AY About You August 2026

ARK ANSAS’ LIFES T YLE MAGA ZINE | AUGUS T 2026 | AYMAG.COM

Ryan Silverfield intent on bringing Arkansas back

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H

ugh Crisp has been a trial lawyer for 40 years, but he still feels like he’s never worked a day in his life. Being a trial lawyer fulfills both a passion and a lifelong dream for Crisp.

“Things worked out perfectly for me,” he says.

From the firm’s office in downtown Little Rock, Crisp’s work includes an emphasis on medical malpractice and catastrophic injuries. These are some of the most difficult cases imaginable, due to having to learn the medicine for each case and applying the law to the circumstances to each case.

Instances of medical malpractice are when a patient is harmed by the negligent acts or admissions of a medical care provider.

Wrongful death in a medical malpractice case is a death caused by the negligent acts or omissions of medical care providers. Recent studies show that one of

the leading causes of death in the United States is medical errors, accounting for 251,000 deaths annually.

“At the Crisp Law Firm, we have a personal relationship with each individual we represent and are committed to devoting the time and resources necessary to achieve the very best results for our clients,” he says.

Such a deep-hearted commitment to the client brings about peace of mind, in addition to his many distinguishing honors that identify him as one of the best in the field of medical malpractice.

Crisp is rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest rating for an attorney practicing in the United States. He has been honored by numerous publications in Arkansas and around the South as one of the best lawyers in the field of medical malpractice, as well as peer-reviewed associations such as being a Mid-South Super Lawyers honoree for many years, and as well as Best Lawyers in America®.

The accolades and accomplishments go on and on for Crisp, all of which are rewarding. But at the end of the day, it hasn’t moved the needle on the most important things in his mind — his clients, and helping them find justice.

221 W. 2nd Street LittLe rock

501-376-6264 crisplawfirm.com

Pat Becker has a story for your child and a second chance for a rescue animal.

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we back in the game Repeated squatting during a rapid growth spurt caused a hip injury that kept 17-year-old Titus Henley from playing catcher on his high school’s baseball team. After meeting with two other doctors who recommended avoiding activities that cause pain, his mom found an online video of Dr. Paul Inclan, a sports medicine orthopaedic surgeon at UAMS Health. Dr. Inclan realized how much sports mean to Titus and performed minimally invasive surgery to repair a bone deformity and Titus’ torn hip labrum, enabling him to play pain-free with full range of motion.

“It was really frustrating to talk with doctors who told me to give up the sports I love at such an early age. Dr. Inclan was different – thanks to him, I can play without all the pain I had before.”

– Titus Henley, Searcy Titus Henley

contents

WHAT’S INSIDE

10 Publisher’s Letter 12 Connect 14 Top Events 24 Weekender: A Bentonville Escape 204 Murder Mystery 208 Arkansas Diamonds

HOME

30 Teamwork Makes the Dream (Home) Work

36 Garden of Verses

FOOD

44 That’s Amore 46 Blend of Old World and New 50 Recipe: From Garden to Table

PETS

54 Back to School 62 Spay, Shots, Suture 65 Splish, Splash,

That Dog Needs a Bath!

68 Dog Dollars and Cat Cash 74 Home Away From Home 80 A Place for Comfort

LAWYERS

86 Let Me Be Your Shelter 90 AY’s Best of Lawyers 2026 93 In Your Corner 94 Untying the Knot 97 Bridge Over Troubled Waters 98 Driven to Help Others 101 Family Matters 104 The Trailblazer 107 Shielding the Brand 108 Under His Wing 112 Wicked Good 116 Flying High 118 Standing Up For Arkansas’ Workers 120 Family Traditions 122 Arkansas Bar Association Awards

HEALTH

128 Skin Deep 136 Inner Glow 142 AY’s 2026 Healthcare Professionals 146 A Mind for Medicine 152 Just a Small-Town Girl 158 Show Those Pearly Whites

HOT SPRINGS

166 Destination Spa City 170 AY’s 2026 Faces of Hot Springs 183 Spa (City) Day

ARTS & CULTURE 190 Lights, Camera, Arkansas

Buon appetito! page 40

ON THE COVER Ryan Silverfield, Arkansas’ first-year head football coach, will be the featured guest of the Little Rock Touchdown Club this month, just ahead of the Hogs taking the field Sept. 5. See Page 18.

TRAVEL

194 Melonmania 200 Best Foot Forward 6

OUR PRESENT IS HER FUTURE

It’s decided. We’re in love and we’ll do everything we can to help support our grandbaby’s future.

That starts with contributing to the 529 plan her parents already started, or even starting one of our own.

The Arkansas Brighter Future 529 Plan helps education savings grow tax-deferred.

And friends and family who contribute to the plan also get tax benefits. Supporting her education is one of the best gifts we can give her.

Talk to your kids about planning for your grandchild’s future.

BrighterFutureDirect529.com 1.800.587.7301

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

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

Dwain Hebda dwain@aymag.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Mak Millard mmillard@aymag.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Darlene Hebda darlene@aymag.com

COPY EDITOR

Sarah DeClerk sdeclerk@aymag.com

STAFF WRITERS

Doug Crise dcrise@aymag.com Alex Hardgrave ahardgrave@aymag.com

MANAGING DIGITAL EDITOR

Kellie McAnulty kmcanulty@aymag.com

ONLINE WRITER

Kilee Hall khall@aymag.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Mike Bedgood mbedgood@aymag.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

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

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

Margie Raimondo blends culinary skills with storytelling.

She specializes in Mediterranean cooking classes that emphasize healthy eating and has authored two cookbooks: Mangiamo and Finding Your Path.

Additionally, she is a filmmaker. She produced the awardwinning documentary The Soul of Sicily.

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

Genevieve Townley is the owner of Wonderlily Photography and resident of Hot Springs.

She loves photography, her two kids, ages 18 and 20, her dog, Maggie, and her husband of 23 years.

She also loves anything that involves going to the beach. Townley has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.

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

Ryan Parker is a contributor at AY Media Group, driving ad sales, partnerships and content strategy alongside his wife, President and Publisher Heather Baker.

A seasoned executive and fitness guru, Parker has scaled global medical device and software-asa-service companies to the tune of more than 200 percent revenue growth, $3 billion-plus deals and major contracts.

Jamie Lee is a freelance photographer originally from southwest Louisiana who now resides in Little Rock.

With a strong focus on portrait, branding and food photography, she loves capturing people’s stories and cultures through the lens, helping businesses build their brands visually, and showcasing the local food scene and small businesses.

Chris Davis was born and raised in Sherwood but now resides in North Little Rock with his wife and son. When his son was born, his wife asked for a new camera to take pictures of their little one.

From there, his love of photography grew, and he is proud to be one of the contributing photographers at AY About You magazine.

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Linda Burlingame lindaaymag@aol.com Michelle Daugherty michelle@aymag.com Mary Funderburg mary@aymag.com Karen Holderfield kholderfield@aymag.com Carrie Sublett carrie@aymag.com

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Jessica Everson jeverson@aymag.com

ADVERTISING ASSISTANT

Katie Beth Smith ksmith@aymag.com

AD OPERATION MANAGER Jay Danzy ads@aymag.com

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AY About You Magazine is published monthly, Volume XXXIX, Issue 4 AY Magazine (ISSN 2162-7754) by AY Media Group, 910 W. 2nd St., Suite 200, Little Rock, AR 72201. Periodicals postage paid at Little Rock, AR and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to AY Magazine, 910 W. 2nd St., Suite 200, Little Rock, AR 72201. Subscription Inquiries: Subscription rate is $24 for one year (12 issues). Single issues are available upon request for $5. For subscriptions, inquiries or address changes, call 501-244-9700. The contents of AY are copyrighted ©2025, and material contained herein may not be copied or reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. Articles in AY should not be considered specific advice, as individual circumstances vary. Products and services advertised in the magazine are not necessarily endorsed by AY. Please recycle this magazine.

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publisher’s letter

Did Someone Say Dog Days?

If you know me just a little bit, you know I’m a dog lover, and our sweet doodle, Charlie Brown, who travels with us on our adventures, is gaining a following all his own. That is why August, our annual Pet Issue, is one of my favorites of the year. We cover all that goes into responsible pet ownership, from choosing the right breed to providing adequate healthcare to profiling the best groomers and boarders for your fur baby.

Most importantly of all, we feature adoptables available in central and northwest Arkansas in the hopes our big-hearted readers will step up and give these babies a forever home. Let’s do this, Arkansas!

Our cover story this month is also in step with the changing seasons. Ryan Silverfield, first-year head coach of the University of Arkansas football team, is approaching his much-anticipated debut as the new head Hog. Razorback fans will get to hear the coach lay out his plan for the coming season this month at the Aug. 24 installment of the Little Rock Touchdown Club, of which AY Media Group is a sponsor, but you can get a sneak peek inside.

Also in this issue, we celebrate the best in not one, but two key industries in Arkansas. Find inside our salute to the best attorneys and best healthcare professionals in the Natural State as nominated by the public or recognized by their respective fields. We are not only here to congratulate the outstanding practitioners listed, but we hope these sections serve as a valuable resource for anyone requiring medical or legal Photo by Ryan Parker expertise.

We also profile multiple nonprofits this month and their important work in the community. We start in Hope with their annual watermelon festival, offering a sweet taste of late summer, and then visit Jacksonville for their fun community celebration.

Finally, we catch up with the people behind Filmland, returning to Little Rock, this time bringing Hollywood A-lister Matthew McConaughey with them — star power at its best!

It is hard to believe we will soon be talking first day of school, Friday-night football games, fall color and cooler weather, but life moves fast, folks. Hold onto these magic moments as tightly as you can, and bring us along for the ride! We love being part of your lives.

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

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LIVE THE LIFE OF LUXURY

Serving Arkansas for 50 Years.

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READER FEEDBACK WEAVING THE TAPESTRY: ARKANSAS ARTIST BARRY THOMAS PAINTS 250 YEARS OF HISTORY Thank you, AY Magazine, for featuring my work.

As an artist, it is a true honor to be recognized by a publication that celebrates the people, culture and creativity of Arkansas. It means even more because it recognizes the authentic path I’ve chosen as an artist — a path shaped by years of dedication, curiosity and a deep love for painting. Every brushstroke is my way of telling stories, celebrating beauty and honoring the people and places that have inspired me throughout my life. To have that journey acknowledged is both humbling and deeply encouraging. Thank you for believing in my work and for shining a light on the arts in Arkansas. I am sincerely grateful and proud.

Barry Thomas PEACE BE WITH US: FOREST OF HOPE FAMILY PEACE CENTER OPENS IN LITTLE ROCK Thank you again, Heather Baker and Dwain Hebda, for your wonderful collaboration with our mission! We can’t thank you enough for getting the word out for all those people in crisis.

Cathy Browne

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INSTAGRAM

White tiger Zuri finds permanent home at Turpentine Creek (Photo courtesy of Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge)

HABIBI’S SHAWARMA CELEBRATES RIBBON CUTTING IN WEST LITTLE ROCK Great place. Love the food and the family!!!

Margie Raimondo DIAMONDS: JASON CURRY, PASTOR God has used Jason Curry greatly in our lives! Love him and his book, Finish Empty!

Sarah Everett HUSTLE & FLOW: COUPLE BEHIND SONGBYRD DEVELOPMENT SUCCEEDS WITH INTEGRITY Gerald is one of the best people that you will ever meet! Not surprising to me that he is so successful! Congratulations, my friend!

Bill Roachell

Mexico Chiquito brings its legendary cheese dip to Cabot

JULY COVER Always the most BEAUTIFUL covers!!

Jennifer Ballinger

TRENDING ON AYMAG.COM NLR’s North Bar closes its doors Mexico Chiquito brings its legendary cheese dip to Cabot Sonny Williams’ welcomes guests back following restaurant refresh AY’s 2026 Men of Distinction Habibi’s Shawarma celebrates ribbon cutting in west Little Rock

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Sonny Williams’ Steak Room officially reopens, welcoming guests back after a refresh under its new ownership group

North Little Rock Event Season 08/22

Ella Langley: The Dandelion Tour Simmons Bank Arena, North Little Rock

09/05

Arkansas Reggae Festival 2026 Bishop Lindsey Ave, North Little Rock

09/26

Big Dam 100 Cycling Tour of Central Arkansas

10/03-04

North Little Rock Airshow 8200 Remount Rd, North Little Rock

11/13-22

Piccolo Zoppe Winter Circus Bishop Lindsey Ave, North Little Rock

11/21

North Little Rock Northern Lights Argenta Plaza, North Little Rock

11/22

Third Day, Chris Tomlin, TobyMac Simmons Bank Arena, North Little Rock

JAN 2027

North Little Rock Restaurant Month 2027

more events at northlittlerock.org/events

agenda

5

Top

you just can't miss!

HOPE WATERMELON FESTIVAL Aug. 6-8 Fair Park — Hope

The 50th Hope Watermelon Festival promises to be a sweet time. The weekend is full of watermelon-themed events such as a Melon Mile race, a seed-spitting contest and a singing competition called Watermelon Idol. The weekend will be capped off by a performance from country star Gretchen Wilson.

FILMLAND 2026

Aug. 12-16 Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts — Little Rock Featuring special guest Matthew McConaughey, Filmland 2026 will celebrate cinema and inspire Arkansans. There will be a screening of McConaughey’s new film, The Rivals of Amziah King, followed by a conversation with him and director Jeff Nichols. In addition to McConaughey’s visit, the weekend will also feature other exclusive film previews, panel discussions and more.

HAMILTON

Aug. 25-30 Robinson Center — Little Rock The Tony Award-winning musical Hamilton is bringing the story of Alexander Hamilton to the Robinson Center stage. Based on Ron Chernow’s biography and set to a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and more, Hamilton is unlike anything before it. Don’t throw away your shot! Get tickets today.

SEERSUCKER SOIRÉE

Aug. 27 Stella Boyle Smith Music Center — Little Rock Say goodbye to a hot summer with some cool music. Enjoy tunes performed by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra’s talented jazz musicians while sipping on craft cocktails and showing off one’s finest summertime fashions.

ARKANSAS OUTDOOR HALL OF FAME BANQUET Aug. 29 Statehouse Convention Center — Little Rock

The Natural State would not be the same without the people who champion its great outdoors. The Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame Banquet takes a moment each year to honor those who work to expand the use and enjoyment of Arkansas’ wild spaces. The banquet will feature inductions into the hall of fame, as well as auctions, dinner and the presentation of the Legacy Award.

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1 National Theatre Live Presents: Inter Alia Ron Robinson Theater Little Rock

events

1

Bryan Adams: Roll With the Punches Simmons Bank Arena North Little Rock

4

5-22

Wynonna Judd & Melissa Etheridge Walmart AMP Rogers

Angels in America Actors Theatre Little Rock

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Kesha: The Freedom Tour Walmart AMP Rogers

West Texas Exiles The White Water Tavern Little Rock

Babyface Ray and 42 Dugg The Hall Little Rock

Fiddle & Banjo Championship Ozark Highlands Theater Mountain View

Ozark Blues Challenge George’s Majestic Lounge Fayetteville

11-23

14-15

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The Remarkable Resignation of Dr. Joycelyn Elders The Rep Little Rock

SOAR NWA Benton County Fairgrounds Bentonville

Straight Tequila Night The White Water Tavern Little Rock

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Studio Social: Glow for it!

Art That Shines Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art Bentonville

Exhibition on Screen Presents: Tokyo Stories Ron Robinson Theater Little Rock

Frank Foster The Hall Little Rock

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5 Seconds of Summer: EVERYONE’S A STAR! Walmart AMP Rogers

Big Thief | Somersault Slide 360 Tour Momentary Green Bentonville

Toadies: The Charmer Tour The Hall Little Rock

Silverada George’s Majestic Lounge Fayetteville

Bluegrass & Fried Chicken Festival Ozark Folk Center State Park Mountain View

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Congress the Band George’s Majestic Lounge Fayetteville

Ella Langley: The Dandelion Tour Simmons Bank Arena North Little Rock

Chris DeClerk Band The White Water Tavern Little Rock

Dirty Head with 311 Walmart AMP Rogers

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Drivin N Cryin The White Water Tavern Little Rock

29 Chris Lake Momentary Green Bentonville

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Lil Wayne Walmart AMP Rogers

29 Walmart AMP Rogers

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29 Benson Boone: Wanted Man Tour 2026 Simmons Bank Arena North Little Rock

aymag.com

Adventure Lives in North Little Rock

501.791.8537 nlrpr.org

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POURS WITH

A PURPOSE

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aymag.com

cover

‘Why Not Football?’

New head Hog aims to keep pace with other successful UA sports

By MARK CARTER // Photos courtesy of ARKANSAS ATHLETICS

cover

R

yan Silverfield understood both the present challenge and the historic potential of the program he took over last December.

Silverfield, the first-year Arkansas head football coach, was hired to replace Sam Pittman, who was fired midseason following an embarrassing blowout loss at home to Notre Dame. Bobby Petrino, who led the Hogs to consecutive top-10 finishes in 2010 and 2011, had been brought back in 2023 to coordinate the offense, and he took over on an interim basis once Pittman was let go.

While the deck was stacked against Petrino, the Hogs remained unable to close out tight games.

Arkansas limped to a 2-10, SEC-winless slate and Petrino’s audition did not go as planned. One of those close losses, while still under Pittman, was on the road to Silverfield’s Memphis Tigers, who pulled out a last-minute win after the Hogs threatened to blow the game open. It was another gut punch of a loss for Razorback fans (who had to endure several one-score, last-minute losses in 2025), but it revealed the grit with which Silverfield’s teams had come to be known.

Memphis went 50-25 over Silverfield’s six seasons at the helm, including consecutive 10win seasons, and the program emerged as one of the top Group of 6 programs. Under Silverfield, the Tigers went 5-2 against Power 4 schools.

Despite the Arkansas program’s recent struggles, Silverfield jumped at the chance to move to Fayetteville and coach in the SEC. He acknowledged the Arkansas program’s struggles but also its (seemingly forgotten) pedigree and potential.

(Photo by DeWaine Duncan) Silverfield and the Hogs open the season Sept. 5 in Fayetteville; Bazzel, right, with former Texas and North Carolina coach Mack Brown, who spoke at LRTDC last fall.

The new-look Hogs will open the 2026 season Sept. 5 in Fayetteville against North Alabama, but Silverfield will get a proper reintroduction Aug. 24 when he opens the 2026 Little Rock Touchdown Club speaker series, which the head Hog traditionally does.

Silverfield has toured the state since his hire, drumming up excitement — and fundraising — amongst a fan base that is eager to reenter the ranks of the relevant in college football.

He may not have been the sexiest hire of the 2025-2026 coaching carousel, but Silverfield has gone about his business quietly and confidently, rebuilding a team from the ground up if not from scratch.

The proof will be in the pudding, of course, but from an optics standpoint, Silverfield and his staff have checked a lot of boxes. There were more than a few within Hog Nation who christened the new coach Chad Morris 2.0 during the immediate aftermath of the hire, but Silverfield has quietly gone about his business rebuilding a roster (the Hogs will field 80 new players when they take the field for the opener), drumming up support and, most importantly in this day and age, fundraising.

Arkansas had much catching up to do on and off the field, and Silverfield has embraced the challenge. With that 2-10 raincloud hanging over and driving perception, the Hogs are picked by media members to finish last in the SEC. Silverfield said he recognizes that job one is simple — positive steps forward.

“I think every head coach is gonna tell you they want more, they need more,” Silverfield told Arkansas reporters upon arriving in Tampa for SEC Media Days in late July. “I’ll say this: that everybody understands the importance of it, whether it’s the administration, the donors.

All those people that are involved have understood [that], and I certainly have leaned right into it myself. I’m hitting the ground running fundraising and doing all those things that’s important.

“I think every year, we’re gonna continue to take steps in the right direction. It’s an ongoing battle, but we’re appreciative of those people that have poured into this program so far.”

Arkansas, which took the high road early on and thus was late to play the NIL game, is catching up. It helps that Silverfield was a highly effective fundraiser at Memphis.

“I think it’s part of the job,” Silverfield said. “I think any coach that

sits there and complains, whatever that job entails, shame on them. I’ve got the greatest job in the country. I’m head coach at the University of Arkansas, and whatever’s asked of me, right? If it’s to go raise $100 million, if it’s to go pick up trash, if it’s to go and teach the safeties to backpedal or whatever is asked of me, I’m gonna do.

“Sometimes it’s more leaning toward fundraising. Sometimes it’s more coaching X’s and O’s. Sometimes it’s more a relationship-building with our players in the locker room, so whatever’s asked me, put a smile on my face and go to work.”

Silverfield has held plenty of press conferences eight months into the job, and his “All In Roadshow” toured the state and the Metroplex in Texas. Plus, he has presided over spring practice in Fayetteville, but in many ways, his appearance before the Touchdown Club will represent his debut as head Hog. “It’s become a tradition for us to welcome the Razorbacks’ head football coach each August to kick off our year,” said LRTDC founder and emcee David Bazzel, a former all-Southwest Conference linebacker for Arkansas. “Interest will be high as fans are eager to get to know Coach Silverfield’s personality a little better and hear about his plans for the 2026 Razorbacks.”

Silverfield heads a lineup that has yet to be revealed, but Bazzel promised several not just big but BIG names. The club has hosted plenty of big names in the past as it has grown to become possibly the biggest, most prominent and influential organization of its kind in the nation.

Since it was launched more than 20 years ago, the club has hosted: • 10,680 coaching wins • 370 years of All Pro/Pro Bowl players • 367 coaching bowl wins • 72 All-Americans • 64 Super Bowl/NFL titles • 40 College National Championships • 30 College Football Hall of Famers • 23 Pro Football Hall of Famers • 11 Super Bowl MVPs • 11 Heisman winners The club also launched two prestigious national small college awards — the Harlon Hill Trophy and the Cliff Harris Award — and it honors the legacy of Arkansas football legends with awards named for Darren

The proof will be in the pudding, of course, but from an optics standpoint, Silverfield and his staff have checked a lot of boxes.

20

The Silverfield File Birthdate: Aug. 4, 1980 Hometown: Jacksonville, Fla. High School: The Bolles School (Jacksonville, Fla.) College: Hampden-Sydney College (Va.), 2003, Economics Family: Wife — Katie Daughters — Adeline and Cecilia

Coaching Experience

1999 The Bolles School — Assistant Coach 2000 Hampden-Sydney College (Va.) — Offensive Assistant 2001-02 Hampden-Sydney College (Va.) — Defensive Line 2003 Hampden-Sydney College (Va.) —

Tight Ends, H-Backs 2004 Memorial Day HS — Head Coach 2005 Jacksonville — Quarterbacks 2006 Central Florida —

Graduate Assistant, Offense 2007 Central Florida —

Graduate Assistant, Defense 2008-10 Minnesota Vikings —

Offensive Quality Control, DL Assistant 2011-13 Minnesota Vikings —

Assistant Offensive Line 2014 Toledo — Offensive Consultant 2015 Arizona State —

Senior Offensive Analyst 2015 Detroit Lions —

Assistant Offensive Line 2016 Memphis — Offensive Line 2017 Memphis — Run Game Coordinator, OL 2018 Memphis — Assistant Head Coach,

Run Game Coordinator, OL 2019 Memphis — Deputy Head Coach,

Run Game Coordinator, OL 2019-25 Memphis — Head Coach 2026 Arkansas — Head Coach Courtesy of Arkansas Athletics

2026 Arkansas Football Schedule Saturday Sep. 5

North Alabama Lions

Saturday Sep. 12

at 18 Utah Utes

Saturday Sep. 19

3 Georgia Bulldogs

Saturday Sep. 26

Tulsa Golden Hurricane

Saturday Oct. 3

at 10 Texas A&M Aggies

Saturday Oct. 10

25 Tennessee Volunteers

Saturday Oct. 17

at Vanderbilt Commodores

Saturday Oct. 31

Missouri Tigers (HC)

Saturday Nov. 7

at Auburn Tigers

Saturday Nov. 14

South Carolina Gamecocks

Saturday Nov. 21

at 5 Texas Longhorns

Saturday Nov. 28

11 LSU Tigers

Saturday Dec. 5

SEC Championship

Saturday Oct. 24

ESPN’s Holly Rowe visited with AY Media Group President and Publisher Heather Baker following the broadcaster’s appearance at the club last fall. (Photo by Ryan Parker) McFadden, Willie Roaf, Dan Hampton, Ken Hatfield and Hall-of-Fame broadcaster Steve Sullivan.

The club meets every Monday during football season (sometimes on Tuesday) at the DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Little Rock and occasionally hosts programs with 1,000 guests in attendance. Meetings are open to the public, tickets are available online, and club members enjoy discounted admission. Each meeting includes lunch and a nationally recognized speaker who participates in a question-and-answer session with Bazzel.

AY Media Group is the media sponsor for the club. The full 2026 LRTDC lineup will be revealed in early August.

“I can’t quite let the cat out of the bag yet, but rest assured, this year’s lineup will continue the tradition of big names that we’ve established, starting with Coach Silverfield,” Bazzel said. “You won’t want to miss it.”

Though Arkansas fielded a top-10 offense in 2026 and lost six onescore games, bad defense, lack of discipline and what could only be described as inexplicable bad luck combined to further cement the perception of Arkansas as a football bottomfeeder in the SEC. Three winless SEC slates within a decade will do that, despite occasional brief flashes of success.

Silverfield knew exactly what he was getting into; the Hog calls were reverberating throughout Simmons Bank Liberty Bowl Stadium for three and a half quarters last fall. His debut appearance at SEC Media Days seemed to vindicate former Alabama coach Nick Saban’s positive assessment of Silverfield’s early culture building.

That culture building was on display as soon as Silverfield stepped up to the podium in Tampa and noted the recent passing of former Razorback great and northwest Arkansas real estate icon Jim Lindsey.

“He was a Razorback legend and icon throughout the whole state of Arkansas,” he said.

Silverfield said his first eight months on the job have been a “whirlwind.” His initial priorities were building a roster and staff, but once he

FBSchedules.com All times CST

Razorback Stadium, Fayetteville Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, UT Razorback Stadium, Fayetteville Razorback Stadium, Fayetteville Kyle Field, College Station, TX

Razorback Stadium, Fayetteville

FirstBank Stadium, Nashville, TN

3:15 pm SECN 9:15 pm ESPN 11 am ABC 7 pm SECN+ 2:30-7 pm TV TBA 2:30-7 pm TV TBA 2:30-7 pm TV TBA

OFF

Razorback Stadium, Fayetteville Jordan-Hare Stadium, Auburn, AL Razorback Stadium, Fayetteville

DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium, Austin, TX Razorback Stadium, Fayetteville Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA

2:30-7 pm TV TBA 11 am-12 pm TV TBA 2:30-7 pm TV TBA 2:30-3:30pm TV TBA

11 am-12 pm TV TBA

3 pm ABC

checked those boxes, his focus switched to examining how the program seemingly bottomed out. He noted three issues that were obvious to anyone who watched Arkansas play last year — discipline, better effort and taking care of the ball.

And, of course, the Hogs need to learn how to close out games.

Against one of the more daunting schedules in college football — ESPN rates Arkansas’ slate the toughest in the land, yet again — the Hogs had several top-20 teams on the ropes last fall before inexplicable mistakes slowly sucked the fight out of a team playing for a lame-duck staff.

While careful not to disparage the previous staff, Silverfield said last season’s close losses revealed three primary issues: lack of discipline, lack of effort, in some cases, and turnovers.

“We can [fix] those things immediately,” he said.

Asked what attracted him to Arkansas aside from the obvious take — a chance to coach in the SEC — Silverfield noted the program’s rich history and “rabid” fan base.

“We were at 92-percent capacity in our stadium last year even with the season they had,” he said.

Many of the answers are actually simple things, if easier said than done. Silverfield noted the dim light bulbs he encountered in meeting rooms inside the Fred W. Smith Football Centerwhen he first arrived on the Hill. Details matter, he stressed.

“How you do anything is how you do everything,” he said. “We’ve got to figure out why football has not had recent success. We looked at everything and asked ourselves how we make this a better place.

“Why not football?”

Asked what attracted him to Arkansas aside from the obvious take — a chance to coach in the SEC — Silverfield noted the program’s rich history and “rabid” fan base.

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aymag.com

The

Weekender

by Heather Baker

e p a c s E A Bentonville

Take a trip to a whole different world

E

very time I pull into Bentonville, Arkansas, it hits me the same way, and as someone who has explored nearly every corner of this state through my work at AY Media Group, that says a lot. This is not just another Arkansas destination — it is something entirely its own.

I am pretty sure Bentonville should have its own flag, its own distinct status that sets it apart from everywhere else in the state because, simply put, it is a completely different world.

Whether you are visiting the Walmart headquarters, driving around the charming town square or admiring the new parks being built, it is like no other place I have experienced in Arkansas. Add to that the world-class bike trails and the transformative investment from the Walton family — including the breathtaking Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and the recent expansion led by Alice Walton — and there is so much to do that it can feel wonderfully overwhelming That abundance is precisely what makes this town so special; I am always on the lookout for stories that capture the heart of our state, and Bentonville consistently delivers. What follows is just a small sample of what you can experience during a weekend here. I hope it inspires you to plan your own adventure soon.

Checking In The Compton Hotel — Pure Elegance on the Square

For this particular weekend getaway, I chose to stay at The Compton, an exquisite hotel located right on the historic square in Bentonville. There is such incredible history behind the namesake, Dr. Neil Compton, and the accomplishments he achieved

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The on-site bar, The Eddy, and dining options such as Sestina provide food, drinks and ambience to rival anything the city has to offer. for the state of Arkansas through his passionate preservation efforts along the Buffalo National River. If you do not know that story, I highly recommend diving into it. It is truly inspiring and deeply tied to the spirit of the region.

The hotel itself is a masterpiece: design forward, nature inspired and serving as a true portal to everything Bentonville has to offer. From the moment you step inside the soaring, skylighted atrium lobby with its plantfilled corners, gallery-worthy details and cascading local limestone rock walls inspired by the Ozark bluffs, you feel transported in the best possible way.

We were fortunate to be led on a guided tour by the hotel’s general manager, Jorg Wesche. As we walked around the beautiful property, the exquisite lighting, high-end finishes and thoughtful touches stood out at every turn. One feature that completely blew me away and suitably aligns with Bentonville’s identity was the bike concierge. Yes, I said bike concierge; bring your bike, and they will clean it, securely store it, scout out trails and riding paths tailored

to your skill level, and provide all the guidance you need. It is an incredible, personalized service that speaks volumes about this city’s status as the Mountain Biking Capital of the World.

On-site dining options are equally outstanding and worth experiencing fully. We loved Field Notes, the ground-floor coffee shop and all-day cafe. I must say, it served the best coffee I have ever had in a hotel. From the ideal espresso to the most incredible caramel macchiatos, everything was absolute perfection. The pastries, light bites and welcoming community vibe complete with patio seating overlooking the square made Field Notes a daily favorite during our stay.

Situated on historic Bentonville Square, The Compton Hotel provides luxurious accommodations within easy reach of the many things to do in Bentonville.

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weekender We also dined at Sestina, the Tuscan steakhouse on the hotel’s ground floor. The environment was definitely hopping at the chic second-floor bar, The Eddy, which offered great views and cocktails. The handmade pasta, wood-fired steaks featuring local ingredients, seasonal menu changes and amazing mocktails created a memorable experience in a stunning setting. Even as someone who has dined at many fine establishments across Arkansas for AY Media Group features, Sestina stands out for its energy and attention to detail.

I also have to give a huge shoutout to the overall customer service at The Compton. When you are greeted by name, doors are opened for you with genuine warmth, and every staff member goes out of their way to say hello and help, that is what true hospitality is all about. It reflects strong leadership from the top down and made our stay feel personal and special.

Saturday Adventures Market to Museum to Mountain Thrills

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

Saturday morning, we were refreshed. We went straight back to Field Notes for more of that outstanding coffee and then headed out for a wonderful stroll through the Bentonville Farmers Market. Let me tell you, this market has been ranked fourth in the country by USA Today’s “Readers’ Choice Awards,” and it absolutely deserves every bit of that recognition. It is massive and has something for everyone, especially dog lovers. Of course, we had our sweet goldendoodle, Charlie Brown, with us, so he was getting all sorts of treats and attention from vendors and visitors alike.

There was also kids merchandise, local artists’ works, breakfast foods, fresh vegetables, beautiful flowers and so much more. Everyone was friendly, everybody was happy, and it was just a great, uplifting environment full of community spirit. We had so much fun strolling through downtown, soaking in the energy that makes Bentonville feel alive

and welcoming. As a publisher who loves highlighting local gems, this farmers market is one I recommend again and again.

From there, we made our way to the incomparable Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, a stop that took the weekend to another level of wow. As someone who regularly features arts and culture in AY About You, I can confidently say Crystal Bridges is not just a museum; it is a living, breathing cultural powerhouse that continues to evolve in remarkable ways thanks in large part to the extraordinary vision and generosity of Alice Walton.

Walton’s commitment to bringing world-class American art to the Ozarks combined with ambitious expansions has transformed the institution into a destination that rivals any major art museum in the country while remaining deeply rooted in northwest Arkansas.

The museum has undergone an exciting expansion that elevates the entire visitor experience.

Improvements include beautiful new gallery spaces; the impressive new bridgeway connecting different parts of the campus; an inviting new cafe ideal for recharging between exhibits; and enhanced, dramatic lighting that makes the artworks truly shine. A variety of engaging, hands-on activities makes the art interactive and accessible for visitors of all ages, from families and school groups to serious enthusiasts.

The Bentonville Farmers Market is a lively excursion that has earned national recognition.

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weekender The additions create a more dynamic, welcoming flow throughout the museum and its stunning natural surroundings.

We dove into multiple highlights during our visit. One standout was the powerful America 250: Common Threads exhibition, which wrapped up at the end of July. The timely and deeply meaningful show commemorated the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and reflected thoughtfully on 250 years of American art and civic participation.

The experience was anchored by an early engraving of the Declaration of Independence alongside a compelling group of historical documents.

The documents were displayed in rich, thought-provoking dialogue alongside textiles, paintings, toys and a wide range of other works spanning from 1776 to the present day. It was a moving celebration of American history, creativity, resilience and community that felt especially resonant right now.

We also immersed ourselves fully in the all-new Keith Haring in 3D exhibition, the first major show dedicated to the artist’s three-dimensional work, on view in the museum’s impressive new gallery space through January.

It was absolutely mind-blowing; visitors move through, around and within the vibrant pieces, which include sculptures, totems, masks, skateboards, clothing, installations and more, all of which combine to bring Haring’s iconic lines and energy to life in brand new ways.

Highlights included fashion pieces and works tied to his broad cultural impact — including connections to figures such as Madonna — plus a standout painted motorcycle on display, Haring’s Untitled (Motorcycle) from 1987.

There are powerful elements reminiscent of his being arrested for creating graffiti art in New York that capture his rebellious, joyful, accessible spirit that defined the 1980s and continues to resonate so strongly today.

The America 250: Common Threads exhibition at Crystal Bridges was a fitting tribute to the nation’s semiquincentennial.

The exhibition has an admission fee of about $18 but is free for members. In my opinion, it is 100-percent worth it for anyone who appreciates art that pushes boundaries and connects with popular culture. General admission to the rest of Crystal Bridges remains free, a true gift to the public.

Crystal Bridges has always paid homage to natural beauty, and this visit proved no exception. With its miles of trails dotted by outdoor sculptures and peaceful forest settings that complement the stunning architecture by Moshe Safdie, a simple walk delivers an unforgettable, multisensory experience for families, art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Walton’s ongoing dedication to Crystal Bridges via major acquisitions, architectural expansions, educational programs and a commitment to accessibility has helped position Ben-

Also on display at Crystal Bridges is the Keith Haring in 3D exhibition, right, and there are endless activities in the new expansion.

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weekender The new OZ Trails Bike Park in nearby Bella Vista, Arkansas’ first lift-served bike park, offers exhilarating rides and breathtaking views.

tonville as a serious arts destination while keeping the museum grounded in the natural beauty and community spirit of the Ozarks. It is a place where art, nature and community commingle in the most inspiring way and one of the crown jewels that elevates Bentonville on the national and international stage. I left feeling profoundly moved and grateful for the cultural riches being cultivated there.

Energized by the museum, we continued our weekend adventure at OZ Trails Bike Park, Arkansas’ first lift-served mountain bike park. “Exquisite” is the only word that does it justice. Located just a short drive from downtown, about 6 miles away in Bella Vista, the 200-acre gem on a hill in the Ozarks is a true game changer, again, thanks to the vision and investment of the Waltons. I came in not knowing what to expect, but the attraction quickly became one of the trip’s highlights.

We had the pleasure of meeting Gary Vernon, general manager, who brought so much passion and expertise as he showed us around. Even though we were not geared for se-

rious riding that day, Gary helped us experience it like no other. You do not have to be a hardcore mountain biker to enjoy this place; that is the beauty of it.

We hopped on the high-speed quad chairlift for a scenic ride up the hill. The views of the trails winding through the beautiful Ozark landscape are breathtaking, featuring about 300 feet of vertical drop and innovative trail designs everywhere. At the top, the panoramas open up wonderfully. You can ride the lift back down for easy enjoyment or hike connecting paths, including a 1.2-mile climbing trail with cool limestone rock outcroppings, for even more perspective and views of big features.

Bike rentals, lessons and gear are available on-site catering to beginners through experts, along with 20-plus miles of gravity-fed bike trails. The runs are color coded from gentle green cruisers for new riders, children and families to flowy blues and challenging black and double-black jumps, drops and boulder sections for advanced riders.

While we were there, some of the world’s top riders were

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weekender

A Relaxing Sunday Close An Art Lover’s Brunch

ripping massive jumps, and the energy was electric. I loved hearing the whoops and hollers echoing through the trees as riders flew down the mountain. We saw families with young children confidently tackling beginner trails, first-timers gaining confidence on e-MTBs or rentals, and everyone soaking in the fresh air and unplugging from screens. It was a fitting reminder of why getting outside in Arkansas feels so restorative and joyful.

When we came back down to the expansive base area and 20,000-square-foot OZ Trails HQ, the amenities sealed the deal. There, we found Ozzy’s Ride and Dine, a full-service restaurant and bar offering pizza, sandwiches, appetizers and local beers, as well as a fantastic rooftop deck overlooking the lift and all the action.

Sunday morning, we headed to The Hive at the 21c Museum Hotel for brunch. This restaurant is famous for refined country cooking using locally sourced Ozarks ingredients with contemporary flair. The menu shines with house-made yogurt and granola, War Eagle Mill oatmeal, seasonal fruits, fluffy pancakes, freshly baked pastries with sorghum butter, and signature dishes that include the brined, wood-fired hog chop. It is flavorful, thoughtful and tied to the region, the consummate weekend send-off.

Bentonville continues to surprise and delight us at every turn, offering worldclass art, hospitality, thrilling outdoor adventures and neighborhood hangs. It is a place that celebrates nature, community, creativity and fun in equal measure.

Also at the base, we found a gift shop, full bike shop, retail center, community plaza, pump track and event space, while art installations cropped up throughout the property.

The lift costs $10 per ride, and it is worth every penny to enjoy the views, food and vibe. It is an experience you will never forget that welcomes all ages and abilities with an effortless blend of thrills, nature and community.

After all that excitement, we took a little break back at The Compton to freshen up. Then it was time for something with a special place in my heart: Parlay on 8th at the 8th Street Market. This elevated sports bar and social venue, a reimagining of the former Holler space, was packed with massive shuffleboard tables, walls of TVs and lively crowds. The food is great to munch on while you play, composed of creative sports bar favorites and craft cocktails. Monthly specials, live sports watch parties and excellent service make the space incredibly fun and welcoming, a great fit for families, friends or game days.

We continued exploring the 8th Street Market on foot. The vibrant community food hub offers diverse options, including Bike Rack Brewing Co., CO-OP Ramen and food trucks.

Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, free public art such as murals and sculptures, Two Friends Bookstore, and strong support for local farmers and entrepreneurs make it a dynamic spot for shopping, eating and socializing.

After such an action-packed Saturday, we enjoyed a peaceful evening back at The Compton in our beautiful room overlooking the city.

The Parlay on 8th sports bar is just one place to relax and socialize in Bentonville.

The 21c itself is a cultural treasure, blending boutique hotel stays with a free contemporary art museum. Whimsical penguin sculptures and site-specific installations such as dramatic ceiling pieces, rotating exhibitions, and works by local and international artists fill the spaces, making every corner inspiring.

Bentonville continues to surprise and delight us at every turn, offering world-class art, hospitality, thrilling outdoor adventures and neighborhood hangs. It is a place that celebrates nature, community, creativity and fun in equal measure. There is simply so much to do and see, you will not want to miss it.

Whether you are a first-timer or returning like me, pack your bags and go. You will leave inspired and already planning your return.

Until next time — happy wandering and exploring our great state!

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home

By DWAIN HEBDA // Photos by JANE COLCLASURE

30

home

Teamwork Makes the Dream (Home) Work Parkinson Building Group thrives on cooperation

B

ill Parkinson’s path from industry new face to owner of one of the most sought-after luxury homebuilding companies in Arkansas has never followed what one might call a straight-line route.

From the day he hung his shingle in Little Rock as Parkinson Building Group and through all the shingles — and drywall and fixtures — that would follow, Parkinson has always searched for a better, more efficient and more customer-friendly way of doing things.

“At the end of it all, when we hand over the keys and turn a house over, our goal is for our client to feel like they made a great investment of their time, money, energy and effort,” Parkinson said. “We want to be good stewards of that as we bring together their vision for where they’re going to live for the next X number of years. We never forget what we’re building for people.”

That constant drive to innovate has evolved the company into one of the more unique homebuilders in the business. Parkinson Building Group’s process breaks down the many moving parts of a luxury build into manageable bites for the homeowner. It also provides a constant flow of communication via designated personnel assigned to each individual client and strives to eliminate bottlenecks that drag out schedules and drive up costs.

“When we meet with clients, we want to be that one-stop shop for them,” Parkinson said. “We don’t ever say, ‘Hey, here’s some names and

31

A luxurious finished product is only half the story at Parkinson Building Group, where the team also works to ensure a smooth homebuilding process.

aymag.com

home in construction. He said the real secret to the company’s success is not what is down on paper but at work every day through the dedicated men and women who make up the PBG team.

“Depending on their size and scope, our projects can take anywhere from 14 months to more than two years to complete,” said Doug McNeil, the company’s director of construction. “For that reason, we do become family with our clients, as well as with each other. It’s hard work, and it’s tough, and it’s very emotional. It’s really personal to our clients, and we go through a lot of stuff with them.

“I think the greatest thing that I’ve heard is one of our clients told me at key hand-over day, ‘You took my vision and made it my dream.’ That’s one of the best compliments we could have.”

McNeil, a construction lifer who has been with Parkinson Building Group for six years, said getting to such an outcome does not just happen. He said the company’s systematic approach to planning, designing and, finally, building high-end homes is what sets the company apart by exceeding client expectations from the very first meeting.

Bill Parkinson, clockwise from bottom center, with Doug McNeil, Clayton Bowers and Kelly Huffman numbers of draftsmen and architects. Go develop a plan and come back to us.’ We sit down with them to find out what their drivers are, what’s important to them, what their budget is. We want to guide them through that process beginning to end.”

Parkinson is the first to note that the road to ruin is paved with such good intentions and that operational plans are only as good as the people who implement them, especially

32

home

“At that meeting, we go through a checklist of everything that allows us to get to know the client better and to find out what their desires are, what they want in the home, what their personality is, what their tastes are,” he said. “We have a large list that we go through to try and discover what the client wants in this home and what is important to them. That’s how every project starts.”

While initial meetings are not uncommon among builders per se, for PBG clients, the initial meeting sets the tone for what the rest of the client-builder relationship will be like in terms of open communication, attention to detail and unparalleled customer service.

“We strive to deliver a very personalized experience,” added Clayton Bowers, project manager.

“We spend a lot of one-on-one time with the client through scheduled meetings, which can be once a week or sometimes multiple times throughout the week depending on the stage the project is in.

“One of the important tools we have to communicate with our clients is a software solution that we use to manage information, track changes and schedule items. We take outside data from the client, and then we have internal project management software that helps us manage information

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The personalized homebuilding experience results in a luxury dream home unique to each client. aymag.com

home and someone who will go get them the answer if I don’t know something.”

The company’s approach has not only created legions of satisfied clients in Little Rock; it has recently led PBG to bring its approach and brand of customer service to Hot Springs. In both markets, clients are finding PBG’s system a major plus in a crowded marketplace in that the company delivers a finished product that truly lives up to the word “custom.”

“I think a lot of other builders, if you drive around town you can say, ‘That’s a so-and-so house,’ or “So-and-so built that house,’” Bowers said. “With our company, we truly put the client in the driver’s seat, and then we lead them and guide them.

We have an enormous amount of experience on our staff and that, combined with fairness and integrity, is something we really hang our hat on.”

“It’s about delivering something individualized for each client,” Huffman said. “No two builds flow the same way, look the same way. It’s very individual, just like the different personalities of our clients.”

For McNeil, who has worked for construction companies from the Pacific Northwest to central Arkansas, the company’s system is an outgrowth of an ongoing desire to deliver the best quality, design and service in the industry.

“It’s a great feeling of accomplishment to deliver something that the customer is really happy with,” he said. “To be able to stand there and look at a beautiful home for someone to move their family into knowing those kids are going to have a lifetime making memories there is a really awesome feeling.”

Parkinson echoed the sentiment, saying the real payoff for him has been to work with a team of professionals who share his vision for delivering the best homebuilding experience possible to ensure complete customer satisfaction with the finished product.

“Whatever it is that’s concerning the client, we want them to know that’s concerning us equally. We sweat it out just as much as they do. We’re worried about the same things they’re worried about,” he said. “We want every PBG client to understand that we take their project as seriously as they do.”

in between face-to-face meetings. This is something that really sets us apart in the local marketplace.”

Perhaps the most groundbreaking element of the company’s operations is that above and beyond all of that, clients are assigned a single point of contact, a project coordinator, who ushers them through the entire process. One part navigator, one part concierge and with more than a little counselor thrown in, those client-facing personnel are the axis around which all other elements of the project turn.

Kelly Huffman, a project coordinator who has been at PBG for about 18 months, is one of these key liaisons, although she is loath to talk about her role as anything more important than others in the company. In fact, it is tough to get the Colorado native to talk about anything related to her individual role, so dialed in is she to the company’s team-first mentality.

“It takes the entire team to give our clients exactly what they want,” she said. “I look at my role as finding them answers. I don’t have the construction knowledge of someone who has been doing this for 20 years; my role is to be that one call they can make where they know they’re going to reach someone who knows the project and who will listen to them

The goal is complete satisfaction for every customer.

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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE BEST IN ARKANSAS!

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST IN ARKANSAS!

Where Vision BUILDING CUSTOM HOMES Becomes Home.

WITH PRECISION AND CARE. We’re a custom home building firm that is focused on your needs and desires. We work with you to identify the perfect lot, design a plan and budget, and build a place you’ll love to come home to forever.

See our best work at ParkinsonBuildingGroup.com 501.954.8570 501.673.3256

2026

floral

Potted plants an A-plus class project for the new school year

By CHRIS NORWOOD, AIFD, PFCI, AAF // Photos courtesy of NORWOOD-DAY FLORAL CO.

Y

ou may have heard about class pets, but what about class plants?

According to Education Week, studies have shown that plants can decrease stress and anxiety, increase creativity, and even improve students’ concentration, focus and test scores.

What is more, potted plants are great for improving air quality in a classroom, allowing students and teachers to breathe better. Plus, plants can be used to teach children not only about nature and biology but about responsibility. For example, students could take turns watering the class plant each week.

Consider incorporating a plant into the classroom as a class project or, if allowed, gifting a potted plant to your child’s teacher.

When choosing a plant for a

classroom, it is best to choose one that is low maintenance and does not require a lot of light, since not all classrooms have windows — yet another reason to utilize a potted plant to improve indoor air quality.

My top pick for the classroom is spathiphyllum, or peace lily. Sometimes called a closet plant because they require so little light, the plants are easy to care for and will even let you know when they need to be watered by letting their leaves droop. Keep a saucer under the pot to catch excess water, and consider watering from the saucer to allow the plant to “drink” its water.

The large white blooms and dark green leaves make spathiphyllum pleasing to the eye, and the plant was named by NASA as one of the most effective indoor plants at removing contaminants from the air,

floral

Potted plants make great gifts for teachers, but there are plenty of other goodies they might enjoy.

along with spider plants, snake plants and aloe vera.

If peace lilies are not your thing or you already have one in the classroom, consider a pothos or a philadendron. Both are low-maintenance green, leafy plants with trailing vines that can be draped along a desk or window sill. Alternatively, pothos can be trained to climb up a stake. Either way, the plants make a stunning visual addition to a classroom.

When it comes to low-light environments with limited water, succulents are champions. Why not create a classroom succulent garden as a class project? Start with a fairly shallow dish with drainage holes and a saucer underneath to catch excess water. Fill the container with succulent soil. Some people like to add pebbles or sand, as well. Then plant your favorite succulents. Some standout varieties are echeveria, jade plant, burro’s tail and string of pearls.

Another classroom project idea is to have the students make terrariums — glass or plastic containers housing a tiny ecosystem of beautiful plants. The process of creating a terrarium involves putting down layers to make the base — a drainage layer covered with mesh, followed by activated charcoal and terrarium potting soil — and then adding decorative plants. Most terrariums are sealed, creating a self-sustaining atmosphere that does not need to be watered. What better way to teach children about the layers of the earth and the water cycle?

For those without green thumbs, terrariums can also be purchased and make an excellent gift for science teachers or just about anyone.

Blooming flowers can be a great way to add color to the classroom. Mums are a favorite for fall and provide a wonderful

punch of color with their red, orange and yellow blooms. An African violet might also be a great fit for a classroom. Be sure to pinch off the flowers as they wilt so that the plant makes more.

Although poinsettias are a favorite for Christmas, I do not recommend them for the classroom, since some students may be allergic to them.

Orchids can be a beautiful plant to keep in a classroom. Just keep in mind that they have a much longer bloom cycle than some other plants, so the orchid may show vibrant flowers for two or three months but then wait six months before producing new blooms.

Potted plants are not the only exceptional gifts for teachers, however. Since open flames are not allowed at school, consider a diffuser instead of a candle to keep the classroom smelling nice. A care package of locally made sweets or bath products could also help express your appreciation for a teacher’s hard work.

Cut flowers make a fine gift, too, of course. A small arrangement of one or two blooms in a bud vase is generally a smart idea for teachers. Whether gifting cut or live flowers, be sure they are small enough to fit comfortably on a teacher’s desk.

Visit the Society of American Florists website at safnow. org for more indoor plant inspiration and care tips. Have a great school year!

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

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food Ermilio’s

J&S Italian Villa

Pasta Grill

Luce Italian Kitchen

Da Leccarsi i Baffi

Italian restaurants in Arkansas provide plenty of reasons to lick one’s whiskers

I

talian dining — for many, it is the pinnacle of culinary perfection.

Homemade pasta dripping with sauce, topped with meats and veggies, and finished with an exquisite dessert, perhaps paired with a negroni, bellini or well-chosen wine, puts Italian fare high on the list of favorites for many diners.

Even families that do not hail from Italy are sure to have an heirloom recipe for lasagna or spaghetti and meatballs stashed away, and for those who have a reason to party, Italian restaurants frequently serve as the backdrop for birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions.

Whether one is celebrating love, celebrating life or simply celebrating a hearty appetite, these four Italian restaurants offer the food, beverages and hospitality to make any night a special one.

Salute!

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food

jandsitalian.com (Photos courtesy of J&S Italian Villa) J&S ITALIAN VILLA 4332 Central Ave., Suite B Hot Springs 501-525-1121

Tuesday through Thursday: 5 to 9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 5 to 10 p.m.

Closed Sunday and Monday

J

&S Italian Villa had been a Hot Springs staple for more than a decade before current owners Jeannie and Saddiq Mir purchased it in 2022. Under their leadership, the restaurant has continued to garner fans and recently received the DiRōNA Award from Distinguished Restaurants of North America.

“For regulars, the hosts will know your name, and if you’ve been there a second time, third time, we know which table you like to sit at. We also know which waiter you like to have as your server,” Saddiq Mir said. “That’s why we’re very much loved by locals, and we have lots of repeat customers pretty much every day.”

Chef Sascia Marchesi recently joined J&S Italian Villa as corporate chef and part owner. Marchesi grew up in Bergamo, Italy, where his family owned two Michelin-star restaurants where he worked starting at age 14. He is internationally traveled and has served as executive chef at hotels and Italian finedining restaurants across the country, including as executive sous chef at the five-star La Playa Beach & Golf Resort in Florida.

Marchesi recently unveiled a summer menu filled with light, seasonal dishes such as watermelon salad with feta cheese and a golden burrata salad. Other menu standouts include grilled caesar salad, ahi tuna tartare and Chilean sea bass.

Guests can request Marchesi’s secret menu, a five- or sixcourse meal available for business dinners or other special events, or ask Marchesi to create a custom menu.

Desserts are prepared inhouse by award-winning pastry chef Ezekiel Mascuilli. Beverage favorites include smoked oldfashioneds and a robust list of mocktails, as well as wine flights,

(Photos by Elise Ravet) tequila flights and newly added blind wine flights.

“We want our restaurant to be educational, trendy and fun,” Mir said. “For our blind flights, it could be two red and one white. It could be two whites and one red. You can’t tell because the glasses are black, so you might think you know your wines, but now you’re going to be put to the test.”

The restaurant hosts live music Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, as well as ladies night on Thursdays, but any night is great for a visit.

“We take great pride in our generous smiles, attention to detail and impeccable service to create a memorable experience for our guests,” Mir said.

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LUCE ITALIAN KITCHEN 11610 Pleasant Ridge Road, Suite 100 Little Rock 501-904-1563

lucelr.com

Monday through Thursday: 4 to 10 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 4 to 11 p.m.

Closed Sunday

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ne of the newest Italian options in Arkansas, Luce Italian Kitchen opened in April with a vision of bringing fresh, elevated Italian dining to west Little Rock. The establishment is the brainchild of owners Leslie Case, AJ and Cassie Hurtado, and Summer Hurtado.

“We all felt there was a need to bring a different kind of Italian restaurant to west Little Rock, one that combined traditional Italian food with a modern twist,” Cassie Hurtado said. “More than anything, we wanted to create a place where people could enjoy great food and relax in an elevated, warm atmosphere where they would want to stay a while.”

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(Photos courtesy of Luce Italian Kitchen)

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Pasta made fresh in-house and local, seasonal ingredients define a menu rooted in elegant simplicity. The star of the show is Arkansas-sourced wagyu beef, which is featured in both the meatballs and lasagna Emiliana, but diners will not go wrong ordering the tomahawk pork chop or vodka cavatelli.

Be sure to check out the daily specials, which highlight the best ingredients available throughout the year.

Accent the meal with truffle fries or crispy artichokes with lemon pesto aioli, and save room for bananas Foster or an Italian sundae for dessert.

For those interested in sampling the beverage offerings, signature cocktails include an assortment of spritzes, a fico ricco featuring fig vodka, and the filthy pepper, a martini composed of vodka, pepperoncini brine and lemon.

A thoughtfully curated list of Italian and American wines appeals to most palates and price points, while the sizable beer selection is distinguished by First Light, a custom beer created exclusively for Luce by New Province Brewing Co. in Rogers.

“It’s a collaboration we’re proud of and another way we celebrate local partnerships,” Hurtado said.

The theme of “luce,” the Italian word for light, runs throughout the restaurant, which was designed by Jill White Designs in Little Rock. The three ownership families are represented by subtle groupings of three. Custom murals add another level to the experience while providing a modern, artistic touch.

“A great Italian restaurant is about more than just great food,” Hurtado said. “It starts with authentic, well-prepared dishes made with quality ingredients, but it’s the atmosphere, the people and the relationships built there that keep guests coming back. That’s what makes an Italian restaurant feel like home.”

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PASTA GRILL 915 Front St. Conway 501-205-8751

319 W. Main St. Russellville 479-967-1707

pastagrillrestaurant.com 810 Main St. Van Buren 479-262-6225

Hours vary by location.

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ith locations in Conway and Russellville, Pasta Grill has been a family favorite since it opened as Italian Gardens more than 30 years ago. Wes and Suzanne Hall started the business straight out of college and with no plans to open a restaurant until they were presented with the opportunity by David Bubbus Sr., the “David” behind David’s Burgers.

“It did not take us very long to figure out that this was not our design for our career journey, but it was God’s,” Suzanne Hall said. “This was his plan for us, and we both believe that with all of our hearts.”

Whatever one’s favorite Italian dish happens to be, it is likely on the menu at Pasta Grill. From calamari to arancini and from manicotti to chicken Alfredo, most every Italian favorite is represented, along with a vast collection of soups and salads.

The menu also includes Cajun-inspired offerings such as shrimp and grits, Southern Most Pasta, crawfish cornbread and jambalaya pasta.

Other dishes have been inspired by the people who have worked at or visited the restaurant over the years.

“We have one dish that came about when one of our longtime serv-

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(Photos by Bottomland Media)

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ers started making creative suggestions to our guests when they asked what to order,” Hall said. “It ended up being a new dish and has been a menu favorite, so we named it Toney Special after him.

“We have another dish that was also named after someone who needed a gluten-free option. We put some things together for him, and it has become a menu favorite, as well, over the years. It is called Drew’s Hash.”

The restaurant prides itself on its hand-cut steaks, cooked flawlessly in honor of Hall’s father, a “meat-and-potatoes guy.”

For dessert, try the white chocolate cheesecake, the chocolate mocha cake, the bread pudding or, of course, tiramisu.

“I believe having a good restaurant of any kind is having the best ingredients you can

find and giving your customers the best value for the best ingredients with the best service that you can give them,” Hall said. “Every time someone walks in our door, I know that they had many other options. There are so many good restaurants in the cities where we are and in this state.”

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ERMILIO’S ITALIAN HOME COOKING 26 White St. Eureka Springs 479-253-8806

ermilios.com

Monday through Sunday: 4 to 8 p.m.

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n any given Friday or Saturday evening in Eureka Springs, folks can be seen crowding the porch at Ermilio’s, waiting for a seat at one of the finest restaurants in town. Paul Wilson started the restaurant with his mother and grandmother’s recipes in 1991, after retiring from corporate life.

“Ermilio is my mother’s maiden name,” Wilson said. “That’s who it’s named after, and all the pictures that you see in the dining room, all that is all real family. The logo for the restaurant is actually a picture of my grandparents Rocko and Rose Ermilio.”

The restaurant does not accept reservations, and guests are seated on a first come, first serve basis. Wilson recommended visiting during the week for the shortest wait, although he cautioned that the restaurant can fill up even on weeknights during the busy tourist season.

Menu staples include chicken Parmesan, Italian sausage and Mom’s homemade meatballs in red sauce, not to mention gnocchi, ravioli and tortellini. There is also a fish of the day, an eggplant Parmesan special on Fridays, and a lasagna special Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Start the meal off right with stuffed mushrooms, artichoke hearts or mussels, and end on a high note with cannoli, tiramisu or Italian wedding cake. Gluten-free pasta is available, and the cheesecake and lemon icebox pie are also gluten free.

Be sure to spend some time studying the drink menu. The wine

(Photos courtesy of Ermilio’s) selection is expertly curated, and the mixed drinks are among the best in town.

The key to keeping a restaurant in business for more than three decades, Wilson said, is consistency. He pointed out that he even has a staff member who has worked at the restaurant since the day it opened.

“You have to be consistent,” he said. “I have customers who have been coming there for 36 years, and they still order the same thing they ordered the first time they came.”

Italian cooking is about comfort, he added. It is about home-cooked meals made the way Grandma made them. That is the basis upon which Ermilio’s was founded.

“We want to keep Ermilio’s going for as long as possible, even after I’m no longer here,” Wilson said. “We’re still figuring that out.

I don’t really have an exit strategy, but yeah, Ermilio’s is an institution now.”

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e or m hT at’s A food

By DWAIN

HEBDA

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argie Raimondo is a woman of many talents — AY About You recipe columnist, cookbook author, urban farmer and entrepreneur. The founder of Urbana Farmstead in Little Rock, Raimondo hosts classes, serves groups and generally spreads the good news of cuisine of Italy, her ancestral homeland.

AY pulled up a chair with the busy Raimondo for some quick tips about authentic Italian cooking, honoring the culture and the secret to really great pasta.

restaurant anywhere in Italy and asking for a pizza in the middle of the day. They’re just not sold like that.

Of course, pizza as a main isn’t what we think of here. People don’t order a 20-inch pizza to share. It’s a 9- or 10-inch pizza that uses a lot of vegetables, a beautiful cheese, and it could have a protein. Regionally, that differs. Pizza in Sicily, where my dad’s side of the family is, is so different than my mom’s pizza from Naples — completely different animals.

AY About You: Every culture has dishes where you need to look at its origins to really understand it. What should people understand about pasta’s heritage to prepare it properly?

Margie Raimondo: The most important Margie Raimondo, left, thing is simplicity. Simplicity is the secret and Patricia Paulson in all Italian dishes. Even though Italian food is widely regional, it all shares simplicity. When you AY: What about Italian cooking intimidates people the most? are using the freshest ingredients from your area as you make your Raimondo: The stigma that everything takes a long time to cook. sauce, you are not only honoring the tradition that’s always been; They’re really surprised to find out you can make pasta in 30 minyou’re now linking that heritage to modern-day food. utes. They’re always intimidated by the thought that a sauce is going to be a six-hour affair. They’re surprised when they come to my AY: What do cooks frequently get wrong about great pasta, espe- classes, and I’ve got four ingredients or less, and the pasta sauce only cially starting out? takes 30 to 60 minutes to make, and it tastes delicious.

Raimondo: If you are making pasta from scratch, you never put I think a lot of people come to class thinking, ‘I’m going to do salt or oil in the recipe. It’s really two ingredients: flour and water this, and I’m going to have a good time, but I’ll never use it because if you’re going to dry it or flour and egg if you’re going to eat it as it takes so long.” What happens instead is they see it doesn’t take all fresh pasta. day, and so they’re going home and replicating what we did in class.

The reason you don’t salt it is because you’re going to salt your They send me pictures all the time. water. The rule is you should let your water boil and then add one tablespoon of salt per pound of pasta. The water’s supposed to be briny like the sea, as we say in Italy. If you put oil in it, it’s just going to be a sticky mess; some people even put oil in their water when they’re boiling it, which is also a very bad mistake.

Another really important thing is all pasta dishes should be finished in a separate pot. Pasta’s like a sponge; if you allow it to finish cooking in your sauce, it absorbs, and it’s much better to eat that way. You use less sauce while really enhancing the flavor.

AY: Let’s talk about pizza. How does that fit into authentic Italian cooking?

Raimondo: Pizza’s always one of two things: street food or a main. As street food, you don’t go and order a big pizza; you order a piece of pizza. As a main, it’s only sold in restaurants, and good luck going to any authentic

Raimondo’s cooking classes show just how effortless Italian cooking can be.

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LUCE

An Elevated Italian Experience in West Little Rock Handmade pasta, seasonal dishes, and a warm, modern atmosphere—now open at Pleasant Ridge.

A Brighter Take on Italian Dining Luce Italian Kitchen brings a fresh take on Italian dining to West Little Rock, pairing handmade pasta and seasonal ingredients with a warm, inviting atmosphere from a team locals already know and trust.

11610 Pleasant Ridge Rd, | Suite 100 | Little Rock | 501-904-1563 | lucelr.com

DRINKS WORTH THE CLIMB.

HAPPY HOUR TUESDAY-FRIDAY • 4PM-6PM

AT T I C B A R

801 W MARKHAM ST. LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201 LOCATED UPSTAIRS FROM BACK HOME BARBECUE

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Blend of and

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Arkansas-owned Warfield Distillery pumping out award-winning spirits

By MARK CARTER Photos courtesy of WARFIELD DISTILLERY

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eidi and Alex Buck launched Warfield Distillery in 2014 in their native Idaho highlands after visiting the United Kingdom and returning home with a passion for single malt whiskeys.

Alex Buck said the experience motivated him to create something “completely new and amazing,” blending the best practices of “Old World” and “New World” distillers. Thus, Warfield was born, named for a creek that runs through the Warfield homestead near the Bucks’ hometown of Sun Valley, just north of Ketchum in the central Idaho highlands.

“I was inspired by the diligence and skill of the Scottish whiskey-making tradition and

how closely Scottish single malts are tied to their immediate natural environments,” Buck said, adding that he wanted to apply the practice to his home environment. “When I began to explore what would happen when you applied traditional Scottish techniques to the unique climate and resources of the Idaho highlands, the vision for Warfield crystalized.”

Twelve years later and two years after he sold the distillery to Little Rock auto magnate and entrepreneur Steve Landers Jr., Warfield is seemingly filling up trophy cases as soon as it can build them.

It is the only Idaho whiskey to win a platinum, double gold and gold medal at an international

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spirits competition. Just in 2026 alone, Warfield has racked up the following awards: • Warfield’s Gently Peated American Single Malt Whiskey won gold at the International Wine and Spirits Competition, gold at the San Francisco International Spirits Competition, and the Double Gold Award at the SIP International Spirits Competition.

• Warfield’s Idaho Highlands American Single Malt Whiskey won gold at the SIP International Spirits Competition, a silver at San Francisco and a silver at IWSC. • Warfield’s Sun Valley American Single Malt Whiskey won a platinum award at the SIP International Spirits Competition, a silver

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Alex Buck, founder of Warfield Distillery

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at San Francisco and silver at IWSC. • Warfield’s Organic Gin won double gold and the Consumers Choice Award at the SIP International Spirits Competition.

• Warfield’s Organic Barrel Aged Gin won double gold and the Consumers Choice Award at SIP, silver at San Francisco and bronze at IWSC. • Warfield’s Organic Vodka won gold at San Francisco, silver at SIPO and bronze at IWSC. • Warfield was named Best Whiskey of Idaho by the International Whiskey Competition, where its Gently Peated American Single Malt won first place and Idaho Highlands took home second.

The most highly awarded Idaho distillery, Warfield has also received the Masters Award from American Whiskey Masters, Best of Class Platinum Award from the SIP International Spirits Competition, Gold and Double Gold awards from the San Francisco Spirits Competition, and a Gold Award from the New York International Spirits Competition.

“Warfield is setting the gold standard for the American single malt category,” Landers said.

Buck said Warfield was the first distillery in Idaho to use 100-percent barley mashbill, focusing heavily on organic ingredients distilled in Scottish pot stills and aged in used oak cooperage — creating more complex, interesting and layered flavors.

“In founding and building Warfield Distillery, we set our sights on creating a whiskey that blended our love for Scotch whiskey and our home in the Idaho Highlands,” Buck said.

When I began to explore what would happen when you applied traditional Scottish techniques to the unique climate and resources of the Idaho highlands, the vision for Warfield crystalized.

– Alex Buck, founder

“Our distillery sits at 5,840 feet and is dramatically influenced by the climate — large temperature and humidity fluctuations — and the abundant ingredients, pristine mountain water, ultraclean air, and barley grown and malted in our Idaho backyard.”

Launched as a simple family distillery, Warfield quickly expanded into a 12,000-square-foot operation with two 1,000-gallon Forsyth copper pot stills. With the 2024 sale to Landers, Buck recognized an opportunity to grow on a different level.

“Steve’s plan was to increase production, grow our excellent team, and establish Warfield Whiskey and the Idaho Highlands as the standard for American single malt whiskey both nationally and internationally,” he

said. “Since purchasing the distillery, Steve has grown whiskey production to over 1,200 barrels per year, expanded into four new markets — including Arkansas — and driven the brand to become the most awarded distillery in Idaho.”

Buck deflected credit to Warfield’s local production team of Josh Strobel, Andy Bloedorn and Emma Dilley.

The goal is to grow the Warfield brand nationally, but Landers is prioritizing its further introduction to Arkansas package stores, restaurants and bars. Warfield products are now available at more than 30 locations across central Arkansas alone.

Heather Massey, Warfield’s Arkansas state sales manager, said she has spent the past year

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Warfield Distillery

working with distributors and retail partners to introduce the brand to new customers.

“People around the state continue to give such great feedback and support,” she said. “I can’t wait to see what happens with the brand as we continue to grow.”

To help ensure exactly that, Warfield is planning the first of several planned cocktail dinners featuring Warfield Distillery American Single Malt Whiskeys and Barrel Aged Gin. It will take place 6 to 8 p.m. Aug. 16 at the Attic Bar above Back Home Barbecue in downtown Little Rock.

The meal will include a four-course cocktail dinner. Cost is $135 plus tax, and gratuity is included. Call Back Home Barbecue at 501819-4227 for tickets. Space is limited.

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recipe

30 MINUTES

From Garden to Table Summer shrimp spaghetti with Juliet tomatoes a snap

By MARGIE RAIMONDO // Photos by MARGIE RAIMONDO Fresh garden tomatoes, sweet shrimp, fragrant basil and plenty of garlic come together in this light, Mediterraneaninspired pasta that celebrates the flavors of summer. The natural sweetness of Juliet tomatoes creates a delicate sauce that coats the pasta beautifully without cream, while spinach and fresh herbs add color, freshness and balance.

Best of all, this elegant meal comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights, casual entertaining or any evening when you want something fresh, healthy and delicious.

Summer Shrimp Spaghetti With Juliet Tomatoes (Serves 4) Ingredients • 8 ounces spaghetti • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (31 to 40 count) • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil • 2 tablespoons butter • 4 cloves garlic, minced • 10 ounces Juliet tomatoes, halved (or cherry tomatoes) • 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth) • 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning • 2 cups packed fresh baby spinach • 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste • 1 ladle reserved pasta water Instructions 1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package directions.

2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add the garlic and saute for about 30 seconds until just fragrant.

4. Stir in the tomatoes, chicken broth and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.

5. Add the shrimp, spinach and basil. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through and the spinach has wilted.

6. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 ladle of the starchy cooking water.

7. Add the spaghetti and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated and the sauce lightly clings to the noodles.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

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recipe

The Sweet Advantage of Cherry Tomatoes I make this pasta with Juliet tomatoes from my garden, but any cherry or grape tomato will work beautifully.

Cherry tomatoes have a natural advantage when it comes to pasta dishes.

Because they contain a higher concentration of sugars and less water than larger slicing tomatoes, they deliver a sweeter, more intense tomato flavor. As they cook, they soften and burst, releasing their juices into the pan and creating a light, fresh sauce without becoming watery.

Juliet tomatoes are one of my favorites. Their elongated shape, balanced sweetness and rich flavor make them ideal for quick-cooking dishes like this one. They hold their texture well while contributing just enough juice to bring the sauce together.

The mix of red and golden cherry tomatoes adds both color and flavor. Red varieties provide classic tomato richness, while golden tomatoes tend to be slightly milder, fruitier and a bit sweeter.

No Juliet tomatoes? No problem. Any fresh cherry or grape tomato will create a bright, flavorful sauce that celebrates the best flavors of summer.

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pets

AY pet section sponsored by

Koning Canine Academy

Pets Are People

TOO!

“Such short little lives our pets have to spend with us, and they spend most of it waiting for us to come home each day. It is amazing how much love and laughter they bring into our lives and even how much closer we become with each other because of them.”

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ise words from the “me” behind Marley & Me. In all seriousness, it must be one of life’s greatest rites of passage — and indeed, one of its greatest tests — to take the care of another creature into one’s own hands. Bundled up in pet ownership is the promise of great joy and great pain, of smiles and tears, and, if one is lucky, of more precious memories than could have ever been bargained or hoped for. Both the gift and grief of it seem to defy size and species, as well, whether one’s companions run, swim or fly, are covered in fur, scales or feathers, or live in an aquarium or make use of a paddock.

The American Veterinary Medical Association’s latest estimates show that about half of households in the United States have taken up the mantle of pet parenthood in some capacity at 56.3 million and 43.1 million households owning dogs and cats, respectively, plus a few million apiece with fish, reptiles and birds. The place of pets in the family pecking order has also come a long way over the decades. Case in point: Between obedience training, daycare, salon appointments, toys and other enrichments, there are almost certainly families for whom the only difference between its human and canine members is a Social Security number.

– John Grogan, author

The American Pet Products Association recently reported that the U.S. pet industry hit $158 billion in 2025 and has few, if any, signs of slowing down. Interestingly, APPA’s industry report showed Gen X driving ownership growth not just when it came to dogs and cats (up 12 percent and 8 percent year over year, respectively), but with birds (up 25 percent), reptiles (up 20 percent) and freshwater fish (up 17 percent), as well. Gen Z and millenials, meanwhile, were the propelling force behind overall growth in cat ownership. Whether a younger adult entering the feline foray or older folks exploring the likes of pythons, guppies and cockatiels, the American populace seems only more eager to welcome animal companions with every passing year.

When it comes to the wide variety of pets and their people all over the Natural State, we here at AY About You say, “The more, the merrier.” Just in time for the dog days of summer, we are taking a look at a few burning questions pertaining to those members of the animal kingdom most often ushered into our homes and hearts. What does it really take to keep one’s pets healthy and happy? How often should one’s dogs, cats or even rabbits be seeing a groomer? By no means least of all — what does all this cost in the year 2026?

Finally, for those looking to expand their circle of furry friends, we have a list of adorable, adoptable pups — and a few fine felines, as well — courtesy of the Little Rock Animal Village and Best Friends Pet Resource Center in Bentonville.

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Dog Daze About Friends of the Animal Village

Get Involved Adopt Foster Volunteer Donate

4500 Kramer St., Little Rock 501-376-3067 friendsoftheanimalvillage.org LittleRockAnimalVillage favlr

Friends of the Animal Village (FAV), is a nonprofit organization in Little Rock, Arkansas. We provide supplemental support to our city’s shelter, the Little Rock Animal Village. FAV accepts donations and hosts fundraisers throughout the year, and we are dedicated to raising awareness about the Village, increasing adoptions, and improving the quality of life for the animals in LRAV’s loving care.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram

CONGRATULATIONS TO

Every Senior Dog Deserves a Golden Retirement

AY MEDIA GROUP FOR WINNING 29 AWARDS AT THE ARKANSAS PRESS ASSOCIATION BETTER NEWSPAPER EDITORIAL CONTEST, INCLUDING

Henderson Home Animal Rescue gives senior dogs a second chance at life. Open your heart and home to a wise, loving companion who’s ready to share their golden years with you.

THE APA’S TOP AWARD — GENERAL EXCELLENCE!

Boomer & Blaze

Elsie

Greta

Open Your Heart & Home Foster homes are essential in helping senior pups transition from the shelter to a safe, loving environment.

Clockwise from left:

Alex Hardgrave, Staff Writer Dwain Hebda, Editor-in-Chief Heather Baker, President & Publisher Mark Carter, Senior Editor Doug Crise, Staff Writer Mak Millard, Associate Editor Sarah DeClerk, Staff Writer & Copy Editor

DONATE

3112 N. Olive St., North Little Rock 501-317-1726 hendersonhomeanimalrescue.org FB: Henderson-Home-Animal-Rescue

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pets

AY pet section sponsored by

Koning Canine Academy

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pets

Koning Canine Academy set to change dogs’, owners’ lives soon

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hile pet owners may like to think they know what is going on in their dogs’ heads, an animal’s brain works much differently than a human’s. However, the forthcoming Koning Canine Academy in Little Rock and its roster of highly skilled dog trainers will dive deep into dogs’ psyches, training them well and making their owners’ lives happier and easier.

Back to School for

Guided by esteemed dog trainer Michael Bishop, Koning Canine Academy seeks to provide a new dog-training experience in west Little Rock.

fido

By ALEX HARDGRAVE Photos courtsey of

THE HEATHMAN FAMILY

pets

Offering several training packages for clients, the establishment works to train dogs by first helping them control their mental state.

“Dogs don’t come with an instruction manual,” the Heathman family of Little Rock, which owns the facility, said in a statement. “They communicate with us every day, but most of us were never taught how to understand what they’re trying to tell us.”

Koning Academy was ultimately founded because of the Heathmans’ own love and training experiences with their pets. The family’s two Belgian Malinois, named Koning and Miss Godzilla, have truly changed their lives.

“They introduced me to a whole new way of understanding dogs and taught me that the strongest relationships are built through communication, trust and learning together,” one family member said. “That experience became the inspiration behind Koning Canine Academy because I wanted to create a place where

every family has the opportunity to build the same kind of partnership with their beloved companion.”

To make sure the dogs are getting top-notch training at Koning, the family found just the man for the job — Michael Bishop. Bishop is a dog trainer, educator and author of a book on the subject based around his training program, Egnition.

“We were all in the working dog community,” Bishop said of meeting the Heathman family. “Through conversations, one thing led to another.”

Bishop will be the facility’s training director, meaning he will be hands-on with dogs, as well as teaching the other trainers. His training philosophy does not center around making sure dogs can perform certain tricks but on actually teaching dogs how to regulate their emotions no matter the environment.

AY pet section sponsored by Koning Canine Academy

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“We really want to create dogs that are easy to live with and successfully navigate their owners’ lifestyles, rather than teaching them a set of tricks,” he said. “My focus is to teach dogs to learn how to learn so they can develop confidence. They become problem-solvers, and the dogs themselves enjoy the process.”

He said many other training models do not take into account the fact that the dog will not always be in a controlled environment when asked to perform certain skills. Places with crowds or other dogs around can sometimes cause dogs to misbehave even if they can perform the skills they were taught in training or at home.

Bishop’s method prepares dogs to complete tasks in any environment by regulating their emotions. He likened dog behavior to a human

singing in the shower.

“When you’re in the shower, you can sing your favorite songs, and you can hit every note,” he said. “You’re not worried because you’re by yourself, but if you were to take that same person and put them on stage in front of 1,000 people, not only can you not hit the notes, but chances are you won’t remember the words either. That is why our focus is emotional state first and then behaviors.”

He added that by placing dogs in an environment they know is comfortable and safe, they can learn skills faster than when they are uncertain and stressed out.

“We want to be able to predictably and reliably help a dog into a good emotional state,” Bishop said.

The success of Bishop’s training also comes down to owners understanding their dogs, as well. He said many people tend to anthropomorphize their pets and think that a dog’s brain works similar to a human’s, which can cause misunderstandings.

“I want owners to understand that whenever their dog goes home, if there is a breakdown in their training, that you should not just assume your dog is misbehaving,” he said. “You’re expecting your dog to be in the emotional state of singing in the shower, but they’re on stage.”

The Heathman family said they are passionate about their work because of how much dogs enrich their owners’ lives.

“They deserve more than just being cared for; they deserve opportunities to learn and ex-

AY pet section sponsored by Koning Canine Academy

We really want to create dogs that are easy to live with and successfully navigate their owners’ lifestyles, rather than teaching them a set of tricks.

– Michael Bishop, Educator, Dog Trainer Koning Canine Academy

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Owned by the Heathman family of Little Rock, the facility was inspired by their interactions with one of their dogs, Koning.

perience life in ways that help them succeed,” the statement reads.

“When we’re investing in a dog’s education, we’re really investing in the relationship we share with them.”

To provide the best experience for the canine guests, the academy owners have pulled out all the stops in designing a space with stateof-the-art boarding and training facilities. Koning will offer not just training but also overnight boarding and grooming services through Pretty Paws Grooming.

“From day one, our goal has been to create an experience that reflects the trust families place in us,” the Heathman family said. “We want people to walk through our doors and immediately feel the care, the thought and the purpose behind everything we’ve built.”

Bishop said a day of training at Koning varies based on each dog’s temperament, needs and owner’s goals. There are two main training pathways. One is a board-and-train program in which the dog stays at the facility for about a month and goes through training every day.

The other is the private day school program, which provides training in a highly supervised setting. There will also be occasional group and specialty training sessions offered, Bishop said.

“I think any dog can benefit from professional guidance,” he said.

He added that his favorite part of the work comes down to one simple thing: helping owners enjoy life with their dogs more.

Bishop said that once a dog leaves the facility, the practice and training cannot stop. The biggest mistake he sees owners make is not following up after training.

The Heathman family said their target is to open the doors of the academy in September and that the community seems ready and excited for a facility like this in west Little Rock.

“The response has been incredibly encouraging,” the family stated.

“When communication improves, everyday life becomes more enjoyable for both the dog and the people who love them. That’s the heart of our philosophy, and I think that’s why people have connected with what we’re building.”

Even though the family is excited for the facility to start changing people’s and animals’ lives, they do not want to rush the process to prepare for opening.

“When you’re excited to open your doors, it’s easy to focus on the finish line,” the statement reads, “but I’ve always believed that if we’re asking families to trust us with someone they love, then every decision deserves our full attention.

“Being Arkansas’ first private academy for dogs is certainly exciting, but what excites me even more is introducing a different way of thinking about dog ownership. This isn’t about creating the perfect dog. It’s about helping people enjoy the journey together.”

AY pet section sponsored by Koning Canine Academy

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pets

AY pet section sponsored by

Koning Canine Academy

CUTIES ADOPTABLE

By AY STAFF

Little Rock Animal Village

Looking for a new best friend? Check out these adoptable dogs available at the Little Rock Animal Village and Henderson Home Animal Rescue in North Little Rock.

(Photos courtesy of the Little Rock Animal Village)

Arielle

Aurora

Cameron

Carver

Coco Puff

Deebo

Arielle is a 1 1/2-year-old, 40-pound shepherd mix who loves other dogs, is so sweet and is very easy to walk on a leash.

Carver is a 4-year-old, 93-pound Rottweiler.

He is worried at the shelter yet still so gentle, agreeable and sweet. He is also good with dogs.

Aurora is a 1-year-old, 30-pound hound mix. She is shy but cuddly and really opens up around other dogs. She would love a dog friend.

Coco Puff is almost a year old and only 20 pounds. She is a little shy and loves to play with other dogs. Her sister was just adopted, and now it is her turn.

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Cameron, a 1-year-old, 37-pound lab mix, is good with other dogs, playful and friendly. We think he is potty trained.

This 5-year-old, 18-pound terrier mix is sweet and playful, house trained, and crate trained.

He is good with kids, dogs and cats. aymag.com

Delilah

Guinness

Jaggar

Lottie

Maxwell

Nana

Pippa

Ru

Delilah is an energetic, friendly 6-month-old.

This 23-pound hound mix has got that sweet, playful puppy energy.

Lottie is a 50-pound, 1 1/2-year-old shepherd mix. She is playful and energetic, super smart, and friendly.

Phoebe

Phoebe looks like a tiny German short-haired pointer. She is 11 months old and just 28 pounds.

She seems to really like other dogs.

Guinness is listed as a Rhodesian ridgeback mix. He is just a year old and 45 pounds. He is a lot of fun and a very sweet boy.

Maxwell is an absolute darling. He is about 1 year old and loves to play with toys and other dogs. He is a shepherd mix who weighs about 40 pounds.

Pippa is a border collie/flat-coated retriever.

She is a year old and just 33 pounds. She and her brother, Scout, are both absolutely gentle, sweet and darling.

Jaggar is a sweet boy, listed as a 3-year-old fluff mix. He loves kids,

This 2-year-old has really come out of her shell since first getting to the shelter and loves to play with other dogs through the fence. She may be potty trained.

Ru is a 5-year-old, 78-pound Great Pyrenees/ Lab mix. He is extremely gentle, very loving and good with other dogs, although he needs separate feeding.

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Tybalt

Energetic and playful, Tybalt is listed as a 3-year-old, 50-pound shepherd mix.

Valentino

Valentino looks like a Malinois/ shepherd mix but without the Malinois energy. He’s 2 years old and 52 pounds. He is extremely gentle and calm and definitely seems potty trained.

Wesley

Wesley is 1-year-old, 35-pound terrier mix who is a bundle of energy. He is a sweet boy who loves to play.

Little Rock Animal Village • 4500 Kramer St., Little Rock • 501-376-3067 • favlr.org

Henderson Home Animal Rescue

(Photos courtesy of Henderson Home Animal Rescue; Boomer and Blaze photo by Stephanie Scott)

Boomer and Blaze

Boomer and Blaze are a bonded pair of 13-year-old Boxers. Do not let their age fool you—they are full of energy, love to stay active and are always ready for an adventure.

Elsie

This precious senior girl loves being close to her people and would do best in a home where someone is around most of the day.

Greta

Greta has come such a long way since she was found as a neglected stray in need of urgent medical care. She has blossomed into a happy, loving dog.

Henderson Home Animal Rescue • 3112 N. Olive St., North Little Rock • 501-317-1726 • hendersonhomeanimalrescue.org

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Spay, Shots, Suture Consider veterinary costs when choosing a pet

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By DWAIN HEBDA

he pet-owner contract is an unwritten one yet something all the trust of the pet parent. I think some pet parparties innately understand. The pet agrees to provide unconents might not have been presented with enough ditional love and companionship in exchange for the owner value historically by U.S. veterinarians. That’s providing for the animal’s health, comfort and well-being. That something that bred the kind of distrust we are may sound overly transactional when such an emotional bond exists belooking to dissolve at Healthy Life.” tween many people and their pets, but strip away the warm fuzzies, and Lang said something as simple as an annual that is really what it comes down to. blood test can go a long way toward Naturally, that leads any responsible pet owner to cona vet’s ability to assess the health of sider veterinary care, be it for flea and tick treatments, spay an animal and spot changes that could or neuter services, or routine vaccinations on up to much signal early onset of disease or other more serious situations. Like all healthcare, vet visits are problems. not cheap and vary widely from treatment to treatment and “I am a big proponent of annual blood vet to vet. Where one lives can even have a marked impact work,” she said. “A dog is technically a senior on pet healthcare. from age 7 on, so they have the propensity to The good news is Arkansas is ranked among the most spend over half their lives as senior patients. Getaffordable states as far as average vet visits, as well as for ting annual blood work is really important to detect some of the most common procedures. Earlier this year, changes in organ function or metabolic function early Forbes Advisor ranked the Natural State tied with Alabama so that we can try to do something about it or manage it for second in the nation for average vet costs, according to before it becomes a problem.” data gathered by CareCredit. The average trip to the vet in As animal experts, vets are also useful in the initial deDr. Brian Peters cision as to what breed of pet is right for the prospective both states for a dog was just $77 and $61 for a cat, trailing Kansas for first place on the list by just $1. owner. Bringing a high-energy dog into a cramped enviLooking at just exam average cost and spay average cost, ronment such as an apartment is not only a recipe for beArkansas was second behind only Mississippi as most afhavioral problems but can also have an adverse effect on fordable, DailyCalc states. A routine exam averages $47 in animal health, Lang said.

Arkansas, and a spay cost $190, which is 15 percent below “Doodles are a really good example,” she said. “Almost the national average. anytime I saw a doodle in the emergency room, it was on However, living in such an affordable state for pet healththe floor vomiting. Well, the breed was designed to be a care does not always push choosing a veterinarian to top of working breed, and what would happen was as these highmind, say local animal health professionals. Humans who energy dogs were looking to entertain themselves, and think nothing of retaining a general practitioner and going they’d eat stuff they shouldn’t. They’d try to get in the trash to annual checkups for their own well-being often do not or try to find something to keep themselves entertained. apply the same thinking to their furry friends, said Dr. KateEating things they shouldn’t can become a whole surgical lyn Lang, founding veterinarian at Healthy Life Pet Clinic situation. in North Little Rock.

“The same goes for Belgian Malinois and other police Dr. Kelsie Penny “Annual care is what people miss out on, especially in dogs. These are really smart dogs that can become neurotic this area,” she said. “When I moved here, I worked in emergency mediat home and develop some habits that are not good. They approach their cine first, and I met many people who historically didn’t have home jobs aggressively when they have jobs, and if they don’t have a job to veterinarians. They just took their pet in when they were sick. direct that really strong instinct towards, it can become aggression.”

“Having a kind of ‘quarterback’ to manage care for both preventative It is not just the working breeds that can suffer in the wrong home care and when things go awry really improves the quality of medicine and environment. More sedentary dogs can also develop health issues when

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matched with the wrong owner.

“With what we call brachycephalic breeds, or flat-faced dogs like Frenchies and bulldogs, you’re sort of on the other end of the spectrum,” she said. “If you get one of those and are trying to go out in summertime to go have a drink on the patio, those are not good dogs for that — not because they don’t like to go but because the way that they are conformed is not good for hot weather. They can have heat stroke a lot easier.

“Plus with dogs that are a little more sedentary in general, owners have to be aware that they don’t overfeed, take it easy on the treats, because they’re not burning that off. Obesity becomes a real problem.”

Dr. Brian Peters, owner of Lake Hamilton Animal Hospital and Hot Springs Animal Hospital, said owners need to be aware that treatments are a lifelong reality starting early and continuing throughout an animal’s life.

“A lot of people get the new puppy, and the breeder says, ‘Hey, I gave them a set of shots. I’ve given them dewormer, and their next set of shots AY pet section sponsored by Koning Canine Academy

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are so and so,’” he said. “A lot of times, I’ll tell people, ‘Hey, bring them in, and let’s get the puppy established.’ In many of those cases, the puppy or the kitten were fed store vaccines, store wormer. I like to get them in and get them established and get them on a vaccine schedule.

“We also advocate starting flea and tick preventative as soon as possible, as well. For kittens, we recommend testing them for leukemia and AIDS after they’re 12 weeks of age to establish that they’re negative.

We also usually vaccinate kittens and puppies up to 16 weeks of age and then give them a rabies shot.”

Peters said not unlike in human medicine, ethical vets stress keeping the patient well versus merely treating them when they are sick. He said any responsible pet owner should be as vigilant about preventative measures as they are about bringing animals in after they show symptoms.

“We talk about preventative medicine, especially for older animals,” he said. “I offer wellness exams, which include a set of blood work, and when they’re over 7, it’s called ‘mature wellness exams.’ We put in a couple extra tests that we see a lot of our older dogs get. Just like for people, there are a lot of these precursor cancer tests available, for instance. The only problem is they may test positive for the precursor, but will they ever get cancer? We don’t really know.”

Peters said he differs from many practices in that he likes to see patients every six months as opposed to annually. That not only keeps him in regular contact with patients but allows him to pay close attention to seasonal threats, as well.

“We do like to see them every six months,” he said. “We are in the belt where there are lots of mosquitoes and heartworm disease, so we recommend checking them for worms and doing a baby heartworm test at six months trying to make sure that we stay ahead. Then we can make sure all our heart-

“Annual care is what people miss out on, especially in this area” – Dr. Katelyn Lang founder, Healthy Life Pet Clinic

worm preventatives are doing what they’re supposed to do.”

Today’s veterinarians also have a bevy of new technological and pharmacological tools at their disposal, making diagnosis and treatment easier and longer lasting than ever before. One timely advancement on the preventative medication side has been nextgeneration flea and tick products.

“One of the biggest things that’s been helpful in regard to preventative care is the Bravecto Quantum,” said Dr. Kelsie Penny, partner veterinarian at Briarwood Animal Hospital in Little Rock. “It’s an injection for fleas and ticks, and it lasts a whole year.

Compliance is a big thing, and a lot of clients struggle to remember month to month, even me. I have trouble remembering to give my pets something every month on the dot or every three months on the dot. It’s hard to remember with a lot of things going on in life. Getting one shot that lasts a year is a new thing, and it’s been working really well. Owners really are compliant with it.”

The new drug arrived just in time as health officials warn of a sharp increase in the number of ticks this year, insects that can transmit serious diseases to animals and humans. One standout statistic in 2026 is the rise in alpha-gal syndrome, an incurable allergy to meat that brings with it symptoms ranging from swollen lips to breathing problems to anaphylactic shock.

Humans do not catch AGS from their pets directly, but pets can carry ticks into the proximity of their owners, who then can get bitten.

According to state health officials, more than 3,000 suspected cases have thus far been identified in Arkansas.

Penny said even though Arkansas is one of the most affordable states in the nation when it comes to veterinary care, cost is still a barrier for many people. For that reason, her clinic offers the VIPet Plans program that lets people pay a monthly fee for bundled services.

“It’s important to keep pets vaccinated, and even preventatives, which are super important because of how ticks are just going crazy,” she said. “It also saves people money on exams or rechecks after certain procedures. We want to make sure they’re healing and improving from whatever they had, whether that’s a trauma, a fracture that needed a splint or a urinary tract infection. Some infections need more than one round of treatment. Since ours specifically is a package, the recheck visit is pretty much covered. That’s been a popular and affordable option.”

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pets

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Local pet groomers stress the importance of frequent salon trips, trained professionals

By ALEX HARDGRAVE 65

pets

D

ogs are not just pets — they are family — and one important part of caring for a fluffy family member is making sure they are getting groomed regularly so they can stay clean and healthy.

“Pet owners increasingly view their pets as family members, and they’re placing greater emphasis on preventative care, wellness, comfort and convenience,” said Toni Beavers, co-owner of Dat Pooch Mobile Grooming in Maumelle. “Families are recognizing how much a well-groomed, healthy dog contributes to everyday life at home. Regular grooming helps reduce shedding, keeps coats healthier, minimizes odors and makes it easier for families to enjoy more quality time with their pets.”

While it may be tempting to save a buck or two by DIY-ing a pet’s salon day, Beavers said it is not usually the best route.

“Most dog owners genuinely want to do what is best for their pets, but professional grooming is about much more than appearance,” she said.

“Groomers are trained to safely handle pets, recognize skin and coat issues, maintain healthy nails and ears, and use specialized equipment for the dog’s comfort and safety.”

PJ McCoy, owner of SouthPaw Grooming in North Little Rock, said there are no regulations on training in the grooming industry, “so anyone can get a pair of clippers and a business license and start a grooming business.”

That is why it is very important for owners to know what to look for and how to carefully vet a groomer.

“When finding a salon, I suggest asking about what kinds of certifications and training the staff has,” he said.

McCoy and the other groomer at SouthPaw, Ashley Pagnozzi, continually train to grow their knowledge as the industry changes while staying up to date on the latest and greatest products for pet coats.

Toni Beavers (Photo courtesy of Dat Pooch)

At Dat Pooch, which has 10 groomers and a fleet of 10 trucks, the team works to help their clients build relationships with all of their highly-trained team members.

“Choosing a groomer is really about choosing someone you trust to care for a member of your family,” Beavers said. “Experience, professionalism, communication and a strong reputation all matter, but beyond those things, look for a groomer who treats your pet with patience, kindness and respect — someone who understands that every dog has its own personality, comfort level and needs.”

McCoy also stresses the importance of the salon environment on a pet’s grooming experience.

“When I opened my salon, I wanted to have a calm environment catered to the pets,” he said. “We have seen much more success with anxious pets opening up to us and showing their personalities. We get feedback that people’s pets are happy when they go home, which is all we can ask.”

McCoy said his salon has things there to help the animals feel more at home, such as toys, treats and beds.

Dat Pooch’s mobile grooming trucks are also designed to keep pets from being stressed while grooming. Since the groomers work out of stateof-the-art units that come to the customer, dogs avoid having to ride in the car to get to an appointment or being put in a kennel while waiting for their owner to pick them up. The company only services one dog at a time in the mobile unit, meaning the animals get one-on-one care.

Dat Pooch has a shed-free program specifically designed to control excessive shedding in pets, keeping a client’s home cleaner. The program features a multistep process that starts with a bath using premium shampoo to loosen shedding hair. Next, a high-velocity drying process

PJ McCoy (Photo courtesy of SouthPaw) AY pet section sponsored by Koning Canine Academy

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Ashley Pagnozzi (Photo courtesy of SouthPaw)

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helps blow out loose undercoats and shedding hair.

The magic really happens through the brushing, for which the groomer uses specialized tools and brushes to combat shedding. Finally, groomers comb through and dry the pooch before doing the finishing touches, including cleaning nails, ears, treating the paws, spraying pups with doggie cologne, and adding a bandana or bow to make sure pets look as spiffy as possible.

Keeping the pup on a regimented grooming schedule of every four to six weeks also helps control the shedding, Dat Pooch’s website states.

At SouthPaw, the staff is also not afraid to get a little — or a lot — dirty to get a pet clean. “[People think] that we are just playing with dogs all day,” McCoy said, “but there is a reason Dirty Jobs did an episode on the dog industry.

Grooming is physically and emotionally exhausting. While we are moving up and down and all around, we are also constantly assessing the animal’s comfort and tailoring the groom to the animal’s specific needs and triggers. It takes a lot of skill, patience and knowledge to get that perfect teddy bear cut.”

SouthPaw's services include haircuts, bath services, brushouts, nail trims and ear cleanings. Unlike many groomers, SouthPaw also welcomes cats and rabbits for grooming. McCoy is certified in doodle grooming, which is a good thing because he said he sees a lot of the poodle mixes almost every day.

“Once, we had all doodles, so 12 total were in the salon in one day,” he said.

He said the company values “humanity over vanity” when it comes to dealing with pets with more extreme issues, such as matted fur. If SouthPaw groomers determine a pet’s hair is too matted to de-mat without hurting the pet, they suggest taking the animal to the vet instead.

The best way to avoid mats is with regular grooming, SouthPaw’s website states. Frequent appointments also help pets get used to the groomers more and more with each visit, which can help ease the nerves, as well.

“We have seen dogs thrive in the environment we have created, so instead of leaving anxious, most pets leave happy and relaxed,” McCoy said. “That is very important to us.”

“We also use industry-leading products and equipment to ensure every animal is taken care of the way that specific pet needs it,” he said.

SouthPaw uses Artero brand products, and McCoy said the team has seen a big difference in using the better products and continues to use them even though they are expensive.

Pricing for baths and cuts vary depending on the animal and the animal’s size at both SouthPaw and Dat Pooch, but the owners said they make sure their prices are fair and do not break the bank for their loyal clientele.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the trust our customers have placed in us,” Beavers said. “What began as a small, local business has grown into a company that serves thousands of Arkansas families each year. Despite that growth, our mission remains simple: provide exceptional care for pets while making life easier for their owners.”

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A groomer at Dat Pooch gives a client a trim.

(Photo by Chris Davis)

A satisfied SouthPaw customer poses with a new haircut. (Photo courtesy of SouthPaw)

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DOG

Proper budgeting imperative for prospective pet parents

Dollars and

CAT Cash

By SARAH DECLERK

I

t has happened to just about everyone. One look at a fur baby in need of a forever home, and it is hard to be concerned about an unscratched sofa, a pristine floor or even the state of one’s wallet.

Eventually, though, the realities of pet ownership, just like those backyard chickens that seemed like such a fun and frugal hobby, come home to roost.

The 2025 Pet Lifetime of Care study found that the cost of caring for a dog over a 15-year lifespan cost about $22,000 to $60,000, while the cost for cats was about $20,000 to $47,000. The cost for small companion animals over a six-year lifespan was about $7,600 to $15,000.

Veterinary bills were the most unexpected expense for pet owners across all species, the study found. Dr. Julianne Fletcher Martin, owner and veterinarian at The Avenue Veterinary Co. in Sherwood, said responsible pet ownership is not about having unlimited financial resources but about planning ahead, asking questions and building a relationship with a trusted veterinarian.

“With a little planning and open communication, most families can successfully budget for their pet’s lifelong care,” she said. “A good veterinarian should not only help keep your pet healthy but also help you prioritize recommendations and develop a plan that fits your family’s goals and budget.”

When adopting a dog, initial costs include not only the adoption fee but vaccinations, spay or neuter surgery, microchipping, parasite prevention, food, and basic supplies such as a leash and collar, a crate, bedding, and toys, she said.

Long-term expenses include routine wellness examinations, vaccinaDr. Fletcher Martin tions, heartworm prevention, flea and tick prevention, quality nutrition, dental care, grooming, boarding or pet sitting, training, and the possibility of unexpected illness or injury.

While it can be tempting to save a few bucks by having a friend or family member watch Fido during a weeklong vacation, there are advantages to hiring a professional, said Tamara Pilot, co-owner of Camp Barkinsas, a Hot Springs facility that offers dog boarding, training and daycare.

“Your dog is being cared for and monitored 24/7 in a safe, secure environment by a trained team — not just one person,” she said. “You’re paying for professional supervision, safety, enrichment, and, most importantly, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your dog is happy and well cared for while you’re away. For many families, that peace of mind is priceless.”

The cost of boarding depends on the

pets length of stay and any additional services provided, she added, but typically runs $300 to $500 for one week depending on size, feeding needs and add-ons.

Some dog owners opt for daycare to help their pets socialize, build confidence and stay active during the workday. At Camp Barkansas, daycare can cost $32 for a single day, but there are packages for frequent guests that can bring the cost down to $19 per day.

“When dogs return home, they’re often calmer, more relaxed, and better able to focus on their owners because their physical and mental needs have been met,” Pilot said. “Many pet parents also notice improved sleep — for both themselves and their dogs — and a happier, more balanced companion overall.”

Grooming is essential for all pups, whether they are low-maintenance Labradors or pampered poodles. Again, it can pay off to leave it to the pros.

“A single negative grooming experience can leave a lasting impression on a dog, making future grooming appointments more stressful,” she said. “A skilled professional understands how to read canine body language, work at the dog’s pace when possible, and create positive experiences that help dogs become more comfortable with grooming throughout their lives.”

She added that professional groomers have the tools and know-how to get the job done safely and efficiently, plus they are trained to look for parasites, lumps and skin conditions pet parents may not notice at home.

The annual cost for professional grooming can be $150 to $2,500 depending on the breed, Pilot said. A small, short-haired dog may cost anywhere from $40 to $70 per visit, while an extra-large dog receiving a full de-shedding treatment may be closer to $150 or more.

Many extra-large, double-coated breeds benefit from de-shedding appointments every eight to 12 weeks, she added, while doodles and poodles are often groomed every two to three weeks to keep their coats healthy and free of mats.

While the costs of owning a dog are substantial, Pilot said the biggest investment is not money but time. She encouraged those planning to adopt to research breeds well suited to their lifestyle before taking the plunge.

Left: Cache Martin, 5, hugs miniature pony Joey.

(Photo courtesy of The Avenue) Right: Camp Barkansas offers boarding, daycare and grooming.

(Photo courtesy of Camp Barkansas) “To a dog, it doesn’t matter how much money you have, what your job is, how educated you are or how big your home may be,” she said.

“They don’t measure your success or your circumstances — they simply love you for who you are.”

Although many people assume cats are inexpensive because they often require less day-to-day maintenance than dogs, Martin said, they still require the same commitment to preventive healthcare.

Initial expenses include vaccinations, spay or neuter surgery, microchipping, litter boxes, scratching posts, carriers, food, and other basic supplies, while ongoing costs include wellness examinations, parasite prevention, quality nutrition, litter, dental care and treatment of agerelated conditions.

“Cats are remarkably good at hiding illness and pain, which makes regular veterinary examinations especially valuable,” Martin said. “Detecting problems early often leads to better outcomes and can help prevent more advanced disease.”

While The Avenue focuses exclusively on cats and dogs, Martin noted that the adoption fee or purchase price of any animal is generally the least expensive part of owning a pet.

She recommended those interested in birds, reptiles, fish, rabbits, horses, or other exotic or large animals do research ahead of time to make sure they can meet the animal’s unique medical, nutritional or environmental needs. Owners should also look to develop a relationship with a veterinarian who treats that species specifically.

For horses, there are all manner of expenses to consider before the animal even arrives on one’s property, she said, including transportation, a prepurchase veterinary examination, tack

Boarding dogs can pay off in peace of mind for pet owners on vacation. (Photo courtesy of Camp Barkansas) AY pet section sponsored by Koning Canine Academy

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pets “With a little planning and open communication, most families can successfully budget for their pet’s lifelong care.”

— Dr. Julianne Fletcher Martin, The Avenue Veterinary Co. include quality forage, balanced nutrition, routine veterinary examinations, vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental care and regular farrier visits every six to eight weeks to maintain healthy hooves.

“During my years practicing large animal and farm animal medicine, I learned Grooming is a cost to plan for when adopting a that preventive care is almost always less expensive — and far kinder — than pet. (Photo courtesy of Camp Barkansas) treating the consequences of neglect,” she said. “A healthy horse is the result of consistent, thoughtful care, and there are few partnerships more rewarding than the one between a horse and its owner.” and equipment, safe fencing, shelter or boarding, feed The return on investing in a pet cannot be measured in dollars, she said, addstorage, and a trailer. ing that research has shown pet ownership is associated with reduced stress, imThen there are considerations of space — typicalproved mental well-being, increased physical activity and other benefits, not least ly 2 or 3 acres per horse — and companionship, she of which are companionship and emotional support. added, since the animals do best in herds with other “The cost of owning a pet can be planned for,” she said. “The joy they bring, horses or, at least, other livestock. Ongoing expenses the comfort they provide, the memories they create, the unconditional love they give — those things are truly priceless.”

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CUTIES ADOPTABLE

pets

By AY STAFF Even more adoptable pets are available at Best Friends Pet Resource Center in Bentonville.

Best Friends Pet Resource Center (Photos courtesy of Best Friends Pet Resource Center)

Auggie

Bambi

Bao Bun

Blueberry

Brick

Chance

Auggie is an energetic 3-year-old boy who loves action. He does great with kids, settles nicely in his crate, and is always excited when treats are involved.

This lovely 2-year-old has a soft, loving personality. She especially enjoys frozen enrichment treats and is always excited when it’s time for a tasty snack.

This 1-year-old likes to take new relationships slow, but once she feels comfortable, get ready — because she will absolutely shower you with love.

Brick is a sweet-natured 2-year-old who has done well with all adults he has met and is cautious, but friendly with children.

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Bao Bun is an 11-month-old goofball with a playful, friendly personality and lots of love to give. He’s a happy, outgoing pup who enjoys getting out and about.

Chance’s joyful personality shines wherever he goes. At 9 months old, he is learning all the ropes of living in a home with his foster family and is doing an amazing job.

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Cookiebutter

Cruz

Daphne

Delphi

Dempsey

Everett

Finnegan

Greg

Humphrey

Cookiebutter is a happy, affectionate 3-yearold who absolutely loves attention. He lights up when he’s around people and enjoys soaking up all the pets and love he can get.

This sweet 4-year-old girl is ready to spend her days curled up beside her favorite person, wrapped in a cozy blanket with a good book nearby.

At first introduction, 3-year-old Finnegan may need some encouragement to approach, but do not let that fool you. Once he’s comfortable, Finnegan is all about affection.

Cruz is a lovable 2-year-old. He has been doing great in foster care, showing off his crate training, potty training and polite walking skills.

Dempsey is the total package — sweet, affectionate and always ready to be by your side.

If you’re looking for a loyal best friend, this 3-year-old is ready to steal your heart.

Greg is naturally protective of his person and does best in a calm home with a single adult and few visitors. Give this 3-year-old a peaceful home, and you will see his affectionate side shine.

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Daphne is a sweet 1-year-old girl with a gentle, loving personality. She enjoys a relaxed and easygoing lifestyle, making for a happy, laidback companion.

Everett is a high-enthusiasm, affectionate and life-loving boy. This 3-year-old absolutely loves going on walks and jumps for joy the moment he sees a leash.

Humphrey is always up for whatever the day brings. This 2-year-old loves hiking, splashing in creeks, exploring new places and soaking up every adventure.

pets

Pride

Willow

Macey

Tina Louise

This sweet 3-year-old has done well with other dogs and truly blossomed during her time in foster care, where she discovered just how confident she can be in a home environment.

Macey is a people-oriented 1-year-old who wants all the love and attention to herself, so she would do best in an only-cat home where she can be the star of the show.

Willow is a water-loving, adventure-seeking pup who is always ready for fun. A 1 1/2 years old, this high-energy girl is happiest when she is on the move.

Tina Louise is a sweet and gentle 3-year-old who enjoys the simple things. You can often find her cozied up in a soft cat bed, catching up on her beauty sleep or taking in her surroundings.

Skipper

Skipper is a sweet 2-year-old who is all about the calm and cozy life. This gentle girl will happily settle in beside you for some peaceful companionship.

Best Friends Pet Resource Center • 1312 Melissa Drive, Bentonville • 479-974-1363 • bestfriends.org/northwest-arkansas AY pet section sponsored by Koning Canine Academy

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Dog daycare, boarding facilities are labor of love for all involved

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By MARK CARTER

he connection between human beings and canines cannot be measured scientifically. Something there, unseen and unspoken, exists that connects man and his trusty, fourlegged companion.

People have long domesticated many varieties of animals and made pets of them; dogs, however, well, that sure seems like a God thing. Dog people understand.

Most modern canines are reared more as family members than they are as working dogs, and dog owners want to be assured their four-legged kids are well cared for when work or vacation calls. Daycare and boarding facilities have sprung up in greater numbers over the past two decades to meet the growing demand.

(Photos courtesy of Canine Country Club)

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Happy and Tired

In 2023, Sedberry sheltered dogs for free after their families were impacted by the tornado that skipped across Little Rock.

“We took on a lot of dogs after the tornado,” she said. “It was just something we could do to help out and give back to the people who have supported us.”

For families thinking about boarding a pet for the first time, Sedberry said she recommends bringing dogs in for daycare first to acclimate them. That will help with separation anxiety, she added — for both pet and owner.

Dog parents also should not be shy about asking questions of any facility under consideration for boarding or daycare, and they should take note of how the staff interacts with the dogs, she added.

“Before boarding [at a new place], go visit, tour the facility, ask questions,” she said. “If your gut instinct is not good, then move on.”

Sedberry said it is also OK for vacationing pet parents to call for daily updates of their pets and even ask for individual pictures of their “kids.”

For Sedberry and her staff of 28 — 22 in Roland — there is never a bad day when dogs are involved. The best part of her job, she said, can look a little different depending on the day. It could be seeing a firsttimer arrive apprehensive and nervous but then slowly come out of its shell as the day progresses; it could be a senior dog that just chills and exudes happiness.

Any day with dogs — and she brings two of her four award-winning show dogs to work with her each day — is a good one, she said.

For Anita Sedberry, owner of Canine Country Club in Roland, dogs should be happy and tired when they come home from a pet daycare or boarding facility.

When she was living in Dallas as a sales representative for a national radio group, the native Arkansan found a place that delivered her fourlegged kids home just that way — plenty happy and plenty tired.

When she moved home to central Arkansas in 2003, she struggled to find a similar facility. Her father suggested opening up a daycare and boarding kennel herself, and “I got busy really studying the industry and learning what opportunities were out there for dogs,” she said.

She found 4 acres off Arkansas 10 on the outskirts of west Little Rock to realize her vision of providing plenty of space to run and play plus a covered indoor pool, and Canine Country Club was born. On Dec. 31 of last year, Sedberry opened her second location in Benton.

“Dogs bring people together,” she said.

Canine Country Club’s Bark Bus has been bringing dogs together for about 10 years. Customers can arrange for pet pickups, but otherwise, the Bark Bus waits each morning five days a week at two pick-up spots — Sissy’s Log Cabin in Little Rock’s Heights neighborhood and Pleasant Ridge Town Center in west Little Rock.

Another Bark Bus route will open soon to serve the Benton location.

The bus generally delivers about 24 dogs a day to the Roland facility.

“It’s been a godsend,” Sedberry said. “It’s been an answered prayer for so many families.”

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pets Like Family The most important question dog parents should ask prospective facilities has nothing to do with amenities, said Ashley Mosley, owner of Chenal Pet Palace in Little Rock.

“I think the biggest question dog parents should ask is, ‘Will you treat my dog like family?’

Every facility can talk about services and amenities, but what really matters is whether the staff genuinely know your dog, understand their personality and care for them the way you would,” she said. “You should feel confident that your pet is loved, safe and receiving individual attention — not just being watched. When you leave your dog behind, you should have the same peace of mind as leaving them with someone you trust.”

Mosley said she sometimes has to train people more than dogs when it comes to separation anxiety.

“The dog learns that you’ll come back, and the human learns that it’s OK to leave,” she said.

“Both can take a bit of practice.”

The morning and evening rushes at daycare facilities can make commuting to work feel like a breeze. To make the dropping-off and pickingup processes easier and stress free, Mosley said it helps to complete all paperwork ahead of time and send dogs’ vaccination records before the first visit.

“That way, we can focus on welcoming your pup instead of sorting out forms at the door,” she said. “You’ll find everything you need on our website, and once you’re set up, future check-ins are a breeze.”

Chenal Pet Palace’s origins are similar to other facilities. A dog family did not find what it was looking for in the market and therefore launched its own business in 2005.

“We always traveled together as a family, and at the time, we could never find a place where we truly felt comfortable boarding our own pets,” Mosley said. “We wanted a place that felt safe, caring and somewhere we’d actually be happy leaving our dogs. Since we couldn’t find exactly what we were looking for, we decided to create it ourselves. That’s really how we got into the daycare and boarding business.”

Chenal also offers grooming services; a spa for bathing, hair, nails and more; individual themed and decorated suites for dogs that come with a TV for those pets who are comforted by the familiar white noise; and even a doggie door kept open during the day that leads outside into the yard. There are also cat condos and suites to accommodate feline clients.

Though it can seem traumatic for dogs who offer a little resistance when dropped off for the first time, Mosley said Chenal works individually with the pets to help them adjust.

“It varies by dog, but most first-timers start to settle in after a few visits,” she said. “Some outgoing pups jump right in, while more cautious dogs may need a little extra time. Our team helps each dog acclimate at their own pace so they can build confidence and enjoy their time with us.

(Photos courtesy of Chenal Pet Palace)

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Blossom When dropping off their dogs for daycare or boarding, pet parents should keep the goodbyes short and sweet, advised Victoria Schmidt, co-owner of Little Rock’s Hillcrest Dog Spot.

“Dogs are incredibly intuitive and often pick up on our emotions,” she said. “If dropoff becomes a long, emotional goodbye, many dogs will feed off that energy. We encourage owners to keep goodbyes short, positive and confident because that usually helps their dog settle in much more quickly. The funny part is that many dogs are off playing with their new friends within minutes, while their parents are checking in or worrying all day. That’s completely normal — we’re dog owners ourselves, so we understand those feelings.”

Schmidt and her partner, Ashley Forwe, opened their business in 2021 in the same location of a previous outfit that offered similar services. Now five years into serving Little Rock’s hyperdog-friendly Hillcrest district, Schmidt and Forwe have kept their operation smaller than many others by design.

“One thing we’ve always been proud of at Hillcrest Dog Spot is that we’re intentionally a smaller facility,” Schmidt said. “We cap the number of dogs we care for because we’d rather know every dog by name, understand their individual personality, and build lasting relationships with both them and their families than simply fit as many dogs into the building as possible. That personal connection has always been at the heart of who we are, and I truly believe it’s one of the things that sets us apart.”

When the opportunity to buy what became Hillcrest Dog Spot came along, Schmidt said it was a literal dream come true.

“We’ve worked hard to make it our own by expanding our services, growing our team, and creating the environment and culture we envisioned for both dogs and their families,” she said.

“I’ve always had a passion for animals and knew I wanted to own a business someday. When the opportunity to take over Hillcrest Dog Spot came along, everything just clicked. It has truly been a dream come true. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn, but getting to care for dogs and build relationships with their families is incredibly rewarding.”

Schmidt said one of the most common questions she gets is, “What does my dog’s day actually look like?”

“Every boarding facility operates differently,” she said. “Are the dogs receiving en-

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dog’s personality, comfort level and individual needs is incredibly important.”

To enhance the daycare or boarding experience, Schmidt said consistency is key. That means maintaining the same routine each visit, making goodbyes short and upbeat, and trusting the staff to “take it from there.”

“Dogs thrive on routine, and calm, confident interactions help them feel secure,” she said. “For pickup, it’s important to remember that an excited dog doesn’t necessarily mean they had a bad day — they’re simply happy to see their family again. We also try to make the process as smooth as possible before families even arrive.

Every boarding guest receives a precheck-in form through [dog daycare app] Gingr, where feeding instructions, medications, emergency contacts and other important information can be completed ahead of time. This helps ensure a smoother drop-off for both the owner and their pup.”

Just like their human counterparts, dogs have their own personalities and quirks and need individual attention. There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to dogs, Schmidt said.

“Some dogs walk in like they’ve been coming here forever, while others need a few visits before they really settle in,” she said. “I often compare it to children starting daycare or school. Everything is new — the smells, sounds, people and routines — and it simply takes time to build confidence.”

Schmidt stressed that pet owners should not judge a daycare facility based on one perceived (Photos courtesy of bad day.

Little Rock’s Hillcrest Dog Spot) “One thing we always encourage owners richment? Are they supervised throughout to remember is not to judge the experithe day? Is there overnight staff ? How are ence based on the very first visit,” she said. playgroups managed? What happens if a dog “Just like people, dogs gain confidence is anxious, doesn’t eat or there’s an emergency? through positive repetition. Once they realThose are the kinds of conversations that really ize they’re safe, having fun, making friends matter. The least expensive option isn’t always and that their family always comes back the safest or the best fit. Boarding isn’t one size for them, that’s when you really start to see fits all, and finding a facility that matches your them blossom.”

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pets Second Home Kevin Miller said he opened Pawsh Park in Maumelle in 2019 with one goal — to give dogs a better life.

Miller envisions Pawsh Park, now with locations in Sherwood and North Little Rock, as a second home for dogs where human parents can feel comfortable about leaving their pets.

He advised pet parents to ask who is caring for the dogs, how the staff is trained, how dogs are grouped together into how many yards and what kind of supervision is provided.

“They should also ask what happens overnight — do they get a nighttime potty break, does staff stay overnight, and what the facility does if a dog becomes sick or injured,” he said.

Like many of his counterparts, Miller said he sometimes finds that the source of anxiety when dogs are dropped off comes from the parents more than the dogs.

“Parents are often more nervous than their dogs, especially during the first visit. That is completely understandable because pets are family,” he said. “We try to make the first day

easier with a meet-and-greet, by giving parents updates, photos and a progress report. Most dogs settle in pretty quickly once they realize they get to play, make friends and receive lots of attention.

“The best thing parents can do is keep drop-off calm, positive and fairly quick. Long, emotional goodbyes can sometimes make a dog feel like something is wrong. At pickup, it helps to stay calm while the dog is brought out. Dogs are usually very excited to see their parents, so giving the staff a moment to safely return the dog and their belongings makes everything go much more smoothly.”

Miller said each dog is different — some walk in like they own the place and start playing immediately, while others need a little time to watch, sniff and get comfortable.

“Most dogs begin settling in during their first day, but shy or anxious dogs may need a few visits before they fully relax,” he said. “That is why we introduce new dogs slowly instead of immediately placing them into a large group.”

Healthy social interaction is very important, Miller added.

“It gives dogs exercise, mental stimulation, confidence and an opportunity to learn how to communicate with other dogs,” he said.

“However, not every dog enjoys the same type of play. Some love large, active groups, while others do better with a few calm friends just to hang out. Good daycare is not about putting every dog together. At Pawsh, we have multiple yards to help find a group and environment where each dog feels safe and happy.”

Just as they do with their human kids, dog parents worry about their pups coming home sick. Miller said Pawsh Park does all it can to prevent that from happening, but anytime dogs are around other dogs, picking up a cough or a bug is a possibility — just like children in daycare or school.

“Even the cleanest facility cannot completely eliminate that risk because some illnesses can spread before a dog shows any symptoms,” he said. “Thankfully, most of the illnesses we see are mild coughs or stomach bugs, and the pups are usually back to feeling like themselves pretty quickly with rest and proper care.”

(Photos courtesy of Pawsh Park)

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AY About You

Koning Canine Academy

Staff Pets

pets

We at AY About You love our finned, feathered and four-legged friends just as much as anyone. That is why the annual Pet Issue is so near and dear to our hearts. While we were putting this issue together, our team just could not resist showing off some of the staff fur babies.

VERA CATHERINE EVERSON

UZI DECLERK DOC CHURAN

SHABBA SUBLETT

DUCHESS KECK

JETT FUNDERBURG

Ezmerelda Stark

MR. FINK CORDOVA

GERTIE CARTER

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A Place for Comfort

At Pine Hill Ranch, joy and healing go hand in hand Stacey Garrett, director

By DOUG CRISE // Photos by JANE COLCLASURE

F

ew spots in Arkansas offer the sort of peace that one finds upon arriving at Pine Hill Ranch.

The path begins on Colonel Glenn Road in Little Rock, just off Interstate 430.

Car dealerships and gas stations turn into apartments and residential subdivisions before giving way entirely to gentle rolling hills and stretches of pasture broken up by the occasional singular home.

After navigating the winding two-lane stretch, a quick right hand turn onto Congo Ferndale Road brings visitors to Pine Hill Ranch and an experience unlike anything that can be found in the city. The silence in the air, broken up by the occasional singing bird or trilling insect, is inviting and welcoming, enticing visitors to exhale and take it all in. This is where people come to connect, where they get back in touch with things once lost.

A cozy, homey front office is connected to a row of stables, each one a home to a different horse. This is typically the best place to find Stacey Garrett, the ranch’s bubbly and enthusiastic director. Some people spend the better part of their lives scrabbling about trying to find a calling, but Garrett is exactly where she wants to be. She grew up on a farm in Kansas, a farm that included two Shetland ponies that took her breath away, and she has been living in that moment ever since.

It is Garrett who tends not only to the gentle animals in the stables but to the people who find their way there. Some are there simply to

ride or to learn how to do so. Others, groups of others, can be found using Pine Hill Ranch’s scenic space for weddings and even corporate events. Some — many, in fact — come to Pine Hill Ranch to heal.

“Anyone that has ever spent any time around horses knows that everything around horses is therapeutic,” Garrett said.

That was not something Garrett dwelled upon too heavily when she was younger. She loved horses, loved riding them, grooming them and taking care of them. She loved competing with them, eventually heading off to Oklahoma State University to become part of the school’s first-ever equestrian team.

Garrett would realize later that the feelings of comfort and safety she took from horses was more common than she knew. The more she read up on the concept, the more she realized that the same experience she had on that farm in Kansas could be recreated as a means of helping people navigate trauma. She has been at it ever since.

“That has always been kind of my story, to come from a competitive background training and riding for Oklahoma State,” Garrett said.

“Having horses in my life in that role was a little different than where I find myself now, but the therapeutic benefits and the joys and the peace that I got from horses has always been there.”

That joy and peace is not just some abstract hunch Garrett has been mulling around, she is backed up by reams of data. A 2021 study

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“Here at Pine Hill, we have that mindset of horses reaching people at very different levels, especially for Healing Hooves. We’re just intentional with those steps. Brushing a horse is therapeutic. Walking a horse is therapeutic. Riding a horse is therapeutic.”

— Stacey Garrett, director

conducted by the National Institutes of Health concluded that equine-assisted therapy can improve patients’ cognitive, emotional and affective functions, as well as fine and gross motor functions, which can help positively affect conditions such as acute anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, among others.

That makes Pine Hill Ranch so much more than a place to ride horses. The ranch is home to Healing Hooves, which can best be described as Pine Hill’s therapeutic and clinical arm. Garrett functions as Healing Hooves’ executive director, handling patient referrals from outside clinics and serving as a certified equine therapy practitioner.

“Here at Pine Hill, we have that mindset of horses reaching people at very different levels, especially for Healing Hooves,” Garrett said.

“We’re just intentional with those steps. Brushing a horse is therapeutic. Walking a horse is therapeutic. Riding a horse is therapeutic. We have all these steps that we have data for that are proven to be therapeutic.”

Of course, just about any pet owner could argue that interaction with a loving animal is therapeutic, and they are likely not wrong. Yet hippotherapy, the term given to equine-related activities prescribed and led by a licensed therapist, is more than good vibes; it is also hard science. A horse’s rhythmic gait mirrors the pelvic movement of human walking, leading to the rider making continual microadjustments to maintain balance and proper posture while riding. Not only does that aid in developing core strength, body awareness and general coordination, but it has also been proven to aid conditions such as autism spectrum disorder,

cerebral palsy and even traumatic brain injuries.

The key is the breadth of emotional intelligence found in horses.

Unlike certain other animals, horses can read human emotions, going so far as to be able to recognize a person’s facial expressions and body language as positive or negative. Horses also have an advanced longterm memory. What that boils down to is that horses choose people just as a person may choose a horse, and they have the cognitive ability to remember their favorite people when they arrive for therapy. For some,

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“When you drive through here, you just feel like you’re in another world. It’s just so peaceful. It’s my happy place.”

— Dr. Susana Mora, barn manager and lead instructor

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simply being “chosen” by a particular horse can have proven psychological benefits.

That is something Dr. Susana Mora understands too well. A licensed veterinarian, barn manager and lead instructor at Pine Hill Ranch, Mora left her native Colombia to pursue a career in America. Very quickly, she found herself missing the horses that marked so much of her childhood.

“I moved to Arkansas three years ago,” Mora said. “I’ve always loved horses. Horses have been part of my life since I was 2 years old. I came here, and I didn’t know anybody.

I didn’t have any horses around, so I’m like, ‘I need horses.’ I was driving by one day, and I saw this huge property, and I’m like, ‘Wow, that barn looks amazing.’ I called to schedule a tour, and that’s when I started volunteering here.”

Mora found horses at Pine Hill Ranch, and more importantly, she found the comfort that comes with them.

“When you drive through here, you just feel like you’re in another world,” Mora said.

“It’s just so peaceful. It’s my happy place.”

Specifically, Mora’s joy came from a horse named Wilbur, who chose Mora as quickly as she took a liking to him. Feeling that daily connection never gets old.

“Being with Wilbur brings me back to my calmness,” Mora said. “It centers me again. I think that’s what we want to give to people, to bring them to a space of tranquility and peace.”

Right along with that tranquility and peace is accessibility. Between hosting events, giving riding lessons, offering boarding for horse owners and the all-important therapeutic services offered through Healing Hooves, there is something for pretty much everybody at Pine Hill Ranch.

“This is not for cowboys and cowgirls,” Garrett said. “It’s for humans.”

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AY About You

More Staff Pets TANGO HEBDA

ROCKY HOLDERFIELD

JAG AND BABY MCANULTY

CLEO HALL

SPUD AND LOKI CRISE

“Some things just fill your heart without trying” FOOTBALL HARDGRAVE

BRUCE BONES MILLARD

GUNGUN SMITH

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lawyers

A SALUTE TO LAWYERS

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rkansas lawyers play a substantial role in the business community, as well as in the lives of people from one end of the state to another. The circumstances they encounter are not always pleasant — for every business incorporation, child adoption or real estate purchase client they serve, there is at least one divorce, bankruptcy or client mixed up with the legal system. Nevertheless, the state’s attorneys are always ready to step in and provide expert guidance and ethical representation to people in their time of need.

As modern life continues to become more complex, the nation’s population of attorneys has recently struggled to keep up with demand. Between 2020 and 2023, the number of lawyers remained essentially flat, and between 2023 and 2024, numbers took a precipitous dive. However, 2025 proved a big year for the industry as the number of lawyers reached a 10-year high of 1.37 million active attorneys coast to coast, the American Bar Association’s 2025 National Lawyer Population Survey states.

Arkansas is at the forefront of this growth, jumping 27.4 percent in 10 years, well ahead of North Carolina, the second-highest state in terms of numbers, and followed by Texas, Nevada and South Carolina, respectively. That bodes well for the Natural State, offering the potential to bring legal expertise to more parts of Arkansas, be it for consumers or the business community.

The attorneys in the following pages represent the best of a rapidly growing field. AY About You is proud to once again recognize lawyers awarded by the Arkansas Bar Association, as well as our own “AY’s Best of Lawyers” a list of the state’s top attorneys, nominated from across the state and organized by legal specialty.

We also profile a sample of the state’s best and most accomplished attorneys in their field of specialty, including a number of women in law, to learn about what led them to their respective legal fields. Taken all together, we hope this resource proves a useful starting point when seeking out legal help, as well as inspiration for the next generation of Arkansas attorneys.

Congratulations to the outstanding legal professionals on this year’s AY list and all of the 2026 ABA award winners!

Thank you for the honor of being named one of AY’s Best Lawyers for 2026.

Ben Williamson, Probate and Estate Planning

103 Park Dr, Maumelle 501-851-0040 maumellelaw.com nashlawfirm103 maumellelaw

lawyers

Katherine Blackmon Carroll still atop the family law heap

By DWAIN HEBDA // Photos by JANE COLCLASURE

O

ver nearly three decades of practice, during which time she has risen to the top of a very elite list of the best family law attorneys in Arkansas, Katherine Blackmon Carroll has seen a little of everything the good, bad and ugliest divorces have to offer.

Having a ringside seat to the dissolution of marital unions for that long would sour a lot of people on the institution of matrimony altogether. Not Blackmon Carroll, an avowed raving fan of love and marriage despite her own painful restarts in those departments.

“I’m still a hopeless romantic,” she said. “I’ve been through my own nightmare divorce and custody battle, and it was awful, but I came out of that, and immediately after my divorce, I spent a few years working on me. I was fixing my picker, as we often say.”

Blackmon Carroll’s picker fixing worked, and she has been happily married to her husband and former college sweetheart, Jamie, for the past 11 years. Jamie, who helps manage the firm, is even occasionally called upon as a show pony of sorts, the physical manifestation of Blackmon Carroll’s stubborn belief in the power of love and the magic of second chances.

“I have people come in, particularly women, and they’re heartbroken. They’re scared they’re going to die alone," she said. "You know, they’re 40 years old, and they think they might as well throw in the towel because they’re old, the whole bit. A lot of times, I’ll have Jamie come in, and I’ll say, “This is what a partnership looks like. This is what a healthy marriage looks like.’”

A career divorce lawyer who is hopelessly in love and bullish on marriage is just one of the more unexpected elements of Blackmon Carroll’s story. Mississippi born and Little Rock raised, she graduated from Southern Methodist University in Dallas with a degree in journalism with an emphasis in broadcast. That in hand, she made a beeline for the West Coast, spending a decade in Los Angeles planning to model, act and work in the entertainment industry. She would eventu-

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ally complete law school at the University of Southern California and return to Arkansas, where she launched her practice.

“I had never worked for a law firm. I’d never gone to court. I had zero experience,” she said. “I’m either brilliant, or I was a complete idiot because I just rented a little office space, and I hung out my shingle.

I think because I was a little bit older — I was 30 at that point — it just never occurred to me that I couldn’t start my own law practice.”

That said, Blackmon Carroll was not above looking heavenward for some assistance with the new venture.

“I literally lit a candle on my empty little desk, and I said, ‘God, send me clients, and I’ll do whatever you want me to do,’ so he sent me a case dealing with a sewer line,” she said. “After the first month, I blew that candle out, and I relit it, and I said, ‘OK, send me something that I’m going to like doing,’ because I did not want to do sewer law. A bunch of divorce and custody stuff came in, and from that point forward, it was fantastic. God sent me the right people.”

For as unconventional as Blackmon Carroll’s start in the law might sound, her success was earned through the time-honored chops of hard work, thorough research and a bone-deep caring for her clients.

She pointed to her time in the entertainment business as contributing to all three.

“Prior to going to law school, I did a lot of stuff to support myself [in California],” she said. “I’m a gogetter, you know? If I was told to answer the phones, then by God, I was going to answer the phones better than anybody else.

“I worked for Burt Reynolds when I first went out there, and that job was invaluable because I was his assistant, and I worked closely with his vice president, Elaine Hall. She’s the toughest boss anybody

lawyers could ever imagine having, and I had to perform at the highest level imaginable because she expected that. I also learned to have a little bit more of a thick skin, and I definitely learned that doing second-rate work was not an option.”

Applying that formula to the law made Blackmon Carroll formidable from the word go. Realizing she did not have the experience of other attorneys, she leaned in on preparation, something that follows to this day.

“I overprepared right out of the gate,” she said. “You don’t have to be the smartest attorney. You don’t have to be the most decorated attorney. You don’t have to be with the biggest firm.

If you prepare, prepare, prepare, that’s half the battle. I prepare for a 30-minute hearing with the same level of seriousness that I prepare for a three-day trial. When an attorney gets arrogant and no longer feels like they have to prepare, then they need to quit. They need to retire at that point.”

Blackmon Carroll’s philosophy still proves to be an effective one. Time has brought growth in the firm and personal accolades — two of the most recent being Best Law Firm and Best Family Law Attorney in AY About You’s “AY’s Best of 2026” reader’s poll — while her standards and ethics have remained as firmly fixed as when she was the new face in court.

“I’m an empath, and so when a potential client comes in, I feel what they’re feeling, and I want to help. I’ve always been that way,” she said. “I think that’s why I chose family law; I have an affinity for it because I immediately see the problem from both a legal standpoint and an emotional standpoint. When I see a problem like that, I want to fix it so that these little families, however they look after divorce, can go forward and be happy and healthy.”

Part of that process, Blackmon Carroll said, is being up front and truthful with clients at every step of the proceedings.

“I’m very honest with my clients, and you can have those hard conversations without necessarily being brutal to somebody,” she said. “Where I don’t give clients leeway is if I see them being destructive or harmful to their children. That’s a situation that if I have to have a hard conversation with you about how you’re treating your children and doing what’s right for your children, there is no room for negotiation in that – period.”

For all of its precedents and statutes, the practice of law can be an intensely emotional business, especially as Blackmon Carroll approaches it. When asked what the most meaningful part of her career has been, her emotional response revealed the remaining soft spots in her otherwise thick skin.

“I get choked up talking about this,” she said. “I am most proud when I get an email or a phone call from an adult child of one of my divorces from way back and that child tells me, ‘Thank you for getting my mom and my brother and me out of an awful situation,’ or ‘You changed the trajectory of my life. Thank you.’ That is when I feel most proud.

“I get graduation invitations and Christmas cards and thank-you notes. I love hearing from former clients, but boy, when those grown children reach out to me, there is nothing like knowing you impacted the life of a child.”

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Katherine Blackmon Carroll, Best Family Law Attorney

Sara K. Lingo, Best Family Law Attorney

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Congratulations!

Katherine Blackmon Carroll and Sara K. Lingo on being named two of AY’s Best Lawyers for 2026.

For nearly three decades, it has been our firm’s privilege to walk alongside individuals and families during some of the most difficult seasons of uncertainty and transition in their lives. We are deeply honored and humbled by this recognition as it reflects not only our commitment as attorneys, but also the dedication of our entire team, whose compassion, hard work and unwavering support allow us to provide advocacy that is both fierce and humane. Thank you for allowing us the privilege of serving our community.

Google Review I cannot say enough good things about my experience with everyone at this law firm.

They took the time to truly understand my situation. I never felt rushed, dismissed, or like just another case. They explained everything clearly, answered every question patiently, and made sure I felt confident in each decision we made. Katherine’s expertise in family law is obvious. She knows the system inside and out, but what really sets her apart is how much she genuinely cares.

High-Conflict Divorce & Custody Str ategic, Tr aumaInformed, and Aggressive Family Law Representation in Ark ansas 715 W. 2nd St. | Little Rock

501.372.7636 |

KEBlackmon 89

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Carla L. Miller The Miller Firm Kevin O’Dwyer Hope, O’Dwyer, Wilson & Arnold Patrick L. Spivey Fuqua Campbell Mark Stodola Barber Munson Attorneys at Law Paula Storeygard Hilburn & Harper Beau Wilcox Wilcox Law BUSINESS LITIGATION Phil W. Campbell Fuqua Campbell Richard C. Downing James, House, Swann & Downing Gregory M. Hopkins Hopkins Law Firm, A Professional Association

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Patrick R. James James, House, Swann & Downing

Scott Hunter Jr. Hunter Law Firm

Jonathan Martin Jonathan J. Martin, Attorney at Law

William JW James James, House, Swann & Downing

Jennifer Lancaster Cornerstone Law

J. Cliff McKinney II Quattlebaum, Grooms & Tull

Glenn Larkin Quattlebaum, Grooms & Tull

Deven K. Harvison Davidson Law Firm

Keith Morrison Real Estate Law Litigation

Robbie Wilson

Real Estate Law Commercial Real Estate

The Wilson Law Group is proud to have four attorneys listed among AY’s best lawyers in Arkansas.

Katie Griffin

Estate Planning Trusts & Estates

Jillian Wilson

Real Estate Law Banking & Finance

Thank you to all who voted.

Congratulations to these outstanding attorneys on being recognized in the practice areas of real estate, commercial real estate, banking & finance, estate planning, and trusts & estates.

Join us for our seventh annual CLE program!

September 29-30, 2026 15 hours of CLE | $175

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Congratulations Penny Choate Anderson!

You have been named an AY Best Lawyer for 2026.

PennyChoateLawFirm.com Choate-Law-Firm-PLLC Attorneys at Law 515 S. Main St., Searcy, AR

501-305-4442

Penny Choate Agee

Charley E. Swann James, House, Swann & Downing R. Ryan Younger Quattlebaum, Grooms & Tull CIVIL LITIGATION Blake Crawford Crawford Law Firm Nickolas W. Dunn Davidson Law Firm Don A. Eilbott Eilbott Law J. Carter Fairley Barber Munson Attorneys at Law Matthew R. House James, House, Swann & Downing Kara Mikles Barber Munson Attorneys at Law

J. Dalton Person Jones Jackson Moll McGinnis & Stocks

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION Betsy Baker Rose Law Firm

Abbie Decker Rucker Fuqua Campbell

Phil W. Campbell Fuqua Campbell Robert M. Cearley Jr. Cearley Law Firm

Beau Wilcox Wilcox Law

Kevin W. Cole Waddell, Cole & Jones

CIVIL RIGHTS Sheila Campbell Sheila F. Campbell Law Firm

Richard Donovan Rose Law Firm

David Fuqua Fuqua Campbell

Eric Gribble Fuqua Campbell

Tom Masseau Disability Rights Arkansas

Randy L. Grice Hilburn & Harper

Thomas Nichols Disability Rights Arkansas

Colin Johnson CJD Law Firm

COMMERCIAL LAW Steve Brooks Eldridge Brooks Partners

Kelly McNulty Gill Ragon Owen David Mitchell Jr. Rose Law Firm

Conner Eldridge Eldridge Brooks Partners

Philip B. Montgomery Legacy Law Group

David Fuqua Fuqua Campbell

Carla L. Miller The Miller Firm

Zachary L. Nicholson Hilburn & Harper

Philip B. Montgomery Legacy Law Group

Patrick L. Spivey Fuqua Campbell

Zachary L. Nicholson Hilburn & Harper

Paula Storeygard Hilburn & Harper

Bruce Munson Barber Munson Attorneys at Law

Abbie Decker Rucker Fuqua Campbell John E. Tull III Quattlebaum, Grooms & Tull Ralph Waddell Waddell, Cole & Jones Samuel T. Waddell Waddell, Cole & Jones William A. Waddell Jr. Friday, Eldredge & Clark COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE Charles Darwin “Skip” Davidson Davidson Law Firm Tim Grooms Quattlebaum, Grooms & Tull J. Cliff McKinney II Quattlebaum, Grooms & Tull Heartsill Ragon III Gill Ragon Owen Christopher Travis Gill Ragon Owen Robbie Wilson Attorneys Title Group/ Wilson Law

Justin Parkey Waddell, Cole & Jones

CONSTRUCTION LAW Matthew B. Finch Gill Ragon Owen

Steven W. Quattlebaum Quattlebaum, Grooms & Tull

Randy L. Grice Hilburn & Harper

Congratulations Jennifer Lancaster!

You have been named one of AY’s Best Lawyers for 2026.

Building Your Future on a Firm Foundation cornerstonear.law 501-776-2224 400 W. Capitol Ave. Little Rock

117 S. Market St. Benton

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2026

BEST OF LAWYERS

Blake Hendrix CRIMINAL LAW

Fuqua Campbell

In Your Corner

By DWAIN HEBDA // Photo courtesy of FUQUA CAMPBELL

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any attorneys start out in college without law school on their minds, leading them to major in seemingly unrelated fields starting out. Blake Hendrix, partner at Fuqua Campbell in Little Rock, is one of them.

“I started at the University of Texas in the music program. My intention was to become a jazz musician,” said the graduate of Catholic High School for Boys in Little Rock. “I realized after a couple of years at UT that I was not going to be the second coming of Miles Davis, which is what I wanted. At that point, I went, ‘OK, yeah, you need a career change.’”

Given his background in performing arts, Hendrix went to law school initially to be an entertainment lawyer. That plan evaporated on his first day at the University of Arkansas School of Law in Fayetteville.

“There is a structure to this business, there’s a process, there’s a method, but it’s all broad strokes.”

“I remember it like I was yesterday,” he said. “The very first class on the first day was criminal law, and I remember thinking, ‘This is really interesting stuff.’ Within a couple of weeks, my interest in being an entertainment lawyer had gone from 100 percent down to maybe 5 percent.

“I found the relationship of the government to the citizens of the states so interesting and how the beauty of America, to me, is we provide constitutional rights against government interference, which places checks and balances on the power of centralized government. That idea stuck with me forever and ever.”

Hendrix was particularly intrigued by the ramifications of the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects individuals against unreasonable searches and seizures.

“At the end of my first semester of law school, my family and I went to visit family in New York,” he said. “My cousins and I saw a [New York City Police Department] cruiser engaged in a traffic stop. I told my cousins, ‘Look! We are witnessing a police-citizen encounter invoking the Fourth Amendment.’

After one semester, I’d already become a nerd, you know? This whole idea had grabbed me, and I was looking at the world from a different perspective.”

Time and experience have been the main engines in his success, but Hendrix said his musical training also paid unexpected dividends during his long criminal defense and litigation career.

“I find jazz so incredibly relevant in that it can sound unstructured, but there is a very definite structure

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to it. There is a chord structure to it and then a melody, which is structured, but then you’re improvising, you’re off on your own. That, to me, is exactly what being a criminal defense lawyer is like.

“There is a structure to this business, there’s a process, there’s a method, but it’s all broad strokes. In the criminal world, we don’t have the advantages that civil litigators have, which is taking depositions from witnesses, all of that. You hear the prosecution’s case for the first time, sometimes as the first witnesses are sitting down and testifying, so then you’re improvising, just like a jazz musician. You’re sort of playing around on top of the foundational structure.”

Other practical aspects of his background in the arts, he said, include having the advantage of being comfortable in front of an audience and adapting to the natural ebbs and flows of a trial to better seize a crucial moment in a way that sticks with a jury. That element, he said, requires humans, which is why he thinks technology can only progress so far in the legal arena.

“The way I look at trial work, at some point, you need to create drama,” he said. “I’m not saying it’s all theater, but part of it is how theater and movies work. There’s exposition, build-up. There’s going to be a crescendo. It’s going to come back down. That’s what creates the interesting way to tell the story and how the dynamics of the trial work.”

“Technology, therefore, is never going to replace lawyers, never going to replace judges.

There is too much human emotion, too much human drama, too much human interaction for it to be able to work. I can say with 100-percent certainty the digital age will not replace the trial lawyer.” aymag.com

2026

BEST OF LAWYERS

Sydney Rasch DIVORCE LAW

Turner & Rasch

Untying the Knot

By SARAH DECLERK // Photo by LORI SPARKMAN

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rior to opening her own firm, Sydney Rasch, managing partner at Turner & Rasch in Little Rock, had only dabbled in family law. After a friend who was getting a divorce asked Rasch to be her attorney, however, Rasch said she fell in love with helping clients through what is for many the most difficult time of their lives.

“It’s a way to really directly help people work through some really difficult stuff,” she said. “I’ve always been a problem solver; that’s just kind of my personality and how I approach life. If somebody has a problem, I want to help you fix it, and so I get an opportunity to do things like that.”

She added that she also enjoys the myriad legal issues that come with divorce cases, everything from real estate and business law to

“I’ve always been a problem solver; that’s just kind of my personality and how I approach life. “

fraud and forensic accounting. Divorce law also gives her a chance to work with children when custody is involved.

Rasch said her team is committed to taking a trauma-informed approach to its work, particularly when it comes to custody.

“The hard part about the family court system sometimes is that maybe there’s been trauma between the spouses where there’s been abuse, but maybe there’s been no abuse toward the kids, so the abusive parent may still get some kind of visitation,” she said.

“It’s really important, I think, to make sure our clients are taking care of themselves emotionally.”

A law change in 2021 made joint custody the standard in Arkansas and also provided more flexibility when it comes to child support, she added. While getting primary custody is not impossible, she said there are more stringent criteria the cases must meet.

Although many people assume divorcees cannot receive spousal support in Arkansas, she said there are many cases in which a party qualifies for temporary support, especially if one parent has put his or her career on hold to raise children and the other has the ability to contribute financially.

“We see a lot of this with women who were stay-at-home moms, and they haven’t worked in 15 years,” she said. “They stayed home with the kids while Dad was out working and building a career. Well, now it’s Mom’s turn to strike out on her own, and Mom needs some time to get a little bit more education or to find

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a job, get settled in, be able to afford a house that’s big enough for the kids.”

There are many other misconceptions Rasch hears about her work. Couples typically do not have to undergo a period of separation before filing for divorce except in covenant marriages, she said, and parties typically do not forfeit their share of equity by leaving the marital home. In addition, she said, adultery itself does not automatically guarantee the person who was cheated on additional rights during the divorce.

While it is possible to get divorced without hiring an attorney, Rasch said hiring a lawyer can be a good idea, particularly if the couple has property or children together.

“Make sure that you’re comfortable with your attorney,” she said. “Good advice in general in life is never lie to your lawyer and never lie to your doctor, so if you’ve got an attorney, be fully open and honest with them about everything that’s going on. They can’t help you if they don’t know, and that’s what attorneyclient privilege is for.”

This level of rapport will make it easier to manage expectations, which is one major key to success in her line of work. For example, if there is any contention in the divorce, neither party will likely be completely satisfied with the final outcome. No attorney can guarantee a judge’s verdict, she added, no matter how well prepared the legal team.

“As attorneys, we want to believe our clients all the time and go forward guns blazing,” she said. “I want my clients to feel supported, but sometimes we’ve got my story, and we’ve got their story, and it’s about what the judge believes, not what I believe.”

CONGRATULATIONS TO DOUG NORWOOD FOR BEING AMONG AY’S ‘BEST OF LAWYERS’ FOR 2026!

“Just because you have been charged with a crime, it doesn’t mean you will be convicted of that crime.”

A

s founding partner and lead litigation attorney at Norwood & Norwood, Doug Norwood truly embodies the top of the criminal defense field. The former prosecuting attorney has devoted his legal career to representing clients across Northwest Arkansas, finding his calling early on for DWI and criminal defense cases. Norwood now leads a hand-picked team of highly skilled litigation attorneys who have defended more than 35,000 criminal cases, including thousands of felonies and more than 11,000 DWI cases. In private practice since 1988, Norwood was joined by his wife, Cathy, in 1995.

“I love using the law to find mistakes the police make that allow us to negotiate a dismissal or achieve a not guilty for our clients,” Norwood said.

“Every mistake we can identify in a case helps us get great results for our clients. Cathy and I have worked hard to build a criminal defense team that effectively achieves great results for the people who put their faith in us to help them.”

In addition to sharp legal skills and decades of experience, Norwood stands apart thanks to his true passion for his areas of expertise. He was a founding member and past president of the Arkansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and is widely acknowledged by peers as one of the most knowledgeable attorneys in the areas of DWI and criminal defense law. Constantly staying up to date on DWI and criminal cases nationwide, Norwood

is also certified to administer the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Field Sobriety Tests and has had training on the blood alcohol content testing device used

by Arkansas police agencies.

Norwood is a regular on all manner of industry rankings and voting lists year after year, including in Super Lawyers and both AY About You and Arkansas Money & Politics.

He has twice been named the Champion of Justice by the Arkansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and has been the recipient of the Arkansas Bar Association’s Lawyer Community Legacy Award. Highly rated by colleagues, peers and clients alike, Norwood has continued to set the standard for criminal defense in Arkansas.

Core to Norwood’s work is the belief that everyone charged with a crime is innocent until proven guilty and entitled to the best legal defense possible. He has made it his mission, from the earliest days of his practice, to make world-class criminal defense accessible to people in Northwest Arkansas regardless of their means. He offers a free, no-obligation initial visit, in addition to reasonable fees and payment plans.

Whether winning outright or negotiating dismissals, Norwood and his team have made a difference in the lives of thousands upon thousands of Arkansans and their families — not to mention demonstrating the true measure of what it means to be in AY About You’s “Best of Lawyers.”

Voted ‘Best of NWA’ in criminal defense multiple years in a row, as voted by citizens

NORWOOD & NORWOOD

Offices in Rogers, Fayetteville, Springdale and Bentonville 479-235-4600 DOUGNORWOOD.COM Norwood & Norwood, PA

CORPORATE FINANCE Chad L . Cumming Jr. Gill Ragon Owen Bryan W. Duke Friday, Eldredge & Clark Brian Rosenthal Rose Law Firm CORPORATE LAW A. Cale Block RMP Attorneys at Law Steve Brooks Eldridge Brooks Partners Chad L. Cumming Jr. Gill Ragon Owen Conner Eldridge Eldridge Brooks Partners Randy L. Grice Hilburn & Harper Austin Grinder Mullenix & Associates Michael E. Hartje Jr. Hilburn & Harper Mark Stodola Barber Munson Attorneys at Law Rufus Wolff McDaniel Wolff

CRIMINAL DEFENSE James Bornhoft Bornhoft Law Toney Brasuell Brasuell Law Firm Robert Bridewell Law Office of Robert G. Bridewell David R. Cannon Cannon Law Firm Michael J. Crowe Crowe Firm Pam Epperson Epperson Panasiuk Law J. Carter Fairley Barber Munson Attorneys at Law Eric Gribble Fuqua Campbell John Wesley Hall John Wesley Hall Blake Hendrix Fuqua Campbell Josh Hurst Hurst Law Group William O. “Bill” James Jr. James Law Firm David W. Kamps Kamps & Griffis Judson C. Kidd Dodds, Kidd & Ryan

Mircha C. King Mircha King Law George “Birc” Morledge IV Morledge Law Firm Jimmy C. Morris Jr. Morris Law Firm Doug Norwood Norwood & Norwood Kristin Pawlik Miller, Butler, Schneider, Pawlik, Rozzell Gregory F. Payne The Law Offices of Gregory F. Payne Abbie Decker Rucker Fuqua Campbell Preston T. Sanders The Sanders Firm DUI/DWI DEFENSE Brandi Collins Collins, Collins & Ray John C. Collins Collins, Collins & Ray Mircha C. King Mircha King Law Brian W. Ray Collins, Collins & Ray EDUCATION LAW Chad L. Cumming Jr. Gill Ragon Owen

Ed McCorkle McMillan, McCorkle & Curry ELDER LAW Phil W. Campbell Fuqua Campbell Susan E. "Beth" Crawford Crawford Law Firm Eric Gribble Fuqua Campbell Ledly Jennings L. Jennings Law Stan Miller Pinnacle Legacy Law EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT INCOME SECURITY ACT Michael E. Hartje Jr. Hilburn & Harper Brian A. Vandiver Cox, Sterling, Vandiver & Botteicher EMPLOYMENT LAW Phil W. Campbell Fuqua Campbell David Fuqua Fuqua Campbell Julie DeWoody Greathouse PPGMR Law Kristin Pawlik Miller, Butler, Schneider, Pawlik, Rozzell G. Alan Perkins PPGMR Law

Eight Lawyers.

One Commitment.

Will Bond Personal Injury

Neil Chamberlin Personal Injury Litigation

Tim Giattina Charles Harrison Environmental Law Personal Injury Law

Sarah C. Jewell Personal Injury Litigation

Samuel E. Ledbetter Litigation and Environmental Law

James Bruce McMath Personal Injury Litigation

Carter C. Stein Personal Injury

We’re proud to have eight McMath Woods lawyers recognized in AY’s Best of Lawyers 2026.

Since 1953, our commitment has remained the same: personal attention, careful preparation, and the pursuit of the best possible result for every client we represent.

Personal Attention, Proven Results Since 1953

When you need help, give us a call. We’ll give your case our best.

mcmathlaw.com | 501.396.5400

711 W. 3RD STREET, LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201 | 525 S. SCHOOL AVENUE, FAYETTEVILLE, AR 72701

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WOMEN IN LAW 2026

Vanessa

Cash Adams Law Office of Vanessa Cash Adams

Photo courtesy of VANESSA CASH ADAMS

Bridge Over Troubled Waters

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s one of Arkansas’ preeminent bankruptcy attorneys, Vanessa Cash Adams, founder of the Law Office of Vanessa Cash Adams in Little Rock, has helped guide countless personal and corporate bankruptcy cases through the legal system as clients seek to turn the page on one chapter of life and enter another.

“I got into this legal field to help people, to be a bridge,” she said. “I get to explain things to people that they might not fully understand, and I get to help fix whatever the problem might be, from families to small businesses to today where I am doing a lot of work with farmers. I help them find solutions and problem-solve on how to restructure their business so they can keep their business going, or if the business has to close, I help them figure out how we’re going to handle that.”

Cash Adams did not have to look far for inspiration to enter the field, nor was it long in life that she showed the makings of a good attorney. The daughter of a lawyer father and the family’s eldest child, her mediation, nurturing and argument skills were honed early.

Yet it was the newsroom, not the courtroom, that was her original goal upon entering college.

“I went to University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, and I worked for the school newspaper and got really involved in reporting,” she said. “That would’ve been right after 9/11, so I really got involved in what was going on with our country and the invasion after 9/11.”

While attending the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law, her father gravitated his practice toward handling bankruptcies and recruited his daughter to help at the office. Through that experience, a whole new legal world opened up right before her eyes.

“Bankruptcy law was definitely not a legal area that I thought I ever wanted to be in or said up to that point, ‘This is what I want to do,’” she said. “I got immersed in it when I

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was helping at a lower level while I was in law school.

As I got exposed to the intricate bankruptcy code, I started to get really interested in it. I started to think, ‘Wow, this is a lot more interesting than I thought it was.’

“Bankruptcy isn’t just, ‘Oh, I’m broke. I need to declare bankruptcy.’ There are so many different variations and rules and case law that create this web of reorganization structures for families and businesses.

I really just fell in love with it.”

Cash Adams said her journalism degree has been immeasurably helpful in her legal career, since much about a successful case outcome lies in one’s ability to ask the right probing questions and to listen.

“Knowing how to talk to people, how to get out of your own head and listen is a big part of this job,” she said. “This wonderful case isn’t just going to be brought to you on a silver platter where you just get to do all the fun stuff, the legal part of it. You’ve got to sift through the person or the family or the business or the farm and navigate a whole web of information.

While you’re doing that, you also have to be a person that the client can connect with. Those are things I learned just by being thrown into it after law school because there was no training on that.”

Having mastered those elements over nearly 20 years, Cash Adams said the rest of her success has come down to work ethic and determination.

“If something gets thrown to me in a case that I’ve never dealt with before, something that presents a huge challenge, I don’t quit,” she said. “I don’t get off the case. I don’t say ‘This is not worth my time. I don’t want to mess with this.’ I navigate that problem, and I stick with it until it’s done.”

aymag.com

2026

BEST OF LAWYERS

Pamela Epperson DUI/DWI DEFENSE

Epperson Panasiuk Law

Driven to Help Others

By MAK MILLARD // Photo courtesy of EPPERSON PANASIUK LAW

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rust and competence are key considerations for picking an attorney in any legal matter, from hammering out business contracts to treading the waters of divorce or bankruptcy. When it is a criminal or driving record at stake, however — plus the myriad downstream consequences a DUI or DWI can have on an individual’s life — getting one’s choice of legal representation right the first time is understandably of the utmost concern.

For many, Pamela Epperson is that first choice. Her goal, she said, is that her clients feel “hopeful and optimistic” when working with her, no matter the charges or uncertainties they may be facing.

“From a very young age, I knew that a legal career was the right path for me. I knew there was no other career I wanted to pursue more.”

“I want them to know that I will go the extra mile for them,” Epperson said. “I make sure that my clients are well represented in all stages of the criminal justice process and that they have a strong advocate in their corner who will fight for their rights.”

The owner and attorney behind Epperson Panasiuk Law in Little Rock, Epperson specializes in criminal and DWI/DUI defense.

She is a member of the National College for DUI Defense and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, in addition to criminal defense lawyer associations for Arkansas and Texas. Epperson has worked on both sides of the courtroom and at both state and federal levels since graduating from the University of Arkansas in Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law in 1999.

“From a very young age, I knew that a legal career was the right path for me,” she said. “I knew there was no other career I wanted to pursue more.”

Epperson worked as an associate attorney at what was then Hatfield & Lassiter out of law school. There, she learned from one of Little Rock’s most prominent figures in criminal defense, Jack Lassiter. She then spent multiyear stints on either side of the 6th Judicial District of Arkansas, first as a deputy public defender and later as a deputy prosecuting attorney. After gaining additional experience in personal injury and disability law at the Law Offices of Gary Green, Epperson again found herself learning from some of the best in Little Rock defense talent, this time at the Law Offices of John Wesley Hall.

“Defense work is more challeng-

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ing than my work as a former prosecutor,” she said. “It requires a total cognitive pivot from building a linear narrative of guilt to creatively exposing reasonable doubt and identifying legal technicalities. As a former prosecutor, I am able to inherently understand how the state evaluates evidence, structures plea negotiations and builds cases. This unique perspective makes former prosecutors highly effective defense advocates.”

Epperson has represented drivers facing all manner of charges, from first-time DUIs to boating and commercial DWI cases. On top of attempting to reduce charges and sentences, Epperson can help guide clients through administrative hurdles such as hearings with the Department of Motor Vehicles regarding one’s driving privileges. Her goal in the coming years, she said, is to continue adding to her expertise.

“I attend many state and national conferences to keep myself educated on changes in the law and to become more experienced,” she said.

Epperson sees her duty as twofold — defense attorneys not only ensure their clients obtain a rigorous defense, she said, but also play an important role in holding the justice system accountable. Leaning on her strong work ethic, education and experience, she takes pride in providing her clients aggressive, thorough and personalized representation at every step.

“Most clients are new to the criminal justice system and are overwhelmed,” Epperson said. “Making a difference in countless lives is what keeps me motivated to keep pursuing this line of work. I love helping people who are facing difficult and stressful situations in their lives. Every case is a new challenge.”

ADVOCATING FOR ARKANSAS HE’S ALWAYS ALL IN.

Whether providing strategic counsel or helping shape smart policies, he remains steadfast in lobbying for progress that delivers results for our state.

Congratulations, Austin!

AUSTIN GRINDER

Attorney and Lobbyist

MULLENIX & ASSOCIATES | lobbyarkansas.com

Gregory M. Hopkins is the founder of Hopkins Law Firm, A Professional Association, in Little Rock, Arkansas. For more than four decades, he has represented businesses, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and individuals in complex litigation, commercial transactions, banking law, real estate and corporate matters. Known for practical judgment, meticulous preparation, and responsive client service, Mr. Hopkins is committed to helping clients resolve challenging legal issues with skill and integrity. He is honored to be recognized among AY Magazine’s Best Lawyers in Arkansas and remains dedicated to providing thoughtful counsel and effective advocacy to clients throughout Arkansas and beyond.

Congratulations

Ledly Jennings

on being named an AY Best Lawyer for 2026.

1000 W. 2nd St. | Little Rock (501) 375-1517 hopkinslawfirm.com

10809 Executive Center Dr. #310 Little Rock 535 E. Main, Magnolia 501-501-9455

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aymag.com

James Rankin III PPGMR Law Zachary D. Wilson Jr. Zachary David Wilson Law Firm ENVIRONMENTAL LAW Tim Giattina McMath Woods Samuel E. Ledbetter McMath Woods FAMILY LAW Penny Choate Anderson Choate Law Firm Lauren Baber Mayer Law Firm Katherine Blackmon The Law Offices of Katherine Blackmon Jessalynn Born Born Law Firm Blake Crawford Crawford Law Firm Eli Cummins LaPorte-Jenner Law Charlie Cunningham ARlaw Partners Barrett Deacon Mayer Law Firm

Natalie J. Dickson LaCerra, Dickson, Hoover & Rogers Beth Echols Gill Ragon Owen Katie Freeman ARlaw Partners Eric Gribble Fuqua Campbell Scott Hilburn Hilburn & Harper Lauren White Hoover LaCerra, Dickson, Hoover & Rogers Jonathan D. Jones Jonathan D. Jones, Attorney at Law David W. Kamps Kamps & Griffis Judson C. Kidd Dodds, Kidd & Ryan Michael Knollmeyer Knollmeyer Law Office Traci LaCerra LaCerra, Dickson, Hoover & Rogers Sara Lingo The Law Offices of Katherine Blackmon Angela Mann Mann & Kemp

Patrick Melikian Melikian Law Firm Scarlett Melikian Melikian Law Firm Brianna Spinks Nony Robertson, Oswalt, Nony & Kennedy Chris Oswalt Robertson, Oswalt, Nony & Kennedy Kristin Pawlik Miller, Butler, Schneider, Pawlik, Rozzell Sydney Rasch Turner & Rasch Gary B. Rogers Hilburn & Harper Marjorie E. Rogers LaCerra, Dickson, Hoover & Rogers Preston Sanders The Sanders Firm Ryan Stacks Stacks Law Firm Jalen Toms ARlaw Partners Presley Turner Turner & Rasch Megan L. Wells Hilburn & Harper

Jacob Wickliffe Dodds, Kidd & Ryan Megan Wooster MW Law Paul Young Hale & Young GENERAL PRACTICE Blake Crawford Crawford Law Firm Jackie Hancock Law Office of Jackie Hancock HEALTH CARE LAW Gabriel Mallard Mallard Gardner Jenny Holt Teeter Gill Ragon Owen Paul Waddell Waddell, Cole & Jones IMMIGRATION LAW K. Drew Devenport CJD Law Firm INSURANCE Mark Breeding Barber Munson Attorneys at Law Phil W. Campbell Fuqua Campbell Kevin W. Cole Waddell, Cole & Jones F. Thomas Curry McMillan, McCorkle & Curry

Congratulations Dabbs & Pomtree on being named to AY’s Best Lawyers for 2026!

We deliver personalized, results-driven representation focused on securing maximum compensation through our team approach.

Compassionate and relentless, we guide clients through every step of the claims process with proven success. Our family is proud to have been assisting Arkansas families like yours since 1955.

2024 Arkansas Valley Dr. Suite 101 | Little Rock 501-224-1141 dabbs-pomtree.com Dabbs&Pomtree

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NEALON M. POMTREE, SUSAN DABBS POMTREE HUSBAND & WIFE LEGAL TEAM “PERSONAL INJURY”

2026

BEST OF LAWYERS

Scott Hilburn FAMILY LAW

Hilburn & Harper

Family Matters

By MAK MILLARD // Photo courtesy of HILBURN & HARPER

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cott Hilburn did not spend too much time worrying about what area of law he would go into after graduation. He picked up a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, staying in town to attend the U of A School of Law and earn his Juris Doctor in 2010. He then joined Hilburn & Harper, the North Little Rock firm co-founded by his father. Family law, Hilburn said, happened to be an area where the firm needed more hands.

“While I practice in other areas, such as general counsel work and some civil litigation, family law has always made up the majority of my practice,” he said. “My father had a prosperous family law practice for over 50 years,

and I started sitting second chair on his cases fresh out of law school. I am also a certified domestic relations mediator, and that area of my practice has significantly increased over the past five years.”

Though divorce is first to mind for many when thinking of family law, the scope of practice for Hilburn, who made partner in 2016, varies widely, from guardianships and paternity cases to adoptions and prenuptial agreements. Regardless of the specifics, emotions can run high, especially as the gravity of a client’s situation starts to sink in.

“From a divorce context, it is often the reality that they are not going to get to see their children every day anymore or that they are going to have to cut everything they have worked for their entire married life in half,” Hilburn said. “Those are both realizations that are not easy to process for anyone.”

The biggest change Hilburn said he has seen over the course of his practice is in regard to joint custody. Early on in his career, the vast majority of cases ended up with one parent having sole custody of the children, while the noncustodial parent had every other weekend visitation.

Now, however, cases start with the presumption of equal time unless there is a significant reason the arrangement would not be in the children’s best interest — such factors as drugs, alcohol, mental health or geography, for example.

“Even when some of those factors are in

“While I practice in other areas, such as general counsel work and some civil litigation, family law has always made up the majority of my practice.”

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play, some courts are still awarding joint custody,” Hilburn said.

Unsurprisingly, Hilburn said, certain cases can turn “into one big Jerry Springer episode” quickly, making it all the more crucial that an attorney develop a thick skin, patience and the ability to operate under constant stress. Potential upheaval aside, Hilburn said he truly enjoys helping people, and there is much gratification to be found in helping clients navigate some of the most impactful decisions of their lives.

“Honestly, and this may sound corny, but I love when I meet with a client on a potential divorce and suggest that they pursue counseling or get some other form of help from a preacher or family member or whoever before they pursue a divorce, and then I find out later that they were able to reconcile with their spouse,” he said. “That is probably the most rewarding.”

Hilburn added it is also key for a family law attorney to have knowledge in other legal areas, such as property law, bankruptcy and contracts. The breadth and depth of his own expertise, meanwhile, has helped Hilburn as principal broker and co-owner at land brokerage Alluvial Land Co. According to Hilburn, the two lines of work actually dovetail nicely thanks to Hilburn & Harper’s diverse roster of attorneys.

“It is a huge asset to Alluvial’s clients to have a full-service law firm with attorneys focusing on real estate transactions, bankruptcy and banking all in the same office,” he said. “Alluvial is in a unique position to be able to assist clients when legal issues arise, whether that’s a boundary dispute, a title issue, a contract issue or anything else, and to help prevent legal issues from arising posttransaction.” aymag.com

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CONGRATULATIONS

VANESSA CASH ADAMS FOR BEING ONE OF AY’S ‘BEST OF LAWYERS’ OF 2026

A

s a bankruptcy lawyer, Vanessa Cash Adams may be the last person anyone wants to call — but once clients do, they can rest assured they are on the path to a brighter future. Over the course of nearly two decades in practice, Adams has helped hundreds of individuals, families and businesses navigate the tricky waters of financial hardship.

“It is deeply rewarding to help Arkansas families and businesses navigate the financial stress that comes with a sudden illness, job loss, divorce or tough economic conditions,” Adams previously told AY About You. “The truth is that families and businesses are often forced into bankruptcy because of events they cannot control. I understand this completely, having met with hundreds of individuals, families and business owners over the course of my practice.”

Whether it be bankruptcy, the end of a relationship, the death of a loved one or property disputes, Adams gives clients the tools they need to escape the cycle of debt and better their situations.

“I want my clients to feel that they are not alone and that I truly understand the stress and anxiety they are going through when having to meet with a bankruptcy lawyer,” Adams said.

Sudden unemployment, medical procedures and divorce are just a few of the myriad unexpected circumstances that can upend a family both emotionally and financially, so Adams’ role is just as much about education as it is about empathy. While her depth of experience allows her to provide the best solutions to her clients, it is Adams’ careful and caring demeanor that enables clients to take those tools and embark on a new chapter.

“I do love meeting and talking to people, and this allows me to relate to my clients in a personable and comforting way,” she said. “I’m also collaborative in my approach to leadership. My team and I work toward the same goal for our

clients — achieving a new start — from the first phone call or email all the way to the courtroom. It takes the entire team to make it happen.”

A 2007 graduate of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law and 2004 graduate of the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Adams has spoken at various legal conferences within the state about the nuances and evolving issues in bankruptcy law.

She also served as past president of the Arkansas Association of Women Lawyers and the debtor-creditor division of the Arkansas Bar Association, where she was recognized for her work organizing and implementing the bankruptcy conference during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her passion for her area of expertise is also due, in part, to her understanding of just how profound an impact it can make on the course of a client’s life.

“Bankruptcy helps people’s credit once the case is successfully completed,” she said. “I have seen several of my clients purchase homes after filing bankruptcy and successfully completing their case. Also, in most bankruptcy cases, a person can keep their home and vehicle and still file bankruptcy.”

Adams is likewise a leader in other pursuits. She is a committee member and volunteer for the 20th Century Club of Little Rock’s Hope Away From Home Lodge, which provides no-cost housing to cancer patients in financial distress.

“Cancer affects so many lives in Arkansas, which already struggles with rising medical and living costs,” she said.

“Volunteering with the 20th Century Club is one way I try to help others in Arkansas who are not only fighting cancer but are also in financial need.”

Making a difference in the office, the courtroom and the community, Adams demonstrates the full measure of what it takes to be one of AY About You’s “Best of Lawyers.”

Law Office of Vanessa Cash Adams | 111 Center St., Suite 1200, Little Rock 501-400-7395 | vanessacash.org | Vanessa Cash Adams, Attorney

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“I want my clients to feel that they are not alone and that I truly understand the stress and anxiety they are going through when having to meet with a bankruptcy lawyer.”

Vanessa Cash Adams Consumer & Business Bankruptcy Attorney

Recognition from AY About You and Arkansas Money & Politics Arkansas Money & Politics “Legal Elite” (2025, 2024, 2023, 2022) Arkansas Money & Politics “Power Women” Arkansas Money & Politics “Trailblazing Women” Arkansas Money & Politics “Influencers of the Year” Arkansas Money & Politics “Achievers in Their Forties” Arkansas Money & Politics “Top Professionals” Arkansas Money & Politics “Faces Of” (Bankruptcy Law) AY About You “Intriguing Women” AY About You “Faces Of” (Bankruptcy Law) AY About You “Best of Lawyers” (2026, 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022)

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aymag.com

WOMEN IN LAW 2026

Sarah

Jewell McMath Woods

Photo courtesy of MCMATH WOODS

The Trailblazer

W

omen in the legal field overall might not be the anomaly they once were, but that does not mean there are not certain specialties where the landscape is still dominated by men. Sarah Jewell, partner at McMath Woods, which has offices in Little Rock and Fayetteville, knows that fact intimately.

Jewell’s area of legal specialty is personal injury, and she is especially sought after for catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases, representing injured individuals and surviving families. It is an area of law that has not yet attracted as many women as other specialties, further raising Jewell’s profile in the field.

Asked why, after 11 years in practice, she still sees more men than women in opposing counsel, Jewell just shrugged.

“I hate being the type of person that assigns certain attributes based on gender,” she said. “That being said, in a general sense, I actually think women are uniquely suited to do any kind of advocacy, so sometimes it is a little bit baffling why there are fewer women [in this field]. I can say the type of work that I do is all contingency fee based, so it is more of a gamble than earning a regular salary. I don’t have children, but I would guess having to provide for a family has something to do that and what they choose to practice.”

In Jewell’s case, she said a lifelong passion for seeing justice done and people treated fairly is what led her both to the legal field in general and personal injury in specific. She said currently, Arkansas offers a level playing field for plaintiffs and defendants, but as calls for tort reform continue to grow louder, she is concerned that could change.

“Tort reform is the biggest potential issue that threatens the rights of my clients,” she said. “If you’ve got a legislature saying, ‘This is the max some corporation could ever have to pay for some wrong,’ then corporations can just write that into the bottom line. There’s not really anything anybody can do about it.

“Something this job has made me realize is nobody ever

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thinks it’s going to be them or someone in their family who will get catastrophically injured and, because of that, set off a domino effect of negative things where they can’t work, they can’t pay their rent, they can’t provide for their family. Well, we have a system set up for seeking redress and tort reform would incredibly affect those rights for people. In that way, [the issue] potentially affects the rights of all Arkansans, truthfully.”

Jewell said many things contribute to success in a legal career, but in her field, certain competencies stand out, things not necessarily taught in law school.

“I think at a foundational level are critical thinking skills but also people skills,” she said. “Knowing and understanding the law, which is often complex and often very gray and not black and white, is essential, but so is being able to quickly process that information and explain it to someone who doesn’t do it for a living. Communication skills are also important in court; a lot of litigating a case is writing motions and things like that, as well as oral advocacy skills, whether it’s arguing motions to a judge or jury trials.”

Jewell said she has been encouraged during her legal career to see how many more young women are entering law school and she takes time to mentor upand-comers whenever she can. She is especially eager to help those students who are confident enough to ask for her counsel.

“The advice I would give to a woman in law school who thinks that they might be interested in this is to just pick up the phone,” she said. “I think that is something that has been lost in the age of social media and such easy electronic communication.

There’s so much value in picking up the phone and just calling a practitioner and saying that you’re interested and asking somebody to have coffee with you so you can pick their brain.”

HALE & YOUNG ATTORNEYS AT LAW Congratulations Paul Young on being chosen an AY Best Lawyer for 2026!

Responsive. Resourceful.

Results.

Our firm prides it self on personal attention to educate, negotiate, mediate, collaborate or to litigate for the best interests of our clients. We use a practical, aggressive approach to client representation.

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Voted Best Trusts and Estates 10350 Riverview Corporate Drive | North Little Rock, AR 72113 501-663-5620 | mikemunnlaw.com

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Blake and Beth Crawford on being named two of AY’s Best Lawyers for 2026.

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aymag.com

J. Carter Fairley Barber Munson Attorneys at Law Ed McCorkle McMillan, McCorkle & Curry Kara Mikles Barber Munson Attorneys at Law Justin Parkey Waddell, Cole & Jones J. Dalton Person Jones Jackson Moll McGinnis & Stocks Patrick L. Spivey Fuqua Campbell INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY Roger H. Fitzgibbon Jr. Gill Ragon Owen Meredith Lowry Wright Lindsey Jennings Drake Mann Gill Ragon Owen Zachary L. Nicholson Hilburn & Harper LABOR & EMPLOYMENT Kelly Carithers CJD Law Firm J. Bruce Cross Rose Law Firm

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Because every client deserves excellent representation.

Sam Baber

Construction Litigation

Eric Gribble

Health Care Law Litigation; Business Litigation

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Annie Depper

Criminal Defense; Health Care Law Litigation

Abbie Rucker

Labor & Employment Law

David Fuqua

Alternative Dispute Resolution; Administrative/Regulatory Law

Patrick Spivey

Commercial Real Estate; Business and Commercial Transactions

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We are honored to have eight attorneys listed among the best lawyers in Arkansas.

3700 CANTRELL ROAD SUITE 205 • LITTLE ROCK 501.374.0200 • FACSIMILE: 501.975.7153 FC-LAWYERS.COM

2026

BEST OF LAWYERS

Meredith Lowry INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW

Wright Lindsey Jennings

Shielding the Brand

By SARAH DECLERK // Photo by BETH HALL PHOTOGRAPHY

M

ost every successful company can identify something that sets it apart from others, whether it is a handy widget, an innovative software application or even a fun logo. Meredith Lowry, registered patent attorney and partner at Wright Lindsey Jennings, said she started practicing intellectual property law to help businesses protect the things that make them stand out.

“The whole point of trademark laws really is to protect the consumer from being confused,” she said. “We don’t want someone picking up or going to a McDonald’s and thinking they’re going to get a McDonald’s hamburger and actually getting something that’s adulterated, poisonous, something that could hurt them. That

“More than likely, we’re going to have to come to grips with what does that mean if someone is using an AI tool to invent or to create?”

would be a terrible outcome for the person eating it, and also, McDonald needs to be able to protect itself from that.”

There are various kinds of intellectual property protections. Inventions are protected by patents, including utility patents for functional inventions and design patents for aesthetic features. Copyright protects artistic material such as books, movies or music, she said, while trade secrets and other data are generally protected by contracts.

Trademarks, which protect brand identity, are one of the most versatile aspects of intellectual property law.

“When you think about Coca-Cola, a lot of people recognize the words, the script, the red can, the bottle shape, but we have other brands, as well, that can protect more,” she said. “Crayola Crayons, specifically, have a smell, and that’s protected.”

Artificial intelligence has led to profound questions about intellectual property. While users of an AI platform that creates art can copyright a prompt, they cannot copyright the image that results from it, Lowry said. That leaves a legal gray area as to whether people can stop others from using images they created using AI. Furthermore, she said, a user could potentially run into copyright issues if the AI software generates something too similar to a protected work used to train it.

“More than likely, we’re going to have to come to grips with what does that mean if someone is using an AI tool to invent or to create?” she said.

“Where are the lines of, ‘This is appropriate,’ and where are the lines of, ‘That’s not actually yours?’”

Neither are such images the intellectual property of the machines that created them. The law states that only humans invent and create

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things, Lowry said, adding that the principle was tested even before the proliferation of AI during the monkey selfie copyright dispute. In that case, courts ruled that neither the wildlife photographer who set up the cameras nor the monkey that pushed the button could own the rights to a now-famous “monkey selfie.”

Social media has also changed the shape of intellectual property. The Digital Millennium Copyright Act allows content creators to remove content that was taken from their pages and posted elsewhere without permission, often by reporting the infringement to Facebook, YouTube or other platforms.

Lowry said she rarely sees influencers protecting their content through copyright because it becomes untenable to register so much content. However, that registration is necessary for creators to seek statutory damages if their work is infringed upon.

As for the “poor man’s copyright,” in which people attempt to copyright manuscripts or patents by mailing them to themselves and leaving the envelope unopened, Lowry said all that proves is that people mailed something to themselves. It is not an effective alternative to registering at the U.S. Copyright Office or Patent and Trademark Office.

Lowry encouraged business owners to be proactive in protecting their intellectual property, since trademarks can be crucial when it comes time to expand or sell a business.

“Most people think, ‘Oh, well, that’s never going to be a big issue for me because I don’t need a trademark registration. I’m not going to try to sue anyone,’ but as your business grows, you always have that ultimate goal of not wanting to be in business at some point,” she said.

“You’re going to want to retire. You’re going to want to hopefully sell a business and get that return back for your retirement years.” aymag.com

2026

BEST OF LAWYERS

Paul Byrd PERSONAL INJURY LAW

Paul Byrd Law Firm

Under His Wing

By ALEX HARDGRAVE // Photo courtesy of PAUL BYRD LAW FIRM

A

ttorney Paul Byrd does not do his work for praise or recognition, but that does not mean he has not had his moments in the spotlight.

Byrd, whose firm, Paul Byrd Law Firm in Little Rock, primarily handles injury law cases in Arkansas, tackled a product liability case during the early 2000s that made the front page of the Wall Street Journal. After that appeared, he started getting calls from all over the country seeking his service.

“At one point, I was doing it coast to coast,” he said.

“I’ve spent a lot of my time in my life trying to fight those kinds of laws that would impede a family from getting recovery when someone else has been irresponsible.”

Byrd attended the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville and said he enjoyed his time there, after which he clerked for the late Judge Tom F. Digby in Pulaski County. Over the course of almost four years, Byrd clerked and watched a lot of civil jury trials. He also met many local lawyers and was offered two different jobs in the industry.

Given the choice between doing insurance defense or representing people, he remembered his “why” and chose the route of representing people through personal injury law.

“That’s the path I chose, and I’ve been representing people ever since,” he said.

Byrd’s cases range from car wrecks to nursing home abuse to defective products, all of which involve trying to find who or what caused the injury to his client and then securing fair compensation for the event. He enjoys law because it is “sometimes like a puzzle,” he said.

“You get to kind of be an investigator,” he said. “You get to work with various fields of expertise.”

For any new case, Byrd said, the initial step is to gather evidence, which is especially difficult after something like a crash, for which the evidence may erode or disappear quickly once the accident is cleared.

“You’ve got to jump right in and do the forensic work,” he said.

After that comes the process of working backward and figuring out what went wrong in the incident. He said sometimes it can be fairly obvious who is responsible, such as if a driver runs a red light, but other times, there may be a lot more hurdles in his way as he works to find answers.

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“The more complicated cases require hiring experts and engineers and those kinds of people to explain what went wrong,” he said.

“It’s more tedious and can last longer. I’ve had cases last six to eight months, and I’ve had cases last six years. It just depends on how complicated the case is.”

Byrd said one of the hardest parts of his job is matching wits with opposing lawyers.

“Especially when you’re in litigation, you have an opponent, and the opponent is a smart and talented person whose job it is to try to not let your client get a recovery,” he said. “Imagine a brain surgeon sitting there doing an operation on somebody’s brain and, there’s another brain surgeon over there slapping at their hands while they’re doing it.”

Another challenging part of his job is combating the legislative pushes to put caps on recovery funds that seem to come up every session.

“I’ve spent a lot of my time in my life trying to fight those kinds of laws that would impede a family from getting recovery when someone else has been irresponsible,” Byrd said. “We handle people that have had things taken away from their lives, and what we try to do is get what we can from what they’ve lost.”

Despite the demanding nature of his job, Byrd said he does plan on slowing down anytime soon and hopes to still be working for Arkansans in a decade.

“I take pride in what I do,” he said. “We try to work hard and provide solutions for clients to get them back to where they are as much as possible, where they were before it happened. If they can’t get back to that, then, hopefully, we provided them a means to work through the rest of their lives with what did happen to them.”

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Congratulations Megan Wooster on being named one of AY’s Best Lawyers for 2026.

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CONGRATULATIONS

TO OUR HONORED

ATTORNEYS!

BRAD HENDRICKS Personal Injury

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Helping Arkansans for over 30 years • Car & Truck Crashes • Medical Negligence • Bankruptcy • Social Security Disability

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WOMEN IN LAW 2026

Catherine

Ryan

Dodds, Kidd & Ryan Photo courtesy of DODDS, KIDD & RYAN

Wicked Good

T

o say Catherine Ryan took the professional scenic route to land in her backyard is a massive understatement. The Little Rock native was educated at the University of Georgia, attended law school at the University of New Hampshire and spent 14 years as a trial lawyer in Boston before returning to Little Rock in 2016.

Today, she works out of the same office her father, a 50year attorney himself, once did, an office that, in many ways, inspired her own career in the legal field.

“I think that [us kids] were all curious about what he did,” she said. “For the most part, when he was at home, he was just our dad, OK, but, you know, we knew what he did. We all would come into the office from time to time. I would come in this office and try and help out when I was, like, 12 years old and just do whatever it is 12-year-olds can do at a law office.”

Despite that early exposure, Dodds said the exact brand of law she would practice was still years away from coming into sharper focus, although when it did, it felt pretty familiar.

“It felt like a happenstance at the time. I ended up doing exactly what my father did, basically,” she said. “It was not my intent at the time to go into exactly the type of law that my father had practiced, but that is what I did. I just found myself in a good firm to work for and started to work for them. It didn’t feel very intentional.”

Fated or not, Dodds’ time in her field has yielded a career anyone in the legal field would envy. Practicing in all areas of civil litigation with an emphasis on tort, product liability and professional negligence claims, she has successfully represented clients in state and federal court, up to and including successful appeals of both civil and criminal matters to the Arkansas Supreme Court and Court of Appeals.

Her stellar reputation also led to her election as a member of the Fellows of the American Bar Foundation, an or-

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ganization of legal professionals limited to the top 1 percent of lawyers licensed to practice in each jurisdiction.

Dodds said there is no magic formula to her success, although she added that having an early exposure to the law through her father gave her a running start.

“I’m sort of a legacy to this, even when I was practicing in Boston and was not related to anyone,” she said. “I do feel like growing up with the language and the vocabulary of it gave me some advantages that some people didn’t have.”

That aside, she said the ingredients for a satisfying legal career boil down to age-old fundamentals of hard work and a sincere desire to help people.

“I think everyone who is a successful attorney, at least that I’ve worked with, they all really just want to help people if they can. That’s as true in Boston as it is here,” she said. “I worked in a similar-sized office that did similar practices, and the court systems are really not that different. In both places the judges take everything very seriously.

“When I was in law school, we had some professors that were judges, and I did have one judge say to us, ‘Don’t write a bunch of flowery things when you’re sending in a motion; just tell me what you want and tell me how I can give it to you.’ When I started in Boston, that was what I kept with me when trying to write motions, and it worked because it’s pretty straightforward, and all the judges are really busy. The more you just tell the court what it is you’re looking for and give them the tools to agree with you, the better off you are.”

THANK YOU

FOR VOTING ME ONE OF AY’s BEST LAWYERS OF 2026!

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is simply doing what others are not willing to do.

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LaCerra, Dickson, Hoover & Rogers PLLC (LDHR) was formed by four experienced litigators with over 80 years combined experience. Whether it is a jury trial, a bench trial or appeal, LDHR guides our clients from start to finish.

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It is our job and privilege to inform our clients of the law and we pride ourselves on being the type of professionals that will always tell our clients what they need to hear and never just what they want to hear.

We are dedicated to getting our clients the best results and can provide valuable insight to our clients on their options moving forward in their case based on his or her specific set of facts. We are litigators that can get you results.

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212 Center St #200, Little Rock 501-476-3064 ldhrlaw.com ldhrlaw

Congratulations to Angela Mann for being one of AY’s ‘Best of Lawyers’ of 2026

A

ngela Mann knows what it means to be the best. She brings an uncompromising standard of excellence to every case that comes through the doors of Mann & Kemp in Little Rock.

“I’m the kind of person that if somebody tells me, ‘You never said that,’ I’ll go back through my text messages and show them where I did,” she told Arkansas Money & Politics previously. “When it comes to the law, I do research and know what the law says and am prepared to provide that in court to support and strengthen my client’s position.”

Mann graduated summa cum laude in the top 5 percent of her class from the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law in 2011 and founded her firm alongside Harrison Kemp in 2017. Respected by colleagues, looked to by peers and sought after by clients, Mann & Kemp has garnered a reputation for quality. While Mann primarily practices family law, her expertise also extends to such legal areas as appeals and estate planning and administration.

“My job is to help you get the best outcome, and to help you get to that outcome sometimes that means I may have to tell you to do something that makes you uncomfortable,” she said. “I may give you advice to do or not do something that is different than what you want, but I do that because I know or can anticipate what we need to do to get the best outcome in the end.”

Whether navigating child custody and property division or getting one’s estate and affairs in order, Mann has helped scores of clients take their next steps with clarity and confidence. Her no-excuses, results-driven approach is the true mark of one of AY About You’s “Best of Lawyers.”

Divorce, Property Division, Alimony | Child Custody & Child Support Estate Planning, Wills & Trusts | Appeals | Probate & Estate Administration Recognition from AY About You and Arkansas Money & Politics Arkansas Money & Politics “Legal Elite” (2025, 2024, 2023) Arkansas Money & Politics “Power Women” Arkansas Money & Politics “Masters in Their Fields” (Family Law) Arkansas Money & Politics “Faces of” (Divorce Law) AY About You “Intriguing Women” AY About You “Best of Lawyers” (2026, 2025, 2024, 2023)

501-222-7378 | mannkemp.com 221 W. Second St., Suite 408, Little Rock 115

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2026

BEST OF LAWYERS

J.R. Baxter LITIGATION

Baxter Law Firm

Flying High

By ALEX HARDGRAVE // Photo courtesy of BAXTER LAW FIRM

J.

R. Baxter is the definition of a lifelong learner, and his curiosity of many different fields has served him well throughout his career in law.

Baxter attended the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, which is where he first began to pursue law through some prelaw classes.

“I had a deep interest in politics and things like that early on,” he said. “Then, once I got to college and started taking some prelaw classes there, I loved that, and that sealed the deal.”

He went on to law school, and though he found it academically challenging, he said he also really loved it. That passion showed throughout his time in school, and he graduated second in the 2017 class.

“I get to help people when they’re injured and also get to use my law degrees within other areas.”

While in college, he received accolades, including winning the 2015 William H. Sutton Barrister’s Union Trial Competition and the 2016 Ben J. Altheimer Moot Court Competition.

He also enjoyed the community law school and has kept in touch with some fellow students who still practice in the state like himself. He now works at Baxter Law Firm in Benton alongside his father, Ray Baxter.

While J.R. practices many different areas of law, his passion lies in personal injury law.

“I get to help people when they’re injured and also get to use my law degrees within other areas,” he said. “I really find it fascinating when the law interacts with other fields.”

He said he enjoys that every day in his career is different and as a naturally curious person he also enjoys the opportunity to learn about different fields while preparing for cases. For example, when he works on a medical malpractice case, he has to learn as much as he can about that area of medicine, or for a car wreck case, he may have to learn about physics and crash reconstruction.

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While he really enjoys his work, he also joked that there is a “long list” of things he does not like about it, but really, it comes down to caring deeply about the people he serves.

“The hardest part is dealing with people in their lowest moments at their most challenging times,” he said. “While that can also be rewarding, getting them out of it, sometimes you’re dealing with situations where you can’t.”

A case that stands out to him so far in his career was one that got coverage in the New York Times. It was a fraud case that involved people being convinced to get a medical device removed at very expensive rates.

When Baxter is not working, he likes to pilot airplanes. He got his pilots license a few years ago in an effort to get over his fear of flying. It worked, and now he is “addicted” to flying airplanes.

He also enjoys spending time with his wife, Allie, his son, Jamie, and his two golden retrievers, Jackie O. and Fitz.

He said he hopes his future looks much like it does right now.

“I like the way my career has unfolded, and I want to continue what I’m doing,” he said.

REPRESENTING DESERVING INJURED VICTIMS FOR OVER 30 YEARS

PAUL BYRD

If you have been injured by a wrongdoer, please CALL us today. There is no obligation to you.

WE will review your case for FREE.

415 N. McKinley St., Suite 210 | Little Rock 501.420.3050 | paulbyrdlawfirm.com

2026

BEST OF LAWYERS

Andy L. Caldwell WORKERS’ COMP

Caldwell Law Firm

Standing Up for Arkansas’ Workers

By DWAIN HEBDA // Photo by KAT HOLITIK

T

here is a well-worn idiom that warns against letting the heart override the head in one’s career. “It’s not personal,” the saying goes. “It’s just business.”

For Andy Caldwell, founder of Caldwell Law Firm in Little Rock, nothing could be further from the truth. As an attorney specializing in workers’ compensation for nearly three decades, he knows the work he does determines if an injured family eats, gets medical care and pays the mortgage. That alone makes the work very, very personal, and Caldwell’s success shows how passion can be put to good use.

“I’d had enough of representing insurance companies, so I decided to go out on my own and start doing claimant’s work, representing injured workers.”

“There are always claims that probably should be denied, but there are also a lot of working Arkansans who don’t get benefits to which they’re entitled,” he said. “They’re in a pickle. They can’t work because they’re not getting the workers’ comp benefits. They can’t go to the doctor because a lot of them don’t have private insurance. They’re in a bind.”

After earning his undergraduate degree at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, Caldwell graduated from the University of Arkansas School of Law in Fayetteville and spent the first few years trying out different areas of the law. At each turn, the legal specialties he thought he wanted to practice — public defender, criminal defense and property law among them — all proved an ill fit.

His initial exposure to workers’ compensation law was practically an accident; a friend of his father, who was a partner at a Little Rock law firm, brought Caldwell aboard to do workers’ comp defense work. After seven years of learning the ropes from payers’ perspectives, Caldwell hung his shingle and switched sides.

“I’d had enough of representing insurance companies,” he said, “so I decided to go out on my own and start doing claimant’s work, representing injured workers.”

Caldwell said in addition to questions of fairness, the work he does also pays tangible dividends for the business community and society as a whole, since the timely delivery of workers’ comp benefits are often critical to employees getting back to living a productive working life.

“Not only does an employer lose an employee for a certain period of time, but if they’re a certain size of em-

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ployer, under the Family and Medical Leave Act, they have to keep that job open,” Caldwell said.

“They’re down an employee, but they can’t have somebody replace that person for a period of time.

“From the injured worker’s side, if they’re not getting their benefits and can’t work, they don’t have money coming in to feed their family or get treatment. They end up trying to get on all sorts of governmental benefits. I don’t want insurance companies putting the burden of what should be their responsibility on taxpayers.”

For as noble a cause as that sounds, Caldwell still has to fight tooth and nail for his clients, saying Arkansas is “a very employer-friendly state” when it comes to workers’ comp disputes.

He added that changing that through the statehouse has been slow in coming.

“It has been a hard row to hoe,” he said. “I’ve been doing this for almost 27 years, and when I first started, there were laws in effect that were somewhat friendly towards claimants. That’s not the case anymore.

“There are some changes that were started the last legislative session, but they were tabled.

It’s my understanding that there are some changes that will at least be looked at in committee, but of course, no one knows whether or not they’re going to make it through. Hopefully, some changes will be made. I think we still have a long way to go to get workers’ comp law at least somewhat consistent and just for both sides.”

Regardless of what politicians and big business does or does not do, Caldwell intends to remain standing in the breach between them and the working men and women of Arkansas who need help.

“I went into this field because I felt like there was a real need, and I’ve been doing it ever since,” he said. “I love what I do.”

Work injury? Call us now.

We represent clients all over Arkansas.

Let us help you get all of the workers’ compensation benefits to which you are entitled.

Thank You for recognizing me as one of

AY’s BEST LAWYERS

Andy L. Caldwell Attorney at Law

for 2026.

Caldwell Law Firm, P.A.

425 W. Capitol Ave., Suite 3180 • Little Rock 501.500.5512 Main Line • 501.500-5513 Direct Line 855.535-8485 Facsimile • caldwellfirm.org

WOMEN IN LAW 2026

Jillian

Wilson

The Wilson Law Group/ Foundation Legal Group Photo courtesy of FOUNDATION LEGAL GROUP

Family Traditions

M

any attorneys, even successful ones, did not consider going into the law as a first career choice. Not so with Jillian Wilson; given her pedigree, it would have been shocking if she had done anything else.

“I was very lucky to have both of my parents be lawyers, along with my grandfather, my mom’s dad,” she said. “We actually joke about how when I was 9 years old, I was asking my dad what I needed to do to take over his law firm.

“To his credit, my dad never looked at that like, oh, well, you have a brother; this seems more like something your brother would do. He just told me what I needed to do to take over.”

Wilson not only had that support from her father, the late Robbie Wilson, but she got an up-close look at the profession through the example of her mother, Jennifer Wilson-Harvey. A strong female role model, WilsonHarvey completed her law degree alongside a day job and raising children and took over the family firm after Robbie’s death in 2012.

“My mom got her law degree when I was young,” she said. “That was really neat to watch her as a kid grind during the day as a professional and then also go to law school. She inspired that drive in me, watching how hard she would work and what she could get out of it.”

In addition to launching the family firm, Wilson & Associates, focusing on creditor’s rights and mortgage banking representation, Robbie was a founder of the national attorney’s trade group USFN. Stepping into a leadership role, Jennifer branched out with the creation of the Wilson Law Group, comprised of multiple legal entities, including Wilson & Associates.

Today, Jillian serves as co-managing partner at Wilson Law Group and on the management committee for The Foundation Legal Group.

“Foundation Legal Group became the national default law firm, and we are using it to expand our footprint,” she said.

“Wilson & Associates was in Arkansas, Tennessee and Missis-

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sippi, and [through] Foundation Legal we are now in five states, adding North Carolina and South Carolina. We intend on being in 12 states by the end of the year.”

A lot goes into creating such an ambitious enterprise, the kind of corporate expertise that is very different from law school, Wilson said. Much of what has gone into expanding the reach and scope of the firm has come from hard work and lived experience, starting with providing great service to the clients in front of them. In that regard, Wilson has elevated herself to role model status in her own right.

“It’s definitely been a balancing act,” she said. “I had an active and full caseload when I made the decision to get my [Master of Business Administration] because I knew if I was going to do what I wanted to do, I needed to know how to run a business. It wasn’t just about how to practice law. The role I am in now has definitely exercised different muscles, having to make business decisions and financial decisions instead of just, like, ‘What’s on the docket today?’ It’s tough, but it’s manageable.

“If I had to describe myself, I think I would say ‘lawyer turned executive.’ When I finished law school and joined the firm, I was only practicing law. I spent a decade earning my stripes and figuring it out from that angle so that today, I have the experience that I need to actually talk about what it’s like to be a lawyer in this field.”

The company structure is also allowing expansion into different legal specialties, in addition to operating in additional states.

“I’ve always wanted to get into different types of law other than what my dad started the firm as,” she said. “We’ve turned Wilson & Associates into a general law practice, expanding not just our footprint but our skill set. That’s been really exciting.”

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lawyers

ARKANSAS’ BEST LAWYERS W

hether they are needed to help someone get out of a legal situation, set up a business or find resolutions to family issues, lawyers play a substantial role in keeping society moving forward.

According to the American Bar Association’s annual National Lawyer Population Survey, the number of attorneys in the country increased by 15.2 percent over the last decade. There are more than 1.33 million attorneys actively practicing law in the United States and more than 6,000 practicing in Arkansas. With so many to choose from, it can be difficult for a potential client to know they are getting the best representation possible. With that in mind, AY About You is highlighting the Arkansas Bar Association’s award-winning lawyers, as well as our readers’ choices for the best lawyers in the state.

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E

Letter From the President

lawyers

very day, attorneys across Arkansas make a difference — in courtrooms, boardrooms, law offices, classrooms and communities throughout our state. Through their dedication to clients, commitment to justice and service to others, they strengthen not only the legal profession but also the communities they call home.

The Arkansas Bar Association celebrates members of our profession whose leadership, excellence and service deserve recognition. We are proud to congratulate the recipients of this year’s Arkansas Bar Association and Arkansas Bar Foundation awards, whose contributions have enriched our association and advanced the legal profession in meaningful ways.

We also proudly recognize the attorneys who have reached the remarkable milestone of 50 years in the practice of law. Half a century of practicing law reflects a lifetime of learning, advocacy, mentorship and service. Their dedication has shaped our profession and inspired generations of Arkansas lawyers.

Whether being recognized for professional achievement, service to the bar or a lifetime devoted to the practice of law, each of these individuals represents the values that define our profession at its best. On behalf of the Arkansas Bar Association, congratulations to all who are recognized in these pages.

Congratulations to our 2026 Fifty-Year Honorees on reaching this extraordinary milestone, and thank you for your decades of service to your clients, your communities and the legal profession.

Presidential Award of Excellence: Glen Hoggard Golden Gavel Awards: Will Bond Margaret King Davis Bob Estes Judge Brent J. Eubanks Adam Jackson

Judge Shawn Johnson Harry A. Light Anthony L. McMullen Trent Minner Jasmine Richardson Aaron Squyres Caitlin Campbell Stepina Marty E. Sullivan Judge Joe J. Volpe

William A. Waddell Jr. Judge Joyce Williams Warren (retired) Other Awards: Evelyn E. Brooks Frank Elcan II Judith Ryan Gray Jason M. Hatfield Tory Hodges Lewis

Congratulations to the following members, who have been admitted to the practice of law in Arkansas for 50 years: Judge Raymond R. Abramson • William E. Bishop • C. Brantly Buck • Jim Carfagno Jr. • Barry E. Coplin • Carl A. Crow Charles Jefferson Gardner • Stephen C. Gardner • Michael R. Gott • Judge David R. Goodson (retired) • David Allen Grace Jill R. Jacoway • Joseph Philip James • Jesse L. Kearney • William H. Kennedy III • Michael R. Mayton • James K. Miller Donn Mixon • Kirby Mouser • Philip D. Oliver • C. Cary Patterson • Joseph H. Purvis • Donald P. Raney • Fred O. Roberson Jr. William S. Robinson • Douglas Richard Strock • Judge Terry M. Sullivan • Rex M. Terry • Jesse Wade Thompson Judge Joyce Williams Warren (retired) • Ernest W. Witt • Judge Thomas Duncan Wynne III • Charles A. Yeargan

The Arkansas Bar Foundation and the Arkansas Bar Association recently honored several persons and organizations for their outstanding contributions at the Annual Arkansas Bar Foundation Fellows’ Dinner in April: Mark Murphey Henry • Brian Brooks • Jeffrey E. McKinley • Brian M. Rosenthal • Harry Truman Moore Judge Timothy L. Brooks • Tyler H. Benson • Pulaski County Bar Association • Sebastian County Bar Association Rep. Carol Dalby 129th President, Arkansas Bar Association

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lawyers Arkansas Bar Association Annual Award Recipients Presidential Award of Excellence Glen Hoggard; Hoggard Law Firm, Little Rock: in appreciation of his dedicated service and steadfast leadership as secretary over six years, supporting the continued work and mission of the association.

Golden Gavel Awards Will Bond; McMath Woods, Little Rock: in recognition of his leadership and contributions in support of the Annual Meeting Golf Tournament.

Margaret King Davis; Taylor King Law, Little Rock: in recognition of her leadership and dedication in organizing and presenting a hands-on mock trial workshop for Arkansas students and educators.

Bob Estes; attorney at law, Fayetteville: in recognition of his leadership and service as chair of the redistricting committee.

Judge Brent J. Eubanks; circuit judge, 6th Judicial Circuit, 17th Division: in recognition of his leadership and service on the public education task force.

Adam Jackson; deputy prosecuting attorney, White County, 17th Judicial District: in recognition of his leadership and dedication in organizing and presenting a hands-on mock trial workshop for Arkansas students and educators.

Judge Shawn Johnson; judge, Division 14, 6th Judicial Circuit: in recognition of his leadership and service as co-chair of the 128th annual meeting.

Harry A. Light; Friday, Eldredge & Clark, Little Rock: in recognition of his service and contributions to the law school committee.

Anthony L. McMullen; associate professor of business law, University of Central Arkansas, Conway: in recognition of his leadership and dedication in organizing and presenting a hands-on mock trial workshop for Arkansas students and educators.

Trent Minner; Cadron Strategy Group, Little Rock: in recognition of his leadership and dedicated service as co-chair of the 2026 Public Service Academy.

Jasmine Richardson; director, marketing & public relations, Friday, Eldredge & Clark, Little Rock: in recognition of her leadership and contributions as producer of the ArkBar OnAir podcast.

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lawyers

Golden Gavel Awards Aaron Squyres; Foundation Legal Group, Little Rock: in recognition of his leadership and service on the section task force.

Caitlin Campbell Stepina; Acxiom, Little Rock: in recognition of her leadership and dedicated service as co-chair of the 2026 Public Service Academy.

Marty E. Sullivan; director, Administrative Office of the Courts: in recognition of his leadership in organizing the Legal Hall of Fame Speaker Series in partnership with the Administrative Office of the Courts.

Judge Joe J. Volpe; United States Magistrate Judge for the Eastern District of Arkansas: in recognition of his leadership and service as co-chair of the 128th annual meeting.

William A. Waddell Jr.; Friday, Eldredge & Clark, Little Rock: in recognition of his work in developing and leading the four-part Devil in the Grove book club podcast series.

Judge Joyce Williams Warren (retired); Little Rock: in recognition of her leadership and service as the inaugural speaker in the Legal Luminaries—Lighting the Path Series, part of the Arkansas Bar Association’s Legal Hall of Fame Speaker Series, and for her continued contributions to the profession as a 2024 Hall of Fame Honoree.

Other Awards Maurice Cathey Award: Tory Hodges Lewis, Taylor & Taylor Law Firm, Little Rock: in recognition of her contributions and service to The Arkansas Lawyer magazine.

CLE Leadership Award: Jason M. Hatfield, Law Office of Jason M. Hatfield, Springdale: in recognition of his outstanding leadership and commitment in planning the Workers’ Compensation Conference and his meaningful contributions to continuing legal education.

Judith Ryan Gray Young Lawyer Service Award: Eli Cummins, LaPorte-Jenner Law, Little Rock: in appreciation of his outstanding efforts to support and strengthen the Young Lawyers Section.

CLE Leadership Award: Evelyn E. Brooks, Tolley & Brooks Law Firm, Fayetteville: in recognition of her outstanding leadership and commitment in planning the Workers’ Compensation Conference and her meaningful contributions to continuing legal education.

Frank Elcan, II Young Lawyers Leadership Award: Samuel W. Mason, Oliver Law Firm, Rogers: in appreciation of his leadership, commitment, and service to the Young Lawyers Section.

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lawyers Arkansas Bar Foundation and Arkansas Bar Association 2026 Annual Awards The Arkansas Bar Foundation was established in 1958 to support efforts at improving the administration of justice.

The foundation’s mission is to promote educational, literary, scientific and charitable purposes, and it is classified as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.

Founded in 1898, the Arkansas Bar Association is the premier legal association in the state. As a voluntary organization of more than 5,000 members, the Association’s primary mission is to support attorneys; advance the practice of law; advocate for the legal profession; foster professionalism, civility and integrity; and protect the rule of law.

The Arkansas Bar Association is honored to partner with the Arkansas Bar Foundation to recognize individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, professionalism and commitment continue to strengthen the legal profession and serve the people of Arkansas. These awards celebrate excellence across the profession and highlight those who embody the highest standards of integrity, dedication and impact.

Outstanding Lawyer Award: Mark Murphey Henry — Presented to an attorney who has demonstrated exceptional professional achievement, leadership, and service to the legal profession and the community.

Special Award of Merit: Brian Brooks — Presented in recognition of significant contributions to the legal profession, the administration of justice, or the public good.

Outstanding Lawyer-Citizen Award: Jeffrey E. McKinley — Presented to an attorney who has made a meaningful impact beyond the practice of law through community service, civic involvement and leadership.

Legal Legacy Award of Excellence: Brian M. Rosenthal — Presented to an individual whose career reflects a lasting and distinguished contribution to the legal profession and the state of Arkansas.

James H. McKenzie Professionalism Award: Harry Truman Moore — Presented to an attorney who exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and civility in the practice of law.

Outstanding Jurist Award: Judge Timothy L. Brooks — Presented to a member of the judiciary who has demonstrated excellence in judicial service, integrity and commitment to the fair administration of justice.

Equal Justice Distinguished Service Award: Tyler H. Benson — Presented in recognition of outstanding efforts to promote equal access to justice and to serve those in need within the legal system.

Outstanding Local Bar Association: Pulaski County Bar Association Outstanding Local Bar Association: Sebastian County Bar Association

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Cure Sometimes, Treat Often, Comfort Always

T

he father of medicine, Hippocrates, is quoted as saying, “Wherever the art of medicine is loved, there is also a love of humanity.” The man who brought us the Hippocratic Oath was perhaps the first to recognize the true value of healthcare professionals and the extraordinary weight of responsibility they carry.

The medical field is a lot more complicated than it was in Hippocrates’ day, obviously. Advanced diagnostic tools, surgical robots, immunotherapy, and other new techniques and technologies have changed the way doctors treat disease, improving outcomes for patients.

Plus, the skills of those doctors have become significantly more focused on a chosen area of practice. Over the course of a patient’s life, he or she is likely to visit not just the family physician but specialists ranging from allergists, cardiologists and gastroenterologists to rheumatologists, oncologists and more.

The specialization continues within those fields, in which an orthopedic surgeon may spend years honing their skills to reconstruct the hands or feet, preventing patients from living with a permanent disability, or limit their practice exclusively to orthopedic trauma surgery.

Other letters have emerged after the names of medical practitioners besides just the standard “M.D.,” as well. Nurse practitioners of all specialties have been making great strides, providing compassionate care in lieu of physicians in areas ranging from primary care to mental health, obstetrics and gynecology, and more.

That is not to mention the many other professionals in healthcare, from physician assistants and registered nurses to counselors,

dentists, physical therapists, estheticians and others. While their knowledge is diverse, all subscribe to the basic principles set forth

by Hippocrates nearly 2,500 years ago.

Each year, AY About You recognizes healers of all kinds during its annual celebration of health care, highlighted by “AY ’s Best Healthcare Professionals.” An extensive — but not comprehensive — list of the top medical professionals in Arkansas, the list draws on nominations from readers, who are always eager to brag on the doctors, dentists, nurses and others who are so vital to one’s health and well-being.

This list not only shines a well-deserved spotlight on some of the finest medical minds in the state, but it is intended to serve as a resource for those looking for a trusted practitioner to help with their ailments. No matter where in the state one lives or what particular specialty they are looking for, it is likely to be found in “AY’s Best Healthcare Professionals.”

There are plenty of other engaging healthcare-related reads in the pages that follow. AY will dedicate some ink to the body’s largest organ — the skin — in two articles highlighting the latest advancements in skincare and dermatology. Plus, we shine a spotlight on some notable medical professionals to see what is new in each of their industries.

AY About You takes pride in honoring the remarkable medical talent to be found in Arkansas each year. To all those who help keep the state well, thank you. We are truly grateful for the work you do to keep your friends, neighbors, loved ones and even ourselves healthy.

To your health!

GYNECOLOGY • WELLNESS • AESTHETICS

PHYSCIAN-LED WELLNESS & AESTHETICS Founded and led by respected women’s health expert Dr. Heather Owens, Women First Gynecology & Wellness Clinic in Little Rock is dedicated to exceptional, patient-center care delivered with expertise, empathy and grace. The clinic reflects Owens’ guideing philosophy as a provider: “I am patient advocate, first and foremost, always,”.

Women First provides a refined suite of services, including gynecologic exams, mammography, menopause and perimenopause management, contraception counseling, hormone optimization therapy, sexual health advocacy, weight management, and breast care. Women First is also a leader in hormone replacement therapy.

The clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including an on-site mammography suite that ensures timely, screening imaging in a supportive setting. Ownes is also highly skilled in managing abnormal pap smears, resolving painful intercourse and performing a range of gynecological surgeries. “ I strive to provide the best patient-centered care to every woman regardless of her stage of life,” Owens said. “I have committed to spending my life advocating for women to receive the best care and have the best quality of life.”

Meet Dr. Owens

Owens is board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, a fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and a proud member of the Arkansas Medical Society. Her tenure as an assistant professor at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock was marked by accolades, including the prestigious Association of Professors of Gynecology Award for Excellence in Resident Education.

“Practicing medicine requires lifelong learning, listening with care and a willingness to work exhaustively to enhance your own knowledge and provide the best care,” Owens said. “I have a willingness to change my practice methods and advocate for patients at any time, regardless of previously held beliefs about any particular treatment. I want my patients to fell heard at all times – their needs come first.”

Dr. Owens, M.D.

Hormone Replacement Therapy In a world where the nuanced needs of perimenopausal women are too often overlooked or misunderstood, Owens stands as a passionate advocate for change. At Women First Gynecology & Wellness Clinic, Dr. Owens is redefining what it means to age gracefully and empowering women to embrace this transformative stage of life with confidence. Women First clinic is also proud to offer on-site labratory services, ensuring patients receive timely and accurate test results without the wait.

Caityln Barnhill, APRN

Mammography

In alliance with Baptist Breast Center which offers world-class care, the latest mammogram technology allows peace of mind with easy access and no waiting. No matter the reason for a patient’s visit, it is simple to mark a mammogram off the to do list. “I have time for you,” said mammographer Cyndi Szarmach. “My schedule and Dr. Owens allow me the time to answer all your questions, unlike any other place I’ve worked.”

• World-Class Alliance: Partnered with Baptist Breast Center to provide top-tier clinical expertise.

• Advanced Technology: Utilizing state-of-the-art imaging to give patients ultimate peace of mind.

• Effortless & Efficient: Enjoy easy clinic access and zero wait times to easily check this off the list.

Cyndi Szarmach, RT (R) (M) CBDT

• Dedicated Time: Schedules are protected so patients never feel like their questions are being rushed.

Wellness & Aesthetics R E D E F I N E D

Dr. Owens, MD

Caitlyn Barnhill, APRN

Dr. Owens has invested heavily in the most modern equipment, such as the two INMODE machines, the Morpheous V and the Optimus, that offer many different modalities to improve womens’ wellness for most aspects of vaginal rejuvenation and external skin care.

The clinic offers nitrous oxide and other anesthetic options for alleviating discomfort of various treatment modalities, including vaginal laxity, urnary incontinence, IUD placement, noninvasive and surgical vaginal rejuvenation.

From tailor-made weight loss programs and advanced therapies to an in-office surgical suite for procedures that alleviate heavy menses and evaluate abnormal bleeding, the goal at Women First is whole-body care.

“I read constantly about anything new regarding enhancing patient comfort and longetivity when it comes to their sexual and general health and making their health care experience as comfortable as possible,” Owens said.

InMode-Morpheus8V + Forma V • Morpheus8V Vaginal rejuvenation: for urinary incontinence, pelvic floor weakness, vaginal dryness or discomfort during intercourse • Forma V: noninvasive radio frequency labial tightening

InMode-Optimas Max

Jennifer DeVore, RN, Nurse Injector

• Lumecca IPL Photorejuvenation: targets brown spots, uneven tone, visible blood vessels • Morpheus8 RF Microneedling for Face & Body: targets fine lines & wrinkles, enlarged pores, loose skin, uneven tone, scarring, cellulite • DioLaze Laser Hair Removal: reduces unwanted hair growth on face and body • Permanet Hair Removal: bikini to whole body

Aesthetics

Injectables • Botox: softens fine lines and static wrinkles McKenna Robertson, LE • Juvederm Filler: improves volume loss and restores natural skin structure

GYNECOLOGY • WELLNESS • AESTHETICS 9600 Baptist Health Drive, Suite 340 | Little Rock womenfirstclinic.com

501-248-0200

womenfirstgynecology womenfirstclinic

• Customized facials: tailored skin treaments designed to support healthy, refreshed skin • Chemical Peels: accelerates cell turnover to support a brighter complexion • Microdermabrasion: manually buffs dead skin to create a smoother, more even complexion • Dermaplane: gently exfoliates dead skin while removing peach fuzz • Hydrodermabrasion: infuses skin with hydration and nutrients as it exfoliates to reveal clearer, more radiant skin

health

Skin DEEP

HEALTHY, BEAUTIFUL SKIN TAKES A MIX OF MEDICAL, COSMETIC HELP

By ALEX HARDGRAVE

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health

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any people, especially as they age, are looking for the newest and greatest ways to fight off Father Time by erasing signs of aging.

“Aging is a personal experience, and many people have specific complaints that bother them,” said Dr. Brian Wayne of Little Rock Dermatology.

However, to have healthy-looking skin, it is important to have medically healthy skin, which starts with getting it regularly checked by a trusted dermatologist.

“A lot of people, when they come in to see us, they’re worried about the cosmetic signs of sun damage, which are brown spots, wrinkles, sagging skin,” said Dr. Missy Clifton of Premier Dermatology in Bentonville, “but there are more serious consequences of chronic damage over the years, and that is increased risk of skin cancer.”

Many local dermatology offices start with a consultation appointment and use advanced technology to scan and map patients’ faces, getting an in-depth look at many things about the person’s skin. A device called VISIA shows hyperpigmentation, sun damage, dilated blood vessels, fine lines, deeper lines, skin hydration and even how much bacteria is in the pores on an individual’s face.

“It shows literally everything,” said Leah Marpel, esthetician at Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa in Little Rock.

“It shows your pores. It shows pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. It even shows things that aren’t to the surface yet.”

Another device is called the Oura. It is more often used to show where people have lost volume in their face and could consider certain fillers to help with that.

“We use both devices, as well as questionnaires, to hone in on what a patient’s skin care needs really are and then make an appropriate regimen,” Clifton said.

With modern technology, dermatologists can determine customized care plans, which can include a skincare routine, medications, and even suggestions for various types of facials or laser treatments.

Despite all the warnings and research, skin cancer from sun damage is still one of the most common issues that skin professionals diagnose and treat.

“We are seeing more skin cancer than ever,” said Dr. Hayden Franks, owner of Franks Dermatology in Little Rock.

“The sun can cause a lot of different problems, everything from

“Aging is a personal experience, and many people have specific complaints that bother them” — Dr. Brian Wayne, Little Rock Dermatology

permanent freckles to wrinkles to enlarged pores.”

Even young people can get skin cancer despite possibly feeling like that is not something they need to think about until later in life, he said.

Wayne said although he has not necessarily seen an increase in young people tanning, he understands that the repercussions for tanning can feel further away when someone is younger.

“Young people aren’t thinking about the effects that unprotected sun exposure can bring later in life — quicker skin aging and increased skin cancer — because these consequences are delayed,” Wayne said.

The earlier people start to care for their skin, the better it will continue to look and the healthier it will stay, Marpel said.

“Starting in your 20s, or starting younger even, with skin care just gives a good refresh to the skin,” she added. “It’s a good time to start before there are things to correct.”

It can be hard to determine which spots on skin are dangerous and which are not. Wayne

“There are more serious consequences of chronic damage over the years, and that is increased risk of skin cancer” — Dr. Missy Clifton, Premier Dermatology

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health “The earlier people start to care for their skin, the better it will continue to look and the healthier it will stay” — Leah Marpel, esthetician, Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa

said any mole or spot that changes in size, shape or color, starts bleeding spontaneously, does not heal in a few weeks, or rapidly grows is something worth getting checked by a dermatologist.

“I teach patients about the ‘ugly duckling’ sign for checking themselves,” he said. “Any mole that looks different from all the rest should be checked.”

The best ways to protect against skin damage due to the sun are simple. Dermatologists recommend avoiding being in the sun whenever possible, especially from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Hats, UV protective clothing and sunglasses are essential for safe outdoor time. Also, do not forget about sunscreen — everywhere.

“I tell patients that I have become more intentional with remembering to apply sunscreen on my neck, ears — areas that are easily forgotten,” Wayne said. “Over my career, I have seen many bad skin cancers in these areas.”

Clifton recommended using a mineral-based sunscreen versus one with chemicals because as those chemicals break down in the sun, they can cause harm to the skin, as well.

She recommended looking for sunscreen containing only zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. However, any sunscreen is better than none.

“From what we can tell, the chemical exposure from sunscreens is not nearly as dangerous as sun exposure without sunscreen,” Franks said.

Another extremely common issue dermatologists deal with is acne, especially among younger patients. A patient with acne may need a topical medication or antibiotic to help, which is something a dermatologist can prescribe, but their work can also be helped by cosmetic treatments such as regular facials. Many local skin professionals offer those cosmetic treatments alongside pharmacological ones.

At Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa, staff not only specialize in the more invasive plastic surgery procedures but also a wide range of facials.

Marpel said the top three most popular facials she performs are the HydraFacial, DiamondGlow facial and Glo2Facial. They all have similar steps, such as exfoliating, extracting and infusing, but infuse the skin with different serums. The best one to go with depends on the client and their skin goals.

Marpel said skin should have a good professional exfoliation every four to six weeks, but what a clients do in between their facials is also important.

“Maintaing a healthy skin barrier is going to come down

to a consistent daily routine,” she said. “Cleanse, hydrate and protect. You want to start off with a good moisturizer and a good sunscreen and then add in some type of exfoliation a few times a week on top of your monthly facial.”

Many medical spas and dermatologists offices offer a range of reputable medical-grade skincare services and can give recommendations based on a specific patient’s skin type. It is best to get those product recommendations from trusted professionals rather than online influencers.

“New products come out every year,” Franks said. “It’s our job to keep up with the research and to assess each patient individually to determine if those products are good for them.”

Many skincare mistakes the local dermatologists point to have been exacerbated by the internet and influencers, who all give different information and product recommendations when it comes to skincare.

The first thing these dermatologists stress is that when it comes to a daily skincare routine, simpler is better — no need to have one of those 10-step skincare regimens.

“It is important to use gentle products with evidence-based ingredients,” Wayne said. “They do not have to cost more and should not irritate the skin. Natural products are fine, but you can still have irritation or even allergic reactions from them. Having more skincare steps increases the risk of irritation, increases the cost and ends up having products without proven benefits.”

Clifton said another thing people tend to do is overexfoliate and overcleanse, especially if they have oily or acne-prone skin.

“That overdries the skin and irritates the skin and actually makes the acne worse,” she said.

Along with facials and medical-grade proven skincare products, patients can also consider more invasive treatments such as lasers.

Lasers come in many different types and can do many things to a person’s skin. One popular laser treatment is the Forever Clear BBL.

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“From what we can tell, the chemical exposure from sunscreens is not nearly as dangerous as sun exposure without sunscreen” — Dr. Hayden Franks, Franks Dermatology

It uses broadband light to “comfortably and effectively clear acne without creams or medicine,” Premier Dermatology’s website states.

Marpel said laser treatments are better to get during the cooler winter or fall months because a patient’s skin can be very sensitive afterward.

Clifton described skin after a laser treatment as being “brand-new baby skin.”

There are certain types of lasers that can even help prevent spots from being more serious.

“It can be very helpful to prevent skin cancer down the road if they’ve had a lot of sun exposure in their life,” Clifton said.

Medical and cosmetic care are both important in maintaining skin that is healthy and that a patient feels confident in.

“A big part of what we emphasize is that those things should go hand in hand,” Franks said. “[Treatments] are going to make your skin feel better, it’s going to make your skin look better, but most importantly, it’s just going to make your skin better.”

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Combining expertise in Internal Medicine, hormone optimization, weight management, longevity medicine, and Aesthetic Medicine, Dr. Pabona provides a comprehensive approach to patient care while also serving as a Research Director and Core Faculty member for an Internal Medicine Residency Program.

A physician-scientist, Dr. Pabona has authored multiple research publications with more than 800 citations and serves as a peer reviewer for scientific and medical journals. Most recently, Dr. Pabona was invited as a speaker at the 7th Edition World Congress on Endocrine, Diabetes and Metabolism, held June 22–24, 2026, in Barcelona, Spain. He presented his lecture, “GLP-1-Based Therapies and Beyond: Integrating Metabolic Modulation, Hormone Optimization, and Longevity Medicine in Obesity Management,” highlighting advances in obesity treatment and precision medicine.

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health

Inner Glow

Healthy lifestyle key to a comely complexion, but cosmetic techniques can help

By SARAH DECLERK

E

ver notice how some people are able to maintain smooth, radiant skin well into their golden years, while others seem to find a new wrinkle every day? It is not just luck. Marina Ivanovsky, nurse practitioner and owner of Marina Lifestyle Medicine in Little Rock, said there is a saying that applies to skin health: “Genetics loads the gun, but lifestyle pulls the trigger.”

“Daily lifestyle habits have more of an impact on skin than skincare products in my opinion,” added Jennifer Gabbard, registered nurse and co-owner of The Skin Retreat in Little Rock.

Dr. Suzanne Yee, surgeon and medical director at Dr. Suzanne Yee Cosmetic & Laser Surgery Center in Little Rock, agreed that genetics, hormones, lifestyle and environmental factors all play a role in aging and skin health.

“I often tell patients that beautiful skin is not created by a single treatment or product,” Yee added. “It is the result of a combination of healthy lifestyle habits, consistent skincare, sun protection and, when appropriate, professional treatments. When we take care of our overall health, our skin often reflects it.”

THE GOOD LIFE Many people already know that a healthy diet, adequate hydration, plenty of exercise, and avoiding skin-sabotaging habits such as smoking, drinking and tanning are critical to maintaining a flawless complexion. Skin health reflects overall health, Ivanovsky said, so any efforts to achieve glowing skin must start with a foundation of wellness.

“Procedures and skincare work much better when the patient also

supports the body with healthy habits,” she said. “I always tell patients that great skin is a combination of good products, smart treatments and lifestyle.”

Gabbard named diet as one of the most important factors when it comes to skin conditions.

“The goal to optimize your skin health is to decrease inflammation, keep blood sugar stable and increase protein intake, which builds collagen, the structural support for your skin,” she said. “Avoid highly processed food, as these contribute to so many of our skin conditions.”

Foods high in healthy fats such as avocados reduce inflammation and protect the skin barrier, she said, while antioxidants found in berries and leafy greens protect the skin against damage from ultraviolet light, pollution and metabolic stress.

She also recommended taking multivitamins to ensure adequate amounts of skin-boosting micronutrients such as zinc, vitamin A, selenium and copper, as well as drinking plenty of water to promote skin plumpness and healing.

In Arkansas, sun exposure is one of the biggest contributors to skin problems, leading to discoloration, wrinkles, the loss of collagen and even skin cancer, Yee said. She advised wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen rated SPF 30 or higher to stay protected.

“If someone commits to only one antiaging product, sunscreen is by far the most important,” she said.

AGING GRACEFULLY Skin undergoes many changes throughout life, Yee said. During

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the teenage years, hormonal fluctuations often contribute to acne and increased oil production, she said. Prevention is key during one’s 20s and 30s, Ivanovsky added, encouraging young adults to focus on sunscreen, antioxidants and early retinoid use.

By their 40s and 50s, people may begin noticing fine lines, pigmentations, and a loss of elasticity and volume, Yee said. For women, menopause can lead to thinner, drier skin and a more rapid loss of collagen and facial volume, she said.

She added that although men tend to show signs of aging later due to thicker skin and higher collagen density, the changes often happen more suddenly and dramatically, making proper skincare just as important to men as it is to women.

“Prevention is always easier and often more effective than trying to reverse years of damage,” she added. “Small, consistent steps over time can make a significant difference in how your skin ages.”

During one’s 60s and beyond, skin becomes thinner and more fragile as collagen, elastin, and fat and bone resorption continue to decline, which can lead to wrinkling, skin laxity and changes in facial contours, she said.

Jennifer Gabbard (Photo provided)

“My philosophy is that aging is inevitable, but looking tired doesn’t have to be,” Yee added. “By understanding how the skin changes over time, we can help patients maintain healthy, vibrant skin at every stage of life.”

GETTING INTO A ROUTINE Skincare routines do not have to be complicated. Gabbard recommended starting with one to three products and building from there. A great skincare routine incorporates a sunscreen, cleanser and moisturizer daily, as well as an exfoliator one to three times a week, an optional retinoid and targeted products based on skin goals, she said.

“For optimum results, I would recommend they come in for a consult to assess their skin type and needs,” she added. “At that point, I would help them establish a plan to get started to build on and educate them on products and ingredients specific to their needs and related to their budget.”

Marina Ivanovsky (Photo provided)

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Dr. Suzanne Yee (Photo provided)

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It is best not to change products too frequently, she added, since it takes about 12 weeks to see a product’s results. She also advised consumers not to believe everything they see on social media and said that, when it comes to skincare products, the less ingredients, the better.

Ivanovsky also stressed the importance of being a smart consumer, reading the first three ingredients on a label when assessing a product and learning to discern marketing tricks from true quality.

“We at the clinic help people to navigate this confusing task,” she said. “They bring in their bags full of skincare they bought that TikTok or Instagram recommended them, but they don’t know why they bought it. We go through the ingredients list and try to help patients navigate this.”

BEYOND THE BASICS There are many treatments available to help maintain beautiful skin and combat skin conditions. Many professionals stack multiple treatments to help patients achieve a desired result.

“Sometimes it takes multiple modalities to address one condition,” Ivanovsky said. “It usually leads to better outcomes. During our complimentary consultation, we will create a personalized, comprehensive skin rejuvenation plan. It could include topical medical-grade or prescription skin care; laser treatment; wrinkle relaxer; and collagen stimulators.”

Treatments could vary based on one’s age, ethnicity, skin condition and even the time of year, she said, noting that laser treatments are

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best done between September and May, when there is less sun exposure.

Facials are one of the more well-known treatments. Gabbard said that although her practice offers traditional facials customized to each patient’s skin needs, her go-to procedure is the hydrafacial.

“This is a facial treatment that combines cleansing, exfoliation, pure extraction, hydration and serum infusion in one single treatment,” she said. “Unlike traditional facials, it uses a suction device to remove debris while simultaneously infusing a customized solution into your skin.”

Both Yee and Ivanovsky mentioned DiamondGlow as one of their most popular facials. The treatment combines exfoliation, extraction and the infusion of professionalgrade serums using a diamond-tipped device.

health

Laser dark spot removal

“It is excellent for improving skin texture, pigmentation, dryness and overall skin health while delivering customized serums deep into the skin,” Yee said. “It is appropriate for most skin types and is ideal for improving hydration, texture, pore congestion and overall skin radiance with little to no downtime.”

Many may also be familiar with neuromodulators such as Botox or Dysport, which Gabbard said are used to treat expression lines, provide a smoother appearance and prevent deeper lines from occurring. Also popular are hyaluronic acid fillers such as Restylane, Juvéderm and RHA fillers, which fill lines and provide facial volume.

“Before using injectables, people should consider provider experience, facial anatomy, safety, realistic expectations and whether the result will look natural,” Ivanovsky said.

Skin resurfacing is another phrase consumers may have heard. It encompasses a range of treatments to improve the texture and appearance of skin.

“Most people think of this as peeling layers of skin off, but it actually refers to a treatment that improves skin appearance by removing damaged surface cells and stimulating new collagen,” Gabbard said.

She added that there are various levels of resurfacing. Light resurfacing includes techniques such as hydrafacials or dermaplaning,

while moderate resurfacing could include microneedling and nonablative lasers, she said.

Yee noted that dermaplaning gently removes dead skin cells and fine facial hair, leaving the skin smoother and allowing products to penetrate more deeply. Microneedling creates tiny microchannels in the skin to stimulate the body’s natural collagen and elastin production, she said.

“Patients should understand that skin resurfacing is not just about looking younger — it’s about improving skin health and quality,” she added. “Proper skincare, sun protection and following posttreatment instructions are essential for achieving the best results and maintaining them over time.”

Deeper resurfacing can also be achieved with deep chemical peels or erbium lasers such as the Sciton Contour Tunable Resurfacing Laser, Gabbard said.

“Obviously, the deeper you go, the better the result but, also, the longer the downtime,” she said. “This can vary from one to two days to two weeks.”

She said she is excited about the new Sofwave ultrasound treatment, a skin-tightening device that lifts skin without any downtime.

“This also targets crepey skin, which, in the past, has been impossible to treat,” she said.

Another treatment is platelet-rich plasma, which Yee said can be injected or combined

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with treatments such as microneedling to improve skin texture, tone and overall radiance.

“Sometimes referred to as ‘liquid gold,’ it is derived from the patient’s own blood and contains concentrated growth factors that stimulate healing and collagen production,” she said. “It is a natural option for patients seeking rejuvenation using their body’s own regenerative capabilities.”

Surgical fat transfer and nonsurgical fat fillers can help with volume loss as people age, she added, while more significant skin laxity or facial aging can be addressed with surgical options such as eyelid surgery, endoscopic brow lifts, facelifts and neck rejuvenation.

Gabbard said she has seen increased interest in improving skin longevity using regenerative medicines such as exosomes, biostimulators and platelet-derived growth factors.

Biostimulators such as Sculptra promote collagen stimulation over time, she added, while PDGF promotes rapid healing and can also be used for hair growth.

“The future is moving toward regenerative, personalized and combination-based treatments,” Ivanovsky said, adding that new technologies also include skin-analysis tools that use artificial intelligence and treatments to improve skin at the cellular level. “I think the next generation of aesthetics will be less about chasing wrinkles and more about improving biology.” aymag.com

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AY's Best Healthcare Professionals

To be called a professional is among the highest of compliments in any industry, and when that industry is medicine, the honor of being considered among the elite is amplified. Physicians and nurses of every specialty and background contribute immeasurably to the community by literally seeing to its well-being.

Each year, AY About You asks its readers to nominate the medical professionals who they believe exemplify the highest ideals of compassionate, skillful care, and every year, the public responds in droves, resulting in a list of some of the best medical professionals Arkansas has to offer. This year's roster, as always, recognizes the best, most skilled and most admired members of the medical community.

AY About You is proud to salute the many men and women across our state who work every single day to improve the lives of our neighbors, friends and loved ones.

AESTHETICS SIDNEY BENNETT, RN Beyond Wellness

MARIA BOWDON, LE Arkansas Plastic Surgery

EMMA CASCIO, CMA Beauty Boss Co.

REAGAN CODY, RN Beyond Wellness

MONICA COOPER, LE Sei Bella Med Spa

Infinity Signature Aesthetics

Little Rock Allergy & Asthma Clinic

ASHLEY N. STONER, M.D.

KRISTIN PATTON, M.D., FACS

CARLY WESTERMAN, LE

ADESUA O. WEJINYA, M.D., FACAAI, FAAAAI

Baptist Health Bariatric Center-Little Rock

TERRI WELLS, APRN

Elevation Aesthetics/Elevation Med Spa

MAEGAN WHITEHEAD, LE

Hedberg Allergy & Asthma Center

ALLERGY/IMMUNOLOGY

ANESTHESIOLOGY ROBERT C. BAKER, M.D.

Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa

Arkansas Bariatric Institute

ERIC M. PAUL, M.D.

LEWIS PORTER, M.D., FACS Saline Health System

Arkansas Children's Hospital

ANIL BADHWAR, M.D. Unity Health

BRENT BLAKELY, M.D.

The Breast Center, A MANA Clinic

VERNON BREWER, M.D.

The Breast Center, A MANA Clinic

Unity Health

MATTHEW C. BELL, M.D.

BREAST RADIOLOGY BRITTON B. LOTT, M.D. KELLY A. PIERCE, M.D.

ERIN COURTWAY, APRN

Arkansas Children’s Northwest

BRANDE DANIELS, RN, BSN

Arkansas Allergy & Asthma Clinic

BRIAN BURTON, CRNA

JOANNE ROBERTS, MIS, RRA, RDMS, RT(R)

JENNY M. CAMPBELL, M.D., FACAAI, FAAAAI

PRICE HOLMES, CRNA

STACY SMITH-FOLEY, M.D.

MEREDITH DILLEY, M.D., MPH

JED KINNICK, M.D.

Prism Aesthetics

Ageless Aesthetics of Arkansas

JENNIFER GABBARD, RN Shewmake Plastic Surgery

OLIVIA GEATER, LE Beauty Boss Co.

Unity Health

KELLY D. BURKS, M.D.

Unity Health Unity Health

Hedberg Allergy & Asthma Center

Arkansas Children's Hospital

Arkansas Otolaryngology Center

PAIGE KELLY, BSN, RN

TERRY HARVILLE, M.D., Ph.D.

BRETT ROBERSON, CRNA

SYDNEY MAYO, RN, LE

CURTIS L. HEDBERG, M.D., FACP

KIMBERLY SHAFFER, M.D.

ALEXA MEDLOCK, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

ALISON L. HUMPHREY, M.D.

MOHAMED TOLBA, M.D.

THERESA J. MOIX, APRN

JIM M. INGRAM, M.D.

Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa Beauty Boss Co.

Medlock Aesthetics

JOHN MARK PABONA, M.D. FACP, ABIM, AAAM

Little Rock Allergy & Asthma Clinic

Painted Rock Health and Wellness

KASSIE ROBERTSON, APRN

Elevation Aesthetics/Elevation Med Spa

MCKENNA ROBERTSON, LE

Women First Gynecology & Wellness Clinic

Arkansas Methodist Medical, Arkansas Spine and Pain

Baxter Health

Little Rock Allergy & Asthma Clinic

LUCINDA POSVAR, RN

CHI St. Vincent

Hedberg Allergy & Asthma Center

Conway Med Spa

Embrace Eternal Beauty Aesthetics and Wellness

Unity Health

UAMS Health

AUDIOLOGY MARY CHATELAIN, Au.D.

KIM JACKSON, M.D.

Pinnacle Hearing

STACIE M. JONES, M.D. Arkansas Children's Hospital

LILLIAN JONES, Au.D.

Conway Regional Health System

LORI KAGY, M.D.

Arkansas Allergy & Asthma Clinic

TRACY VAN ES, Au.D. Little Rock Audiology

JOSHUA KENNEDY, M.D. Arkansas Children's Hospital

JILL YOUNG, Au.D.

Associated Radiologists CARTI

BREAST SURGICAL ONCOLOGY DANA ABRAHAM, M.D., FACS Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Abraham Breast Clinic

JODIE CLEMENTSON, DO Baptist Health Surgical Clinic of Central Arkansas

JERRI S. FANT, M.D., FACS CARTI

CAMILA ORTEGA, M.D.

Baptist Health Surgical Clinic of Central Arkansas

YARA ROBERTSON, M.D., FACS CARTI

CARDIOLOGY AYMAN ALSHAMI, M.D. Saline Health System

Hear Again America Little Rock

LINDSEY SABATINI, DNP, MSN, BSN, APRN

TAMARA T. PERRY, M.D.

MAHESH ANANTHA, M.D., FACC

ROBERT D. PESEK, M.D.

NARIN ARUNAKUL, M.D.

KAYLA SANDERS, APRN Beauty Boss Co.

BLAKE G. SCHEER, M.D.

BARIATRIC SURGERY KELLY BASSETT, APRN

Little Rock Allergy & Asthma Clinic

TAYLOR STEELE, DNP, RN

Baptist Health Surgical Clinic of Central Arkansas

AMY SCURLOCK, M.D.

BRANDON INGRAM, M.D.

Body Balance

Beauty Boss Co.

ANNE TRUSSELL, M.D.

Arkansas Children's Hospital

White River Health

Arkansas Children's Hospital

Arkansas Children's Hospital

EDDIE W. SHIELDS, M.D.

North Arkansas Regional Medical Center

CHERISSE M. BALDEO, MBBCh, FACC Baxter Health

THOMAS BEST, M.D.

CHI St. Vincent

Arkansas Children's Hospital

Sei Bella Med Spa

Arkansas Allergy & Asthma Clinic

Conway Regional Health System

BROCK KING, M.D., FACS

RENEE BORNEMEIER, M.D.

AMBER WARD, RN, BSN

LINDSAY STILL, M.D.

ANTHONY MANNING, M.D., FACS

ERIC BOWEN, M.D.

Arkansas Plastic Surgery

Arkansas Allergy & Asthma Clinic

Conway Regional Health System

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Arkansas Children's Hospital Baxter Health

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THOMAS WALLACE, M.D. CHARLES R. CALDWELL JR., M.D., FACC Arkansas Cardiology

DWIGHT CHRISMAN, M.D., FACC Arkansas Cardiology

THOMAS D. CONLEY, M.D., FACC, FSCAI Arkansas Cardiology

MICHAEL CROSS, M.D., FACC, FACP, RPVI Arkansas Cardiology

CHI St. Vincent

Little Rock Chiropractic Clinic

RICHARD L. RILEY, D.C.

COUNSELING

KATELYN WARREN, DNP, AGACNP-BC

KYLE L. SKINNER D.C., CCSP

MICHAEL W. BIBBS, M.S., LPE-I

EVAN WATTS, M.D.

JEFF SMITH, D.C., BS

KATHERINE BISHOP, ED.S., LPC, NPT-C

OMAR YACOB, M.D., FACC

DAVID VANG, D.C.

FATIMAAH CARMICHAEL-ANTHONY, DSW, LCSW

Saline Health System

Skinner Chiropractic

Arkansas Cardiology

Smith Family Clinic

Arkansas Cardiology

Pain Care Associates

JOHN VINCENT, D.C. Wellness Revolution

CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY

JESSE WOOD, D.C.

F. MICHAEL BAUER, M.D.

Woodland Chiropractic

Baxter Health

JOSHUA DAILY, M.D.

THURSTON BAUER, M.D. CHI St. Vincent

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY

SCOTT A. DAVIS, M.D., FACC Arkansas Cardiology

JOHN BUSBY, M.D.

Baptist Health Cardiothoracic Surgery Clinic

LISA FITZGIBBONS, PH.D., ABPP

DAVID DOBIES, M.D.

MARK HARDIN, M.D.

REBECCA SCHLAU, PSY.D

Arkansas Children's Hospital

National Park Medical Center

BRIAN EBLE, M.D.

Arkansas Children's Hospital

WESLEY M. FISER, M.D., FACC

Baptist Health Cardiothoracic Surgery Clinic

FAIZA MUKHTAR KHAN, M.D.

Baptist Health Cardiothoracic Surgery Clinic

JAY D. GEOGHAGAN, M.D., FACC

KAROL MUDY, M.D.

Arkansas Cardiology

Baptist Health Cardiothoracic Surgery Clinic

JOE HARGROVE, M.D., FACC

BRIAN REEMTSEN, M.D.

PRABHAT HEBBAR, M.D.

Arkansas Children's Hospital

BASSAM SHUKRALLAH, M.D.

CHI St. Vincent

Baptist Health Cardiothoracic Surgery Clinic

CHRISTEN JOHNSON, M.D.

OTIS WARR IV, M.D.

DAVID G. JONES, M.D., FACC

RUSSELL WOOD, M.D., FACC, FACS

Arkansas Cardiology Arkansas Cardiology

FREDERICK MEADORS, M.D. CHI St. Vincent

TENA MURPHY, M.D. CHI St. Vincent

JEFFREY NEUHAUSER, DO, FACC, FHRS Arkansas Cardiology

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THOMAS RAYBURN III, M.D. CHI St. Vincent

RON E. REVARD, M.D. Baxter Health

PHILIP MICHAEL RILEY, D.O.

CHI St. Vincent

JASON MIZELL, M.D.

Baptist Health Surgical Clinic of Central Arkansas

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HE ALTHC ARE PROFESSIONALS PROFILE

Rohit Dhall, M.D. UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS FOR MEDICAL SCIENCES

A Mind for Medicine

By AY STAFF // Photo courtesy of UAMS

O

ver the decade or so that Dr. Rohit Dhall has been affiliated with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, he has seen the neurology department grow into something of an overlooked gem in the region’s medical community.

“I’ve worked at multiple state universities, private entities, stand-alone research institutions, trained in Birmingham, Alabama, and before that at the University of Texas in Houston — big institutions. None of them had the imperative of providing the exceptional high-quality healthcare and building programs for the entire state as UAMS,” he said.

“I don’t think UAMS really talks about it enough, but what we’re trying to build for the entire state of Arkansas is every Arkansan getting exceptional healthcare, building the pipeline and getting the next generation of learners to be resourced to provide healthcare across Arkansas.”

Dhall’s clinical practice and research focuses on Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, Huntington’s disease, tremors and other neurodegenerative disorders. As the director of the Parkinson’s Foundation Comprehensive Care Center and the CurePSP Center of Care at UAMS, he also provides oversight and direction for UAMS’ outreach, education and support programs for more than 6,000 people living with Parkinson’s in Arkansas.

“My professional interests have been shaped by my core

values of service, innovation, building relationships and integrity,” he said. “These have been the pillars for the overarching career goals that I’ve had, which are to advance the understanding of causes and cures of neurological disorders, provide high quality care to people that I take care of, and building the next generation of neurologists.

“My passion is building centers at the institutions I’m at — in this case, for the state of Arkansas — building our programs into exceptional centers of care so that we can provide the best quality of healthcare resource services to Arkansans. That, of course, segues into being able to provide the type of education to learners so they learn at the highest quality centers.”

After earning his medical degree at the All India Institute of Medical Science, Dhall obtained a Master of Science in epidemiology from the University of Texas at Houston School of Public Health and completed his internship in medicine at the University of Texas at Houston. He then went on to complete his residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, followed by a two-year fellowship in clinical movement disorders and deep brain stimulation at UAB. Equally passionate about delivering exceptional care today and producing outstanding healthcare professionals of tomorrow, Dhall said his priority for the near future is to increase the number of neurologists practicing in Arkansas.

“Our biggest hill has been being able to provide access to quality care to Arkansans, and we won’t be able to do that unless we have a strong educational presence so that we have a secure pipeline of neurologists we’re training,” he said.

“In neurology, unfortunately, we are the bottom of the pile when it comes to the number of neurologists per capita. Across the 50 states, I think we’re 49th or so. It’s hard to bring people from outside. It’s hard to get them interested in staying in Arkansas, but we need to get our next generation of students and learners interested in neurology by recruiting from within our state. We’re gearing up to be able to do this sustainably for the foreseeable future.”

Dhall said one way to attract more into the field is to improve and enhance UAMS’ neurological research, which not only helps the education side stay ahead of the curve but further polishes UAMS’ reputation in the medical field overall.

“Neurology’s evolving at a tremendous pace,” he said. “We want our workforce, our faculty members, to be the ones involved and engaged in developing innovative new treatments because then our patients, the people that we’re caring for, are the first ones in the country to be able to receive those treatments. Increasing our research enterprise is another important part of our strategy.”

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“

”

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Brad Baltz, MD

Convenient Location Little Rock Midtown 5620 West Markham St. Little Rock, AR 72205 Phone: (501) 508-7163 Referral Fax Number: (501) 214-7498

We’re “Hear” To Help

Dr. Tracy Van Es has been meeting the hearing needs of Arkansans since 2001. She’s a graduate of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and earned her doctorate from the Pennsylvania School of Audiology.

Call today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Tracy Van Es....

Because life is worth hearing!

500 S University, Suite 405, Doctors Building

(501) 664-5511 LITTLEROC KAUDIOLOGY.C OM 151

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HE ALTHC ARE PROFESSIONALS PROFILE

Tyler Fugere, M.D. GENESIS CANCER AND BLOOD INSTITUTE

Just a Small-Town Girl

By AY STAFF Photo courtesy of GENESIS CANCER AND BLOOD INSTITUTE

D

r. Tyler Fugere is not the most established board-certified medical oncologist and hematologist in the state, having only started her work in Benton a little more than a year ago. However, she has already got name recognition that far outstrips many of her peers considering her practice through Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute brings her face to face with people she knows as neighbors first and patients second.

“I love practicing in my hometown,” she said. “One of my favorite things about it is I love the connections — you know, somebody says, ‘Oh, I know your parents from church.’ It just starts off the doctor-patient relationship with a little bit of connection, being from the same area and knowing the same background stuff.”

Fugere follows in the footsteps of her mother, a primary care physician. She said watching the connection her mother had with the people she treated left a big impression that led Fugere to medical school.

“When I was growing up, I knew I wanted to be a doctor because of the relationship [my mother] had with her patients. I really thought that I would like that,” she said.

“Whenever I was going through my training, especially in oncology, I felt a connection with those patients. People are going through a tough thing, and so being able to be there and help them through that was really what inspired me to go into oncology.”

After graduating from Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, she earned her medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. There, she also completed her internal medicine residency and hematology-oncology fellowship before landing at Genesis. Again, the value of relationships is what made her choose it over other organizations courting her.

“When I first met everybody there, I could tell everyone was really kind and genuine and caring, and they really put patients first.

That stood out to me even from the beginning,” she said. “I would say it’s really a collective goal here to put the patient first. Everybody from the front desk to the pharmacy to the physicians and nurses, we all agree on that.”

With that as her base, Fugere said she has learned a great many of the finer points of treating people over her first year, things that cannot be taught in medical school but must be learned at bedside.

“Not every patient fits the textbook. In fact, I think most of them don’t,” she said. “When you learn about cancer in school, you learn about it in isolation, like the patients don’t have any other problems. A lot of our patients have other medical problems that you have to consider when you’re talking about what treatment to do.

Sometimes you have to tweak things to fit the patient instead of just saying ‘Oh, this disease gets this.’ You have to tailor it to the patient in front of you.”

Time spent in study and research is a given, Fugere said, in order to keep up with the rapidly changing field of cancer and its treatment. Having trusted mentors also helps, she said.

“I still very much have connections to mentors. I’m very fortunate to have good people in this practice who are very approachable, and they’re all just a phone call away,” she said. “Sometimes you already know what you want to do, but it’s still nice to hear someone you trust agree, so we talk to each other a lot.”

Fugere said she has seen more women go into her field, providing a balance of viewpoints and life experiences. At some point, that might allow her to work directly alongside another female oncologist locally, but for now, she is the sole sentry standing that post for the people of her hometown.

“I’m the only oncologist here in Benton from any group, so I see a little bit of everything, whatever comes in the door,” she said. “If they’re in Benton and they need care, I take care of them.”

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CONGRATULATIONS

to our 2026 AY's Best Healthcare Professionals!

Foot & Ankle Surgery

Sports Medicine

Rheumatology

Troy Ardoin, MD

Eric Gordon, MD

Morgan Bittengle, APRN

Derrick Henry, MD

Kirk Reynolds, MD

Debra Brent, APRN

Ethan Schock, MD

Morgan Hayes, APRN

Hand Surgery

James Tucker, MD

Heather Martin, APRN

David Black, MD

Jonathan Wyatt, MD

Matthew Burn, MD Joint Replacement Louis Jones, MD Adam Smith, MD

Nurse Practitoner/Physician Assistant Donna K. Barron, PA

Pain Management & Rehabilitation Stephen Paulus, MD

Katie Stallings, PA Trent Tappan, PA Rebekah Young, APRN

We're proud to have 20 OrthoArkansas providers recognized among AY Magazine's 2026 Best Healthcare Professionals. This honor reflects our team’s commitment to delivering exceptional orthopedic care across Arkansas. Thank you for trusting us with your care!

501-500-3500

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JOINT REPLACEMENT

Washington Regional Senior Health Clinic

ALAN DIAMOND, D.O.

WILLIAM ZACHARY GOZA, APRN

DONNA K. BARRON, PA-C

TIM FREYALDENHOVEN, M.D.

MAGGIE HICKS, RNP

CHRISTA JACKSON, APRN

LOUIS JONES, M.D.

ALLAN GOCIO, M.D.

KIMBERLY HILL, DNP, APRN, FNP-C

COURTNEY MCKINNEY, APRN, FNP-C

ADAM SMITH, M.D.

DOMINIC MAGGIO, M.D.

SARAH HOLLAND, APRN

OrthoArkansas

Beyond Wellness

Revive Health and Wellness

ANNE TRUSSELL, M,D., ABAARM, FAARM Sei Bella Med Spa

PAMELA VOLNER, APRN, FNP-C Painted Rock Health and Wellness

HOSPICE/PALLATIVE CARE KEVIN BEAVERS, M.D. Arkansas Hospice

BRIAN BELL, M.D. Arkansas Hospice

CHRIS BIERMAN, M.D. Arkansas Hospice

DANIEL CARTAYA, M.D. Arkansas Hospice

WILLIAM COLE, M.D. Arkansas Hospice

NATALIE BROOKE PEEPLES, M.D. UAMS Health

NEAL WYATT, D.O., HEC-C, FAAHPM

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JOHN MARK PABONA, M.D. FACP, ABIM, AAAM

Embrace Eternal Beauty Aesthetics and Wellness

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OMAR T. ATIQ, M.D.

J. THADDEUS BECK, M.D., FACP Highlands Oncology Highlands Oncology

Noydeen Medical Group/Noydeen Beauty

STEPHANIE FARMER, APRN Saline Health System

BLAIR H. GREENWOOD, M.D.

Conway Regional Mayflower Medical Clinic

DAVID JOHNSON, M.D. Unity Health

GINA MCNEW, M.D.

Conway Regional Hendrix Medical Clinic

KEITH SCHLUTERMAN, M.D.

JASMIN LEASE, PA-C

Conway Regional Neurology

The Woman's Clinic

Arkansas Bone & Joint

DANIELLE LYNCH, APN

NEURORADIOLOGY MARK MOSS, M.D.

Washington Regional Interventional Neuroradiology Clinic, Washington Regional J.B. Hunt Transport Services Neuroscience Institute

NEUROSURGERY LARRY ARMSTRONG, D.O.

Washington Regional Brain and Spine Surgery Clinic, Washington Regional J.B. Hunt Transport Services Neuroscience Institute

SAVANNAH BRADBURY, PA-C

Renew Mental Health and Wellness

ALLISON MORROW, APRN Arkansas Urology

SHANNON POGUE, APRN Access Medical Clinic

KAITLIN POOLE, LPC Access Medical Clinic

TONJA SNOW, APRN

Baptist Health Specialty Clinic North Little Rock

KATIE STALLINGS, PA OrthoArkansas

TRENT TAPPAN, PA OrthoArkansas

M. BLAKE LOCKWOOD, M.D.

ALI KRISHT, M.D., FACS

PAMELA VOLNER, APRN, FNP-C

Highlands Oncology

Pinnacle Spine and Neurosurgery

LAWRENCE MENDELSOHN, M.D.

CHI St. Vincent

CARTI

THOMAS SNEED, M.D.

AHMED ALI, M.D.

AMANDA K.PAYNE, APRN

Legacy Spine & Neurological Specialists

DANA TREAT, APRN

MONICA GRAZZIUTTI, M.D.

INTERNAL MEDICINE

Conway Regional Greenbrier Family Medicine

SCOTT SCHLESINGER, M.D.

GAUTAM GANDHI, M.D., PH.D.

GRACE RAJA, M.D.

Infectious Diseases Specialists of Northwest Arkansas

Legacy Spine & Neurological Specialists

CARTI

MARY BURGESS, M.D.

STEPHEN HENNIGAN, M.D.

Arkansas Urology

MATT TAYLOR, APRN

DEREK MIDDLETON, M.D.

UAMS Health

JARROD JERRY, APRN

Conway Regional Health System Neuroscience Center

RAYMOND BANDY, M.D. Conway Regional Health System

KELLI SCHLESINGER, M.D.

BRAD BALTZ, M.D.

Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute

IV TREATMENT

Baxter Health

JAMI HOWELL, PA-C

Baxter Health

UAMS Health

RHONDA GENTRY, M.D.

INFECTIOUS DISEASE

West Little Rock Women’s Center

Optimal With Brooke

K' ANNE CASH ARTHUR, M.D.

Diversity Family Health

MEGAN N. MARTIN, APRN

BROOKE A. SLAIS, LMT,MTI MEDICAL ONCOLOGY

Saline Health System

Legacy Spine & Neurological Specialists

MASSAGE THERAPY

BROOKE E. BRANDER, D.O.

Beauty Boss Co.

Baxter Health

LIFESTYLE MEDICINE

Arkansas Hospice

SHANNON STEELE, RN

Conway Regional Neurology

ArCare

CARTI CARTI

NURSE/NURSE PRACTITIONER/ PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT RACHEL ASHCRAFT, APRN Cornerstone Clinic for Women

DONNA K. BARRON, PA OrthoArkansas

NEONATAL CARE

KELLY BASSETT, APRN

Baptist Health Surgical Clinic of Central Arkansas

KATIE CRUZ, APRN

Conway Regional Health System

WENDY BENNETT, APRN MICHAEL S. GERSCH, M.D.

Hope Medical Clinic

Painted Rock Health and Wellness

KATELYN WARREN, DNP, AGACNP-BC

CARTI

NEPHROLOGY

Gastro Arkansas

Saline Health System

SAVANNAH BRADBURY, PA-C

Saline Health System

AUDREY WEATHERRED, RN Saline Health System

LESLIE ANN WILCOX, RNP Arkansas Urology

WISCHELLE WILLIAMS, APRN Arkansas Urology

SCARLETT YATES, RN

Arkansas Children's Hospital

REBEKAH YOUNG, APRN OrthoArkansas

NUTRITION

Arkansas Renal Group

Conway Regional Health System Neuroscience Center

NISHANK JAIN, M.D.

NICHOLE CLARK, APRN

GRANT MATHEWS, M.D.

SHAWN CLAWSON, APRN Arkansas Urology

SARITHA RANABOTHU, M.D.

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

BARBARA COLE, MSN, APRN, AGPCN-BC

RACHEL ASHCRAFT, APRN

UAMS Health

Hope Medical Clinic

Baxter Health

Arkansas Children's

Arkansas Gastroenterology

MEG GREEN, RD Meg Green, RD

Cornerstone Clinic for Women

CAITLYN BARNHILL, APRN

TYLER NELSON, M.D.

NEUROLOGY

JOHN MARK PABONA, M.D., FACP, ABIM, AAAM

ROBERT L. ARCHER, M.D.

Conway Regional Medical Clinic Prince Street

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LEONIDES BERMEJO, M.D.

HALEY ENDACOTT, APRN-BC, AE-C, CORLN

RALYNN BRANN, M.D.

T. BRENT ROSSON, M.D.

LUCAS BRADLEY, M.D.

STEPHANIE FARMER, APRN

KEVIN BRENIMAN, M.D.

CHRISTOPHER SKELLEY, M.D.

ROHIT DHALL, M.D.

ANGELA FOSTER, APRN

BRIAN M. BURTON, M.D.

Saline Health System

North Arkansas Regional Medical Center Saline Health System

UAMS Health

CHI St. Vincent

RHONDA DIXON, APRN

ENT & Allergy Center in Fayetteville Saline Health System

Baxter Health

Conway Regional Medical Clinic

UAMS Health

154

Women First Gynecology & Wellness Clinic

WENDY BENNETT, APRN Saline Health System Saline Health System

Cornerstone Clinic for Women The Woman's Clinic

DEBRA LAWRENCE, M.D.

CHRISTIAN HESTER, M.D.

BRANDIE MARTIN, M.D.

LYDIA LANE, M.D.

Conway Women's Health Center

Little Rock Eye Clinic Little Rock Eye Clinic

Conway Women’s Health Center

ALEX JONES, DDS

Daniel & Jones Orthodontics

LARRY NGUYEN, M.D.

Arkansas Fertility and Gynecology

EDDIE MENGARELLI, M.D.

Cornerstone Clinic for Women

DEAN MOUTOS, M.D.

Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

SUZANNA CHATTERJEE-MORRIS, M.D.

LAUREN NOLEN, M.D.

EVAN NEWBOLT, M.D.

Westrock Orthodontics

Unity Health

DANICA ORDONEZ, M.D.

JOHN D. PEMBERTON, D.O.

Baptist Health Women's Clinic - Conway

KYLE CITTY, M.D.

LINDSAY OSLEBER, M.D.

SEVERIN POULY, M.D. Little Rock Eye Clinic

ORTHOPEDIC TRAUMATOLOGY

HEATHER OWENS, M.D.

DANIEL SINES, M.D.

REGIS L. RENARD, M.D.

KAY CHANDLER, M.D.

River Valley Obstetrics and Gynecology

KRIS CITTY, M.D. Unity Health

MICHAEL CLOUATRE, M.D. ANDREW COLE, M.D.

AMANDA K.PAYNE, APRN

MICHAEL COPE, M.D.

ANANTH RANGANATHAN, M.D.

SABRINA DOFFING, M.D.

GREG REITER, D.O., FACOOG

Baptist Health Women's Clinic North Little Rock

SAMAN FARR, DO

Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Neurological Surgery Associates

MAUREEN FLOWERS, M.D. Baxter Health

BRYAN FULLER, M.D. Natural State OB/GYN

AMY GALDAMEZ, M.D. Central Clinic for Women

SHELLY GIBBS, M.D. The Woman's Clinic

SARA GOLDSHOLL, M.D. Central Clinic for Women

JULIE GOODWIN, M.D.

West Little Rock Women’s Center

NICQUEL GORDON, M.D. CHI St. Vincent

BoozmanHof

OPTOMETRY

Creekside Center for Women

VALERIE ARNOLD, O.D.

KIMBERLY REYNOLDS, M.D.

JADE COATS, O.D.

River Mountain Eye Care

SCOTT BOWEN, M.D.

REZA SHAHIM, M.D.

SUSAN DEBLACK, O.D.

Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

SHANE E. FORD, OD

Jefferson Regional Orthopaedic Associates

Conway Family Eye Care

Cornerstone Clinic For Women

Conway Family Eye Care

Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Neurological Surgery Associates

Conway Family Eye Care

COURTNEY SICK, M.D.

Arkansas Eye Care Group

Conway Regional Health System

ALAN GROVER, O.D.

KENNETH SINGLETON, M.D. Cornerstone Clinic for Women

DORA MAH SMITH, M.D. MONICA SUMNER, APRN Central Clinic for Women

BRAD THOMAS, M.D.

Conway OB GYN

Conway Women's Health Center

CHRISTOPHER HALL, M.D.

JULIA WATKINS, M.D.

Mercy Clinic OB/Gyn

West Little Rock Women’s Center

J. TODD HANNAH, M.D.

AMY WIEDOWER, M.D.

River Valley Obstetrics and Gynecology

Baptist Health Women's Clinic - Conway

LINDSAY HEULITT, M.D.

EMILY WILLIAMS, M.D.

CLINTON HUTCHINSON, M.D. Arkansas Women's Center

CARI CORDELL, M.D.

SARAH LUNSFORD, O.D.

JUSTIN L. CUTLER, DO

CHI St. Vincent

Legacy Eyecare

North Arkansas Regional Medical Center

PAUL NGUYEN, O.D.

GEORGE "BJ" W. DEIMEL, M.D.

ERIC D. ROBBINS, O.D.

PAUL K. EDWARDS, M.D.

Arkansas Eye Care Group

McDonald Eye Associates

RUSSELL "RUSTY" SIMMONS, O.D. Simmons Eye Care

MARY SULLIVAN, O.D.

Ozark Orthopaedics

Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

DAVID GILLIAM, M.D.

Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

KAITLYN GRIFFIN, APRN

BoozmanHof

Baptist Health Orthopedic Clinic - Little Rock

C. SCOTT WOODWARD, O.D.

C. KRIS HANBY, M.D.

BoozmanHof

Ozark Orthopaedics

WILLIAM HEFLEY, JR., M.D., FAAOS

Arkansas Women's Center

MAGGIE HICKS, RNP

Central Clinic for Women

DYLAN CARPENTER, M.D., FAAOS

DEREK S. LONG, O.D.

TIFFANIE ROLLER, O.D.

MICAH WIEGEL, M.D.

ROY BURRELL, M.D.

White River Health Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

McDonald Eye Associates

Central Clinic for Women

Unity Health

McDonald Eye Associates Maumelle Eye Care

UAMS Health

JOSH WARD, M.D.

CINDY HUBACH, M.D.

SAMUEL BAXTER, M.D.

SARAH DAVIS, O.D.

Women First Gynecology & Wellness Clinic

West Little Rock Women’s Center

JEFF ANGEL, M.D.

White River Health Orthopaedics Sports Medicine

MATTHEW A. SELLERS, M.D.

Arkansas Women's Center

SARAH HOLLAND, APRN

ORTHOPEDICS

KYLE BLICKENSTAFF, M.D.

Saline Health System

PHILLIP GULLIC, M.D.

Conway OB GYN

UAMS Health

LEIGH COX, O.D.

JAMES ROBB, M.D.

HANNAH TIPTON, LPN

KEITHA HOLLAND, M.D.

Wardlaw Orthodontics

Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Martin Orthopedics

Saline Health System

Saline Health System

DAVID WARDLAW, DDS

The Exclusive Eye

West Little Rock Women’s Center

JENNY GREGORY, M.D.

Central Clinic for Women

KELLY TEER, DDS

MICHAEL WAGGONER, D.O.

Arkansas Women's Center

Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Little Rock Neurosurgery

BRITTANY HELMER, PA

BoozmanHof

The Woman's Clinic

CHRISTINA GREEN, M.D.

Lifespring Women’s Healthcare

UAMS Health

Arkansas Women's Center

Women First Gynecology & Wellness Clinic

The Woman's Clinic

McFarland Eye Care

Conway OB GYN

Creekside Center for Women Conway OB GYN

McDonald Eye Associates

ORAL SURGERY

Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

AARON B. BALDWIN, DMD, M.D.

ANDREW D. HEINZELMANN, M.D.

JOHN BATSON, DDS

CHRISTOPHER LANG, M.D.

Arkansas Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeries

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY JO LAGEMANN, MS, OTR/L Physical Therapy Institute

Capitol Oral Surgery & Implant Center

Baptist Health Orthopedic Clinic - Little Rock

HUGH BURNETT, DDS

JASMIN LEASE, PA-C

DARON C. PRAETZEL, DMD

JERRY LORIO, M.D.

TACY M. SUNDELL, DDS

KENNETH MARTIN, M.D.

Little Rock Family Dental Care Arkansas Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons

OPHTHALMOLOGY TRACY BALTZ, M.D.

Woodard & Sundell

Little Rock Eye Clinic

Ozark Orthopaedics

ERNIE S. WOODARD, DDS

Arkansas Bone & Joint Arkansas Bone & Joint

Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Martin Orthopedics

JILL K. JENNINGS, M.D.

AUSTIN BELL, M.D.

AMY JOHNSON, M.D.

CHAD BETTS, M.D., R.Ph. McDonald Eye Associates

ORTHODONTICS

LETICIA JONES, M.D.

W. PATRICK COLLINS, M.D.

BRITTANY CURRY, DDS, M.S. Westrock Orthodontics

Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

MORGAN M. KNIGHT, M.D.

ROMONA DAVIS, M.D.

JOHN A. DANIEL, DDS

CLAYTON H. RILEY, M.D.

The Woman's Clinic

Conway Women’s Health Center The Woman's Clinic UAMS Health

Woodard & Sundell

BoozmanHof

Collins Eye Clinic

Daniel & Jones Orthodontics

UAMS Health

156

SAMUEL A. MOORE, DO Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

DAVID RHODES, M.D.

Martin Orthopedics

Not mass-produced health care.

Curated care.

Conway Regional has a vision. For more than a century, our team has brought together key service lines, providers, and technologies to create patient experiences that are highly intentional and refreshingly personal. It’s about blending access and excellence. Familiarity – and fierce commitment. Advocating for patients while providing the services our communities deserve. See what curated care looks like for you.

HE ALTHC ARE PROFESSIONALS PROFILE

Jahon Zehtaban, DDS S M I L E

A R K A N S A S

Show Those Pearly Whites

By AY STAFF // Photo courtesy of SMILE ARKANSAS

M

odern dentistry is no longer just about cleanings and fillings.

Today’s dental practices offer a full range of next-level technology for creating the ideal smile. At the head of that trend is Smile Arkansas, owned by Little Rock native Dr. Jahon Zehtaban. For the past 12 years, Zehtaban has delighted patients with his work, from helping them maintain healthy teeth to various cosmetic techniques that produce dazzling, confidence-improving smiles.

Recently, Zehtaban added two new pieces of equipment that promise to revolutionize his practice, delivering superior results faster and more comfortably than ever.

“In the last eight months, I’ve added a 3D printer, which, in dentistry — and particularly our type of dentistry — have become really convenient,” he said. “Used to be if you wanted to get some cosmetic work done or braces or whatever, you would have to take a gooey impression, and it would gag you, and then the dentist would have to pour models in stone, and then design what they wanted on that stone and make copies of it. It was a very lengthy, arduous process.

“With the 3D printer, we take a digital scan of the patient’s teeth, and we can print a model in 20 minutes. Then I can design what I want the tooth to look like on that model and just make a little stent to transfer it to their mouth. That’s one of the uses, which has been great.”

Another application has been printing temporary veneers for cosmetic purposes, which replace handmade versions. Zehtaban said as recently as a couple of years ago, patients considering veneers would have to wait for the temporary ones to use as a trial set, but with the new printer, that process has sped up considerably.

“Now, on the front end, we can have these designed, print them, then adhere them after we do our dental work, and they can wear those around,” he said. “They’re nicer, betterfitting temporaries, and they give the patient a realistic view of what the final porcelain will look like. That’s been huge for us.”

The practice has also installed a laser that has been a game changer in giving the smile a clean look by doing gum work and cleanings that are neater and easier on the patient.

“We use that, typically, to change how people’s gums look in certain areas to make them symmetrical,” he said. “Using a scalpel can get messy and be more uncomfortable for the patient. With a laser, it’s really minimally invasive. It’s not painful, and it leaves little blood or residue behind, which is incredible.

“We also use it for cleanings for people who need deeper cleanings. Instead of having to get scraped on with all the sharp tools, we can use a laser to clean some of those areas in a way that is much more comfortable, much quicker and does a better job. That’s been fantastic.”

An alum of Little Rock Central High School, Zehtaban graduated magna cum laude from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville with a Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry. He then graduated with honors from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry. He combines this vast subject matter knowledge with experience and continuing education to stay among the top tier of local dental providers.

“Techniquewise, we get better from repetition, and in terms of protocols, I’m constantly tinkering with things and learning from other colleagues on how we can get better,” he said. “Overall, experience has taught me that each patient is different, whereas in dental school, they approach fixing teeth all the same way. When you get out and you start to meet people and understand their situations, their finances and budgets, you realize just because the book says this is how you fix something, you really have to listen to the patient and create a custom plan for them. I will say that’s the thing where this clinic really does a good job.”

158

ABOUT

Receives Journalism Awards

YOU MEDIA GROUP

5th consecutive Sweepstakes Award 4 awards

Sarah DeClerk

1 award

Mike Bedgood

34 total awards

Staff Writer Production Director & Copy Editor

Dwain Hebda

Editor-in-Chief

2 awards

1 award

2 awards

Staff Writer

Graphic Designer

Associate Editor

Alex Hardgrave

Lee Smith

Mak Millard

in 2026 APW Contest

1 award

1 award

1 award

Senior Editor

Graphic Designer

Heather Baker

Mark Carter

1 award

3 awards

Graphic Designer

Staff Writer

President & Publisher

Jerry Cordova

Doug Crise

Lora Puls

3 awards

Mary LeSieur Staff Writer

159

aymag.com

Arkansas Spine and Pain

Central Arkansas Pediatric Clinic

BRICIN MARTIN, APRN

PLASTIC SURGERY

MERAJ SIDDIQUI, M.D.

AMBER MCGUIRE, APRN

DAVID BAUER, M.D.

BRITTANY MOFFETT, APRN

J. ALEX KELAMIS, M.D.

MISTY NOLEN, M.D., FAAP

STEPHANIE KOONCE, M.D., MPH, FACS

JOSHUA O’NEILL, M.D.

KRIS SHEWMAKE, M.D., FACS

AMIR QURESHI, M.D. DEVIN ST. CLAIR, M.D.

Advanced Orthopedic Specialists

KATIE STALLINGS, PA-C

Conway Regional Advanced Pain Management

CHRISTOPHER STEWART, M.D.

TATYANA STEPANENKO, M.D.

TRENT TAPPAN, PA-C

MOHAMED TOLBA, M.D.

OrthoArkansas

DAVID YAKIN, M.D.

Advanced Orthopedic Specialists

ADNAN ZUBAIR, M.D.

Baptist Health Orthopedic Clinic - Little Rock

OTOLARYNGOLOGY SCOTT BALLINGER, M.D.

Conway Regional Health System

CHARLES BOWER, M.D. Arkansas Children's Hospital

J. CHRIS COLCLASURE, M.D. Arkansas Otolaryngology Center

HALEY ENDACOTT, APRN-BC, AE-C ENT & Allergy Center in Fayetteville

LARRY HARTZELL, M.D. Arkansas Children's

H. GRAVES HEARNSBERGER III, M.D. Arkansas Otolaryngology Center

FELICIA JOHNSON, M.D. ENT Center of the Ozarks

KEVIN LOLLAR, M.D., FACS, FAAOA ENT Center of the Ozarks

Esosse Plastic Surgery

Little Rock Pediatric Clinic

Shewmake Plastic Surgery/The Skin Retreat

GENE SLOAN, M.D., FACS

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

MEGHAN REPP, M.D., FAAP Central Arkansas Pediatric Clinic

Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa

EMILY CHEEK, DDS

ROBBIE RHODES, M.D., FAAP

ZACHARY YOUNG, M.D.

AARON K. FORRESTER, DDS

CATHERINE ROBBEN, M.D.

EMILY FOURMY, DDS

AMANDA ROBERTS, M.D., FAAP

GERALD W. FRIEND, DDS

CHAD RODGERS, M.D.

Foot & Ankle Associates of Central Arkansas

JASON HAVARD, DDS

Conway Pediatric Dental Group

KRISTA SANTIAGO, APRN

Foot & Ankle Associates of Central Arkansas

Central Arkansas Pediatric Clinic

AARON HIEGERT, DDS

DAVID WEED,M.D., FAAP

Foot & Ankle Associates of Central Arkansas

Central Arkansas Pediatric Clinic

Leap Kids Dental

Central Arkansas Pediatric Clinic

Groovy Smiles Pediatric Dentistry

Little Rock Pediatric Clinic

River Valley Pediatric Dentistry

Central Arkansas Pediatric Clinic

Conway Pediatric Dental Group

Little Rock Pediatric Clinic

Arkansas Children's

Central Arkansas Pediatric Clinic

ANDY KITCHENS, DDS

REBECCA WHITE, APRN

Kitchens Pediatric Dentistry

Central Arkansas Pediatric Clinic

BRANDON KITCHENS, DDS Kitchens Pediatric Dentistry

PHYSICAL THERAPY

MICHAEL KITCHENS, DDS Kitchens Pediatric Dentistry

TYLER BASS, PT, DPT

Advanced Physical Therapy

APRIL MCCAIN, DDS Leap Kids Dental

Conway Pediatric Dental Group

PODIATRY ALEX DELLINGER, DPM CODY GAUPEL, DPM

MEGAN HERRING, DPM NAVAL PATEL, DPM Barg Family Clinic

AARON K. SEITER, DPM

Seiter Foot & Ankle Specialists

PRIMARY CARE RHONDA DIXON, APRN

Conway Regional Mayflower Medical Clinic

Advanced Physical Therapy

ANDREW DAVIS, PT, DPT Advanced Physical Therapy

SUMMER B. TYSON, DDS

Arkansas Plastic Surgery

MONTANA CHAPMAN, PT, DPT MATT COLLAR, PT, DPT

JOHN SCOTT, DDS

ERIC WRIGHT, M.D.

Conway Regional Medical Clinic - Prince Street

Advanced Physical Therapy

PAULA NOH, DMD

Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

CHELSEA BURROWS, PT, DPT Arkansas Otolaryngology Center

STEFANIE MEEK, DDS Leap Kids Dental

CHI St. Vincent

Kelamis Plastic Surgery

MINDY POMTREE, M.D., FAAP

LANCE A. MANNING, M.D., FACS JEFFREY MILLER, M.D.

Arkansas Plastic Surgery

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Conway Pediatric Dental Group

ENT Center of the Ozarks

Central Arkansas Pediatric Clinic

Jaffe Sports Medicine

MICHAEL A. MCGHEE, M.D. Arkansas Otolaryngology Center

Central Arkansas Pediatric Clinic

HEATHER STEELY, APRN

OrthoArkansas

Baptist Health Orthopedic Clinic - Little Rock

Central Arkansas Pediatric Clinic

White River Health Pain Management Batesville

ANGELA FOSTER, APRN

WILLIAM ZACHARY GOZA, APRN ArCARE

SHANNON POGUE, APRN-CNP Access Medical Clinic

PAUL NEIS, M.D.

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LESLYN GRAVES, PT, DPT

PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS

JAMES RAGLAND, M.D.

PEDIATRIC SURGERY

DEREK LAGEMANN, PT, DPT, FAAOMPT

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CHRIS LONG, PT

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PEDIATRICS

MARSHALL MCDANIEL, PT, DPT

Snell Prosthetics & Orthotics - Mountain Home

EVA BARLOGIE, PA

SANDY MCDONALD, PT, PRPC

Physical Therapy Institute

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ENT Center of the Ozarks

DEL SLONEKER, M.D. ENT Center of the Ozarks

CORY VAUGHN, M.D. ENT Center of the Ozarks

PAIN MANAGEMENT JOHN BROWN, D.O. Arkansas Spine and Pain

JAMES CALDWELL, M.D. Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Proper Pain Solutions

JILL FLAXMAN, M.D.

Natural State Pain and Wellness Clinic

Arkansas Children’s

MARLA MURPHY, PT, DPT Exceptional Physical Therapy

NATALIE BURR, M.D.

JEFF NOLEN PT, DPT

Little Rock Pediatric Clinic

Physical Therapy Institute

JESSICA CANNON, M.D.

BRAD SANDERS, DPT

Hot Springs Pediatric

Physical Therapy Institute

Arkansas Children’s

JESSICA FOX, M.D., FAAP

Central Arkansas Pediatric Clinic The Children's Clinic of Conway and Greenbrier

STEPHEN PAULUS, M.D.

ERIC DUKE, CPO, LOPP

JASON EDDY, CPA, CFO, BOCP, LOPP Snell Prosthetics & Orthotics - Little Rock

NICK HAMMAKER, COA, LO, LPED, LPA Snell Prosthetics & Orthotics - Hot Springs

CHRISTOPHER HORTON, LPO, BOCO Horton's Orthotics & Prosthetics

MICHAEL HORTON, LPO, CPO Horton's Orthotics & Prosthetics

ANGELA HUCKABY, BOCPO, LOPA

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JOSH KETELSEN, CPOA, CPED, LOPA, LPED

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GENA WOODWARD, MSPT

Snell Prosthetics & Orthotics - Fort Smith

MARIO RAMIREZ ZERMENO, PT

Snell Prosthetics & Orthotics - Little Rock

Pain Care Associates

CHRIS KILLINGSWORTH, M.D.

SEAN DINEEN, CPO, MPO, LOPP

SARAH WALKER, PHD, PT, DPT, PRPC, CAPP-OB Advanced Physical Therapy

TLC Pediatrics

KIMBERLY MACCONAUGHA, MNSC, APRN, CPNP-PC, PMHS

OrthoArkansas

Advanced Physical Therapy

UAMS Health

CHRISTOPHER K. MOCEK, M.D. The Mocek Spine Clinic

KELSEY MOIX, DPT, PRPC

CARLA BROWN, M.D.

TERENCE L. CHAMPLIN, M.D.

JASON A. HUNT, M.D.

Advanced Physical Therapy

St. Mary's Physician Services

TOM HART, M.D.

Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital

Advanced Physical Therapy

CHRISTINA M. BARTLETT, M.D.

CYNTHIA CARPENTER, CNP

Arkansas Surgical Hospital/ Pain Consultants of Arkansas

Physical Therapy Institute

Arkansas Children's

AHMED GHALEB, M.D.

Advanced Spine and Pain Centers

Physical Therapy Institute

SID DASSINGER, M.D.

CARA BRAY, CPO, MPO, LOPP

Lonoke Physical Therapy

MICHAEL LACY, BOCP, LOPP

TRISTINE LAM, CPO, MPO, LOPP ERIC LEE, CO, CPA, LOPP

Snell Prosthetics & Orthotics - Russellville

CODY MOODY, LOPA

Snell Prosthetics & Orthotics - Fort Smith - East

Cabot Health & Wellness

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MEGAN CHANG, M.D.

TRAUMA SURGERY

M. JACK LONG, M.D.

MARY KATHERINE "KATIE" KIMBROUGH, M.D.

Baptist Health Interventional Radiology Clinic Hot Springs Radiology Services

KIM SIMPSON, LP, LPED, LOA

Snell Prosthetics & Orthotics - White Hall

TORONSA M. SIMPSON, MSN, APRN, FNP-C CARTI

LESLIE ANN WILCOX, RNP

UAMS Health

JAMES R. MCCARLEY, M.D. Hot Springs Radiology Services

Arkansas Urology

WISCHELLE WILLIAMS, APRN Arkansas Urology

JONG S. PARK, M.D.

TRAUMA THERAPY

Horton's Orthotics & Prosthetics

Washington Regional Radiology

FRANK SNELL, CPO, LPO, FAAOP

SHANE THARP, M.D.

New Path Mental Health & Wellness

VASCULAR SURGERY

KATIE WALKER, LCSW, RPT

KENT P. NACHTIGAL, M.D.

BRYAN SIMS, LPO

Snell Prosthetics & Orthotics - Little Rock

JOSHUA LEE, LPE-I

Unity Health

BRANDON WHITFIELD, LOPA

Snell Prosthetics & Orthotics - Conway

TAYLOR WILLIAMS, CO, MPO, LOPA Snell Prosthetics & Orthotics - Little Rock

HADEN ZIRBEL, L/CPO, MSPO Horton's Orthotics & Prosthetics

PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER ZACK COCO, APRN

Indigo Counseling

Baxter Health

RHEUMATOLOGY TAMER ALSEBAI, M.D. CHI St. Vincent

UROLOGY

OrthoArkansas

SHAWN CLAWSON, APRN

Conway Regional Health System

KEVIN CLAYBROOK, M.D. Arkansas Urology

DEBRA BRENT, APRN Chi Arthritis & Rheumatology

JASEN CHI, M.D.

MELANIE HIGGINS, APRN, PMHNP-BC

TIMOTHY GOODSON, M.D.

Argenta Counseling + Wellness

JESSICA SHORT CHISM, M.D.

Washington Regional Rheumatology Clinic

DANIELLE LYNCH, APN

MORGAN HAYES, APRN

JAMI HOWELL, PA-C

Renew Mental Health and Wellness

OrthoArkansas

HEATHER MARTIN, APRN

JENNIFER SHULER, MNSC, APRN, ACNP-BC, PMHNP-BC

Arthritis & Rheumatism Associates

Rice Clinic

Pulaski Heights Wellness Clinic

PSYCHIATRY JESSICA L. COKER, M.D. UAMS Health

NIHIT KUMAR, M.D.

Argenta Counseling + Wellness

ANGELICA PALTING, D.O. Rock Mental Health

THOMAS STINNETT, M.D.

Conway Behavioral Health Hospital

ABEER WASHINGTON, M.D. Rice Clinic

PULMONOLOGY BRIAN I. MALTE, M.D.

CARTI

NOTE: Every reasonable attempt has been made to confirm the accuracy of names, credentials and affiliations on this list, including but not limited to confirming submitted nominations with medical practices and institutions, and by other means. AY Media Group is not responsible for any missing information or changes in affiliation by any member of this list prior to or following publication.

Arkansas Urology Arkansas Urology

OrthoArkansas

KIMBERLEE SARTAIN, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Pinnacle Wound Care

Arkansas Urology

SWETHA BODDEDA, M.D., FACS

Argenta Counseling + Wellness

CODY COTTRELL, APRN, PMHNP

DEVIN SESSIONS, M.D., CWS-P, PCHM

CARTI

MORGAN BITTENGLE, APRN

M. CHRISTIE DUMBOSKI, DNP, APRN, BC

New Path Mental Health & Wellness

WOUND CARE

JOHN PAUL BRIZZOLARA, M.D., FACS

GAIL REEDE JONES, M.D. Arkansas Urology

OrthoArkansas

RON KUHN, M.D.

LESLIE MCCASLAND, M.D.

CARTI

KEITH MOONEY, M.D., FACS

NOHA MOHAMED, M.D.

CARTI

Noydeen Medical Group

TAYLOR MOORE, M.D.

FRANCIS A. NARDELLA, M.D.

CARTI

White River Medical Center

ALLISON MORROW, APRN

SHAILENDRA SINGH, M.D.

Arkansas Urology

Unity Health

SAFWAN H. SAKR, M.D.

ArCare Hot Springs Rheumatology

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FACES OF HOT SPRINGS 2026 “We have never felt so welcomed, respected and cared for by a community as we do in Hot Springs.”

— Saddiq Mir, co-owner at J&S Hospitality Group

T

he nature lover. The history buff. The shopping savant.

The casino connoisseur. The foodie. The honeymooners, girls-trip-takers and family vacationers. First-time visitors, regular returners and, yes, even the locals know — no matter who you are or how you arrive, there is something about Hot Springs that is easy to fall in love with and impossible to forget.

“Hot Springs has a personality all its own.

It’s beautiful, welcoming and full of history.”

— Stephen Greer, vice president of hospitality at Oaklawn Hot Springs

is not merely a combination of right time and right place. Across every era of the city, it is the people who have continued to make it great. Whether they are holding down shop counters, commanding stages or working behind the scenes to keep the whole thing humming, countless faces in countless places make up the fabric of Hot Springs. AY About You has curated a selection of individuals across different industries, positions and backgrounds for this year’s “Faces of Hot Springs.”

“I can’t imagine a better place to call home.”

— Zack Gillham, vice president of racing and wagering at Oaklawn Hot Springs

“We love to be able to share all of the amazing things our town has to offer.”

— Audrey Smith, owner of Wrapped Gift Boutique From Oaklawn to Bathhouse Row and from some of the Natural State’s marquee outdoor offerings and adventures to downtown shopping, dining and entertainment, Spa City has managed to keep building on its storied past while eyeing an exciting future. Beloved by such diverse crowds as gangsters, professional baseball players, health-and-wellness seekers, thoroughbred racing fans and more throughout the decades, the city has also attracted a new wave of entrepreneurs, restaurateurs and even filmmakers in more recent years.

What sustains the not-so-hidden gem in the Ouachita Mountains

“We love Hot Springs, and we are proud of this city.”

— Blake Crawford, co-owner at Crawford Law Firm Born-and-raised residents and transplants alike had much to say about the city and its unique combination of history, natural beauty and Southern hospitality. All throughout the group was a deep, tangible sense of pride and love for Hot Springs — that same sense of community that has made Hot Springs so much more than a tourist destination for so long.

“This community welcomed us from day one.

We’re proud to call Hot Springs home.”

— Wayne Smith, general manager at Oaklawn Hot Springs

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SOK IT UP IONS CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF VACAT

HOTSPRINGS.ORG

hot springs

destination

SPA CITY Tourism an important part of Hot Springs’ success story — but not the whole story

By SARAH DECLERK // Photos courtesy of VISIT HOT SPRINGS

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W

hen Devin Heath was recruited to replace longtime CEO Steve Arrison at Visit Hot Springs, he started doing some research. Having led tourism organizations across the South, he knew how to tell a story, how to whet the appetite of an audience to get travelers hooked on a destination. He said he loves seeing the light in someone’s eyes when they are eager for a new experience.

He even knew a little bit about Hot Springs, although, like many people outside Arkansas, he did not know the full story.

The more he learned, the more the light he so often lit in others came on for him. This was a good fit. Now occupying a role he considers to be “chief storyteller,” he said he keeps expecting to find something he does not like about the job — but it has not happened yet.

“Every turn, I keep saying I’m waiting for something to rear its head that I’m not going to be excited about, but so far, even the challenges are exciting,” he said. “There’s going to be challenges in a role, and I get that, but there’s nothing that has me scared or has me second-guessing the decision. I’ve been thrilled to be here from the very beginning.”

As for the story, the complete story, the one that tells how Spa City came to be and all the nooks and crannies that make it what it is today, that tale has been on Heath’s lips ever since.

“Everybody that I’ve told in my family and friend group about Hot Springs, everybody knows about the bathhouses, but they don’t know that this was Vegas before Vegas,” he said. “They don’t know that we’ve had all kinds of history and characters that have come here. They don’t know that this is the birthplace of spring training baseball. They know that Arkansas has some of the best outdoor experiences that you can get in the country, but they don’t know the specific outdoor experiences that you can get here in Hot Springs.”

For folks across the U.S. and even internationally, that is something he hopes to change, but for now, Heath is doing more listening than he is talking. His first priority is getting to know his team and his community. His second is developing a plan.

“We’re going to move pretty quickly in a minute,” he said.

“We’re not ready to move quickly yet because I need to get to know the community, but we’re going to start very soon on a strategic plan that we’re going to work on with the community. We want our community to be a part of it.”

Hot Springs is a tourist town; there is no escaping that identity. According to the latest research from Longwoods International, Hot Springs welcomes 9.7 million visitors annually, 78 percent of whom Devin Heath hail from out of state. The total economic impact of tourism on the city is $1.1 billion.

“We live in a city powered by tourism,” said Bill Solleder, director of marketing at Visit Hot Springs. “I like to play tourist often by attending local events and attractions. Most recently, I visited Garvan Woodland Gardens to see the Where the Wind Lives exhibit.”

Garvan is just one of the many places on the itinerary for a trip to Hot Springs. Others include Mid-America Science Museum, the Northwoods Trails, and Magic Springs Theme and Water Park, just to name a few. Solleder said he counts events such as the World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade as attractions, as well, not to mention the city’s burgeoning status as a destination for foodies.

“The culinary scene has boomed over the last decade,” he said.

“We celebrate our restaurateurs during Feast Month, which takes place over the entire month of November. We have countless pizza, taco and burger options, and the barbecue is legendary too.

International and fine cuisine has really come forward. Personally, I am waiting for an Indian restaurant to open in Hot Springs.”

In Solleder’s mind, the more attractions there are in the city, the more excuses there are to visit.

“Hot Springs has an incredible product that can serve the luxe traveler, family travelers, budget travelers and outdoor enthusiasts,” he said. “Visitation has increased year over year, which is a

From Garvan Woodland Gardens to Oaklawn Hot Springs, attractions bring a steady stream of visitors to the city.

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hot springs Hot Springs has an incredible product that can serve the luxe traveler, family travelers, budget travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.

— Bill Solleder, marketing director, Visit Hot Springs great thing for Hot Springs, but I would like to see our visitors stay longer and make repeat visits to Hot Springs. To entice this, we need additional attractions and activities to keep folks excited about us.”

One of the city’s most established attractions is Oaklawn Hot Springs, grounded in a more than 120-year history of horse racing and now offering a world-class casino, resort and event center.

“Oaklawn’s competitive advantage is residing in Hot Springs,” said Wayne Smith, general manager. “We benefit from being in a city with so much character, natural beauty and history. Hot Springs benefits from having a nationally recognized resort and racing destination that brings people here. The stronger Hot Springs becomes, the more attractive Oaklawn becomes, and the more Oaklawn grows, the more opportunity it creates for the city.”

That opportunity comes to the tune of hosting tens of thousands of visitors for major race days, including an all-time record of 73,000 for this year’s Arkansas Derby. That is not to mention the vast numbers of conference attendees and concertgoers who visit the event center throughout the year.

While Oaklawn may bring people to the city, it is the natural beauty, charm and hospitality of Hot Springs that keeps them coming back, Smith said. Cultivating quality of life for residents is also important, he added, since great communities attract visitors, and exceptional communities attract investment.

“I’d like to see Hot Springs build on its success as a premier tourism destination by creating a more diversified economy,” he said. “Tourism will always be one of our greatest strengths, but I believe our next opportunity is attracting industries that provide high-quality careers, encourage entrepreneurship and give our young people more reasons to build their futures here.

“A broader mix of businesses will strengthen our economy, improve quality of life, and ensure Hot Springs continues to be a great place to visit, live, work and invest.”

That concept is not lost on Heath, who sees tourism as just one leg of what he called the “three-legged stool” of economic development, one also supported by residents and investment.

“Before any company comes in and builds a facility, a plant, a new corporate headquarters or a distribution center, they’re going to come in as a visitor,” he said. “If they have a great experience as a visitor, they’re going to turn around and say, ‘Hey, we should look Cole McCaskill

at that as a place for us to build our company, for us to relocate our employees there, as a place to live, as a residence,’ but you first come as a visitor.”

For many, that first impression happens on Bathhouse Row. Cole McCaskill, interim president and CEO of the Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce and Hot Springs Metro Partnership, said the area’s comeback story has been pivotal to the city’s overall prosperity.

When he was growing up, he said, downtown was not a popular place to be. Businesses were boarded up, the bathhouses were vacant, and the streets were all but deserted most of the week. Help came in the form of the National Park Service, which began leasing spaces in the bathhouses to private businesses.

“It activated those spaces. It turned the lights on,” he said.

“You’ve got new business activity there. You’ve got people in there.

It brought private investment to public property so we didn’t have to rely on the federal government to be spending 100 percent of the dollars there, and it was really a major domino in the longterm success story of downtown Hot Springs.”

Another boon was born of tragedy when the Majestic Hotel burned down in 2014, prompting a wave of civic engagement that paid off in a big way.

Since that time, McCaskill said, there has been $230 million in private investment and 260 new businesses downtown. Of those businesses, he added, 72 percent are still open — far surpassing the national small-business survival rate of about 50 percent.

He attributed that success to the established tourism industry downtown, spurred by Hot Springs National Park.

“For hundreds of years, humans have been coming to visit Hot Springs because of the thermal water and the beautiful landscape and the outdoor recreation opportunities,” he said. “As more and more people came, more and more private interests built up a great portfolio of tourism infrastructure and assets. There’s just no shortage of fun things for people to do while they’re here.”

Each new hotel, shop or eatery that opens downtown creates the opportunity for even more development as more businesses are needed to support the influx of workers and visitors, he added.

In addition to ongoing efforts to bolster the downtown area, the chamber has been working to support the local business community through a workforce development initiative that connects area high school seniors to local employers.

“We have a big pipeline of students in K-12, and that’s the future workforce,” he said. “They’re already living in Hot Springs; we

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The number of tourist draws is not just great for visitors; it also brings new residents and investment to the city.

Tourism will always be one of our greatest strengths, but I believe our next opportunity is attracting industries that provide highquality careers, encourage entrepreneurship and give our young people more reasons to build their futures here.

— Wayne Smith, general manager, Oaklawn

don’t have to recruit them here, and we want to make sure that they understand all the opportunities that they have for employment,” The initiative informs youngsters about entry-level jobs at local companies and what skills are required to advance.

“We’ve heard a lot of success stories from the top-level managers of local businesses,” McCaskill said. “I would say the majority of them started at the bottom, sweeping floors, and worked their way up, so that’s kind of the message that we’re communicating for that initiative.”

Oaklawn and CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs represent two of the area’s largest employers, he said, while Xpress Boats and Veranda Luxury Pontoon are the largest manufacturers. Other key employers include Mountain Valley Spring Water and several aerospace companies, and McCaskill said he is encouraged

by continued investment by companies such as WinChoice and Window Mart.

He added that he expects continued success for the city, largely because of its foundation of natural resources such as thermal springs, the Ouachita National Forest and nearby lakes — resources that have made Hot Springs a destination from the very beginning.

“Nobody can recruit that to Texas or another state,” he said.

“You have to come to Hot Springs to experience that, and people are going to continue coming to make use of that. A lot of folks are going to fall in love and decide that they want to live here and enjoy these natural resources every day, so we’re just built on the incredible natural beauty of this area, and things are going to continue to trend upward.”

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BATHHOUSE SOAPERY & CALDARIUM AND VILLAINESS ALCHEMY CHARLENE SIMON, OWNER Charlene Simon may not be a Hot Springs native, but it is clear she was made for Spa City and Spa City for her. Discovering a passion for soap making in 2000 at just 19 years old, Simon embarked on a journey that would see her become not only a successful entrepreneur, artisan and industry leader but an integral part of the renaissance of downtown Hot Springs. Bathhouse Soapery & Caldarium opened its doors in 2009, and the flagship boutique has spent the 17 years since helping visitors indulge in the fragrances, textures and unique artistry of its small-batch, hand-blended bath and body products.

“There’s always a batch to pour, a new scent to blend, a boutique shelf to fill or a challenge to navigate alongside peers on the same path,” Simon said. “I wake up each day knowing I get to make beautiful, useful things that help people feel good in their own skin. After 2 1/2 decades, the legacy feels real — not just in bars of soap but in jobs created, a historic downtown revived and other makers inspired.”

Simon’s passion project turned calling has grown into multiple boutiques, a manufacturing operation and a second beauty brand, Villainess Alchemy.

Bathhouse Soapery's nearby "twisted sister," Villainess offers scents and sensations right out of Spa City's seedy yet illustrious past. Villainess Alchemy’s SPEAKEASY! Lipstick Apotheclass is a

one-of-a-kind, bespoke lipstick-creation experience inspired by the era of gambling and gangstresses.

Guests leave with a personalized creation all their own infused with a magic that can only be found amid the sultry glow of the Villainess lair. In either space, Simon’s goal is to leave guests with much more than just the purchased product.

“I hope to build a wellness destination — a temple of bathing, crafting and holistic practices that honor the mind, body and spirit as a whole,” she said, “a sanctuary where we can design our own bath and beauty essentials, experience time-honored bathing rituals, and learn the craft of soap and cosmetic making, practicing archetypal self-care in an immersive space that redefines how we create, enjoy and share our unique beauty in the world.”

While the beauty industry is her native territory, Simon’s influence on Hot Springs goes beyond the Caldarium doors. She also made her mark in the city’s culinary arena with the launch of Fat Bottomed Girl’s Cupcake Shoppe — now owned by her daughter — and EvilO Oils & Vinegars. A self-starter and autodidact, Simon has ridden out the storms of entrepreneurship and taken every challenge in stride. Her beauty ventures have gained a loyal following among visitors and locals alike. AY About You readers voted Bathhouse Soapery as "AY's Best of 2025" for Arkansas handmade products.

Bathhouse Soapery & Caldarium 366 Central Ave., Hot Springs bathhousesoap.com

Villainess Alchemy 403 Ouachita Ave., Hot Springs villainess.net 501.525.7627

Bathhouse Soapery & Caldarium 170

CATERING TEMPTATIONS ANDREA BRIDGES, OWNER As a single mother, Andrea Bridges wanted to build a future that would not only provide for her family but also allow her to pursue something she truly loves. She dreamed of turning a lifelong passion for cooking into something more, and in Hot Springs, the support of her parents and community enabled her to do just that.

After a year gaining hands-on experience at another local catering business, Bridges was ready to take the leap and open Catering Temptations — an operation built, she said, “with faith, determination and the love of family.”

“This community has supported me from the very beginning, and I wanted to build a business that gives back by helping families, businesses and organizations celebrate life’s most important moments,” she said.

“Every event we cater is an opportunity to share great food, create lasting memories and show the hospitality that makes Hot Springs such a special place.”

From receptions and anniversaries to birthdays, reunions and business events, Catering Temptations takes the time to understand each client’s unique vision

and deliver delicious food, beautiful presentation and impeccable service. Every detail is handled with the utmost care because Bridges and her team believe that “catering is about more than serving great food; it’s about creating an unforgettable experience for every guest,” she said.

“The most important thing we do is make every client feel like family,” Bridges said. “We don’t see the people we serve as just another event on the calendar; we build relationships with them.”

In that way, Catering Temptations is also a reflection of the community it serves. Whether someone is visiting for the first time or was born and raised in Hot Springs, Bridges said, the city has a way of making everyone feel welcome, and that is the same feeling she strives to create through unmatched, high-quality catering. She also has plans to expand in the coming years, increasing the capacity of the Catering Temptations team to serve even more clients.

“Representing a community that values hospitality, hard work and service, we want every person we serve to leave with not only a great meal but also a positive impression of our city and the people who call it home,” Bridges said.

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CRAWFORD LAW FIRM BLAKE AND BETH CRAWFORD For attorneys Blake and Beth Crawford, practicing law is a true team effort. The husband-and-wife duo built Crawford Law Firm on the belief that collaboration yields the best results for their clients. Today, they combine their unique legal strengths to advocate for the Hot Springs community they call home.

“My father, Michael Crawford, has been a licensed attorney in Hot Springs since 1981,” Blake said. “Being an attorney always intrigued me. I was acutely aware that my dad put food on our table managing other people’s conflict.”

Blake began practicing alongside his father in 2011. He and Beth married in 2015 and established Crawford Law Firm together in 2018.

“Starting our own firm gave us a collaborative space where Blake could concentrate on the law he enjoys, and I could focus on what I care about most — advocating for children in the court system and helping families protect their futures through estate planning,” Beth said.

Crawford Law Firm's core practice areas include administrative, civil, domestic, juvenile and probate law.

The pair are vested in finding the best outcome for every client but understand victory isn't always found in a judge’s

ruling. Sometimes the most important outcome is simply getting a client out of harm’s way and mitigating damage.

“Our ultimate goal is to leave every client better off than when they came to us,” Blake said. “Always.”

Though not originally from the area, Beth easily decided to make Hot Springs her home after meeting Blake.

“Hot Springs has so much to offer, but above that, it’s the community of people here,” she said. “Practicing law in this town has a small-town feel. Our local relationships allow us to work together effectively and solve problems for our clients, ideally without needless fighting and expense.”

The Crawfords pride themselves on being candid and accessible. In the coming years, they hope to expand the firm’s nontraditional adoption, surrogacy representation and estate planning services. Beth often reminds clients that estate plans are not just end-of-life decisions but are for all families to protect their children and legacy. She also wants to be more involved in the juvenile drug court program to expand services for at-risk youth.

"A large portion of our practice involves minor children," Beth said. "The success of Hot Springs youth is important to both of us. Investing in them is investing in Hot Springs.

Opportunity breeds success."

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J&S HOSPITALITY GROUP SADDIQ AND JEANNIE MIR, OWNERS Saddiq and Jeannie Mir have become synonymous with refined hospitality in Hot Springs, where their portfolio of restaurants under J&S Hospitality Group has redefined what it means to dine well in the city.

Partners in both business and life, the Mirs bring decades of experience to every concept they create, pouring their shared passion for service into each address and shaping spaces where their adopted community can gather, connect and feel genuinely cared for.

"We fell in love with Hot Springs history," Saddiq said. "The people are the most welcoming, caring and loving. It's because of their support that we work to create new concepts and provide amazing experiences for our guests."

For the Mirs, ownership is a form of stewardship.

They view each property not merely as an establishment but as a contribution to the character and reputation of Hot Springs. That philosophy also drives their hands-on approach.

Led by corporate chef Sascia Marchesi, a native of Bergamo, Italy, the menu at J&S Italian Villa features handcrafted pastas, premium steaks, fresh seafood and seasonal specialties inspired by the coastal regions of Cinque Terre.

Voted “Best Italian Restaurant” by AY readers, J&S Italian Villa offers exceptional fun and trendy dining in the heart of Hot Springs.

Proud inductee into the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame, The Ohio Club is Arkansas’ oldest bar and one of Hot Springs’ most iconic landmarks. Famous for hosting legendary figures such as Al Capone, Babe Ruth and Mae West, it offers award-winning cocktails, live entertainment and Southern hospitality in a one-of-a-kind historic setting.

Copper Penny Pub blends the warmth of a traditional Irish pub with Southern hospitality. Voted “Best Dive Bar” and “Best Beer Selection” by AY readers in 2026, it features pub favorites, an outstanding selection of draft beer, karaoke night, live music and an atmosphere where locals and visitors gather to relax, celebrate and make lasting memories.

501.525.1121 — 4332 Central Ave., Suite B jandsitalian.com

501.627.0702 — 336 Central Ave. theohioclub.com

501.622.2570 — 711 Central Ave. copper-penny-pub.com

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The couple is known for closely tracking emerging trends, ensuring their menus stay ahead of the curve while remaining true to the warmth that defines their brand.

"We have set the bar high for ourselves," Saddiq said. "Our goal is to continue to enhance our menus and service to make our locals proud and serve our guests."

Looking ahead, the Mirs remain committed to growing their portfolio thoughtfully, always with Hot Springs at the heart of their vision.

"We want to continue to give back to the community which has given us so much," he said.

J&S Hospitality Group stands as a hallmark of excellence in Hot Springs dining — a collection of distinct concepts united by a single commitment: genuine hospitality. At its foundation is a devotion to craft, community and the guests who have made Hot Springs feel like home.

Situated on the shores of beautiful Lake Hamilton, Fisherman’s Wharf offers quality seafood, hand-cut steaks and gorgeous lake views. The Mirs took over the iconic restaurant earlier this year, ushering in a new chapter with the same great fare guests have come to expect.

Experience simple ingredients, time-honored recipes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere at Mueller's Bistro & Bakery.

Nestled in the heart of Hot Springs, Mueller’s proudly serves freshbaked goods, hearty breakfasts and handcrafted lunches to locals and visitors alike.

The Mirs’ new concept, Sip & Swag, is right beside The Ohio Club, making it the city’s new goto tasting bar for a smooth pour, hand-picked cigars and one-of-akind souvenirs. Patrons can grab a sip while they shop Ohio Club swag.

501.525.7437 — 5101 Central Ave. facebook.com/5101spacity

501.623.7005 — 111 B. Crawford Road muellersbistrobakery.com

501.222.7924 — 334 Central Ave., Suite A sipandswag.com

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BEYOND WELLNESS Matt and Ashley Huneycutt bring more than 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry to their growing network of Beyond Wellness clinics specializing in functional medicine, innovative therapies and personalized aesthetic care. Their mission is simple: to help clients look, feel and live better through thoughtful, cutting-edge treatments.

“We’re Hot Springs Village residents and have proudly owned businesses in this area for over a decade,” Matt said. “The Hot Springs community continues to be an incredible fit for the kind of high-level care we strive to provide.”

By offering services such as IV therapy, hormone optimization, aesthetic treatments and so much more, Beyond Wellness is changing the lives of its patients in Hot Springs and beyond.

Beyond Wellness has one office in Hot Springs and two in Little Rock. They also recently opened their first location in northwest Arkansas, further expanding access to Beyond Wellness across the state. The new location in Rogers is their biggest yet, offering some of the most advanced treatments on the market today.

All of the Beyond Wellness facilities welcome locals and visitors alike who believe in being their own health advocates.

“We want every person who walks through our doors to feel supported in their journey, whether they’re seeking recovery, confidence or simply to feel more like themselves,” Ashley said.

“Our vision is to make exceptional wellness experiences accessible without having to leave Arkansas.”

501.476.7171 — beyondwellnessar.com Beyond Wellness beyondwellnessar

HAMMER & STAIN HOT SPRINGS CYNTHIA HALL, OWNER From immersive DIY workshops and resin art to glassblowing, custom laser engravings and one-of-a-kind creative experiences, Hammer & Stain Hot Springs is where creativity comes to life.

Guests can explore a hands-on maker’s paradise, creating everything from home decor and personalized gifts to wearable art. They can also partake in unforgettable experiences like the wax hands cart or splash tent.

After seeing the concept flourish elsewhere, owner Cynthia Hall knew Hot Springs deserved a destination where creativity, connection and fun could come together under one roof.

“We provide the tools, materials and guidance,” Hall said. “The best part is, we handle the cleanup.”

Whether planning a girls’ night out, celebrating a birthday, hosting a corporate event or simply stopping in to create something unique, every visit is designed to make lasting memories. Beyond the studio, Hammer & Stain also specializes in custom laser engraving and live on-site engraving for weddings, corporate events, festivals and personalized gifts.

Hall continues to weave creativity into the fabric of Hot Springs, giving visitors and locals alike a place to gather, create and connect one project at a time.

“I never imagined that moving to Hot Springs would lead to the opportunity to serve such an incredible community,” Hall said. “My favorite part is watching complete strangers walk through our doors and leave feeling like lifelong friends.”

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KEN BREDESON, DIRECTOR OF CULINARY, OAKLAWN HOT SPRINGS Ken Bredeson initially entered the culinary world to support himself through a law degree, having no idea the kitchen would take him as far as it has over the 30 years since.

Five years ago, Bredeson was approached to help establish Forbes-worthy food and service at Oaklawn Hot Springs.

With experience under his belt at two other large properties prior to Oaklawn, Bredeson accepted the challenge and, he said, “the rest is history.”

“I love bringing great food and experiences to our guests,” he said. “I want guests to have a culinary adventure, from the best wings in the state at Mainline Sports Bar and Silks Bar & Grill to exploring their palate with A5 Japanese wagyu or Spanish octopus. I feel it’s our goal to create a culinary passport for each of our guests to travel around the world without having to leave Oaklawn.”

Dining is a central pillar of Oaklawn’s one-of-a-kind propertywide experience. At Forbes-recommended fine-dining spot The Bugler, Bredeson said guests can take an international journey, from the Southern Pacific rim to Italian and modern American fusion food. The OAK room & bar, meanwhile, offers

Southern classics with a French twist. Whether upscale or casual, the service at every Oaklawn dining establishment is held to the highest standard. Preparing food for others, Bredeson said, is both a craft and an art.

“You need to have the right tools, know the materials that you are working with and, lastly, know your audience,” he said. “Saying that, we as chefs must also give our guest options that consistently push or nudge them out of their comfort zones. This way, they have the opportunity to experience something new or something from the past that has been revisited.”

Bredeson said his focus remains to build an overall culinary and service experience that constantly exceeds guest expectations, as well as to redefine what that kind of service looks like for Oaklawn, Hot Springs and Arkansas itself.

“At Oaklawn, we can offer a complete package of all these things, from over 125 years of continued high level premium horse racing to manicured landscapes and entertainment to food and service experiences that are some of the best in the country,” he said.

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ZACK GILLHAM, VICE PRESIDENT OF RACING & WAGERING, OAKLAWN HOT SPRINGS Zack Gillham was born and raised in Hot Springs, so he has always understood, on some level, the significance of Oaklawn Hot Springs to his community. A little more than a decade ago, however, that passing knowledge became real to him in a new way — one that ended up launching his career, as well.

“Watching American Pharoah win both the Rebel Stakes and the Arkansas Derby in 2015 gave me a completely new appreciation for the sport,” Gillham said. “Seeing a future Triple Crown winner compete in my hometown made me realize that the biggest stage in horse racing wasn't somewhere else; it was right here in Hot Springs.”

Gillham joined Oaklawn in player development the following year and has since grown his skills across multiple departments, including mutuels, sportsbook and wagering operations. Each role has given him a deeper understanding of what sets the organization apart both in the state and the region and prepared him well for his role as vice president of racing and wagering.

“What I enjoy most is the variety,” Gillham said. “Every day presents a new challenge, whether it's working on the live

racing product, overseeing wagering operations, planning for future racing seasons or identifying new opportunities to enhance the guest experience. I enjoy the strategic side of the business, but I also appreciate that everything we do ultimately supports the fans, horsemen, owners, team members and community who make Oaklawn what it is.”

While the live racing season only runs for part of the year, pulling it all off is a year-round effort. Several pieces must come together long before opening day, from scheduling and purse structures to wagering operations, regulatory coordination and countless other behind-the-scenes details.

It takes an “incredible team of professionals” to make the excitement of race day possible, Gillham said, and he feels fortunate to play a role in preserving a century-plus-old tradition while continuing to modernize the organization for future generations.

“At Oaklawn, we strive to create a memory that lasts a lifetime, whether someone is attending their very first race or they've been coming here for decades,” he said. “We want every guest to feel welcomed, entertained and excited to return.”

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STEPHEN GREER, VICE PRESIDENT OF HOSPITALITY, OAKLAWN HOT SPRINGS Stephen Greer’s enthusiasm for hospitality grew out of his time as a server in college. That passion has since turned into a career spanning 35 years across multiple hotels and casinos in locations such as San Diego, Las Vegas, Denver and Kansas City. Greer has spent the past seven years as vice president of hospitality at Oaklawn Hot Springs, and between the lakes, national park, lively downtown and welcoming community, he said, Hot Springs is “a place that's easy to fall in love with.”

“Visitors arrive at Oaklawn for their initial visit and frequently depart already planning their return,” Greer said.

“Knowing we've helped introduce them to this community is incredibly rewarding.”

“Unparalleled” fails to do justice in many ways to Oaklawn’s myriad offerings and position as a cornerstone of the Spa City experience. The racing casino resort is a Forbes-recommended destination where visitors arrive to unwind, mark special occasions, savor exceptional cuisine, browse retail offerings, indulge in wellness treatments or

simply escape for a brief period, Greer said. With much to enjoy comes much behind-the-scenes coordination.

“Hospitality is a team sport, and I'm fortunate to work with people who genuinely care about making every guest feel welcome,” he said. “Whether someone is here for a weekend getaway, a spa day, dinner or race season, everyone on our team is focused on making that visit special.”

Expansion, national recognition and an ever-rising profile have given Greer and his team a lot to be proud of, all while never losing sight of what matters most — taking care of people. Their focus continues to be on elevating the guest experience while finding new ways to make Oaklawn a destination of choice throughout the year, whether through new retail offerings, expanded amenities or bolstering investment in the teams that make it all look seamless.

“We're always asking ourselves one question, ‘How can we make the next visit even better?’” Greer said. “That mindset keeps us moving forward, and I think it's what makes Oaklawn such a special place to be.”

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GIGI GUIETTE, SPA DIRECTOR, OAKLAWN HOT SPRINGS Gigi Guiette has spent nearly 20 years pursuing her passion for holistic health and wellness in the spa industry. Moving into leadership after starting as a massage therapist, Guiette has opened new spas, honed operations and led exceptional teams, all while creating wellness experiences that support both guest satisfaction and business success. With expertise like that, it would not be just any organization to bring her from Hawaii to Hot Springs.

“What truly drew me here was my virtual interview with [owners Louis and Rochelle] Cella,” Guiette said. “They were so kind, informative and genuinely passionate about the Astral Spa and its mission. Their warmth and authenticity made a lasting impression on me.”

Meeting General Manager Wayne Smith and Vice President of Hospitality Stephen Greer only solidified Guiette’s decision because they were “encouraging, supportive of my ideas and receptive to my vision for creating exceptional guest experiences,” she said. Under Guiette’s leadership, the Astral Spa at Oaklawn Hot Springs has garnered an undeniable reputation for excellence and the exclusive title of Arkansas’ only Forbes Four-Star-rated spa. Intentionally beautiful design, carefully curated packages and a team dedicated to guest satisfaction make the Astral Spa one of Oaklawn’s must-try offerings.

“Our spa team is truly the best,” Guiette said. “They are incredibly supportive of my ideas and embrace the changes we make to ensure every guest experiences a holistic healing journey. Watching our vision come to life and seeing the positive impact it has on our guests brings me immense joy.”

Guiette remains ambitious for the future of the Astral Spa and its position as a premier destination for holistic healing, relaxation and renewal. She also hopes to celebrate the best of what Hot Springs has to offer in developing new experiences. Signature Wellness Weekend retreats, for example, would blend luxury accommodations with restorative spa experiences, mindfulness and meditation sessions, movement classes, chef-led healthy cooking demonstrations, and educational wellness workshops. It is that kind of forward-thinking that brought Guiette to Spa City in the first place and continues to make her an invaluable part of the Oaklawn Hot Springs team.

“Hot Springs has a rich history rooted in spa and wellness,” she said. “I saw the opportunity to become part of a community that values healing, hospitality and tradition, and I thought, 'Why not give it a try?' Looking back, I'm glad I did.”

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WAYNE SMITH, GENERAL MANAGER, OAKLAWN HOT SPRINGS Wayne Smith has seen a lot over the course of his career at various gaming and hospitality companies across the nation. He has learned from those experiences what it took to build truly great organizations — which is exactly what allowed him, almost a decade ago now, to see the potential of Oaklawn Hot Springs as it prepared to enter a momentous new chapter. Named general manager in 2017, Smith has seen Oaklawn expand in reach and scope without losing the heart for guests that has defined its success from the start.

“Many people who visit Oaklawn for the first time are surprised by what they've discovered,” Smith said.

“While world-class thoroughbred horse racing remains the foundation of who we are, Oaklawn has evolved into a true luxury resort destination. Today, guests can enjoy our Forbes Four-Star recommended Oaklawn hotel, Forbes Four-Star Astral Spa, exceptional dining ranging from casual favorites to award-winning restaurants, a vibrant casino, and first-class meeting, event and entertainment spaces, all in one location.”

Constantly raising the bar for each aspect of its identity — racing, casino, resort — is a feat that not only increases Oaklawn’s nationwide prominence but helps more people

discover the beauty of Hot Springs itself. Well aware of the rich and storied relationship between Oaklawn and its Spa City home, Smith said he wants people to leave Hot Springs saying, “We’ll be back.”

“We have an incredible combination of history, outdoor recreation, entertainment, hospitality and genuine Southern friendliness,” Smith said. “Oaklawn is proud to be part of that experience, but we also want guests to explore everything our city has to offer. Oaklawn’s competitive advantage is Hot Springs.”

Both through his role at Oaklawn and with groups such as the Hot Springs Advertising & Promotion Commission, Smith plays an active part in shaping the region’s future trajectory. The city has “tremendous momentum,” he said, and whether guests come to stay for the night, the weekend or even relocate to the area, he believes Hot Springs is just getting started.

“Tourism may be the front door to our economy, but longterm prosperity comes from creating an environment where businesses want to invest, families want to build careers and visitors decide they'd like to become residents,” he said. “That's the future I hope we're building together.”

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WRAPPED GIFT BOUTIQUE AUDREY SMITH, OWNER Audrey Smith, owner of multiple high-end boutiques in Hot Springs, likes to say she “grew up in retail.”

“My first job was in an art gallery at the age of 14, and by the time I was in high school, I was a part-time manager at a shoe store in a local mall,” she said.

That passion led her to dual degrees in marketing and fashion merchandising.

Smith and her husband grew up in New England and have lived across the U.S. but moved to Hot Springs in 2016 for her husband's job.

Smith said she found Hot Springs “unexpected,” and she quickly fell in love with the area.

“There are so many amazing things to explore in our city, from strolling historic Bathhouse Row to taking a hike through the mountains, visiting Garvin Woodland Gardens, attending the horse races or spending a day on the lakes,” she said.

While Hot Springs has many local shops, Smith realized that there was an unmet need for an “upscale gift shop created not just for tourists but also locals,” she said.

In 2022, she opened Wrapped Gift Boutique.

“We offer a thoughtfully curated selection of meaningful gifts for every occasion, from a small token to an original

work of art,” she said. “Our customers love being able to stop in, find the perfect gift and have it wrapped up and ready for gifting.”

Her success there led to more opportunities. Smith now runs Aqua Gift Boutique and her newest venture, Unwrapped Event and Gift Boutique. She also received the 2022 Hot Springs Metro Partnership Downtown Trailblazer award for her work in the industry.

Smith’s shops feature both local artisans and high-quality brands, all delivered with great customer service.

“I am blessed to have an amazing team, and our No. 1 priority is always our customers,” Smith said. “Visitors are always warmly welcomed, whether they are strolling the street, shopping for a gift or looking for the perfect place to eat. We are delighted to be able to help them.”

Just as important to Smith as her entrepreneurial ventures is her community advocacy work, including volunteering for the Cooper-Anthony Mercy Child Advocacy Center and Our Promise Cancer Resources, serving on the board for the Downtown Association of Hot Springs, and more.

“I share my life with my husband, Wayne, and our two sons, Riley and Dylan,” she said. “My family and community are at the heart of everything I do.”

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Add these 76 activities to the Hot Springs to-do list

By AY STAFF Photos courtesy of VISIT HOT SPRINGS

From outdoor excursions and thrilling adventures to relaxing retreats and world-class dining, there is no shortage of ways to fill up a Hot Springs itinerary. Whether spending a day, a weekend or a week, visitors often return again and again to see all there is to see. What follows, in no particular order, are 76 of the hottest things to do in Hot Springs.

1. Stroll along the historic Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs National Park. Do not forget to stop at Fordyce Bathhouse National Park Visitors Center for a rundown on the local lore. nps.gov 2. Treat yourself to a traditional bath at Quapaw Baths & Spa, housed in a 1922 bathhouse and still offering historic services from back in the day. quapawbaths.com

3. Soak up a scenic view of the Ouachita Mountains from Goat Rock. The overlook is accessed via a 1-mile trail that makes for a relaxing hike. Pro tip: Time your trek for dawn or dusk. nps.gov

4. Be sure to visit a few of the local thermal springs to see what all the fuss is about. Stop by a fountain to fill up a bottle to take home. nps.gov

5. Catch thoroughbred racing at Oaklawn Hot Springs for a tradition more than a century in the making. Bonus points for visiting during a big race such as the Arkansas Derby. oaklawn.com

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6. Not race season? No problem! Oaklawn’s state-of-the-art casino promises fun and games year-round. oaklawn.com

7. Get your scream on at Magic Springs Theme and Water Park, which offers the best of both a theme park and a water park plus a summer concert series. magicsprings.com 8. Visit Garvan Woodland Gardens to tour the unique botanical gardens of the University of Arkansas. Make time to linger at the Bob and Sunny Evans Tree House in the Evans Children's Adventure Garden, a true delight for all ages. garvangardens.org

9. Do not leave the gardens without stopping at the stunning Anthony Chapel, a gorgeous glass structure and one of Arkansas’ favorite places to get married. garvangardens.org

10. For an electrifying experience, check out the world’s most powerful conical tesla coil at the Mid-America Science Museum, which also offers plenty of other neat exhibits for the young and young at heart. midamericamuseum.org 11. While at the museum, catch a show at the Oaklawn Digital Dome Theater, which offers a 360-degree view of the night sky with its planetarium shows. midamericamuseum.org 12. Book a session at the Forbes Four-Star-rated Astral Spa for a pampering experience like no other. Guests can leave feeling radiant from head to toe. oaklawn.com

13. Whether reeling in the big one or just kicking back on a party barge, make time for relaxation at Lake Hamilton, one of three lakes in the Hot Springs area. arkansas.com 14. Explore more than 31 miles of world-class mountain biking trails at the Northwoods Trails. Bonus points: Visit during the Güdrun — Northwoods MTB Festival in October. northwoodstrails.org 15. Take in a birds-eye view of the city from Hot Springs Mountain Tower. Enjoy the thrilling elevator ride to the top, and be sure to check out the historical exhibits. hotspringstower.com

16. Become a wise guy at the Gangster Museum of America, where you can learn all about the infamous characters who frequented the city during the 1920s, ‘30s and ‘40s. tgmoa.com

17. Dig for quartz crystals at Ron Coleman Mining in nearby Jessieville. Those who are brave enough can ride a zip line above the mine. roncolemanmining.com 18. Enjoy some of the finest dining in town at The OAK room & bar at Oaklawn Hot Springs, where dinner is not just a meal; it is an experience. oaklawn.com

19. Book a room at the historic Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa to see where Al Capone, Babe Ruth and other famous figures stayed while they were in town. arlingtonhotel.com 20. Sample a beer made with thermal spring water at Superior Bathhouse Brewery, the only brewery in America located inside a national park. superiorbathhouse.com

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21. Grab a slice at Rocky’s Corner, one of the most iconic restaurants in town. Find it on Facebook.

22. Get your sweets on at Fat Bottomed Girl’s Cupcake Shoppe, as seen on Cupcake Wars. From lemon lavender to chocolate on chocolate, you cannot go wrong. fbgcupcakes.com 23. Try the pizza that wowed David Portnoy of One Bite Pizza Reviews at Deluca’s Pizza, recognized as one of America’s greatest pizzerias. originaldelucas.com

24. Paddle or boat to Electric Island on Lake Hamilton, and hike the 2-mile nature trail for a chance to see bald eagles, armadillos, osprey and more. agfc.com 25. Visit Mountain Valley Spring Water to see how the company has been bottling local product for more than 150 years. mountainvalleyspring.com

(Photo by Jamie Lee)

26. Prepare to be amazed by Jonathan Erlandson, master illusionist, at the historic Malco Theatre, a Central Avenue landmark since 1946. historicmalcotheatre.com 27. Check out the acts taking the stage at Oaklawn Event Center, which has hosted some of the greatest names in music and comedy. oaklawn.com 28. Enjoy a superb dinner at The Bugler at Oaklawn Hot Springs, which overlooks the legendary racetrack. oaklawn.com 29. Sleep in the sky at In The Trees, a treehouse resort offering the highest level of service and luxury. Fireside s’mores board? Yes, please! inthetrees.com

30. Tap into your inner child at the Retroverse Museum, a home for all things pop culture. retroversemuseum.com

31. Watch a live gator feeding at the Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo, one of the state’s oldest tourist attractions. alligatorfarmzoo.com

32. Learn about the spooky stories of Hot Springs with Hot Springs Haunted History Tours, which offer 60-minute walking tours of downtown. hotsprings.org

(Photo courtesy of Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo)

33. Marvel at a vintage miniature village with working model trains at Tiny Town, a handcrafted creation dating back more than 75 years. hotsprings.org 34. Scope some local talent during the Sunday-night showcase at Music Box Lounge, and then come back later in the week to leave it all on the stage during karaoke night. musicboxloungehotsprings.com

35. Find a new favorite treasure at Historic District Antiques, which sells everything from jewelry to chandeliers. hotsprings.org 36. Explore local food trucks at 420eats Food Truck Court, a lively spot with music, games and grub. hotsprings.org

37. Grab a drink where gangsters used to meet at The Ohio Club, one of the city’s most storied establishments. theohioclub.com 38. See where Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, Honus Wagner and Jackie Robinson completed spring training at Majestic Park. majesticpark.org 39. For even more of America’s greatest pastime and its connection to Spa City, follow the Hot Springs Historic Baseball Trail. hotspringsbaseballtrail.com

40. If German fare is what you seek, eat and drink at Steinhaus Keller, where you can bring your own stein. steinhauskeller.com

41. Step into a 1940s speakeasy, cringe in fear at the Chamber of Horrors, and meet celebrities, presidents and more at the Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum. seehotsprings.com

42. Take the Lipstick Apotheclass at Villainess Alchemy. Be sure to visit its sister shop, Bathhouse Soapery & Caldarium. villainess.net, bathhousesoap.com

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43. Blow off some steam at Machine Gun Grotto, where visitors can shoot a 1928 Tommy gun or a World War II-style machine gun. hotsprings.org 44. Do not attend the Arkansas Derby without ordering a derby hat from Hot Springs Hat Co., offering styles to suit just about everyone. hatsprings.com 45. Tour the city in an active way with Hot Springs Creek Greenway Trail, which stretches 4.2 miles from downtown to south Hot Springs. hotsprings.org

46. Scarf down some scrumptious bites at Taco Mama, offering hand-prepared meals made daily with the freshest ingredients around. tacomama.net 47. Treat that special someone to a date night at J&S Italian Villa, offering an elevated menu of fresh Italian coastal cuisine. jandsitalian.com

48. Check out Arkansas’ first and only sake brewery, Origami Sake, which brews its product with Arkansas rice and Hot Springs water. drinkorigami.com

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(Photo courtesy of Taco Mama)

50. Sit down to an upscale steak or seafood dinner at 501 Prime, and be sure to order from the bourbon bar. 501prime.com

f yo 51. Take dinner lakeside at Fisherman’s Wharf u Steak & Seafood, offering family dining on the shores o c ( P h ot o of beautiful Lake Hamilton. facebook.com/5101spacity

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(Photo courtesy of Copper Penny Pub)

49. Unleash your inner artist at Hammer & Stain Hot Springs, which offers creative classes such as watercoloring, glass blowing, resin art and much more. hammerandstainhotsprings.com

s rt e

52. Start the day off right — or end it well — with a visit to The Pancake Shop for some breakfasty goodness. pancakeshop.com 53. Snag a sweet treat at Kilwins on Central Avenue, a must-visit for ice cream, fudge and more. kilwins.com

54. Alternatively, check out the original location of Scoops Homemade Ice Cream, a slow-churned sensation that supports youth sports. scoopshomemadeicecream.com 55. Work off all that sugar with a visit to Funtrackers Family Fun Park for miniature golf, go-karting and other fun pastimes. funtrackersfamilypark.com

56. Take a dip at Lake Catherine State Park, and make time to visit the waterfall. arkansas.com

57. Chow down on bangers and mash at Copper Penny Pub, which offers a host of other Irish fare and a generous selection of burgers. copper-penny-pub.com

(Photos courtesy of Scoops)

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58. Continue the pizza tour at Rod’s Pizza Cellar, which started way back in 1975. rodspizzacellar.com 59. For even more evidence as to why Hot Springs is the Pizza Capital of the South, check out SQZBX, a pizza joint and brewery. sqzbx.com

60. Try the four-person human gyroscope at T-Rex Fun Spot, which also offers a ropes course, laser tag, black-light mini golf and more. trexgolf.com 61. Take the moonlight zip tour at Adventureworks Hot Springs, or explore the aerial adventure course and canopy tour during the daytime. adventureworks.com 62. Find a new favorite band at Valley of the Vapors Independent Music Festival in March. valleyofthevapors.com

63. Cruise Arkansas Scenic 7 Byway, which runs through downtown Hot Springs, and see why Arkansas is nicknamed the Natural State. arkansas.com 64. Visit Hot Springs High School Lofts to see where Bill Clinton signed his name on the chalkboard. 125oakstreet.com 65. Look for leprechauns at the World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which has been marshalled by the likes of Flavor Flav and Carmen Electra. shorteststpats.com 66. Indulge your sweet tooth at Pour Some Sugar on Me Sweet Shoppe, offering homemade ice cream, espresso and candy. poursomesweets.com 67. Check out a late-night show at Maxine’s Live, an underground dive with an unexpectedly impressive food menu. maxineslive.com 68. Catch a screening at the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival in October, now in its 35th year. hsdfi.org

69. See bands, comedians and more at Vapors Live, housed in a historic venue that once concealed an illegal gambling parlor. vaporslive.com

70. Tour the city by land and water with National Park Duck Tours, which offers an amphibious ride down Bathhouse Row and across Lake Hamilton. rideaduck.com

71. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture during the Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival in spring, celebrating Hot Springs’ sister city, Hanamaki, Japan. hotspringssistercity.org 72. Act like a kid at Rocket Fizz, where grown-ups can find all their favorite childhood candies and some rare treats. rocketfizz.com

73. See why the Natural State rocks at All Things Arkansas, which offers crystals and all manner of items that tell the story of Arkansas. allthingsarkansas.com

74. Stop in for a tasting at Bathhouse Row Winery, and take in a tour of a branch of the Arkansas Historic Wine Museum to boot. hotsprings.org 75. Visit Three Sisters Springs or book an eagle cruise at Lake Ouachita State Park, home to Arkansas’ largest lake. arkansas.com

76. Experience what is perhaps the world’s wackiest event during Stueart Pennington’s World Championship Running of the Tubs. runningofthetubs.org

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arts&culture

LIGHTS, Camera,

Filmland connects Natural State and Hollywood

ARKANSAS

By DWAIN HEBDA // Photos courtesy of ARKANSAS CINEMA SOCIETY

Director Jeff Nichols, right, moderates a Q&A with filmmaker Craig Brewer.

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athryn Tucker, a veteran of the film industry, has been busy these days. She recently wrapped filming of her first feature film Not Her, a cast headlined by native Arkansan Mary Steenburgen, and We want both the audience to is knee-deep in dubbing and editing the have a great experience and the movie.

It is a big opportunity, one Tucker is filmmakers that are attending to justifiably proud of but not the only one have a great experience on her dance card, sharing space with this year’s Filmland event, slated for Aug. 12 —Kathryn Tucker, to 16 in Little Rock.

executive director, “As a filmmaker and festivalgoer my Arkansas Cinema Society self, Filmland is my favorite festival,” said Kathryn Tucker Tucker, executive director of the Arkansas Cinema Society. “You go to festivals in LA or Austin or Telluride, the filmmakers are escorted audiences to also have the opportunity to see these films in onstage from backstage, and then there's not really an opthe best possible way.” portunity to connect with them. You go to a festival in LA, Filmland has consistently beat the drum for expanding and it would be a 2,000-person event, and it would still be movie and television work in the Natural State, and that awesome, but the access that you get at Filmland is worth focus has not changed with this year’s event, of which AY traveling in for.

Media Group is media sponsor. The festival aims to expose “I think we really overdeliver on our hospitality, so for Arkansans to filmmakers and their art through screenings, anybody that may be interested in filmmaking and or who’s workshops and panel discussions featuring both local and a film lover or just interested in having a good time, I think international filmmakers. It also serves as ACS’ primary funwe have really great programming.” draiser, enabling the group to support a range of free proPut on in cooperation with the Arkansas Museum of gramming throughout the year.

Fine Arts, Filmland helps connect film veterans such as The four-day event offers a manageable number of film Tucker to all Arkansas has to offer and vice versa. Now in its screenings with independent products appearing fresh off 10th iteration, the festival is one of the most visible events their premieres at major film festivals. Tucker said as a condipushing the Natural State to grow its film industry. tion for every work accepted into the festival, the filmmaker “We want both the audience to have a great experience has to commit to attend in person to provide that face-toand the filmmakers that are attending to have a great exface interaction. perience,” Tucker said. “What we've done is instead of having 100 mediocre events, we have 10 very thoughtful screenings with filmmakers attending. We also prioritize screening the films in the best possible light at the AMFA, where they have this amazing state-of-theart cinema that we helped design. That's the kind of experience we want filmmakers to have, and we want our

Arkansas Cinema Society’s Filmland stands apart for providing interactive experiences with noteworthy filmmakers.

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arts&culture “The audience has a chance to network and hear from the filmmakers about the making of it,” she said. “So much of our mission is about artists connecting with one another and helping them understand what goes into making a film. We like it to be a little bit of a conference, so we try to get as many Arkansas filmmakers there as possible.”

The event also includes a short film pitch contest, a feature that debuted last year. Contestants will have two minutes to pitch their short-film concepts to a panel of industry professionals, vying for a $5,000 cash prize; a lighting and grip equipment grant from Film Gear Rentals to produce the project, which must be shot in Arkansas; and a guaranteed premiere screening at Filmland 2027.

Finally, Filmland will continue its tradition of bringing star power to central Arkansas by welcoming Hollywood A-lister Matthew McConaughey to town. One of the most recognized leading men in film today, McConaughey won an Academy Award for Dallas Buyers Club and has experienced filming in Arkansas personally with 2012’s Mud. The Texas-born actor will receive Variety's Legend & Groundbreaker Award during the festival.

“We've talked about [McConaughey ] coming to Filmland at some point, and I think the stars just aligned this year,” Tucker said. “We've been laying the groundwork with Variety for the last couple of years and have a partnership with them that is awesome. I don't want to speak for them, but they believe in what we're trying to do, bringing great cinema to a community that doesn't really have great access to independent cinema. By bringing him here, they’ve really overdelivered on their partnership with us, obviously.”

Other A-listers that have been part of Filmland through the years include Colman Domingo (Michael), Margot Robbie (Barbie), Jessica Chastain (Zero Dark Thirty), and the Oscar-winning Steenburgen, who also sits on the ACS board.

“Every year [of Filmland] has been different,” Tucker said. “Last year, we didn't have an A-lister like McConaughey, but we had six or seven of the greatest up-and-coming filmmakers who were winning Sundance, winning South by Southwest, and our attendance last year was really awesome and consistent across the board.

“Getting somebody like Matthew McConaughey to come in is such an incredible loudspeaker for ACS to get new people into the room to help educate them on the film industry and the incredible jobs there are in it. We hope it gets the attention of people who maybe haven't been to an ACS event before, whether that’s for a screenwriting workshop or a sound design workshop, where we’re bringing in the

best of the best to talk about these things.”

Filmland and the organization behind it are aimed toward increasing the state’s film industry, which proponents say represents a huge economic opportunity. According to information published by the Arkansas Film Commission, for each dollar spent in the industry, there is an additional $0.91 created elsewhere in the state economy through induced and indirect impacts.

The AFC illustrated, by way of example, that an independent feature film with a budget of $5 million shot entirely in Arkansas would generate about $4.6 million in additional spending elsewhere in the state; about $1.1 million in earnings direct spending, which, in turn, would generate an additional $1.9 million in induced and indirect impacts; provide 70.5 full time equivalent jobs; and generate an additional $120,000 in sales tax.

Tucker said she envisions Arkansas as a much bigger player in film and TV work than what it is now, namely in independent and small to midrange-sized studio films.

“I'm talking about this with studio heads in Los Angeles, and what they’re looking at are films in the $5 million to $25 million range,” Tucker said. “What we've always talked about at our board meetings at ACS is having Arkansas claim these $15 million films. We're not going to get Marvel in Arkansas, and we don't want Marvel in Arkansas, but if we could grow to average five $15 million movies and one TV series a year, that would employ all of the Arkansans who want to work in film. To do that, we have to have the appropriate incentive.”

Tucker said the timing for the state has never been more crucial. COVID-19 turned the film industry’s traditional business model, from how films are shot to where people watch them, on its head. That fact combined with the rise in films bankrolled by streaming services means the opportunity for places such as Arkansas to mine a larger share of film and TV business has never been more open.

That, in turn, makes attention-grabbing events such as Filmland and other annual film festivals in Arkansas so important.

Tucker said in addition to the shop talk and its entertainment and creative value, Filmland raises the state’s profile to filmmakers, as well as getting their views of the state’s viability heard by economic development decision-makers within state government.

“What COVID did was diversify locations.

That exodus from LA and New York was a lot of people in the industry moving to their vacation homes, so to speak, who never went back,” she said. “Then there was the growth in streaming. Either one of those things would've dramatically shifted the industry, but the combo was, I think, almost deadly for cinema.

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“I think what's happening now is a fight for film work. I see it in LA and in California, and I think it's kind of like the great shakeout of the industry. There is a reason so many states are employing incentives — because they've done the math, and the return on investment is good. It's not Hollywood coming in and taking advantage. It’s Hollywood injecting money into the state and employing locals. If Arkansas can really lean into having the right incentives, I think there is so much opportunity for Arkansas to take a bigger piece of the pie.”

arts&culture

So much of our mission is about artists connecting with one another and helping them understand what goes into making a film.

—Kathryn Tucker,

executive director, Arkansas Cinema Society

Colman Domingo, who played Joe Jackson in Michael, speaks as Nichols and Kathryn Tucker, executive director of ACS look on.

Filmland will take place Aug. 12 to 16 at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts in Little Rock.

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Festival celebrat

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By ALEX HARDGRAVE Photos courtesy of the ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, HERITAGE AND TOURISM 194

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atermelons are a big deal in Hope — literally — since some of the country’s largest watermelons have been grown in the area. One weighing more than 250 pounds has even clinched a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records.

The legacy of watermelons in the area is something to celebrate, and celebrants do that every year with the annual Hope Watermelon Festival. This year, the festival is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a week of events starting Aug. 3.

“It’s a way that our whole community comes together for the festival and invites people into Hope and Hempstead counties to show them our town,” said Christy Burns, executive director of the Hope-Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce.

The history of the festival dates all the way back to the 1920s, when the city’s chamber of commerce staged a oneday festival and served watermelons to passengers on trains stopping in Hope. The festival also featured a Watermelon Queen pageant and large parade, bringing about 20,000 to the area. However, the festivals ended during the early 1930s, when the city could not support the crowds amid the Great Depression.

In 1975, the idea to bring back the festival came up after a successful city centennial celebration. Local news-

paperman C.M. “Pod” Rogers organized a new watermelon festival in 1977, and since then, the festival has continued to grow.

This year, the week of the festival kicks off with the watermelon festival parade Monday, Aug. 3, followed Aug. 4 by the watermelon festival pageant, both reminiscent of the original watermelon celebrations.

One of the weekend’s most anticipated events is the watermelon-eating contest. Watermelon fans of every age are encouraged to join the fun, vying for the win — and bragging rights.

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travel On Wednesday, Aug. 5, vendors will arrive to prep for the main event: festival weekend.

The chamber had a record number of applications for vendors this year, and Burns said it was very hard to narrow down the pool.

“We have a lot of new vendors and food trucks coming,” she said. “A lot of them are things we haven’t had at the festival before, so we’re excited about that.”

On Thursday, Aug. 6, the official festival kicks off, and the next three days are set to be full of nonstop watermelon-themed fun, including the Watermelon Olympics and a dog show. In past years, dogs of every shape and size have competed, many donning watermelon costumes.

Friday’s highlights include Melon Jams, an open mic in which anyone who cares to can perform. For sporty people, a cornhole tournament and a softball tournament are also on the docket.

“The softball tournament actually goes throughout the entire weekend, overnight and everything,” Burns said. “It’s a huge deal.”

Saturday starts at 7:30 a.m. with Watermelon 5K, followed by the Melon Mile race.

A car show also starts at about 8 a.m. and promises to bring in a large collection of impressive vehicles.

“We had over 100 entries last year, and I think they were already pushing that many a month beforehand, so it should be a big car show,” Burns said.

Some of the biggest events at the festival take place on Saturday, including the watermelon weigh-in, watermelon-eating contests and seed-spitting contest. The watermeloneating contest is divided into age groups so anyone can join the fun.

“Anyone from the smallest of babies to whoever wants to can compete,” she said.

There is also the “politically correct” watermelon-eating contest in which

local government officials and politicians compete for the top prize.

Festivalgoers should not leave the festival without trying the famous ice-cold Hope watermelon slices, which are available all weekend long, Burns said, along with a litany of food options.

“The food is always one of my favorite parts,” she said.

Every day of the festival will feature local entertainers performing on two different stages in the area. A kids zone also offers fun for the little ones in the family with games, rides and more. This year, organizers have also brought back the arm-wrestling competition, dubbed Melon Strong.

“We try to do a bit more every year,” Burns said.

Upping the ante every year has helped the festival attract more than 30,000 visitors annually, but Burns expects this year to have even more attendees.

“We’ve been really pleased and thankful for the attendance and the participation,” she said.

“Attendance has been great the past few years, but this year will be even bigger and better.”

A festival this big does not come together overnight. In fact, Burns practically begins planning the next year’s event right when the current one ends. Kimberly McMahan, the chamber’s administrative assistant, along with a small group of board members and volunteers, helps run the festival. All the money the festival makes goes back into funding the following year’s event.

The 2026 festival is capped off by a concert Saturday night at Hope Fair Park grounds, headlined by Gretchen Wilson, the voice behind the country music megahit “Redneck Woman.”

“We’ve had some really great concerts, but I think this one is going to be the highest attended, and we’re pretty excited about that,” Burns said.

The winners of Watermelon Idol and Junior Watermelon Idol will take the stage at 6:30 p.m. Rising star and

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Arkansas native Mae Estes will open for Wilson at 7 p.m., and then Wilson will close out the festivities at 8 p.m.

“We’re excited to let guests enjoy the watermelon festival, the watermelons and all the things that bring us together,” Burns said.

For a full list of events or to purchase tickets to Saturday’s show, visit hopewatermelonfest.com.

The 50th year of the celebration is anticipated to be the biggest yet, likely bringing in more than 30,000 visitors to enjoy the weekend’s festivities and concert.

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travel

Jacksonville’s marquee summer event is a cannot-miss party with everybody invited

By DOUG CRISE // Photos courtesy of the CURRY FAMILY 200

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utting on a civic event does not happen overnight — but in the case of Jacksonville’s annual FestiVille, it may include working overnight.

In fact, count on it.

“The real fun of it doesn’t start until the night before,” said Jacksonville Mayor Jeff Elmore. “The park staff, some of them are out there pretty much all night.”

So it goes with the FestiVille, which, over 12 years, has bloomed into a full-on family-friendly party right in the heart of the Pulaski County city. The 13th iteration of the FestiVille will take place on Labor Day, Sept. 5, and once again, Jacksonville’s Main Street will host the celebration. Like any such summer gathering, FestiVille will be packed with food trucks for everyone’s enjoyment. Also planned is live music, a petting zoo, water slides, a dedicated kids area, a 5K run/walk through Jacksonville’s Paradise Park and so much more.

For the 2026 iteration, FestiVille’s live music will be headlined by country music artist Ryan Daniel — and it is hard to find someone who would be a better fit. Daniel was raised in Arkansas and would later go on to a decade-long stint in the Air Force, primarily as a munitions specialist. With the good vibes continuing from America’s 250th birthday celebration in July, it is hard to think of a better place to be than the home of the Little Rock Air Force Base.

For the Jacksonville Parks and Recreation Department, along with other city departments, FestiVille is the culmination of a year’s worth of elbow grease. In the days leading up to Labor Day, that effort gets cranked up to the max as parks department employees descend on Main Street to make finishing touches and triple check that everything will be in working order.

There are no shortcuts in the process.

“Some show up at 2 in the morning,” Elmore said. “Some show up at 4 in the morning. They all start early, so they work hard — very hard.”

It is, by all intents and purposes, a good problem to have and the people who run the city know that. Even before the first FestiVille kicked off a decade ago, Jacksonville leaders were plugging away at building an annual city get-together. Like any good idea, finding exactly what works and what does not took some time.

“It’s changed identities through the years,” Elmore said. “Decades ago, it was, like, Mums and Muscadines, then the Wing Ding Festival and so forth.”

The fact remains that FestiVille is the result of trial and error that spanned a number of years. For years, the event was held at Dupree Park.

The facility in and of itself was fine. What was not fine was the weather — as just about anyone in Arkansas can attest, the best way to ensure summer rainstorms is to hold an outdoor event. Even if FestiVille kicked

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off on a sunny day, rains the night before would occasionally turn the park into a sopping, humid mess.

“Weather was constantly an issue,” Elmore said. “Even if it was a bright and sunny day, if it had rained the day before, it made for not the best place.”

Also, while the Dupree Park facilities were adequate, the location could feel a bit isolated, and out-of-towners were sometimes unsure about where to go.

Main Street offers no such issues.

“We walk off Main Street, basically from the Firestone station all the way down to the other side of First Arkansas Bank & Trust, so it’s a huge stretch,” Elmore said. “We block off

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all the access roads on the sides, and it’s just a giant party here in town.”

As the event has grown, so have the numbers, as families from all over central Arkansas and beyond have made their way to Jacksonville.

Better yet, the move to Main Street allowed for many of the city’s businesses to get in on the fun.

“It kind of centralizes that event for us in the community,” said Emily Stonecipher, events and marketing manager. “Every year around this time, we do make an effort to get some of the businesses down on Main Street involved, as well. It’s on a Saturday, so some of those businesses do take advantage of the foot traffic down there in that area.”

That can mean doing sales specifically tied

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to FestiVille or just adding weekend hours to absorb the influx of ready-made customers.

“It’s just taking advantage of the amount of people that this event brings in,” Stonecipher said, “and we love that.”

Part of the love fest comes from watching as all facets of the city come together to put on a show. Though considered a project by parks and recreation, FestiVille is the result of an all-hands-on-deck mentality from the entire city, from City Hall and downtown businesses to the army of parks workers laboring behind the scenes to make sure everything goes off without a hitch.

Not every city has the sort of synergy and team-first attitude needed to put on a large community event, but the FestiVille has become a shining example of what can happen when all players pull in the same direction.

“Jacksonville is a supportive community, it’s a resilient community, and it’s a community that’s there to help one another no matter what,” said Emily Sundermeier, communications director. “Everybody knows whenever it’s FestiVille, all the city departments come together, and it’s all hands on deck.”

It all comes down to ownership. For all involved, the yearly festivities are a reminder of what can happen when a city puts its best foot forward. It is also about teamwork and the pride that comes from working toward a goal without once questioning what it takes to get there. When it comes to putting on FestiVille, there are no shortcuts.

“There’s no simple moment that hits you,” Sundemeier said. “It’s really the moments leading up to it. Everybody’s tired. Everybody is exhausted. It’s this sense of knowing we are all working hard to put this on for everybody, but once it’s here, it’s just like, wow.”

The best part? Everyone who works so hard to put FestiVille on gets to bask in the satisfaction of a job well done — for 24 whole hours.

“I can tell you this,” Elmore said. “I know they start working on next year’s event the Monday morning after.”

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murder mystery

Survivor Dahmer’s

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n icon among monsters. Jeffrey Dahmer was the serial killer who made the others of that inclination look like Boy Scouts. Almost everything that could be done to the human body he did — with skill — both before and after the deaths of his victims. He killed 17 people; at least that is what he said.

Among those who question that number is an Arkansas man who has a unique perspective into just what Dahmer was capable of. Billy Capshaw was barely 17 when he enlisted in the Army; his mother had to give her permission for him to sign up. Deployed to Baumholder, West Germany, in 1980, he was assigned a room with a 20-year-old soldier also trained as a combat medic.

That person was Jeffrey Dahmer.

Within three days, Capshaw’s battle for survival began. At this point in his life, Dahmer was able to maintain a facade belying his madness — that is, until alcohol activated it. By the age of 14, Dahmer was already a heavy drinker who considered alcohol, as he told his classmates, his “medicine.”

Ultimately, it became the means by which he drugged his victims, spiked with Halcion and other drugs stolen from his Army medic job. It was in that way the monster rendered Capshaw compliant over 18 months, during which time the young Arkansan was drugged, raped and beaten.

Long before he became a medic, Dahmer held a fascination for anatomy. His toys as a preschooler were “fiddlesticks,” his name for the animal bones he collected. From there, he progressed to dissecting roadkill. He knew precisely where to inflict blows that could incapacitate his

By SARAH RUSSELL

victims using a metal rod taken from a bunk, as Capshaw’s multiple scars attest.

Even though Capshaw was surrounded by fellow soldiers, he quickly discovered he would fight this war all on his own. During one attempt to escape his roommate, Capshaw shattered his pelvis by jumping from a third-floor window. At the infirmary, Capshaw’s rape kit was discarded just about as quickly as his story. The Army not only did not investigate Dahmer; Capshaw was forced to continue to room with him.

Why did he not just take off ? Well, being in a foreign country with no means of support and not speaking German meant going AWOL was not a possibility for the young recruit. Increasingly desperate, Capshaw began stealing Dahmer’s money so he could not buy liquor. When his own paycheck came, he stayed off base until it was all gone.

“I thought about killing him,” Capshaw later said. “I thought about killing myself.”

In 1981, after a temporary assignment to another location, Capshaw returned to Baumholder to find Dahmer gone, discharged by the military. The killer’s facade was no longer manageable, since his alcoholism had progressed to the point that he could no longer perform his duties.

After his own honorable discharge, Capshaw came back home to Arkansas, went into his room, and did not come out for five years.

His hell was his own. It would only be after the death of his father that he spoke of the Billy Capshaw sexual abuse he had endured.

Ten years later, Dahmer’s arrest created a level of media and public interest that has never subsided in true crime circles. The publicity brought forth another military victim, sexually assaulted by Dahmer before Capshaw’s arrival in Germany. Capshaw believed there were other victims in Germany, as well.

He was not alone in that belief; four days after Dahmer’s arrest, Ger-

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murder mystery

Even though Capshaw was surrounded by fellow soldiers, he quickly discovered he would fight this war all on his own. During one attempt to escape his roommate, Capshaw shattered his pelvis by jumping from a third-floor window.

man authorities began an investigation into a series of unsolved murders of nine years, but freely confessed to ultimately committing 17 murders. that coincided with Dahmer’s time there. Although authorities did not Yet he also steadfastly denied having committed sexual assault or murder find a connection to those specific cases, there still exists the possibility while in Germany. that Dahmer may have other victims overseas, military or civilian.

On Nov. 28, 1994, a fellow inmate killed the 34-year-old Dahmer Back in the States, gay sex in civilian life was only slightly more out while the two were locked up at Wisconsin’s Columbia Correctional Inin the open than it was in the military. At that time, many gay men on stitution. In a perverted coincidence, the man who regularly beat Capthe Milwaukee social scene Dahmer trolled used aliases even among shaw with a metal rod was bludgeoned to death by a metal bar taken themselves. Dahmer knew that just as it was with straight men, it was from the prison weight room. When asked why he killed Dahmer, the unlikely they would ever report his sexual assaults — not that he left inmate replied, “God told me to do it.” many alive to do so.

Including his pretrial incarceration, Dahmer served a little more In May 1991, a drugged victim managed to escape him, making it than three years, but his victims and their families have served many out of his apartment. Neighbors called the cops, but Dahmer very calmmore. Capshaw continues to struggle with the trauma he endured and ly convinced them there had been nothing but a lovers’ quarrel. They with guilt about what he felt was his missed opportunity to stop Dahleft, letting Dahmer take the victim upstairs. Dahmer then murdered mer before he victimized others. the 14-year-old boy.

“Even after he left [Germany], I found out where he was living, and A couple of months later a man, invited by Dahmer to his apartment, I was thinking I’d go there and kill him, but I couldn’t,” he said, adding fought his way out. Once out on the street, he flagged down law enforcethat because of that, “a lot of people died.” ment, still wearing the handcuffs Dahmer had slapped on him. His story Capshaw would discover a larger, more noble purpose. In an exhad credence, and officers immediately went to Dahmer’s apartment. traordinary show of strength, he began to speak openly to the media on The first officer, in an attempt to locate the knife the man claimed the taboo subject of male sexual assault. Those interviews have played Dahmer tried to assault him with, went into the killer’s bedroom. Poa crucial role in bringing the subject out of the shadows, letting untold laroids of dismembered men covered the walls. The other officer, rannumbers of other victims know they are not alone. domly opening the refrigerator door, found a man’s head inside. It was just the start of the horror show, but that day — July 22, 1991 — marked the end of the killing.

Dahmer’s trial began in early 1992. The defense brought in experts who cited Dahmer’s multiple mental disorders, but he was declared fit to face a jury. Ultimately, he was sentenced to 936 years for torture, rape, murder, dismemberment, necrophilia and cannibalism. His victims were all boys and young men.

According to Dahmer, his first murder took place in 1978, prior to his joining the Army, when, three weeks after his high school graduation, he killed a hitchhiker. He claimed he did Jeffrey Dahmer Dahmer at courthouse not murder again until 1987, a gap

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aymag.com

NURSING & REHABILITATION LIVING PROFILE

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

We provide long-term care and short-term rehab care. All residents are monitored throughout the day with assistance in providing daily care as is needed: bathing, dressing, feeding and providing medications.

Briarwood staff also work at ensuring the best care for residents through individual care plans of residents' needs, as well as daily activities, which allow for a variety of interests and abilities.

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

At Briarwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, we are committed to ensuring that the best possible care is given to you or your loved one in an atmosphere that is calm, quiet and focused on healing. We endeavor to ensure that all aspects of your well-being — mental, physical and spiritual — are cared for in a peaceful and safe environment. Our staff strive to promote dignity, respect, and independence as much as possible, in a beautiful, soothing enviornment that was designed with our residents' comfort in mind.

Briarwood's service-rich environment is made possible by its dedicated staff, from our nursing staff and therapists, to our operations and administrative employees. At Briarwood, our residents enjoy three generations of staff and families. That is over 30 years of service to the community!

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

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diamonds

Loyd Hutzel Fire Chief

F

ire Chief Loyd Hutzel has been fighting fires since 1990 and has been in the top spot at Morning Star Fire Department for a year. Under his direction, the department, comprised of himself, one part-time firefighter and 34 dedicated volunteers, has engaged the community by utilizing social media outreach to garner support and bolster resources to better serve its 65-square-mile territory in eastern Garland and western Hot Springs counties. The strategy has worked; the department has been “blown away” by the response of the public to posts, receiving comments from all over the country. Morning Star Fire Department also recently wrapped up its most unique assignment to date on the set of the movie Turnbuckle, which was filmed in and around Hot Springs.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO FIREFIGHTING IN THE FIRST PLACE? I was working for a man who caught his place on fire, and it took 30 days to get the [underground] fire put out. When the fire department left, I went with them.

WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF THE MORNING STAR FIRE DEPARTMENT? Morning Star Fire Department was established in 1976; we started out with one truck parked in a borrowed garage. Today, Morning Star has five stations, five Class-A pumpers, a pumper tanker, three tankers, two brush trucks, two rescue pumpers, one service truck and a 100-foot aerial truck.

This year marks 50 years of proudly serving the community in eastern Garland County and western Hot Springs County.

BESIDES RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES, WHAT KINDS OF OTHER THINGS DO YOU TYPICALLY WORK ON? We train every Thursday to keep all of the firefighters up to standards, and our more advanced classes are usually done on the weekend. We also have several outreaches with local schools and preschools to teach fire safety. We take other opportunities to reach out and provide meet-and-greets to display our trucks and equipment at different public functions in the county.

WHAT DID THE “DAY TO DAY” LOOK LIKE FOR YOU ALL ON THE SET OF TURNBUCKLE? We were there about three weeks, and we had two roles while being there — one being safety while they were blowing stuff up and causing fires.

The other [was] being in the movie as firefighters and responding to different situations on the set in the movie.

WHAT WAS IT LIKE BEING ON A FILM SET? It was pretty neat; they treated us like family. For me, the most memorable moment was when they blew up a car.

HOW HAS THE MONEY YOU MADE FROM FILMING BENEFITTED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT? We were able to purchase a $13,000 TNT Extrication Combination tool that was battery powered. We actually used it within the first 24 hours of receiving it.

The monthly “Diamonds” feature shares the lives and views of a diverse roster of proud Arkansans who are doing amazing things and are outstanding representatives of the Natural State. To nominate someone, email dwain@aymag.com.

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