but you work for your customers.’ That’s a different philosophy than a lot of insurance agents have, but I’m old school. This isn’t like a lot of sales jobs, where you’re selling on margins and things like that. You actually get paid to do a better job of discussing the needs of your customers and taking better care of your customers. I’ve always run my agency on that.”
The challenges of the insurance business have arguably never been stiffer. While most people understand the general concept of how insurance works, the devil is most certainly in the details when it comes to separating one company’s products from another, especially with the rise of online options.
By Dwain Hebda
Dennis Bost (File photo)
“The biggest thing that I see that people don’t always consider is that insurance is not a commodity,” he said. “A lot of people will shop for price and the lowest, cheapest coverage when, really, the most overlooked thing is liability. Liability can upend your life if you don’t have things covered correctly.
“A lot of insurance agents, unfortunately, don’t take the time to go over that with their customers. They try to sell them on the cheapest price possible instead of explaining to them what the liability coverage is on their homes and on their automobiles, especially a personal-liability umbrella policy that covers everything. They don’t take the time to talk about all of that. I think that’s the biggest thing when it comes to insurance.”
As an agency grows, so does the challenge of giving each policy holder the requisite attention they are paying for and deserve. That facet of business ownership is not always talked about but is something every agent has had to wrestle with, Bost included. In an age when many rely on technology to carry most of the load, Bost has followed a characteristically throw-back approach.
“You’ve got to surround yourself with very capable people,” he said. “I make sure that I’m hiring people who love to deal with people, who are going to be willing to go out there and fight for a customer when something happens and make sure that the right thing is done. We vet people very carefully to make sure they’ve got that attitude and they they’re going to be compassionate toward their situation.
“Once we hire that kind of person, I make sure we coach them up. We do weekly trainings, and we make sure they understand what’s going on. There are so many different products offered now, it’s just a never-ending training cycle.”
Bost’s previous corporate role, in which he hired his fair share of agents, was a great training ground for evaluating talent among the applicants seeking to come work for him in his agency. He said the insurance business offers a lot of opportunity to people regardless of educational or work background, provided they have the right people skills.
“I think it comes down to a certain type of personality,” he said. “It’s somebody who has a lot of self-awareness to know how to serve their customers, people who truly care about helping out people and don’t just say it.
“I had a guy who worked for me who was a teacher at [HallWest High School of Innovation] in Little Rock. He had his master’s degree, taught high school English. He came in and worked for me for three years, and he’s excelling as an agent down in Tyler, Texas, now. Most people would say, ‘How would being an English teacher translate to being an insurance agent?’ It wasn’t the degree; it’s the type of personality he had.”
Bost said one aspect of taking care of clients properly is to make sure they are aware of everything their insurance company offers that can help bring them peace of mind. He said State Farm’s suite of products goes well beyond the home and auto protection the company is famous for, which comes as some surprise to much of the buying public.
“Most people only think of Aflac for supplemental health policies and things like that, but most insurance companies offer those types of policies, life insurance being the biggest,” he said. “State Farm is actually the largest life insurer in the United States as far as number of policies are concerned. We’re No. 1, but if you pulled 10 people off the street, maybe one would know that. Most people would name a different company.
“Our national advertising is not about life insurance because our philosophy is we talk to customers through the biggest door of the house, which is the garage door. After that, it’s our responsibility as agents to make sure all their needs are met.”
A lot of people will shop for price and the lowest, cheapest coverage when, really, the most overlooked thing is liability. Liability can upend your life if you don’t have things covered correctly.
The future, Bost said, holds more of the same kind of rapid change as technology continues to evolve quickly and market forces shift.
“One of the biggest things that we’re dealing with — and I have no idea, honestly, what it looks like in five years — is this giant increase in the number of storms that we’re seeing in Arkansas,” he said. “It’s not something that you can take 10year historical data and take actuaries and come up with prices because it’s been unprecedented.
“What this looks like for the customer is people carrying higher deductibles, especially on roofs, for wind, hail. That’s industry wide. Companies are also deciding whether or not to do business in certain states like Arkansas, where there have been so many hailstorms and, lately, the tornadoes we’ve been having. Storms over the next five to 10 years, if it continues to stay on this arc that it’s on or, heaven forbid, gets worse, it’s going to be very interesting to see how that impacts our industry.”
‘REALLY BIG HITS’
Industry responds, adapts to severe weather, inflation
It is a fact of life that accidents happen
By Alex Hardgrave
In2023 alone, there were an estimated 13.1 million motor vehicle crashes, according to the National Safety Council. Because of those unplanned events, it is also a fact of life that people have to think about insurance. Recently, another fact of life has been rising insurance rates.
“Economic shifts are creating a complex landscape for the insurance industry, and individuals and businesses should be aware of the potential impacts on their insurance coverage and costs,” said Randy Allison, senior producer at Sunstar Insurance of Arkansas in Little Rock.
Due to the inflation, the price of replacement costs for homes and cars has jumped, which has caused insurance rates to increase, said Brooke Brolo owner of Brolo Insurance Group in North Little Rock.
G&G Independent Insurance CEO Jordan Greer added that the country has been dealing with inflation causing building materials costs to rise and thus house prices to rise. He estimates a house that cost $200,000 just a few years ago could easily cost $400,000 now.
The same phenomenon has happened with vehicles and auto insurance.
Then there is the increased and heightened severity of storms. There were 27 confirmed weather/climate disasters in the United States last year, each resulting in losses exceeding $1 billion, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information.
“Insurance companies have taken really big hits, really big losses, catastrophically, due to all the storms we’ve had, especially in our area,” Brolo said.
This has caused insurance rates to rise even more to keep up.
“Catastrophic weather events are leading to increased premiums and are influencing risk assessment and insurance products, pushing the industry to innovate and address new challenges,” Allison said.
While tornadoes have wrecked havoc across Arkansas, hail is often a larger issue for insurance.
“Hailstorms, from a dollar standpoint, cause even more damage than tornadoes, generally, because they usually affect a wider area,” Greer said.
Wind/hail deductibles started a few years ago to help make insurance more accessible and affordable, Allison said.
“Unlike standard fixed-dollar deduct-
Insurance companies have taken really big hits, really big losses, catastrophically, due to all the storms we’ve had, especially in our area.
— Brooke Brolo, Brolo Insurance Group
Catastrophic weather events are leading to increased premiums and are influencing risk assessment and insurance products, pushing the industry to innovate and address new challenges.
— Randy Allison, Sunstar Insurance of Arkansas
ibles, wind/hail deductibles are often percentages based, meaning they are calculated as a percentage of your property’s insured value and not a flat fee,” Allison said.
Even as inflation slows, Greer said customers are still a few years away from seeing insurance rates stabilize. That is because insurance companies can only take a limited increase based on what insurance departments approve. That also means not every company is taking the same rate increases in the same years.
Other major changes in the field come in the way of technological advances, one of those being artificial intelligence.
AI has changed the game in the insurance industry by advancing underwriting, being able to do predictive risk assessment and personalizing product recommendations for clients, Allison said. AI has also worked to streamline the claims process.
“The days when claims processing took weeks or months will eventually be a thing of the past,” Allison said. “AI-driven chatbots will be able to provide 24/7 customer support, improving response times and customer satisfaction.”
Another high-tech advancement is the use of drones. Greer said that some companies have started using drones instead of onsight ground inspectors.
Brolo pointed to the use of apps that track how safely a person drives and changes their rates accordingly.
have seen customers looking for a new company more often due to the rising rates.
“These trends reflect a shift in customer behavior towards more proactive and personalized insurance shopping driven by the need for better value and convenience,” Allison said.
Greer said independent companies such as G&G can find the best rates for their customers by mixing and matching policies from different companies.
“We’re loyal to our customers, not necessarily the insurance companies that we represent,” he said.
However, while customers may be looking to cut back or change policies in order to save money, they also need to know they are getting the correct coverage for their unique situations.
“With inflation and with rate increases across the board in the industry, people are very price conscious,” Brolo said. “I understand saving money, but look at what you’re buying.”
Exactly what coverage does a person need?
A home is usually a person’s biggest item to insure. The coverage on a home should equate to at least the home loan and replacement cost for everything in the home.
“The most important coverage is personal property,” Greer said.
Allison said mobile devices have made it easier for customers to interact with insurance providers and do routine transactions that way. It also means consumers are more aware of their insurance rates, which has contributed to a phenomenon of people shopping around for different rates.
All three agents said they
TORNADOES
Greer said homeowners should imagine walking through their home and thinking of everything they see and how much it would cost to replace each item. A replacement cost is not just the cost of the item itself, but what it would cost to buy a new version of that item.
Allison said flood insurance, is not included in homeowners insurance and earthquake coverage must be added, as well.
Renters insurance is similar to homeowners insurance, but, usually, rental companies also require renters to have liability insurance, Brolo said.
Liability insurance on a home or rental covers a customer if a person gets hurt
on the property.
Then there is auto insurance. With auto insurance, rather than paying out replacement costs, insurance companies are going to pay out the cost to fix what is broken or to replace the cost of the car at the time it is totaled, not the cost of a brand new car, Brolo said.
There are a lot of other types of insurance too. Brolo recommended thinking about other items in a garage and making sure those are insured, as well, including golf carts, recreational vehicles, fourwheelers and boats.
She added that life insurance is also important.
“People insure things all the time, but if you have 10 people in a room, maybe only three of them have life insurance,” she said. “We want to make sure we educate people about the importance of life insurance because all of that can be replaced, but you can’t.”
Another insurance policy to consider is called an umbrella policy. It is typically excess liability coverage beyond someone’s home, renters or auto liability insurance policy.
Greer said umbrella policies are essentially lawsuit protection and protect customers if they somehow injure someone and are sued for it beyond the amount of their liability insurance. That is where the umbrella policy kicks in.
Brolo recommended about $1 million in an umbrella policy.
There is so much that goes into
Greer recommended homeowners catalog the value of all possessions inside a home.
choosing what coverages people need, and that is what insurance agents are there to help their clients do.
“I would say the most important thing is working with someone that’s knowledgeable that can customize it,” Greer said.
Brolo said people should revisit their policies, especially when they experience a major life event such as a marriage, birth, move or buying a new car.
Allison said customers should contact their agents and conduct comprehensive reviews of all policies.
“It stands to reason that insurance coverage should not be taken for granted,” Allison said.
Brolo also stressed that working with an agent who gets to know their customers in order to customize coverage to an individual’s risk and needs.
“Make sure that you make protection a priority, just as much a priority as you would price,” she said. “You want to make sure you’re saving the most amount of money that you can with the coverage you need.”
HAIL
Hailstorms, from a dollar standpoint, cause even more damage than tornadoes, generally, because they usually affect a wider area.
— Jordan Greer, G&G Independent Insurance
No End in Sight
Sightline Retail sets up clients — and its industry — for long-term success
An industry mecca, northwest Arkansas is home to more than its fair share of companies offering advice to retailers and brands big and small. While the competition is fierce, none manage to come close to Bentonville-based consumer goods consulting company Sightline Retail. Founded by CEO Shannon Bedore, Sightline Retail has worked with industry blue bloods such as Walmart, Whole Foods Market and Amazon while providing brands with everything from sales, management and strategy to operations, replenishment, warehousing and administrative support.
“Our company knows people because of the unique value proposition we offer, and we have grown accounts and brands over the last 11 years due to a triangulation in which all parties come out ahead,” Bedore said. “We combine great merchandising strategy along with the excellent implementation processes required to have a successful product on shelf.”
Sightline Retail offers a lower-cost option than hiring and maintaining an internal team, an especially vital service for smaller suppliers who otherwise might struggle to keep up with large retailers. Rather than relying solely on industry knowledge and connections, Sightline’s
“The great thing about a small company is that everyone contributes and adds value, making the entire team stronger and better each time.”
— Shannon Bedore, CEO of Sightline Retail
more structured approach democratizes the expenses associated with big-box retailers and their specific requirements — replenishment, warehousing, shipping, forecasting, billing, .com and marketing — for an affordable model in which buyers, suppliers and end consumers all stand to benefit.
“We’ve been able to work on national retail strategy for a few brands, which allows us to develop class trade strategies for brands who want to have a multichannel approach,” Bedore said. “This has happened due to our hard work and conviction to offer high service at some of the lowest market rates.”
The company works with businesses of all sizes across a number of different industries and locales. Bedore is also the CEO of Blue Elephant Food Group USA, a consumer packaged goods brand based on the massively successful Thai restaurant chain of the same name. Sightline Retail played an instrumental role
in helping the Blue Elephant name break into the United States market. Not only admired by happy customers and business partners the world over, Sightline was also previously named one of the top analytics solutions providers by industry publication Retail CIO Outlook, recognizing both the company’s technological savvy and careful catering to client needs.
“We are a small and mighty company, so everyone is empowered to own their business and scope of work and to take care of our clients in the best way possible,” Bedore said. “The great thing about a small company is that everyone contributes and adds value, making the entire team stronger and better each time.”
Under Bedore’s leadership, the company is also navigating generational transformations in the commerce space. The hybridization of brick-and-mortar and online shopping experiences poses unique challenges to brands and retailers aiming to stay ahead. Increasingly popular “pick up and go” and home delivery experiences rely on the presence of brickand-mortar stores but are considered e-commerce. Nevertheless, the amalgam of models differs greatly from traditional e-commerce in many ways, not least of all when it comes to supply chain considerations.
“There are significant challenges today with item setup, fulfillment and fee structure between each model, as one is driven by pallet-driven warehousing strategies and the other by unique, longer-tail, slower-selling products,” she said. “I don’t know how these two will morph down the road, but I do expect some bumpy roads in trying to optimize both channels into a cost-effective business model for suppliers.”
A defining feature of Bedore’s work is her commitment to constant learning and improvement, both sharpening her own skills and sharing hard-won knowledge with others. She recently obtained her doctorate from the University of Florida and hopes to utilize her degree in a collegiate setting teaching retail, supply chain and brand management — all this while continuing to lead a pair of successful businesses and helping countless other companies thrive.
“I hope that our experiences in launching and managing brands can be used to educate and create more well-rounded retail leaders in the future,” Bedore said. “A few of our brands have allowed their data to be used in case studies and research in an academic setting, and my hope is that our work will help create better and brighter retail minds in the next generation of leaders.”
In addition to a deep well of industry know-how, Bedore will also be able to pass on a few lessons to the next batch of aspiring company founders. Chief among them is a simple maxim that takes a moment to learn and much longer to truly realize.
“Hard work pays off,” Bedore said.
To learn more about Sightline Retail, visit sightlineretail.com or call 1-844-ON-SHELF.
Arkansas Money & Politic’s 2025 Most Admired Companies
It is one thing to open a business, and our respect goes out to anyone who follows their entrepreneurial dreams. Succeeding in business, however, is a whole other thing, and earning the respect of consumers, well, it does not get much tougher — or better — than that.
This year, Arkansas Money & Politics again asked readers to say which are their most admired companies in the Natural State. Using financial soundness, bold innovation, brand awareness, quality of product, outstanding people and social responsibility as the criteria, they did just that in the categories that follow.
We hold all businesses in high esteem, especially after the roller coaster ride of the early 2020s, and we tip our hat to those owners who managed to adapt, navigate and survive. This year, readers told us which companies they admired most. Enjoy the 2025 list of AMP’s “Most Admired Companies,” which follows feature stories on a few of this year’s inductees — Dr. Suzanne Yee Cosmetic & Laser Surgery Center in Little Rock, Meridian Investment Advisors in Little Rock, and Highlands Oncology in northwest Arkansas.
Again, congrats to all the businesses recognized in this section for earning such a high level of respect and to all businesses in Arkansas for helping drive the state’s economy forward.
MOSTADMIRED COMPANIES 2025
Thank you for voting us as “Most Admired Company” and “Best of Winner” for Event Venues 2025. With 18,000 square feet of open air event space, water features, covered “front porch, and permanent tie-downs;, Argenta Plaza makes for a great space to hold your event, festival, or reception. We’re honored by your support and can’t wait to help bring your celebrations to life.
A HIGHER PURPOSE
HIGHLANDS ONCOLOGY
By Mak Millard
While much attention has been given in recent years to the merits of holistic health care, there are those who have led the medical field with a comprehensive approach for much longer. Founded by physicians in 1996, Highlands Oncology, based in northwest Arkansas, is one of the largest physician-owned cancer programs in the country.
The independent, multidisciplinary cancer center has continued to expand alongside the northwest Arkansas community it serves, offering patients in the region and beyond a full spectrum of care. The group’s services range from diagnostic imaging and rehabilitation to spiritual care, social work and genetic counseling, among others.
“Our mission is to provide the highest quality of innovative care delivered with precision and compassion,” said Mike Gebhart, chief financial officer. “Highlands Oncology has achieved success by always placing the patient at the center of everything we do.”
With well-equipped locations across Rogers, Fayetteville, Springdale and Mountain Home, Highlands Oncology aims to give patients access to all of the doctors and services they need closer to home. That focus on accessibility not only allows for expedited cancer care, Gebhart said, but streamlined communication within the organization. The group’s primary cancer centers have laboratories certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments, in addition to infusion suites, pharmacies and a number of imaging services, such as PET, CT, MRI, X-ray and ultrasound.
clearly across every location as Highlands Oncology grows.
“Highlands is more than just a job,” Gebhart said. “It’s a calling. Working in the oncology field, you understand that you will encounter people during some of the most challenging times of their lives. Therefore, when you come to work, it’s essential to bring more than just technical skills or clinical expertise. You need to be emotionally engaged and ready to serve.”
The rapid pace of growth in northwest Arkansas has brought with it an urgent need for more health care spaces and professionals. Over the past seven years, Highlands has more than doubled in size, increasing its physician headcount from 16 to more than 30, staff from 360 to more than 800 and clinical trials from 70 to nearly 150. In terms of physical footprint, the company has added more than 150,000 square feet of space to its cancer centers. Highlands also recently secured 51 acres in Rogers for an additional 125,000-square-foot cancer center. Making space for a workforce and hanging onto that talent are two different battles, however, and that is something Gebhart and the Highlands leadership keep front of mind. In 2024, Highlands Oncology became a certified Great Place to Work. The organization prioritizes the well-being of its personnel by providing opportunities to develop personally, professionally and financially in a meaningful workplace, Gebhart said.
“One important fact that many people may not be aware of is that we offer our full-service pharmacy, laboratory and imaging services to everyone, not just our cancer and hematology patients,” Gebhart said. “If you have a prescription or a doctor’s order for lab work or imaging, you can bring it to us, and we will assist you. Our turnaround time is faster than that of most other facilities.”
At the core of any successful enterprise is a committed group of individuals, and having the right people in place is all the more crucial in an area of medicine as demanding as oncology. Each member of the Highlands Oncology team, from medical providers to administration and support staff of every kind, is vital to upholding the high standards expected of the organization. Caring for patients is the heart of the group’s purpose, Gebhart said, and it is vital to convey that message
“At Highlands Oncology, we believe it is our responsibility to keep up with the growth of the region and continue serving our community well,” he said. “The only way to do that is to become a talent magnet by attracting and retaining high-quality people, both clinical and nonclinical.”
Dovetailing with Highlands Oncology’s commitment to individuals is its work to advance the field of oncology through robust research and cutting-edge care. The group is nationally recognized for innovation in oncology, and Highlands’ communitybased, multidisciplinary chest cancer clinic was the first of its kind in the country. The forward-looking C.A.R.E. Clinic — Cancer Assessment and Risk Education — provides patients with tailored insights into cancer risks, in addition to comprehensive management based on family history or a known genetic mutation.
From Food and Drug Administration-approved alternatives to traditional chemotherapy and radiation to the latest clinical treatment trials available, progress is the rule at Highlands,
Mike Gebhart
not the exception. The goal is to raise the bar for what cancer care should be, Gebhart said. The center invests in the future of oncology by training the next generation of health care professionals, expanding access to clinical trials and shaping policies designed with patients in mind. Both Highlands Oncology and its home region are uniquely positioned to accelerate those advancements, Gebhart said.
“Our mission deliberately includes innovation, and it is that combination of high-quality patient care and innovation that will continue to guide us forward,” he said.
While the future is bright, Highlands faces obstacles familiar to any corner of the medical industry. The single biggest challenge for the group, Gebhart said, is one that plagues the entire health care system. Ever-higher prices for new drugs and therapies, reimbursement pressure from government and commercial players, and increased financial burden on patients have made for an unsustainable rise in the cost of care. Highlands Oncology is as committed to addressing issues on the economic front as it is to finding breakthroughs on the medical front.
“We believe our independent, community-based approach to cancer care is the most cost effective for the entire system,” Gebhart said. “We are actively pursuing government and commercial partnerships to prove out new value-based payment arrangements aimed at lowering the total cost of care while improving patient outcomes and experience.”
In addition to mitigating the cost of care, Highlands constantly seeks ways to bolster the overall patient experience. The group is in the vanguard when it comes to utilizing artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, as well as collecting
comment boxes and other means.
Highlands actively seeks to understand and anticipate patient concerns and expectations, which Gebhart said empowers the organization to make timely, meaningful improvements. On top of that, the center listens to families and caregivers as it aims to build a care environment that reflects the values and needs of its community.
“Ultimately, it’s this collaboration between patients, families and care teams that fuels a culture of continuous improvement,” Gebhart said. “It’s how we ensure that every patient receives not just treatment but truly personalized, high-quality oncology care.”
Being the best in the region is an ambitious goal, but it is one Highlands Oncology has proven capable of meeting for nearly three decades and counting. With a reputation for quality among both patients and industry peers, Highlands has struck a delicate balance between relentless scientific progress and deeply personalized health care. Impact is not only measured in clinical outcomes, Gebhart said, but in successfully supporting patients and families through some of life’s most difficult moments.
“If we’re remembered for anything, we hope it’s for making world-class cancer care accessible, compassionate and local and for building something that truly made a difference in people’s lives,” he said.
large amounts of patient feedback through calls, surveys,
Highlands Oncology’s main facility in Springdale. (Photo courtesy of Highlands Oncology)
FAYETTEVILLE
VALUE OVER TIME
MERIDIAN INVESTMENT ADVISORS
By Mak Millard
Anyone who has encountered Meridian Investment Advisors is likely familiar with the Little Rock wealth management firm’s oft-repeated mantra: “Investing for a rich life, realizing what you value.” For managing principal and Chartered Financial Analyst Pat Moon, it is more than a simple marketing statement or turn of phrase.
“What we do is invest money for people and companies, but the reason we do that is they have something that they want to accomplish with that money,” Moon said. “Those are really the things that they value. What we do just enables them to be able to do that, so that’s what our strategy is.”
Moon joined the company in 1997 and leads the Meridian team in helping affluent families and business clients bring their financial goals to fruition. Though Meridian’s work is accomplished in dollars, those figures are not an end in themselves for many clients. Moon and his team aim to understand the dreams behind those goals, whether clients are
saving up for retirement, building a financial legacy for their children and grandchildren, or crossing long-desired items off the bucket list.
“We don’t really make anything,” Moon said. “We don’t have a product to sell. We’re just a trusted advisor, and our value is in giving advice. That’s what customer service, to us, is all about.”
The field of wealth management is a crowded one, so it takes more than keen finance skills to achieve the more than $800 million in assets entrusted to Meridian. The firm also has a strong focus on education, providing resources and working to make complex topics and strategies more approachable. Clear and open communication is especially crucial in the realm of money, where economic anxieties, the latest headlines and even life circumstances can cloud one’s
better judgment. Against market uncertainties, being able to effectively express why, when and how the firm is investing can ease fears, grow confidence and make customers feel like a real partner rather than just another client.
“You know, this is their money, and they have goals,” Moon said. “They may not even be able to explain exactly what those goals are. What we need [them] to understand in a simple way is why we’re making the decisions that we’re making and why we’re investing the money the way that we are.”
Perhaps the most valuable trait for members of the Meridian team is the ability to not just listen to clients but hear them as they speak about their situations, dreams and concerns. Easier said than done, it is a core competency that applies regardless of the numbers in one’s investment account. Whether two clients have the same amount of money or vastly different amounts, one can rest assured they both put a high value on those dollars and where they end up.
“Everyone’s goal and what they want to do with their money can be different,” Moon said. “The only way that you can accomplish that and make them feel good about that is to listen and be specific about how you’re going to address the needs, goals and wishes that they’ve expressed.”
Also key for a company with longevity such as Meridian’s is keeping up with shifting industry trends and evolving client demands. The firm continues to invest in technologies aimed at improving the client experience, from new relationship management systems to learning how to effectively implement artificial intelligence. The bulk of the firm’s work, historically, has focused on institutional money management, Moon said, such as pension and profit-sharing plans, city and government groups, endowments, and foundations. With an eye toward the future, Meridian is increasingly leaning into wealth management for families.
“That’s a different way to look at the world, and that includes more financial planning, personal advice services and things like that,” he said.
Staying abreast of larger movements such as the ongoing wealth transfer from baby boomers to the younger generations also factors into the firm’s calculations. As individuals more accustomed to a world of smartphones, online communication and digital services come
We don’t have a product to sell. We’re just a trusted advisor, and our value is in giving advice. That’s what customer service, to us, is all about.”
— Pat Moon, managing principal
into money, they will increasingly expect their financial planners to be more technologically savvy, as well.
“Although what we’re doing is essentially the same, the service model is changing completely, so we’re making investments in people — in many cases, younger people,” Moon said. “We’re investing in systems and technology where we’ll be able to address the experience that the younger people are looking for, because they’ve grown up having [come] to expect that.”
A little more than 40 years in, Meridian is also in the midst of a generational shift of its own. The firm prides itself on the invaluable knowledge and depth of experience it is able to provide thanks to its long-tenured employees. Three members of the Meridian team have been there for more than 25 years.
“On the other hand, we’re a growing business,” Moon said. “We’ve been fortunate to grow with assets and new clients over the last few years, and so we’re building out the team. We’ve added three new team members in the last 12 months.”
The new arrivals are either coming from another industry or are recently out of school, which gives the firm a dynamic mix of seasoned professionals and new perspectives. A growing team also bolsters Meridian’s ability to provide the level of personalized customer service the firm has built its name on. In this
business, Moon said, trust is all his team has, so every client needs to feel special.
“The culture that we have is when somebody walks through the door, everybody’s on alert about what would make that client’s experience good for that particular visit,” Moon said. “That’s something that we’re focusing a lot on is the client experience aspect of our business, with these new people and the way that we’re growing.”
One face is not quite as new as the fresh arrivals — he has been with the firm for a decade — but reflects the transition in a different sense. One of Moon’s sons, Marshall, joined Meridian in 2015 and is a Certified Financial Planner. A senior investment advisor and Meridian’s chief equity strategist, Marshall became a partner at the beginning of this year.
“That’s a really cool thing to say, not just as a business owner but as a father,” Moon said. “Marshall’s been with us for 10 years now, and he’s got a great aptitude for the business. He’s already very successful.”
Meridian’s status in the industry and among those it serves is one built over time, not through a specific job done once or twice but through the cultivation of an experience and culture where clients can feel the difference. As he contemplates the firm’s future, Moon is mindful of the fact that many of the faces that make up Meridian now will not be around for some of the decades ahead, himself included. Positioning the company to continue making an impact after he leaves, he said, is a lot of fun.
“We’re planning for the next 40 years just like we have the last 40 years of this business,” Moon said. “That takes really smart, good people, and that’s what we’re doing here. We’re building the company to be ready for the next 40 years.”
First National Title Co. Strengthens Cyber Fraud Protections for Clients
Buying or selling real estate is often the largest financial transaction most people make, which is exactly why it has become a prime target for cybercriminals.
First National Title Co. is stepping up to meet that challenge, offering new tools and protections to safeguard clients’ funds, data and property.
Enhanced Owner’s Policy Available
To combat rising threats like forged deeds and seller impersonation, First National Title Co. now offers an enhanced owner’s policy that includes:
• 32 additional coverages beyond the standard policy
• Protection after the closing date in case something happens down the line
• Coverage for forgery and fraud
• Coverage that can increase with property value over time
• Survey-related protections — often without requiring a survey
All of this is available for just a 10 percent increase in policy cost.
Protecting Clients at Every Step
The company has also taken several additional measures to defend against fraud and identity theft during real estate transactions:
• Closing Lock identity verification for wire transfers, backed by $2 million in coverage
• Cyber fraud insurance through Lloyds of London, offering $1 million in protection
• Positive Pay technology to prevent check fraud
• Advanced cybersecurity tools, including:
• Multifactor authentication
• Email encryption
• Continuous system monitoring
Educating and Empowering Clients
• Realtors receive fraud prevention training
• Clients receive warnings about wire fraud risks
BENTONVILLE 479-464-4995
EUREKA SPRINGS 479-253-5080
HARRISON 870-204-6890
FAYETTEVILLE 479-695-6100
HARRISON 870-391-8012
JASPER 870-446-2244
MOUNTAIN HOME 870-425-2264
MARSHALL 870-448-5450
GREERS FERRY 501-825-6800
FORT
SMITH 479-783-7793
RUSSELLVILLE 479-968-7454
GREENBRIER 501-679-0600
HEBER SPRINGS 501-365-1260
CONWAY 501-327-6723 501-932-2828
870-246-2821
“The bottom line is that First National Title Co. is doing everything possible to make sure your closing is smooth, secure and protected, now and well into the future.”
— Jim Pender
“We’re willing to spend the money and take the extra steps to protect our clients,” said Jim Pender, President and General Legal Counsel. “So far, we’ve been successful.”
First National Title Co. also prioritizes education and transparency throughout the process:
• First National Title Co. never sends wire instructions by email or text
501-259-9003 DANVILLE 479-495-2281
MALVERN 501-332-5767
501-943-5260
870-455-1081
EL DORADO 870-863-6053
“As soon as we know someone is a client, we educate them,” Pender said. “It’s vital they know who they’re talking to before they send any confidential information.” OUR SERVICES
• Residential Closing Services
• Commercial Closing Services
• Escrow Services
• Title Insurance
• 1032 & Reverse 1031 Transactions
• Abstracting
• Witness Closings
Dr. Suzanne Yee Cosmetic & Laser Surgery Center
Lifting Others
By Mak Millard
The world of cosmetic surgery has come a long way in growing into the multibilliondollar enterprise it is today.
Popular perception toward aesthetic procedures continues to evolve right alongside medical advances in techniques, technologies and services offered. More than a witness to these trends, Dr. Suzanne Yee has been an active industry force who has spearheaded innovations in care, set the standard for patient satisfaction, and made an indelible impact within the Natural State and beyond.
“I strive to provide the best care possible and deliver the best results I can for every patient,” Yee said. “That means being truthful about what can be achieved, whether through surgical or nonsurgical options, and always setting realistic expectations. My goal is to empower patients with knowledge and to help them make informed decisions about their care.”
The roots of Yee’s success stretch back much further than her career in medicine. Born in east Arkansas to Chinese immigrants, Yee grew up experiencing firsthand the necessity for — and the rewards of — hard work. Her parents, driven by a desire to build a better life for their family and set Yee and her siblings up for success, worked tirelessly for years running the family’s business.
“[They modeled] an unshakable work ethic and an unwavering belief in the power of education,” she said. “That sense of perseverance and gratitude is something I’ve carried with me every step of the way.”
Once on the medical path, Yee excelled. She graduated top of her class while obtaining a medical degree at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. After a surgery internship at UAMS, Yee completed a facial plastics and reconstructive surgery fellowship at the University of Texas in Houston. Among her numerous professional affiliations is a triple-board certification from the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, the American Board of Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Yee opened her own practice, Dr. Suzanne Yee Cosmetic and Laser Surgery Center, in Little Rock in 2003. In the two decades since, she has built up a clientele thousands deep and developed a reputation as one of the leading surgeons anywhere in the state. Of course, surgery and business management are slightly different skill sets, so the early years of the practice were not without obstacles.
“One of the hardest lessons I learned as a new business owner was the importance of having a clear business plan and sticking to it,” she said. “It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of building something new, but without a roadmap, it’s even easier to lose focus.”
Yee quickly realized the financial reality of solo practice. In the early days of most any business, every dollar is spoken for with virtually no margin of error. Yee said she owes much to her husband, whose encouragement and support allows her to focus on her patients with “confidence and purpose.”
To that end, Yee has also had to be intentional about leaning on the expertise of others. She attempted to juggle everything at first, from answering the phone to ordering supplies, in addition to performing her actual work as a surgeon. Learning to delegate, she said, was a turning point.
“I soon realized I wasn’t helping anyone by trying to be everywhere at once,” Yee said. “Thankfully, I had a team who stepped in and said, ‘Let us handle this.’ They were not only more competent at those task but their help allowed me to focus on what I do best: caring for patients and honing my skills as a surgeon.”
Yee and her staff support each other, learn from one another and hold each other accountable for upholding the surgery center’s high standards. That collaborative interpersonal dynamic only benefits patients. Employees who feel valued and valuable can strive together toward making sure the people they serve feel cared for, comfortable and heard.
“My team and I work hard to make sure no one ever feels like they’re ‘bothering us’ with a concern,” Yee said. “We welcome their calls, questions and visits, even if it’s just to reassure them that everything is healing as it should. That culture of communication and compassion has been reinforced by the feedback we receive, and it continues to shape the way I practice every day.”
No stranger to the myriad tasks it takes just to keep the lights on, Yee has a deep appreciation for everyone who helps the practice run smoothly, and she works to continue improving in her own role as a leader. Staff management is not a topic covered in medical school or surgical training, Yee said, but it is crucial to success all the same.
“To this day, I still sometimes wonder if I’m making the right decisions, whether it’s managing expectations, navigating challenges or creating a healthy and productive work environment,” she said. “I’ve had to accept that I won’t always make everyone happy, and that’s OK.”
Yee has also served as a leader in a broader sense, embracing opportunities initially shirked by others in her industry. When she began injecting Botox in 1997, many of her colleagues dismissed the service for not being the kind of “real surgery” worthy of a medical practice. Yee, however, saw the hidden potential in noninvasive treatment.
“By offering these nonsurgical options, I was able to build strong relationships with patients in the clinic while my surgical practice was still growing,” she said. “Those relationships
became the foundation of a healthy, thriving practice built on trust, patient satisfaction and a commitment to delivering the best possible care.”
Attitudes have shifted among the general population, as well. The stigma once attached to plastic surgery has largely given way to a more accepting view, and cosmetic procedures are no longer seen as the exclusive domain of celebrities or the wealthy. People now recognize the services, surgical and nonsurgical, can be a part of self-care, Yee said. Thanks to that openness, patients are more informed, more willing to discuss their goals and more realistic about what is possible.
Many patients have started eschewing the “overfilled, artificial look” for a more balanced approach that enhances their natural features, Yee said. Surgeons, for their part, are moving away from sole reliance on synthetic substances such as hyaluronic acid fillers in favor of natural solutions. Fat grafting, for example, not only helps restore facial volume but also provides biostimulatory effects that can improve skin quality and appearance, Yee added. That is in addition to the ongoing development of minimally invasive techniques. Increasingly popular, Yee has found procedures such as endoscopic brow lifts and midface lifts deliver impressive outcomes with smaller incisions and less downtime.
“These advancements allow patients to return to work and their normal activities sooner, with less scarring and a more natural-looking result,” she said. “It’s an exciting time in our field as technology and techniques continue to evolve in ways that benefit patients’ safety, recovery and overall satisfaction.”
The ethos of Yee’s business, which was recently acquired by Florida-based Olympus Cosmetic Group, has been defined by persistence, compassion and a deeply held belief in the power of hard work. The reputation of the entire practice is on the line with every surgery, injection and interaction — a responsibility no one on Yee’s team takes lightly. The admiration of patients and respect of colleagues reflects not just success in business, she said, but the heart and values behind it.
“Ultimately, it’s a reminder that the true measure of success isn’t just in what you achieve but in how you serve others,” Yee said. “I’m incredibly proud of the work we do together.”
ACCOUNTING FIRM
DENMAN, HAMILTON & ASSOCIATES
Denman, Hamilton & Associates CPA is a full-service accounting firm specializing in business advisory services that empower business owners to win in the marketplace through proven tax and growth strategies that work thanks to a highly qualified team led by partners Neil Denman and Deron Hamilton.
ADVERTISING AGENCY
DAN FIFE
COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING
Giving back to the community is a part of the fabric of Dan Fife Communications & Marketing. Wayne Cox became agency manager in May 2014. His experience and connections include having worked in movies and radio, and he taught in the radio, TV and film department at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He also worked as a senior account executive at KATV for 25 years. His goal is to help his clients take full advantage of their advertising potential to grow their businesses. Cox, a professional Santa Claus, serves on the board of Conway Regional Health System and the steering committee of Hope Village in Little Rock.
AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS
THE POULTRY FEDERATION
The Poultry Federation is a multistate trade association representing the poultry and egg industry across Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. TPF serves as the unified
voice of the industry, working to promote and protect its interests before state governments. Membership funding is critical in supporting those efforts and ensuring strong representation for the poultry and egg sector. TPF’s membership encompasses every facet of the industry, from feed milling and live production to hatcheries, processing, packaging, commercial egg operations, marketing and all related service and support activities. Currently, TPF is proud to represent 22 poultry and egg company members and more than 350 allied members.
APARTMENT RENTAL AGENCY
APARTMENT HUNTERS
Tuggle Services was founded on Oct. 1, 1999, as a real estate and relocation service and today includes Apartment Hunters in Little Rock, which offers clients a free service to locate the ideal apartment home, duplex, rental home or condominium in their area. Apartment Hunters is dedicated to promoting relocation efforts throughout the Little Rock metropolitan area. Apartment Hunters has a comprehensive database of listings that include floorplans, videos, maps, photos and information about amenities, rental costs, deposits and move-in specials. The service is complimentary because the company is compensated by the owners of the properties when Apartment Hunters brings them qualified renters.
TAGGART ARCHITECTS
TAGGART Architects was established in 1975, quickly earning a reputation for producing high-quality, functionally efficient, budget-conscious architecture that gratifies and inspires the end user. The firm believes that good design is a result of focused listening, interpretation and execution. TAGGART Architects has a broad-based practice focusing on health care, education, civic and recreational building types.
Services include architectural design, interior design, master planning services and construction administration. Currently, the North Little Rock firm is licensed in 32 states, and its staff of 24 includes 12 licensed architects with more than 275 years of combined experience.
AUCTIONEER
BLACKMON AUCTIONS
The first Blackmon Auction was conducted in 1938. Three generations later, Blackmon Auctions remains family owned and operated. The Blackmon Auction team will always be grateful to its founder, Eddie Blackmon Sr., and Tom Blackmon Sr., who took the company from a regional farm auction company to an internationally respected auction company. Blackmon’s fulltime employees average more than 15 years of service, and some have more than 25 years of service. Blackmon is based in Little Rock and has auction complexes in Lonoke and Godley, Texas.
AUTO REPAIR
KITTLE’S GARAGE
Kittle’s Garage is committed to earning customers’ trust by delivering the highest level of quality repairs and customer service to the North Little Rock area and surrounding communities. Staff members strive to constantly educate and improve while conducting themselves with honesty and integrity to do the right thing — the first time, every time. Kittle’s Garage works to maintain its commitment to its employees, customers and community, ensuring customer confidence and building trust in the quality of its service. Providing service for American and Asian vehicles, Kittle’s Garage was founded in 1952 and combines an old-school philosophy with the latest in modern technology.
ARCHITECTURAL FIRM
Arkansas Graphics, Inc., a customer-focused, technology-led commercial printing company based in Little Rock, Arkansas, has been in business over 50 years. We have built a proud heritage on the core skills of a traditional commercial printing company, while staying on the cutting edge of new technologies and working practices.
More than just a printing company; we offer many solutions to our customers that allows them to communicate effectively. Whether it is traditional litho printing, digital variable printing, web-based communication, or large display graphics, we are here to serve you.
AUTOMOBILE DEALERSHIP
PARKER LEXUS
Parker Lexus in Little Rock, a Parker Automotive company, has served Lexus customers since 1989. With customer service its No. 1 priority, Parker Lexus goes above and beyond to serve all Arkansas drivers. The Parker Lexus team takes pride in going the extra mile for all of its customers. Firmly rooted in the Little Rock community for more than 50 years, Parker sees customers return time and time again.
BANK
SOUTHERN BANCORP
Founded in 1986 by some of the nation’s leading political, business and philanthropic leaders, Southern Bancorp is a unique financial institution that was created to help strengthen underserved communities through financial access and investment. By combining traditional banking and lending services with financial development tools such as U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-certified housing counseling, credit assistance and small-business support, Southern Bancorp helps families and communities grow financially stronger — regardless of ZIP code, income level or starting point.
BLACK/MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESS
HOME HEALTH CARE AGENCY OF ARKANSAS
Based in Little Rock, Home Health Care Agency of Arkansas offers support for adults 21 and older who are elderly or disabled. Home Health Care Agency of Arkansas distinguishes itself from other in-home care options by its ability and motivation to go above and beyond for its clients. Founder Veronica Love has a lifelong passion for helping others, and her guiding principle
for the agency is simple: “caring for your family like our family.” As a partner in the journeys of its aging neighbors, exceptional care is par for the course at Home Health Care Agency of Arkansas.
BUSINESS COPIERS
DATAMAX
Since 1983, Little Rock-based Datamax has been creating raving fans while maintaining a laser focus on providing the absolute best customer service in Arkansas. The company’s commitment to service combined with the best products in the market ensures customers get the right technology at the right price that meets the right business challenge. There are many options to choose from when buying business technology solutions — online, local, direct from the manufacturer and outsourced. The Datamax team believes the advantages of a local dealer, when combined with a fanatic approach to customer loyalty and service, gives Datamax an edge against any other choice in Arkansas.
CANCER CARE PROVIDER
HIGHLANDS ONCOLOGY
For nearly three decades, Highlands Oncology has provided northwest Arkansas and the region with innovative cancer care delivered with precision and compassion. With cancer centers in Springdale, Fayetteville, Rogers and Mountain Home, patients have access to the latest therapies and technologies close to home.
CATERING FIRM
RX CATERING
Rx Catering is a professional catering company that has served the Little Rock area for more than two decades by providing delicious meals for meetings, conferences
and more. The creators and owners of Rx Catering have more than 60 years of catering experience, and the company prides itself on professionalism, punctuality and service. Rx Catering specializes in catering at hospital facilities, private and office parties, professional and corporate functions, and weddings and receptions.
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
GREATER HOT SPRINGS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce is an active leadership organization empowered by its membership to effect economic growth and community development while preserving the area’s high quality of life.
COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY, FOUR YEAR
UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT LITTLE ROCK
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is a metropolitan research university that provides an accessible, quality education through flexible learning and unparalleled internship opportunities. UA Little Rock prepares more than 9,000 students to be innovators and responsible leaders in their fields. Committed to its metropolitan research university mission, UA Little Rock is a driving force in Little Rock’s thriving cultural community and a major component of the city and state’s growing profile as a regional leader in research, technology, economic development and job creation.
COLLEGE, TECHNICAL
UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSASPULASKI TECHNICAL COLLEGE
The University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College was established as the Little Rock Vocational School in 1945. The school was renamed Pulaski Vocational Techni-
cal School and moved to its current site in North Little Rock in 1976. The name changed to Pulaski Technical College in 1991, and, in 2017, it joined the University of Arkansas System. With its main campus on Scenic Hill in North Little Rock, UA-PTC maintains a south campus in Little Rock, a business and industry center in Little Rock, the Saline County Adult Education Center in Benton and its Aerospace Technology Center in North Little Rock.
COLLEGE, TWO YEAR
UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS COMMUNITY COLLEGE AT MORRILTON
The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton is a two-year college within the University of Arkansas System that offers a comprehensive curriculum of university-transfer and career-specific training programs, as well as adult education, concurrent education and training, and noncredit workforce training programs. The college has served west-central Arkansas since 1963 and has an enrollment of about 2,000 credit students per semester. UACCM’s skilled training programs offer certificate of proficiency, technical certificate and associate degree options to accommodate students with a variety of career goals. The Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degree programs allow students to complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree before transferring to a four-year university.
COMMERCIAL BUILDING CONTRACTOR
Founded in Conway as a small construction company in 1949, Nabholz is now a team of more than 1,600 industry-leading professionals working together to serve clients, communities and each other. Through the decades, the firm has grown into a national multiservice contractor offering a full range of construction, industrial, excavation and
environmental services. Nabholz helps clients grow and prosper by committing to build on the principles of integrity, honesty, exceptional customer service, innovation and excellence. Every day, from the CEO’s office to the project site, Nabholz strives to create exceptional value for clients, employees and employee shareholders by maintaining an impeccable reputation and providing innovative services.
COMMERCIAL CLEANER
JAN-PRO CLEANING & DISINFECTING
Jan-Pro Cleaning & Disinfecting is the most admired provider of commercial cleaning services in the state of Arkansas and serves businesses of all sizes and across various industries. Jan-Pro has built its reputation on people who take pride in their work, breakthrough cleaning technologies, the most efficient cleaning disinfectants and the safest equipment. Jan-Pro has serviced auto dealerships, business offices, health care centers and more for more than 20 years as a locally owned and family-run business. Staff works to meet every facility’s unique needs according to strict industry standards. Those looking for a team they can confidently trust with their facilities need look no further than Jan-Pro of Arkansas.
AMERICAN CONCRETE CONCEPTS
American Concrete Concepts in Conway has been transforming concrete into attractive and durable floors since 2002. ACCI is one of the top innovators in a rapidly growing industry and has successfully completed more than 4,000 projects with impressive results. ACCI’s low-cost, long-lasting and energy-efficient floors can be found in retail stores, schools, industrial plants, food plants and office buildings all across the country. ACCI has the most efficient equipment, best-trained staff and highest safety record in the industry. ACCI can complete any size job on spec, on time and on budget. That includes newly poured concrete flooring and previously finished flooring.
SUNSTAR INSURANCE OF ARKANSAS
Sunstar Insurance of Arkansas started 10 years ago and has grown to be one of the largest groups in Arkansas. It is based in Little Rock and has 14 agency locations and 120 insurance professionals around the state. The Sunstar model is working — nine different agency partners have come into SIOA since it came to Arkansas. SIOA features an impressive array of agency leaders with vast experience, which is key to draw on during today’s very uncertain insurance and weather-pattern times. Sunstar is a trusted advisor for clients across the state and acts as a tour guide through the world of insurance.
COMMERCIAL PRINTING
ARKANSAS GRAPHICS
For more than 40 years, Arkansas Graphics in Little Rock has helped its customers communicate more effectively through the provision of high-quality print products and commercial printing services. As a leading commercial printer, Arkansas Graphics delivers an unmatched range of products and quality of service. The company has the experience and the equipment to meet most every need. Arkansas Graphics is the result of hard work, perseverance and commitment to excellence. It was founded in 1974 by Dale Wilcox, who, fueled by a passion for design, decided to open a small business focused on the provision of high-quality printing services.
NABHOLZ
We
We
Voted AMP’s
Most Admired Hospital
Conway Regional has been the community’s hospital for more than 100 years, providing high-quality, compassionate care. As our communities grow, we are growing alongside you to ensure all of your healthcare needs are met right here in Conway. When your family needs medical care, you can trust our team to provide you with the comprehensive care you deserve when you need it most.
CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU
VISIT HOT SPRINGS
Hot Springs National Park has a storied past and a vibrant present, offering attractions, events and natural wonders that bring millions of visitors and their business to Spa City every year. Visit Hot Springs helps newcomers and regulars alike plan business trips, day visits and getaways, all while promoting the city’s history, culture, local shops and restaurants. Hot Springs has continued to grow with input from residents and business owners. Recent years have seen bigger and better events, improvements to the Hot Springs Convention Center, and more sports and outdoors offerings, including Majestic Park and the Northwoods Trails.
COSMETIC SURGERY PRACTICE
DR. SUZANNE YEE COSMETIC & LASER SURGERY CENTER
Dr. Suzanne Yee is one of Little Rock’s leading cosmetic surgeons. With passion and artistic sensibilities, Yee has led the industry of cosmetic surgery for more than 20 years as a triple-board-certified cosmetic surgeon. With years of extensive study in medicine and continuing education, Yee founded her practice on the principles of artistry and innovation, offering full-body surgical and nonsurgical procedures. Yee performs treatments ranging from advanced laser therapy to comprehensive “mommy makeovers,” priding herself and her practice on the ability to help patients feel comfortable in the decision to undergo any procedure. Yee offers a variety of options such as Botox, dermal fillers and laser treatments, as well as surgical options for facial and body rejuvenation.
ARKANSAS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
Arkansas Federal Credit Union has made a difference in the lives of employees, members and the communities it serves since 1956. With more than $1.5 billion in total assets and more than 300 employees, Arkansas Federal is the largest credit union in Arkansas. As a not-for-profit financial institution, Arkansas Federal invests profits back into benefits for members through higher dividends and lower loan rates. Both consumers and businesses entrust the credit union to get competitive rates and reduced fees for accounts and loans. Founded in Jacksonville and now based in Little Rock, Arkansas Federal Credit Union has branches throughout the state that serve more than 120,000 members.
DENTAL PRACTICE
ARKANSAS FAMILY DENTAL
Arkansas Family Dental’s mission is to treat every patient like family. Guided by professional judgment and years of experience, the team is committed to recommending the best care options tailored to each individual’s needs. Arkansas Family Dental strives to provide comprehensive, high-quality dental care in a welcoming, modern environment while also empowering patients through education about their oral health. The team at Arkansas Family Dental stays at the forefront of dental technology to ensure patients receive the most advanced and effective care available. No matter the dental needs, Arkansas Family Dental is here to help every patient achieve a healthier, more confident smile.
DISASTER RESTORATION COMPANY
METRO DISASTER SPECIALISTS
Metro Disaster Specialists is a trusted leader in disaster recovery recognized for decades of hands-on experience and a professional, client-focused approach. Locally
owned and family operated, Metro is based in North Little Rock and serves communities across the region with 24/7 emergency response for residential, commercial and industrial clients. As a fully licensed disaster general contractor, Metro specializes in fire, water, storm and mold damage restoration, offering complete services to stabilize, restore and reconstruct properties while protecting contents from further damage. With more than 30,000 completed projects and more than 280 years of combined team experience, Metro consistently delivers expert results.
DISTRIBUTION/SUPPLY COMPANY
MYERS SUPPLY
Myers Supply in Hot Springs and Little Rock provides high-performance facility solutions with an extensive line of more than 130,000 products, including cleaning, janitorial, safety, food service, office, and maintenance, repair and operations items. The company positions itself as a valuechain consultant rather than just a distributor, working with clients to lower total costs while improving results. Myers Robotics extends that efficiency commitment by offering autonomous cleaning, delivery and service robots for schools, health care, hospitality, industrial and other sectors across Arkansas. Its portfolio includes technologies driven by artficial intelligence, such as compact scrubbers, semihumanoid embodied AI service robots and high-capacity high-efficiency particulate air filtration autonomous vacuums provided with flexible rental, leasing or purchasing options to assist organizations in raising hygiene standards and workplace safety.
DRUG TESTING
FIRST CHOICE DRUG TESTING
Since opening its doors in 2006, First Choice Drug Testing & Occupational Health Services in Little Rock has garnered a reputation for providing the highest quality service in the most efficient manner, to the benefit of employers and employees alike. As a full-service third-party administrator, First Choice Drug Testing provides a wide range
of services for businesses of all kinds. From Department of Transportation drug testing to tuberculosis skin tests and physical exams to meet a variety of industry needs, the clinic offers customers a wealth of convenient options for checking all of their regulatory and preemployment boxes.
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
GARY HOUSTON ELECTRIC CO.
Gary Houston Electric Co. was founded in Little Rock by Gary Houston in 1978. A lot has changed since 1978, but the company’s commitment to 100 percent customer satisfaction remains the same. The company services residential and commercial new construction and existing structures, specializing in homes, retail spaces, restaurants, offices and warehouses. Services include LED lighting, wiring and rewiring, facility maintenance and 24/7 emergency help. The business has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council, the National Association of Home Builders, and the Arkansas chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors.
ENGINEERING FIRM
BENCHMARK GROUP
Paul C. Parks Engineering was founded in Rogers in 1978 as an electrical engineering sole proprietorship. Owner and founder Paul C. Parks incorporated the firm so he could share ownership with his staff. To meet the needs of clients, the firm expanded by adding architectural and interior design services. In 2013, the company name changed to Benchmark Group to reflect the standard of excellence Parks sought to maintain for every project. Now with a second office in Dallas, Benchmark has grown
into one of the most respected firms in the industry. Its portfolio includes large national chains and small, local businesses.
Whether a client requires equipment sales, rental equipment, parts or service work, Hugg & Hall is there to assist them. The team stands by its commitment to support customers’ operations day and night. Its 24/7 service ensures immediate assistance, which keeps businesses running smoothly without interruptions.
EVENT VENUE
STARTUP JUNKIE
Startup Junkie empowers entrepreneurs and small businesses across Arkansas through no-cost consulting, impactful programs and community events. From idea to expansion and through numerous programs and initiatives, Startup Junkie helps innovators overcome obstacles and grow with confidence.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTING FIRM
ENFRA
ENFRA’s story began long before its name did. In 2014 and 2015, five companies — some with nearly a century of experience — united under the name Bernhard to pioneer a bold new approach: Energy-asa-Service. The mission was clear: prove the EaaS model and become North America’s leading EaaS provider. By 2021, that mission was well underway as the company had closed 15 long-term EaaS partnerships. By 2025, our EaaS portfolio surpassed $2 billion in financed projects spanning more than 20 partnerships nationwide and delivering $87 million in guaranteed annual utility savings. In May, the company rebranded as ENFRA.
EQUIPMENT COMPANY
HUGG & HALL
Hugg & Hall is the leading equipment dealer in Arkansas, Oklahoma and Louisiana. It provides cutting-edge equipment for construction, industrial, aerial, material handling and light equipment needs.
ARGENTA PLAZA
Argenta Plaza, a $5.36 million community space, is owned by the city of North Little Rock and managed by North Little Rock Tourism. The plaza features a “front porch” area with modern swings; a stage with 40foot video projection wall; a water wall; fountains; and a “backyard” area with trees. The plaza has been the catalyst for more than $50 million in economic development in downtown North Little Rock. Argenta Plaza has successfully been used by a variety of events: concerts, community events, networking events, private parties, movie nights, large festivals, farmers’ markets, expos, galas, fitness competitions and more.
EXCAVATING COMPANY
JAMES A. ROGERS EXCAVATING
James A. Rogers Excavating has been a cornerstone in the Arkansas community since 1962. As a third-generation family-owned business, the company brings a legacy of excellence to every project. Whether a client is working on a commercial development, city infrastructure or a residential project, the skilled professionals are dedicated to delivering outstanding excavation services. The company has grown and thrived by staying true to its core values of integrity, hard work and community support. With a rich history and a forwardthinking approach, the company blends traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to meet every project’s unique excavation needs.
FINANCIAL PLANNER
MERIDIAN INVESTMENT ADVISORS
Most people, even those who are financially accomplished, can find it difficult to put the pieces of a financial puzzle together. That is because there are so many facets of wealth — investments, estate plan, tax planning, insurance and more — that must work in tandem to achieve one’s greater goals. The question is how? Meridian Investment Advisors in Little Rock provides evolving advice and sophisticated solutions that address clients’ needs throughout their lifetimes. The firm approaches every client’s concerns differently, tailoring advice and offerings based on clients’ needs today and goals for tomorrow.
FINTECH FIRM
FIS
For more than 50 years, leading financial institutions and businesses have relied on FIS financial technology to power their missioncritical operations. Today, its technology helps clients unlock new growth opportunities by cutting through complexity and bringing harmony in how clients store money, move money and put money to work.
FLORIST
TIPTON & HURST
Since 1886, Tipton & Hurst has been committed to fulfilling its promise of “guaranteed satisfaction” with every flower, plant, event and gift it delivers. Founded by Joseph B. Hurst and David Tipton in Little Rock, the company is now run by Joseph’s grandson, Howard, who assumed the role of president from his father, Joe, in 1984. Consistently voted Arkansas’ best florist, this family-owned and -operated business has blossomed from a floral shop in downtown Little Rock to a full-scale specialty
retailer that boasts an award-winning team and vast resources, including a wholesale warehouse and a network of premier suppliers around the world. Tipton & Hurst continues to lead the market and has locations in Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway and Pine Bluff.
FUNERAL HOME
ROLLER FUNERAL HOMES
Roller Funeral Homes, under the leadership of Renata Jenkins Byler, the thirdgeneration owner, continues to build on a legacy of trust and respect. She carries on the vision of her grandfather, Denver Roller, and her parents, Lynn and Sue Roller Jenkins. The family-owned business prides itself on providing personalized and dignified services to every family it serves. Jenkins Byler’s dedication has been instrumental to fostering a culture of empathy and professionalism, making Roller Funeral Homes a beloved and trusted name in the community. The team of compassionate and skilled funeral directors at Roller Funeral Homes is committed to serving each family with the highest level of care and respect.
GENERAL CONTRACTOR
CBM CONSTRUCTION
The roots of CBM Construction Co. date back to 1922, when W.E. Clark, great-grandfather of the current CEO, Clark B. McGlothin, began his masonry business. The successful enterprise operated for more than 78 years before the expansion process that led to the formation of CBM Construction in North Little Rock. In 1976, the CBM staff consisted of just three individuals. Today, the company employs 24, some of whom have been with CBM for as long as 20 years. The company’s philosophy is to provide the highest degree of personalized customer service. Each CBM employee is accessible to service any customer’s needs, no matter if that service is on a working project or a warranty request.
CAPITOL GLASS CO.
Established in 1950, Capitol Glass Co. is the oldest locally owned and operated glass company in the Little Rock area. For the past six decades, the company has built a reputation for delivering quality glass work and complete satisfaction. All employees are certified and committed to customer safety and getting work done the right way. Services include auto glass replacement, door lock and window repair, rock chip repair, sunroof replacement, and window glass replacement. The company offers inshop service, mobile service and pickup and delivery. Capitol Glass has been led by three generations of the Grimes family, including co-founder Jack Grimes and his son, Glenn, and grandson, Aaron.
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS FIRM
IMPACT MANAGEMENT GROUP
For more than 20 years, Impact Management Group has excelled at being responsive and thoughtful while building relationships that are important for clients in government relations, public affairs, public relations, public opinion, digital advocacy and political consulting. Impact listens to clients, partnering with them to develop real solutions. Based in Little Rock with an office in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, its mission is to expand good ideas into broad strategies that shape public opinion, build consensus, strengthen relationships and enhance decision making.
HEALTH INSURANCE PROVIDER
ARKANSAS BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD
As Arkansas’ oldest and largest health insurer, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has helped improve the health, financial security and peace of mind of the people of Arkansas for more than 75 years. The company and its family of affiliates are leaders in health insurance innovation and provide a full spectrum of health and dental coverage plans for individuals and groups. Based in Little Rock, the company employs more than 3,300 people, the majority of whom are located throughout the state. The company serves nearly 800,000 people in Arkansas and another 1.2 million through national accounts. As a private, not-for-profit mutual health insurance company, Arkansas Blue Cross is owned by its policyholders.
HOME HEALTH CARE PROVIDER
SUPERIOR SENIOR CARE
Superior Senior Care was founded in Hot Springs in 1985 and built from the ground up. Over the past 39 years, Superior Senior Care has grown to include 27 locations and connects thousands of care seekers with professional caregivers every day. SSC is the first licensed and nationally accredited caregiver referral service in the state. SSC has blazed a path by not only providing better care but also pushing for and attaining higher safety and performance standards in the industry. The company’s goal is to serve clients and their families the way they need it — safely, dependably, affordably and in the comfort of their own homes.
SOUTHERN INTERIORS
When customers trust their flooring covering needs to Southern Interiors, they are working with the most dedicated professionals in the industry. It is Southern Interiors’ philosophy to understand floor covering needs and then provide the bestquality service available anywhere. Staff members are committed to quality, and the company’s proven track record demonstrates that at every phase, from selection to installation and maintenance, the team will bring value that is above and beyond that of the product itself. The expert flooring consultants, familiar with clients’ floor covering needs, ensure satisfaction.
HOSPITAL
CONWAY REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM
Conway Regional Health System is redefining community-based care with more than 225 physicians and 1,800 employees serving central Arkansas. The organization combines access and excellence to create patient experiences that are intentional and personal. With an accountable clinical management model for physicians and shared governance for staff, Conway Regional prioritizes collaboration and quality, delivering care rooted in familiarity, commitment and trust.
OAKLAWN HOT SPRINGS
Founded in 1904, Oaklawn Hot Springs is one of the premiere thoroughbred racetracks in the country. The casino features slots, live table games and sports betting year-round. Live racing takes place from December to May, and simulcast racing is available throughout the year. Guests can visit the Forbes Travel Guide-recommended Oaklawn Hotel, the multipurpose event
center, Arkansas’ only Forbes four-star spa — the Astral Spa — and several dining options. The resort is also moments away from Hot Springs National Park, historic Bathhouse Row and two of the state’s most scenic lakes, which makes Oaklawn a hub for those looking to explore the Hot Springs area.
HVAC COMPANY
POWERS OF ARKANSAS
Headquartered in North Little Rock, Powers of Arkansas serves as the largest privately held building heating, ventilating and air conditioning controls and service company in the state. With about 300 employees, including more than 200 installation and service technicians, Powers offers a wide range of building HVAC systems technologies. With offices in North Little Rock and Springdale and satellites in Jonesboro and Fordyce, Powers has staff members throughout the state who cover every county. Powers also has regional offices in Oklahoma, Mississippi and Louisiana. Serving more than 500 customers, Powers has more than 10,000 projects installed and operating.
INDUSTRIAL ROOFING
ARKANSAS INDUSTRIAL ROOFING
Arkansas Industrial Roofing was founded in 1977 by the late Corbett Sanders III. His wife, Cathy Smith, now carries on the company’s tradition of excellence alongside general manager and lead roofing consultant Matthew Nicolo. From servicing repairs to production work and prudent consulting, Arkansas Industrial Roofing takes its responsibility to its customers throughout Arkansas seriously. The fullservice roofing contractor is known for quality workmanship, and Nicolo and the rest of the Arkansas Industrial Roofing team believe in doing right by every project no matter what.
HOTEL
From
Pat Moon Managing Principal Charley Gardner
Moon Principal
INSURANCE AGENCY, PROPERTY AND CASUALTY
DENNIS BOST — STATE FARM
The mission of the office of State Farm agent Dennis Bost is to help State Farm policyholders manage the risks of everyday life and to be the first choice for insurance and financial service needs in central Arkansas. The agency focuses on auto insurance, home insurance and renters’ insurance throughout the Little Rock metro, including in North Little Rock, Bryant, Benton, Sherwood and Alexander.
IT CONSULTING FIRM
PINNACLE IT
Pinnacle IT has made a name for itself as the preferred technology solutions provider for companies across the state. Founded in 1992 as The Computer Hut, the company started as CEO Chris Bates’ side hustle before evolving into a thriving information technology company in its own right. Headquartered in Little Rock, Pinnacle IT has completed several expansions over the years and now has offices in Lowell, Jonesboro, Fort Smith and Texarkana. The company officially rebranded as Pinnacle IT in 2023, following the acquisition of a Fort Smith firm of the same name.
JEWELRY STORE
JONES
& SON DIAMOND & BRIDAL FINE JEWELRY
Jones & Son Diamond & Bridal Fine Jewelry in Little Rock has provided outstanding value to customers old and new since 1986. The company’s formula is simple and, although established in the 21st century, is a throwback to days when businesses cared about their customers and tried to mold their businesses to the wants and demands of the market. Jones & Son has always been excited about being on the forefront of cus-
tomer shopping experiences, and as changes come, the team is pleased to mold and shape the business to make each shopping experience the absolute best. The Jones family remains personally involved in the day-to-day operations at the business.
LAW FIRM
THE WILSON LAW GROUP
For decades, The Wilson Law Group has built a powerful reputation, primarily through expertise in real estate and mortgage banking law. Today, the group’s attorneys provide expertise in many other aspects of the law. As they further expand their practice, they apply the same passion — and commitment to clients — for which they have always been known. They are an award-winning group, having been named 2025 Best Lawyers in real estate law and litigation real estate and Arkansas Money & Politics’ “2024 Future Icons,” among other honors.
LIQUOR STORE
O’LOONEY’S WINE & LIQUOR
Twenty-five years ago, the beverage industry was forever changed in central Arkansas when Jonathan Looney opened the doors of O’Looney’s Wine & Liquor in Little Rock. The store has grown with west Little Rock and has become a neighborhood staple. Throughout the business, there is a commitment to treat clients with respect and consideration, helping everyone find the right drink for them. Redefining the experience in wine and spirits, the team is committed to championing creativity, originality and excellence.
MANUFACTURER
LOMANCO VENTS
Lomanco founder Clark David Belden was a very unique man. Known for spending hours tinkering with new ideas, he invented several products, including a conduit cutter, the Min-O-Shield for fishermen, and what is known today as the Lomanco adjustable gable louver. The adjustable
gable louver was the product that launched the Dan-Dee Manufacturing Co. in Minneapolis, in 1946, when a customer noted it was a “dan-dee” product. The company name soon became the Louver Manufacturing Co., moving into Arkansas with the acquisition of Hamlin Foundry Co. in Jacksonville in the late 1960s. In 1976, the name was shortened to the version the company goes by today: Lomanco.
MEDICAL CENTER
ORTHOARKANSAS
OrthoArkansas provides specialized care for specific orthopedic needs and serves as a primary orthopedic care provider. Offering expert care across the state for all orthopedic injuries, aches and pains, OrthoArkansas currently has 10 locations in Little Rock, North Little Rock, Arkadelphia, Bryant, Conway, Camden, Clinton, Heber Springs, Hot Springs and Monticello. Offering fellowship-trained physicians, OrthoArkansas has a team that uses the latest advances in medicine, rehabilitation, and surgical and nonsurgical options. No matter what stage of injury or recovery, OrthoArkansas has its patients covered and offers urgent care in both Little Rock and North Little Rock.
MONEY MANAGER/INVESTMENTS
SMALL WEALTH MANAGEMENT
After 25 years of providing trusted financial guidance, Little Rock’s Small & Associates Financial officially rebranded as Small Wealth Management in April. The change reflects the firm’s growth, modernization and ongoing commitment to strategic, personalized wealth management. The new brand draws inspiration from the knight in chess — an agile and powerful piece that moves uniquely to navigate challenges. This symbolism aligns with the firm’s approach to helping clients manage financial complexities and seize opportunities. With offices in Little Rock, Hot Springs Village and Tulsa, the firm continues to be recognized as a top financial advisory practice.
MORTGAGE LENDER
ARVEST
Established in 1961, Arvest is a communitybased financial institution that serves more than 110 communities in Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Kansas. With more than $26 billion in assets, the bank is committed to meeting the needs of its retail and business customers by continually investing in the digital tools and services customers expect. Its extensive network of more than 200 banking locations provides loans, deposits, mortgage loans, mortgage servicing, treasury management, wealth management and credit cards as a part of its growing list of services. By offering a flexible variety of mortgage loans and servicing 99 percent of loans it originates, the Arvest Mortgage Division remains the top lender in the state of Arkansas. Arvest is known for its commitment to the communities it serves and its diverse group of associates who are dedicated to helping people find financial solutions for life.
NONPROFIT
CAMP ALDERSGATE
Camp Aldersgate provides barrier-free experiences for individuals with special needs and medical conditions. Its services are an essential part of the continuum of care for the quality of life of individuals with special needs and their families and caregivers. Those outdoors experiences empower campers by celebrating them, respecting them and engaging them at a place and in activities built just for them. Camp Aldersgate has served the community for more than 77 years and remains dedicated to continuing its important work.
NURSING HOME
BRIARWOOD NURSING & REHABILITATION
For more than 30 years, Briarwood Nursing & Rehabilitation has prided itself on being a face that its community can trust and a place where its residents can feel comfortable. Briarwood is a 120-bed facility that specializes in both short-term rehabilitation and long-term care, providing the flexibility to meet each and every client’s needs without sacrificing care quality — of which the team at Briarwood aspires for the highest of standards. Be it transient rehabilitation or extended stay retirement, the staff is committed to creating and maintaining a supportive relationship that reinforces the dignity of every resident.
OFFICE DESIGN FIRM
WER ARCHITECTS
WER Architects in Little Rock was founded in 1978 and believes quality architecture helps create better places to learn, live, heal and work. With a team of architects and interior designers, WER Architects believes all projects should be beautiful, purposeful, efficient and durable, belong to their surroundings, and elevate the human spirit. Noted for its tradition of architectural excellence, WER Architects has a commitment to academic, scientific, corporate and cultural institutions and celebrates its achievements in historic preservation. With offices in downtown Little Rock and northwest Arkansas, WER offers full architectural services for new construction, renovation and rehabilitation, existing building analysis and utilization plans, historic preservation and structure reports, interior design and furniture selection, programming, space planning, site selection and evaluation, feasibility studies, cost estimates, master planning and way-finding design.
OFFICE SUPPLY COMPANY
PETTUS WORKPLACE SOLUTIONS
Established in 1989 by Lynn and Amanda Pettus, Pettus Workplace Solutions set out with a main goal to create a family-run business that offers great products, exceptional value and remarkable customer service. Having grown into the largest independent office supply dealer in Arkansas, Pettus retains the core principles it was founded on and promises that once customers buy from Pettus, they will never need to try another office supply company again. With dedicated, professional sales and furniture design teams, Pettus Workplace Solutions offers custom-tailored furniture sets for offices. As a member of TriMega, an officeproducts buying group, Pettus Workplace Solutions has buying power of more than $10 billion, allowing it to source bargains directly from major manufacturers and suppliers. Serving large and small businesses, Pettus sells a wide range of products at great prices.
PAYROLL COMPANY
COMPLETE PAYROLL SERVICES
Complete Payroll Services in Little Rock began as Combined Financial Services and was founded by Guy Dillahunty in 1992. When he retired in 2000, the company was purchased by Betty Jo King, who continued to grow the company with the same principles on which it was founded. Eventually, the company became Complete Payroll Services and moved forward by adding services such as online payroll, web-based time-keeping administration, biometric time clocks, pay cards and more. Staying on top of technological advancements in the industry, Complete Payroll is proud to offer the very best, from human resources services to 401(k) management.
THE BUG MAN
The Bug Man guarantees superior results through training, dedication and comprehensive service policy. With its professional approach, pride and dedication to pest management, clients have peace of mind in knowing that their pest problems are handled safely and professionally. Whether protecting a family’s health, home or business, The Bug Man team has the training, equipment and experience to provide the best results.
PHARMACY
MARKET PLACE PHARMACY
Market Place Pharmacy in Little Rock was established in 1980 by Ray and Janice Turnage right around the corner from its current location. They partnered with one of the first walk-in clinics in the city to provide fast, accessible care to patients, even after hours, and their family served the community for nearly 44 years. In 2024, Robert and Tara Maltby became the new co-owners of Market Place Pharmacy. Robert has more than 17 years of experience in the pharmacy business. Robert, Tara and their staff believe community pharmacies like Market Place are an invaluable resource to their friends, families and neighbors.
PLASTIC SURGERY PRACTICE
WRIGHT PLASTIC SURGERY
Dr. Eric J. Wright of Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Little Rock who specializes in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery for central Arkansas, as well as Jonesboro,
Fayetteville, Conway, Hot Springs, Pine Bluff and nearby communities. Wright brings more than a decade of advanced surgical training and experience, combining attentive care with transformative results. In addition to his extensive background in face and body rejuvenation, Wright is particularly sought after for his breast enhancement surgeries. Women travel from throughout the United States and beyond for breast augmentation and revision, including breast implant removal, or explant surgery, at his Little Rock practice. Providing more than aesthetic improvements, Wright is one of the only surgeons in Arkansas who performs migraine surgery.
PLUMBING COMPANY
MAC MECHANICAL
Little Rock’s MAC Mechanical was founded in 2006 as McElderry Plumbing. Over the years, business grew, and the company rebranded in 2019 as MAC Mechanical Co., the new name fully encompassing the depth and breadth of the services provided. MAC offers plumbing and HVAC services, both residential and commercial, in the central Arkansas region. MAC’s mission is to be the trusted solutions experts for complex problems. In addition, the company provides high-quality and timely services for construction projects of all sizes.
POOL COMPANY
LUXURY POOL & SPA
As a family-owned business, Luxury Pool & Spa of Russellville and Conway has proudly served Arkansas for almost five decades. With a deep commitment to quality and craftsmanship, the team is passionate about bringing customers’ dreams for outdoor living to life. Whether a client is looking to create a relaxing retreat or an everyday getaway, there’s no better time to transform the backyard into a personal oasis.
PRIVATELY OWNED COMPANY
LEXICON
Since its 1968 founding as Schueck Steel in the garage of founder Tom Schueck, Lexicon has grown into one of the largest construction companies in Arkansas and one of the nation’s leading construction and fabrication companies. Headquartered in Little Rock and led by CEO Patrick Schueck, the Lexicon family of companies now includes Custom Metals, Prospect Steel, Steel Fabricators of Monroe, Universal, Lexicon Energy Services, Lexicon Industrial Constructors, Lexicon Industrial Maintenance and Heritage Links. Now more than 2,100 employees strong, Lexicon brings its expertise to a wide variety of projects, from largescale industrial construction to golf course construction and renovation.
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION
ARKANSAS TRUCKING ASSOCIATION
The Arkansas Trucking Association promotes the Arkansas trucking industry on issues that directly impact member companies and the state and national economies. The ATA is owned and governed by more than 300 trucking companies and important industry suppliers. Members range from firms with five or fewer trucks to some of the nation’s largest freight and logistics companies. The ATA’s mission is to advance the trucking industry’s image, efficiency, competitiveness and profitability. ATA’s comprehensive range of services, products and member benefits are designed to help members compete and succeed. The association started in 1932 as the Shippers and Carriers Association of Arkansas.
A Reputation for Real
Luxury Pool & Spa continues to wow customers old and new
Quality
workmanship and premium products are essential traits for any pool business worth its salt, but real success comes only with time. Fast approaching its 50th anniversary in 2026, Luxury Pool & Spa has spent decades impressing customers with expertly crafted custom pools, top-of-the-line equipment and knowledgeable professionals season after season.
The family-owned company is helmed by third-generation owners Shane and Jeremy Lawson, who take great pride in every product and project. The Luxury Pool & Spa team understands that a pool is not only an investment in future family memories but a commitment to the beauty of one’s outdoor space for years to come. Relying on a trusted name for the entire process, from consultation and design through construction and upkeep, is vital for ensuring peak performance for as long as possible. From hot tub integration and water features to tanning ledges and slides, Luxury Pool & Spa guarantees tailored design, durable construction and expert installation.
Scores of Arkansans already know the value of working with Luxury Pool & Spa, and several have enlisted the company for two and even three different projects. Impressed homeowners have also spread the word to friends and family. Many new customers find their way to Luxury Pool & Spa thanks to referrals from the company’s existing clientele, soon becoming loyal patrons themselves. The company has received similar endorsements from readers of AY About You, being named both “Best of 2024” and “Best of 2025.”
Luxury Pool & Spa is known for more than just exceptional builds, however. At its retail locations in Russellville and Conway, friendly staff are trained multiple times each year in the latest maintenance methods, making them the ideal experts to recommend the right chemicals, tools and equipment for every customer. Available for all manner of services and advice, the company offers saltwater systems, chlorine alternatives and in-store water testing, in addition to automatic pool cleaners, variable speed pumps and much more.
It is little wonder why the company is one of Arkansas Money & Politics’ “Most Admired Companies” of 2025. From the chemicals sold in-store to the plaster and equipment installed on a newly constructed pool, Luxury Pool & Spa has a reputation unlike any other.
Photos by Sorrells Photography
PROMOTIONAL/MARKETING FIRM
TRIVIA MARKETING
Little Rock’s TRIVIA Marketing is a onestop shop, starting with personal marketing experts who brainstorm with clients. The on-site graphics department creates a flawless look, and TRIVIA’s in-house screen printing and embroidery production departments bring it all together. Clients can brainstorm with the team in the largest showroom in Arkansas and see what 30plus years of experience can create.
PUBLIC RELATIONS FIRM
CRANFORD CO.
Cranford Co. in Little Rock is a full-service firm for advertising, marketing, digital media and social communications. With special expertise in video production and creative communications, its award-winning team has proven effective across all media and industry sectors — from financial services to health care, tourism, consumer products and behavioral change. Located in Little Rock, the firm works with clients from coast to coast. Its mission is to bring high-quality, Madison-Avenue-style creative advertising to collaborative partners looking for real results.
PUBLICLY OWNED COMPANY
ARCBEST
ArcBest is a multibillion-dollar integrated logistics company that leverages a full suite of solutions to meet customers’ supply chain needs. Using technology, expertise and power of scale, ArcBest connects ship-
pers with the solutions they need — from ground, air and ocean transportation to fully managed supply chains — serving as a single logistics resource. ArcBest is a trusted advisor that puts itself in customers’ shoes and constantly looks for opportunities to optimize. With innovation as a pillar of its strategy, ArcBest develops intelligent solutions that create operational efficiencies and help move the global supply chain forward.
REAL ESTATE FIRM, COMMERCIAL
MOSES TUCKER PARTNERS
Headquartered in downtown Little Rock, Moses Tucker Partners is a leading commercial real estate firm and one of Arkansas’ largest brokerage and management companies. Founded as a development firm in the 1980s by Jimmy Moses and Rett Tucker, MTP experienced remarkable growth when Chris Moses became president and CEO in 2011. Now a full-service real estate operation with offices in Little Rock and Bentonville, MTP’s data-driven offerings include tenant and landlord representation, real estate and economic consulting services, investment sales and capital markets, as well as property and facilities management. Today, MTP manages more than 11.6 million square feet of commercial space and boasts a development portfolio exceeding $2 billion.
LILE REAL ESTATE
Lile Real Estate was founded in Little Rock by Gar Lile in 1993. The firm is licensed in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee and has more Realtor Land Institute Accredited Land Consultants than any other firm in the state. The Lile Real Estate team consists of professional advisors with firsthand knowledge and experience needed to understand what multigenerational ownership looks for in an advisor or what a first-time buyer is looking for when considering investing in land, whether for recreational use or solely investment purposes.
Over the past 10 years, the company has placed more than $1 billion worth of real estate. Lile Real Estate offers a full range of services for clients: sales and marketing, sealed bids, consulting, acquisitions, exchanges, property development, research, and market analysis.
REAL ESTATE FIRM, RESIDENTIAL
THE CHARLOTTE JOHN CO.
Founded in 1982 with just three agents, Charlotte John’s eponymous Little Rock business was one of the only female-owned real estate companies in existence at the time. The company’s philosophy — an unquestionable standard of ethics and a sincere commitment to each client — has not changed, even as the technology its agents use to fulfill that mission has transformed. “We have gone from hand-delivering contracts and documents to completing contracts with esignatures, giving our agents more time to focus on client needs,” John said. “We use our website, social media and print to advertise our current inventory.” An important milestone in the company’s history was its move from the Prospect Building on University Avenue to Kavanaugh Boulevard in the Heights. Closer to the action and with better street presence, The Charlotte John Co. has since flourished and expanded its reach.
RECRUITMENT FIRM
ARKANSAS TALENT GROUP
Arkansas Talent Group is a locally owned, Arkansas-based recruitment firm specializing in accounting, finance and human resources, as well as executive level placements in the C-suite. Founded in 2024 by Stephanie Shine and Christopher Chunn, and joined by Jennifer Thompson, Bailey Clark and Anna Cash, ATG’s expert team delivers a consultative, first-class hiring experience. With deep networks and decades of combined experience, Arkansas Talent Group is a trusted partner for top-tier talent solutions in the state.
REAL ESTATE FIRM, LAND BROKERAGE
RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
PARKINSON BUILDING GROUP
Bill Parkinson established Little Rock’s Parkinson Building Group in 1999, when his home builder went bankrupt in the middle of Parkinson’s new construction. Parkinson used his dedication and business expertise to complete his home to his high standards. As a result, he discovered a new passion for building custom homes, and Parkinson Building Group was born. Over the past 20 years, Parkinson Building Group has been dedicated to building the best custom homes in Little Rock. The group uses its expertise and passion to create uniquely personalized homes for each customer. PBG believes each new project is a deeply personal experience for customers, and the group’s team of top-notch project managers and office staff help make the process detailed and seamless.
RESTAURANT
YELLOW ROCKET CONCEPTS
From its beginnings as a single restaurant in Little Rock in 2007 and with every new restaurant concept that followed, Yellow Rocket looks to make a connection with the communities it serves. Yellow Rocket wants guests to love its restaurants. With six different concepts, and 12 locations and counting, Yellow Rocket invites Arkansans to get to know its many personalities.
RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
PRESBYTERIAN VILLAGE
Presbyterian Village in Little Rock is owned and operated by a nonprofit organization and is sponsored by Presbyterian churches in the greater Little Rock metropolitan
area. Presbyterian Village has provided housing and services to the community for 60 years. Its mission is to provide comprehensive continuing care for older adults that promotes health, comfort, security and spiritual well-being in a living environment that fosters personal dignity and independence. From independent living to skilled nursing and rehabilitation and everything in between, Presbyterian Village strives to offer a healthy, secure and joyful environment for all residents.
RISK MANAGEMENT FIRM
THE CASHION CO.
The Cashion Co. in Little Rock is committed to honesty, integrity and excellence. Since its founding in 1975 by Knight Cashion, the company has strived to ensure clients receive the best possible insurance services. The company’s team of professionals offer personalized customer support and advice. Cashion remains a service-oriented, energetic, growth-focused independent insurance agency that builds long-lasting relationships with customers and carriers and maintains a work environment beneficial to employees. Staff members strive to provide customers with the insurance and surety products to protect their assets and meet or exceed their goals.
SOLAR COMPANY
CENTRAL ARKANSAS SOLAR SOLUTIONS
Central Arkansas Solar Solutions in North Little Rock provides solar and roofing services to central Arkansas and the Natural State as a whole. The company also provides siding, gutters and electrical work, as well as soft and power washing. Central Arkansas Solar Solutions is licensed, insured and bonded. Owner Jeff Hatfield joined the solar and roofing industry in 2020 and now takes pride in providing top-notch service to his clients, particularly those who have been impacted by storms. Whether one is updating a roof, upgrading with solar pan-
els or looking to have a roof repaired, Central Arkansas Solar Solutions can meet the need while exceeding expectations.
STAFFING AGENCY
ARKANSAS MEDICAL STAFFING
Arkansas Medical Staffing started in 2008 in Little Rock and aims to be Arkansas’ compass of health care staffing. The company provides supplemental or temporary professional nursing personnel for a variety of health care providers all over Arkansas especially focusing on the central Arkansas region while keeping each facility’s budget in mind. Arkansas Medical Staffing aims to keep Arkansas nurses “right here at home” in Arkansas, offering registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and certified nursing assistants. Under the leadership of owner Sonia Lucas-Meyer, along with Lacie Lucas, operations manager, the company provides outstanding care to its clients through cost-effective services, fulfilling its mission to be “caring professionals by your side” and believing all things are possible through Christ Jesus.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANY
AT&T
In Arkansas, AT&T invested more than $1.2 billion in its network infrastructure from 2020 to 2024 to connect more people to greater possibilities. Cities and communities throughout Arkansas are seeing the impacts of that investment, including nearly $175 million in the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers area; more than $70 million in the Fort Smith area; almost $60 million in the Hot Springs area and close to $600 million in the Little Rock area.
TITLE COMPANY
FIRST NATIONAL TITLE CO.
First National Title Co. is Arkansas’ largest independent title company, boasting 25 locations around the state and counting.
That wide footprint has not been simply for growth’s sake, however. By acquiring offices in rural areas that might otherwise have closed due to financial burdens, for example, First National Title ensures the people in those counties continue to have access to local experts and quality services. A broad network of title plants, largely maintained by the company itself, also gives First National Title an edge when it comes to the accuracy and thoroughness of its research.
TRUCKING COMPANY
STALLION TRANSPORTATION GROUP
When Garland E. “Butch” Rice III began Stallion Transportation Group in 1992, he set out to create a business that would have a positive impact on his community and the entire state of Arkansas. Under his leadership, the company has garnered a reputation for its dedication, passion and loyalty. Stallion is committed to success in every respect — for its employees, for its customers and for the wider community it serves. Culture is everything when it comes to the sustainability of a business. As a faith-based organization, Stallion Transportation is guided by strong Christian values. The company prioritizes not only the growth of individuals in their potential but also encourages a supportive, friendly and collaborative team atmosphere.
TRUST DEPARTMENT
SIMMONS BANK WEALTH MANAGEMENT
For generations, the knowledgeable team at Simmons Bank Wealth Management has been a premier provider of trust, investment management and fiduciary services. For more than 117 years, Pine Bluff-based Simmons Bank has been trusted for what matters. Its wealth professionals have deep industry experience and are ready to provide personalized solutions to help clients build and manage their wealth, provide for their families. and protect their lega-
cies. Simmons puts its clients at the center of everything it does. With a full array of resources backed by expert advisers and portfolio managers, staff members help simplify clients’ financial decision making so they can address their needs for today and realize their dreams for tomorrow.
UTILITY, ELECTRIC
ENTERGY ARKANSAS
Entergy Arkansas provides electricity to about 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of Entergy Corp., a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. Entergy invests in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping the region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in its communities for more than 110 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, Entergy has delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans and has about 12,000 employees.
UTILITY, GAS
SUMMIT UTILITIES ARKANSAS
Summit Utilities Arkansas’ mission is to support communities throughout the state. Summit provides safe and reliable natural gas services and is Arkansas’s largest natural gas company. Summit Utilities Arkansas operates under Summit Utilities, which provides natural gas in six states. In Arkansas, Summit serves more than 410,000 customers and operates nearly 14,000 miles of pipeline. Along with providing safe and reliable natural gas, Summit believes in caring for the communities it serves. Each year, Summit partners with nonprofits in its service area to give back through donations, private grant funding and employee volunteer hours.
WELLNESS CLINIC
BEYOND WELLNESS
Beyond Wellness is a total health destination that elevates the traditional wellness experience by serving individuals seeking a custom and holistic lifestyle. Founded in 2022 by Ashley and Matt Huneycutt, Beyond Wellness first took root in the Hot Springs Village area and has grown into a thriving wellness movement, now with three locations in central Arkansas and an upcoming expansion to northwest Arkansas.
WELLNESS SPA
COPPER WELL RETREAT
Situated in a wooded retreat location in Little Rock, Copper Well Retreat is a holistic destination day spa that specializes in exceptional spa experiences and authentic caregiving. The business also has a mindful retail gift shop. The company was listed as one of “The 12 Best Summer Spa Resorts in the South” by Southern Living. With a focus on “spirit before body,” Copper Well Retreat offers holistic day retreats, couples retreats, yoga classes and a monthly tea circle, as well as head spa services, massage and sauna, facials and waxing, energy work and nail and foot care.
WOMAN-OWNED COMPANY
SIGHTLINE RETAIL
Sightline Retail’s primary goal is to forge strong and honest relationships between retailers and suppliers. Its team is here to guide its clients toward profitability and better business growth for their companies. Staff members work as an extension of clients’ retail teams, providing management, sales strategy, replenishment support and more to guide clients toward better business growth and profitability.
PICK UP SPORTS FACILITY SLACK IN CENTRAL ARKANSAS SUBURBS
The city of Little Rock may still be searching for ways to fund muchneeded sports venues, but metro communities outside the capital city are picking up the slack.
The privately owned Summerwood Sports in Bryant recently opened its third gym, while the city of Cabot last year completed phase one of Game Time at The Grounds.
Summerwood opened its doors in 2023 on 31 acres off Bryant Parkway, technically in Alexander, and business has been brisk since day one.
“We’ve had a lot of summer programs and camps,” said owner David Hendrix, former owner of Big Red convenience stores in central Arkansas. “It’s been very busy. We’re very excited.”
From the get-go, Summerwood became something of a home base for local AAU basketball and volleyball teams, including the Arkansas Hawks, who helped christen the facility with a hoops
jamboree featuring teams from throughout the region.
The third gym, which, like the first two, includes full-sized basketball and volleyball courts, is bigger. Summerwood’s original gyms can hold up to 1,500 spectators, and Hendrix said the third gym can take in even more.
“The new gym is our showcase gym,” Hendrix said. “It’s bigger, larger, with more accommodations.”
With the third gym, Summerwood can provide seven volleyball and four full basketball courts.
“We have a lot of tournament directors who come in and run basketball and volleyball tournaments across all gyms,” said Summerwood manager Emily Bradford. “We have some months that are booked every single weekend for a tournament, and when they aren’t booked for tournaments, they are booked for birthday parties.”
Bradford said Summerwood is in the
early stages of planning its first baseball facility, adding that dance studios and more may be on the way, as well. The facility has been a strong draw for families from Little Rock, where venues are lacking compared to the bedroom communities that surround the city. Local patronage has not been an issue.
“There really does seem to be a growing need for a venue like Summerwood in central Arkansas,” she said. “When we started Summerwood Sports, we knew there was significant demand, but we
We have some months that are booked every single weekend for a tournament.
— Emily Bradford, Summerwood Sports
Summerwood Sports in Alexander has proven popular with AAU and club basketball teams. (Photo by DeWaine Duncan)
have been pleasantly surprised by the level of demand that we are currently seeing. We have been nearing capacity from the day we opened Gym 3. It has forced us to think creatively about the future.
“We have 20 acres on our property that we hope to expand into a state-of-the-art sport facility right here in Saline County. We want to be a resource for all of central Arkansas but especially for the Saline County community.”
Summerwood is named for Big Red’s parent company, which itself was named for the street in Benton on which Hendrix and his brother and business partner, Doug, grew up. More expansion plans are on the way; as Hendrix plans to add baseball, softball and soccer fields in the future.
Summerwood hosts AAU and club ball, summer camps, special events, and high school functions. High school basketball teams have used the facilities, including Benton High’s Panthers, coached by Dexter Hendrix, David’s son.
He told reporters after the facility opened that local schools in Saline County have great facilities, but “to have another place to practice, host games, host camps, basketball, volleyball is just something I think the community has really needed, and now they have the opportunity to come here and do it.”
Former Razorback basketball star Isaiah Joe, a Fort Smith native and member of the NBA title-seeking Oklahoma City Thunder, has hosted camps at Summerwood each year the facility has been open. This year’s camp is scheduled for August, and Summerwood will host its own camp later this summer. Both camps are open to the public.
Meanwhile, on the northeastern side of the metro, Cabot’s new Game Time at The Grounds opened last year to rave reviews.
The 128,000-square-foot facility, operated by the city’s parks and recreation department, can accommodate six high school regulation basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts and 18 pickleball courts on one side and two indoor AstroTurf areas on the other for football and soccer activities, as well as indoor batting cages.
Travis Young, director of Cabot Parks & Rec, told KATV at the facility opening that the plan was to make the facility flexible.
“We want to bring a unique style to baseball and softball and dodgeball, across sports we don’t typically play inside; we will make adjustments to play on the turf,” he said. “We have 2,500 kids participating in five sports and in the fall. It is even bigger than that because we will jump to seven sports. We also use
them as economic generators during the weekend. We have 21 weekends already booked out here over the next year.”
Cabot’s city recreational programs are bursting at the seams, he added.
“We use up to 11 gyms every night in the Cabot School District, and so to be able to be in one place at one time for families to come to one location, that is truly going to be impactful for us — not only for us but for the families who have multiple kids who would be running to multiple gyms.” he said, “Now all of our games will be played in one spot.”
Expansion was planned from the getgo at the 230-acre site, just north of Interstate 57 near Willie Ray Drive. The next phase at The Grounds will be a mountain biking trail.
• 128,000-square-foot facility
• 6 basketball courts
• 12 volleyball courts
• 18 pickleball courts
• 2 indoor AstroTurf areas
Emily Bradford
Cabot’s new Game Time at The Grounds opened in 2024. (Photo provided)
Easy Bein’ Green
Driftwood Farms carves out profitable niche with Little Bitty Greens
By Justina Parker
Little Bitty Greens in Clinton, operating under the name Driftwood Farms, has become a staple in the local microgreens and mushroom industry. Owners Kristen and Brian Gardner’s journey to becoming farmers has been one of resilience and is anything but conventional.
Kristen, a Kansas native and former staff sergeant in the U.S. Air Force, joined the service at age 18 and spent part of her military career working Air Force One. Brian built his career as a firefighter in Alabama. Their paths eventually crossed in Afghanistan, where they were working as civilian contractors. When COVID-19 hit, the two found themselves stuck overseas, working 12-hour days, seven days a week, and falling in love.
While making plans for life after they left Afghanistan, Brian and Kristen decided to take a leap of faith and purchase a property in Clinton, site unseen. All appeared set for the couple’s return when an attack on their location caused both to be med-flighted back to the United States. Then, while beginning their recovery at home, Kristen’s father and Brian’s mother both passed away within the first year of their return.
“We’re people of faith, and there are definitely multiple parts of our story that have no other explanation,” Brian said.
While Kristen’s father was ill, the couple began researching microgreens as a way to help him eat healthier, following a neighbors suggestion. Microgreens, young vegetable greens harvested just after sprouting, are known for their health benefits compared to fully grown veggies. After sharing their microgreens with friends and neighbors, it was suggested the couple take their product into local restaurants.
After a few phone calls and meetings, the couple quickly saw a gap in supply in central Arkansas, allowing Little Bitty Greens to take root. What started with one or two chefs quickly grew to restaurants requesting more, and before long, the Gardners were delivering fresh greens weekly to kitchens across the region.
In 2023, central Arkansas’ culinary community lost a beloved supplier when Jess Wilkins, known for his gourmet mushrooms, died in a motorcycle accident that left a hole that chefs and restaurants immediately felt. Brian and Kristen were approached more than once about filling the gap and considered it for about six months before exploring the possibility further.
“We knew nothing about mushrooms,” Brian said. “There’s a lot of specifics in making sure they don’t become contaminated, the varieties and how your farm has to be built. We wanted to make sure we had the knowledge to provide the best product possible before diving in.”
After much consideration and receiving a heartfelt blessing from Wilkins’ mother, the Gardners got to work. Brian connected with Joe Iovino, a fellow firefighter turned mushroom farmer based in Tampa, Florida, and with Iovino’s guidance and support, Brian and his brother-in-law, Dustin
Microgreens, young vegetable greens harvested just after sprouting, are known for their health benefits compared to fully grown veggies.
Clients are cornerstones of fine dining in the region, including such favorites such as Brave New Restaurant, Petit & Keet, The Croissanterie and many more.
(Photos provided)
Bader, visited Florida in February 2024 to immerse themselves in gourmet mushroom farming.
“This started as a family business, and we continue to pour our hearts into it,” Brian said. “My wife, brother-in-law and I have put in all the work, and it’s not your usual time schedule. If a mushroom is ready to harvest, you have a select time to do so, whether that’s 6 a.m. or 11 p.m.”
The couple named their venture Driftwood Farms for its proximity to Greers Ferry and collecting unique pieces of driftwood on their property. In just a few weeks, they milled their own lumber and constructed a 400-square-foot mushroom facility complete with a lab, incubation system and grow rooms. On March 13, 2024, they wheeled out their first cart of mushrooms.
At first, they distributed 200 to 250 pounds of mushrooms per week — lion’s mane, oyster and other varieties. Word traveled fast, since local chefs were excited to have a trusted source again. Demand skyrocketed, and Driftwood Farms expanded rapidly. Now occupying a 2,000-squarefoot space, the operation produces 1,000 to 1,200 pounds of mushrooms each week, which it delivers to more than 20 restaurants across central Arkansas.
Clients are cornerstones of fine dining in the region, including such favorites such as Brave New Restaurant, Petit & Keet, The Croissanterie and many more. On Saturdays, Driftwood Farms can also be found at the Hillcrest Farmers Market in Little Rock, where customers can grab their favorite varieties straight from the source.
“We’ve seen an increase in customers at
Driftwood serves clients such as George’s in Little Rock; Brian Gardner with Jill McDonald of the Croissanterie; Driftwood specializes in microgreens.
Hillcrest Farmers Market as more information comes out about the benefits of mushrooms,” Brian said. “You’d be amazed at some of the stories we’ve heard about lion’s mane helping with [post-traumatic stress disorder] and nerve damage.”
The Gardners noted that the food industry can be dominated by mass production and the low prices of frozen products. Through their vendor relationships, they are proving that fresh, local and sustainable food can thrive with the right values. The couple’s growing process avoids harmful pesticides, and products go out the same week they are harvested.
Brian and Kristen said on the rare occasion they have not sold out, they share their products with family and neighbors or create ground mushrooms so that nothing goes to waste.
“We’ve found ways to make the most of all parts of our product,” Brian said. “We want to serve in all ways and teach our daughter the same. We’ve made our farm a fun place for when she’s older, and we want it to be somewhere she can learn and share with friends. It really is a family business.”
What sets Driftwood Farms apart is not just the produce but the mission. The couple said they knew they always wanted to run their business based on relationships and quality.
They know the names of their chefs, listen to customer feedback, and treat their farm not just as a business but as a way to serve their community.
“When we walk into the kitchen, we’re warmly greeted by people that know our names,” Kristen said. “They often ask for our opinion on new dishes or let us try a sample of something they’re cooking up that day. It is like a big family we’ve become a part of.”
When asked about the future plans for Driftwood Farms, Brian said the strategy is to continue to grow organically.
“We’re very grateful for this opportunity to serve, and a lot of our enthusiasm comes from more people wanting our product,” he said. “We believe our responsibility is to stay focused on the present, living and working in the moment, as we continue to grow. Our growth so far has been mostly organic, which feels natural to us. That said, we want to offer more mushroom products based on the requests we’ve received from our growing community and customers.
“Developing those new processes takes time and effort, but we’re committed to doing so without compromising the core practices that define who we are.”
To learn more about Driftwood Farms, follow them on Instagram at driftwood_farms_.
Through their relationships, they are proving that fresh, local and sustainable food can thrive with the right values.
Harvested just after sprouting, microgreens are thought to be dense in nutrients.
Serving UPStyle
Salon Cirae offers luxury salon experience
By Dwain Hebda
Sparkman
Leah Harding does not check a lot of the traditional boxes for a salon owner. The Illinois native did not grow up with visions of styling and beauty for a career. She did not work backstage, prepping models at fashion shows.
What Harding did do in her formative years, however, forged the kind of vision, resiliency and grit necessary in any successful entrepreneur. Leaving home at 17 determined to make her own way in life, she built her career skills the hard way, learning from the people that life and luck put into her path.
“I depended on myself for survival, but I was very lucky to have great mentors,” she said. “I worked at a Quiznos, and the owner was a wonderful mentor. She really instilled in me that if you work hard, you’re going to do well. At 18 years old, I became a manager there, and that, really, at an early age, developed my sense of managing people. Looking back, I wouldn’t change anything.”
Photos by Lori
By the time she was 21, she was working the drive-up window at a bank when she had an epiphany for jump-starting her life and career.
“I lived in a very small town of 3,000 people,” she said. “I looked out at the same scenery every single day, I saw the same people every single day, and I said, ‘You know what? There’s no growth for me here.’ I packed up my bags and quit my job and showed up at my sister’s house in Little Rock.”
Harding started her Arkansas chapter using her well-honed people skills behind the bar before taking an interest in hair. Her sister owned the salon that Harding would later purchase in 2018 and rechristen Salon Cirae, borrowing Harding’s middle name and that of her daughter. In January, she moved into a bigger space, one she designed and built to suit her vision of a first-class salon experience with services to match.
The salon’s staff represents a range of ages, backgrounds and specialties.
“Head spas are like a facial for your scalp, basically,” Harding said. “About two years ago, I stumbled across a video of it, and I thought it was very odd at first. Then I realized how so many people struggle with scalp health, and healthy scalp equals healthy hair. If we can address scalp issues, our clients will have better hair growth, stronger hair, and it will just be better in the long run.”
You really have to establish yourself and your style in this business while still making it a place where people feel comfortable.
— Leah Harding, owner
“I’m very open to change,” she said. “At the other place, I felt more like a booth renter. I didn’t feel like an owner because it was what my sister had created. When I moved over here, I designed the whole place myself, and the biggest challenge was reiterating to the employees, like, this is how I want things done.
“You really have to establish yourself and your style in this business while still making it a place where people feel comfortable. Finding that balance, you know, it wasn’t difficult, but it was challenging. I think a lot of existing customers thought, ‘Well, this isn’t like the other place, but I like it.’”
The reimagined Salon Cirae at 2001 Georgia Ave. in Little Rock offers the usual battery of hair services for men and women with the addition of facials and a menu of head spa treatments, a Japanese-inspired trend that is just starting to make its way to the states.
One thing that has eased the transition to the new location is the staff, which is made up of a carefully curated group of industry professionals. The crew is comprised of people of different ages and specialties in order to appeal to the widest possible clientele.
“We have clients as young as a 1-yearold to — I think, our oldest client might be in their mid-90s, which is really neat,” Harding said. “I really wanted to create more of a one-stop shop where you have the older ladies coming in weekly for their hairdos, where we still do perms and roller sets, but we also do hair extensions, along with the facials and the head spa.”
Even though the business represents Harding’s first foray into entrepreneurism, she has learned the ins and outs of business ownership quickly thanks, in part, to her husband, Chef Payne Harding, co-owner of Little Rock’s Cache Restaurant. Having a fellow business owner at home gives her a ready sounding board and source of encouragement when it comes to the finer points of growing a business.
“Honestly, he is my biggest cheerleader. He has supported me 100 percent and relieved a lot of the anxiety of doing what I do,” she said. “Payne is one of those valuable people in my life who eased my uncomfortable feelings about branching out and who inspired me to just go for it. If you don’t put yourself in uncomfortable situations, there’s no growth.”
Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo an iconic part of Spa City lore
By Mark Carter
BBrian Bridges grew up with the Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo, which has been in his family
Opened in 1902, the attraction is one of Hot Springs’ oldest and most iconic, and Bridges serves as director of marketing. The alligator farm and the petting zoo, of course, make for two distinct components to the overall experience, and working at each of them requires quite different levels of composure.
“Maintaining a gator pen requires respect, caution and a deep understanding of the animals, especially during the hotter months,” Bridges said. “For the most part, taking care of alligators isn’t dangerous, but summer is when you really have to stay on your toes. That’s when the gators are most active and aggressive, particularly around feeding time.”
Bridges said the farm is currently home to roughly 140 gators. Every 10 years, the farm receives a new group of baby gators from Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge in Louisiana, which keeps the park’s population healthy and thriving, he added.
“The babies usually arrive about 4 to 5 inches long. We typically get around a dozen at a time,” he said. “It’s always exciting for our staff and guests to watch them grow and become part of the larger alligator community here at the farm.”
The gators are the star attraction, of course, but the park’s petting zoo and exotic animal exhibits are “just as beloved,” Bridges said, and especially popular with first-time visitors and families with kids. Feed is furnished to all guests for free.
“The petting zoo is a hands-on experience where guests can interact with friendly animals like goats, sheep, donkeys, rabbits, tortoises and ducks,” he said.
“One of the most popular attractions is our parakeet enclosure, where guests can feed about 50 colorful parakeets with seed sticks,” Bridges said. “It’s a hit with all ages.”
The gators, of course, earn their top billing. Visitors can gaze upon the larger gators in their outdoor pens, as well as safely hold or touch the smaller ones.
“Our alligators remain a huge draw,” Bridges said. “It’s a unique experience that keeps people cwoming back year after year.”
A different level of focus is required for maintaining the gator pens, of course.
“In the past, we used to feed the gators from inside the enclosures, but due to safety concerns, we now feed them from secure docks,” Bridges said. “It’s a much safer method, especially considering a large gator can exert up to 3,000 pounds of bite force and may attempt a death roll during feeding.”
Bridges’ father, current co-owner Jamie Bridges, once had to get 36 stitches in his arm after a gator bite recieved during a feeding show, and his grandfather, Jack Bridges Jr., once needed 30 stitches in his hand after an encounter, he said.
“Those experiences taught us a lot about safety and the importance of working smart around these powerful animals,” Bridges said. “In the winter months, it’s a different story. Gators go into a state similar to hibernation. Their heart rates drop, they don’t eat, and they become much less active. That’s when we’re able to go into the enclosures to examine them more closely.”
The park has remained popular over the decades but has seen a steady uptick in recent years.
“We’ve seen a steady increase in visitors over the past decade, with numbers growing year over year,” Bridges said. “One of our busiest periods was during 2020 and 2021, when families were looking for safe outdoor activities, and we were fortunate to provide that kind of experience. For over a century, the farm has remained a beloved family-run destination. Each generation has helped preserve its charm while continuing to grow
and adapt, offering visitors a unique and memorable experience rooted in Hot Springs tradition.”
Bridges said spring and summer represent the park’s busiest times, as expected. July is typically the park’s busiest month, followed by March, when spring breakers converge on Hot Springs.
“The seasonal influx really highlights how much people enjoy including the farm in their Hot Springs getaway plans,” he added.
The alligator farm’s lore is strengthened by its role in the birth of Babe Ruth as a home-run hitter. Before the Babe rose to fame as a long-ball hitter who set the Major League Baseball home run record,
he was primarily a pitcher with the Boston Red Sox, which annually regrouped in Hot Springs each spring to soak away off seasons of drink and debauchery in Spa City’s famed thermal baths.
“One of our favorite stories is from March 17, 1918 — St. Patrick’s Day — when Babe Ruth hit a legendary home run from what used to be the Whittington Park field, right across the street from the farm,” Bridges said. “The ball landed in one of our alligator ponds and was measured at 573 feet, making it the first recorded home run longer than 500 feet in baseball history.
“Ruth trained in Hot Springs nine times and was a familiar face around town. That iconic hit remains a unique and memorable part of both baseball history and our farm’s legacy.”
The Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo is home to roughly 140 gators, above, exotic animals like emus, left, and, of course, a petting zoo, opposite. (Photos provided)
THIS FATHER’S DAY, A PRACTICAL STEP TO HELP WORKING FAMILIES
By Randy Scott
As we celebrate fathers this month, I’m reminded of how much work goes on behind every family’s front door. Parents juggle long hours, school responsibilities and costly bills while still trying to give their kids the best start.
As a dad myself, I’ve always believed in showing up where it counts for your family, your team and your community. But in recent years, that’s gotten harder for many working parents. We’ve seen it up close at Farmers Bank & Trust in Blytheville — talented, dedicated employees stretched thin by rising costs, particularly when it comes to affording child care.
We started asking questions last fall after attending a Mississippi County Chamber luncheon, where we first learned about Excel by Eight’s business coalition — a statewide group working to engage Arkansas employers in finding real solutions to the state’s child care crisis, especially where it affects workforce participation. What’s getting in the way of our team members building long-term careers here? What would make it easier for them to stay and grow with us?
To answer these questions, we invited employee feedback, and, thankfully, their answers were honest and direct. Many were open about their struggles to afford reliable care for their young children, and some were even considering stepping away from our workforce altogether to make it work.
Their responses gave us a framework for considering what was possible, and they reminded us that child care isn’t just a family issue; it’s a workforce one, as well.
In January, we introduced a new benefit that covers 50 percent of child care costs up to $5,000 annually for employees with children enrolled in licensed care. The bank pays the subsidy directly to local, state-licensed child care providers on behalf of our employees. We also require that care be provided through a state-licensed facility to support high-quality early learning environments. Our goal is simple — reduce the stress families are carrying so employees can work while feeling confident their children are learning and growing in a good setting.
The response has been incredible. Roughly 15 percent of our 50-person staff enrolled in the first few weeks. We heard from parents who were relieved, even emotional, to know their employer saw the strain and wanted to help ease it.
This wasn’t about making a splash. It was about doing right by our people and doing what made sense for our business.
Turnover is costly. Recruitment can strain time and resources when you are starting over and over again. Offering a benefit like this won’t solve every challenge, but it has helped us keep people who might have otherwise left the workforce. It’s made us more attractive to new applicants and, just as significantly, it has helped build trust, understanding and a more caring environment inside our organization.
We don’t have endless resources, but we can listen and make thoughtful decisions, and this one felt like the right call.
As more employers wrestle with hiring and retention, I’d encourage them to consider this. What would it look like to support your employees not just as workers but as parents? What if the benefits you offered were shaped by what people need to stay and thrive?
There’s no one-size-fits-all model, but even a modest investment can have a meaningful impact, and in communities like ours, where every job and every family matters, that’s worth prioritizing.
On the heels of celebrating Mother’s Day last month and Father’s Day this month, let’s remember how important it is to invest in Arkansas families. I hope other businesses across the state will consider what steps they might take to better support the people who keep things running — at work and at home.
Randy Scott is chairman and CEO of Farmers Bank & Trust in Blytheville. Randy Scott
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