AY About You December 2023

ARKANSAS’ LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023 | AYMAG.COM

M e r r y Chr istmas

Women in Health Care | Searcy Living Nativity | GloWILD! $5.00 U.S.

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Congrats Dr. Yee! Named one of AY’s Best Women in Health Care

love

“I Dr. Yee and her incredible staff! After getting back in the gym regularly, I still had some stubborn fat areas, so I did CoolSculpting at Dr. Yee’s office and love my results!”

- Heather Baker, President/Publisher AY Media Group

Dr. Suzanne Yee is one of the Natural State’s most accomplished cosmetic surgeons. Dr. Yee graduated from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and was ranked 1st in her graduating class. She completed her surgery internship at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and her facial plastics and reconstructive surgery fellowship at the University of Texas at Houston. Dr. Yee has been serving the state of Arkansas through her medical skills and fashion sensibilities at her cosmetic and laser surgery center since 2003. Congratulations to Dr. Suzanne Yee for being named AY About You’s Best Cosmetic Surgeon in Best Of 2022!

12600 CANTRELL RD. • STE 100 • LITTLE ROCK 501.224.1044 • DRSUZANNEYEE.COM

CONGRATULATIONS

KRISTEN DOTSON Clinic Manager

KARA TOWNSEND, RN Nurse Manager

ALLIE MILLS, RN Administrator

JAQUELINE ELDRIDGE Director of Operations

ON BEING NAMED BEST WOMEN IN HEALTHCARE!

EXPERT TEAM

“ these champions are well deserved of this award! thank you for what you do on a daily basis.”

“ Our mission is to make a lasting impact on the lives of our patients ensuring that they receive the highest quality care —always treating all our patients as if they were members of our family.”

- LEGACY NEUROSURGERY TEAM

- DOMINIC MAGGIO, MD NEUROSURGEON

“ congratulations!!! ” - SCOTT SCHLESINGER, MD NEUROSURGEON

Legacy Neurosurgery offers a comprehensive team approach to deliver outstanding neurological care.

Legacy Spine and Neurological Specialists 8201 Cantrell Rd | Ste 265 | Little Rock, AR 72227 | 501-661-0077 Legacy Surgery Center (2nd floor of Freeway Medical Bldg.)

5800 West 10th Street | Ste 206 | Little Rock, AR 72204 |501-661-0910 LegacyNeuro.com

DR

REAMS FOR YOUR

Cori Keller may have been center stage the moment she was crowned Miss Arkansas, but her heart was in the Baptist Health ICU with her dad, Lynn, who had been fighting for his life after experiencing complications from emergency heart surgery.

After the pageant, she rushed to see her father, thankful to still have him by her side – which she credits the compassionate, experienced team at Baptist Health for making possible.

Today, Cori continues to support her dad on his road to recovery, while he cheers for her on her road to Miss America.

Life is full of ups and downs. Find a healthcare provider who will be with you through them all at Baptist Health.

FOR YOU. FOR LIFE.

Cori Keller

Miss Arkansas 2023

Lynn Keller

baptist-health.com

Heart Condition Hero

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aymag.com

WHAT’S INSIDE 10 Publisher’s Letter 12 Connect 16 Top Events 158 Murder Mystery 160 Arkansas Backstories

HOME & GARDEN

20 Work-Life Balance 26 Fairley Merry Christmas

FOOD

38 Make Yourself Comfortable: Hole in the Wall Cafe

42 Chef's Choice 50 Have Your Cake and Eat It Too

TRAVEL

76 Mary and Bright 80 The Nights Before Christmas

NONPROFIT

84 Believing in Achieving 92 Ducks in a Row 96 Ready, Set, GLO!

ARTS & CULTURE 102 A Celebration of Community 106 Light the Night 118 Leave the Leg-Lamp On

HEALTH

122 Knowledge is Power Donna Boehm

126 Clear as a Bell

Mary Chatelain

128 The Right Fit

Cari Cordell

134 Problem Solver

Rebekah Fincher 136 Path of Perserverance Julie Nix 138 AY's Women in Health Care

Comfort Food Bucket List, page 30

ABOUT YOU

ON THE COVER

54 57

Winter Cocktails AY's Best Of Getting To Know You 112 AY's 25 Days of Christmas (Gift Giveaway) 148 Etiquette Rules!

154 This Side of Seven: Diamond State Santas

Our December issue is full of all things Christmas, from chef-inspired dishes for entertaining to gift ideas to all the places brimming with holiday spirit, including Silver Dollar City in Branson, Mo., pictured on our cover.

Photo by Ryan Parker.

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Nourishing Minds for Success

The Pulaski County Special School District boasts many dedicated educators and administrators from 26 schools across central Arkansas, which includes the DRIVEN Virtual Academy now starting its third year with the District. PCSSD understands the importance of quality student nutrition and the benefits it provides to students and families. PCSSD is also in its third year of a partnership with Chartwells K12 to enhance its students nutrition department and offer the best nourishment possible to students (and staff).

The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is a federally assisted meal program operating in public schools. It provides nutritionally balanced, low-cost or no-cost lunches to children each school day. The program was established under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, signed into law by President Harry Truman in 1946.

Children may be determined eligible for free meals through participation in certain Federal Assistance Programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or based on their status as a homeless, migrant, runaway, or foster child. But all families are encouraged to apply.

Chartwells District Manager, Tiffany Reed, says that there are a number of benefits to receiving the free and reduced meal program.

REGISTER NOW www.pcssd.org/register

ABOUT PCSSD

“You know your kids are getting a healthy and awesome school breakfast and lunch. Your family can also qualify for free ACT testing, free summer school, and a reduced cost for at-home internet. For every student who qualifies for free or reduced lunches, the district gets federal dollars to spend on services like interventionists, dyslexia services, social workers, and more.”

And Reed says it is important for students to have healthy options available at school.

“The dollar doesn’t quite go as far as it used to,” Reed adds. “Families have a lot of stress, why should they also have to worry about figuring out what to pack for their kid’s lunchbox or how to afford a school lunch? A student’s opportunity to get a healthy school meal should not be something you worry about. We are here to help you and we want to help you make sure your student is fueled to learn.”

Families can apply at any time for free and reduced meals and the District strongly encourages families to apply for the program. Applications are available at pcssd.org.

Pulaski County Special School District spans more than 600 square miles in central Arkansas and requires highly skilled and passionate personnel to adapt educational policies and personalization to 26 schools. Every school is accredited by the Arkansas State Board of Education. PCSSD has served schools across Pulaski County since July 1927.

PCSSD is committed to creating a nationally recognized school district that assures that all students achieve at their maximum potential through collaborative, supportive and continuous efforts of all stakeholders.

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

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

Dwain Hebda dwain@aymag.com

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Sarah Coleman scoleman@aymag.com Mak Millard mmillard@aymag.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Darlene Hebda darlene@aymag.com

STAFF WRITERS

John Callahan jcallahan@aymag.com Sarah DeClerk sdeclerk@aymag.com

MANAGING DIGITAL EDITOR

Kellie McAnulty kmcanulty@aymag.com

ONLINE WRITER

Kilee Hall khall@aymag.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Mike Bedgood mbedgood@aymag.com

Joe David Rice, born in Paragould and reared in Jonesboro, probably knows Arkansas as well as anyone alive. The former owner of an outfitting business on the Buffalo National River and the state’s former tourism director, his Arkansas Backstories is published by the Butler Center.

Amy Gramlich is a wife, mom, blogger and public school educator proudly planted in Arkansas. She loves to celebrate all occasions big and small with fun outfits, creative recipes and fresh home decor (which must always include plants). She enjoys all the details that go into planning the next trip or party.

Kelli Reep is a writer and public relations practitioner in central Arkansas. When she is not looking for the best pie in the state, she is being ordered around by three cats. She likes to read, cook, sleep and help out when she can.

Heather Swayze is a mom of two boys and has been married to her high school sweetheart, Dakota, for 10 years.

She attended Arkansas State Three Rivers and Henderson State University. Since 2014, she has served the central Arkansas area providing photography for weddings, couples and families.

Jason Pederson spent 20 years as KATV’s Seven On Your Side reporter.

He is now deputy chief of community engagement for the Arkansas Department of Human Services.

He and his wife, Mary Carol, have two biological children and one bonus son. They are longtime members of Fellowship Bible Church in Little Rock.

Angelita Faller is the news director for the office of communications and marketing at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. A native of Newton, Ill., Faller holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Eastern Illinois University and a master’s degree in digital storytelling from Ball State University.

Jamie Lee is a native of southwest Louisiana, now residing in Little Rock. She is a freelance photographer and writer, focusing on food and restaurants. Jamie has been a photographer for 15 years, shooting seniors, families, portraits, branding and food. She also has more than 25 years of experience with marketing in the travel and tourism industry.

Genevieve Townley is the owner of Wonderlily Photography and resident of Hot Springs, Arkansas. She loves photography, her family (two teenagers ages 16 and 18), her dog, Maggie, and husband of 22 years. She also loves anything that involves going to the beach. Genevieve holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville.

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Lora Puls lpuls@aymag.com Jenna Kelley jkelley@aymag.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Linda Burlingame lindaaymag@aol.com Mary Funderburg mary@aymag.com Karen Holderfield kholderfield@aymag.com Tori Owens towens@aymag.com Jona Parker jona@aymag.com Dana Rodriguez dana@aymag.com Bethany Yeager bethany@aymag.com

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Jessica Everson jeverson@aymag.com

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Bethany Yeager ads@aymag.com

CIRCULATION

circulationl@aymag.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Eileen Beard, Mark Carter, Chris Davis, Ryan Parker, Sara Reeves, Courtney Reynolds, Sarah Russell, Nichole Singleton, Lori Sparkman, Todd Traub

ADMINISTRATION billing@aymag.com

Vicki Vowell, CEO

TO ADVERTISE:

501-244-9700 or hbaker@aymag.com

TO SUBSCRIBE:

501-244-9700 or aymag.com Please submit press releases & news to press@aymag.com

AY Magazine is published monthly, Volume XXXVI, Issue 9 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 ©2023, 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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Give your family a once in a “light-time” experience!

Arkansasʼ largest light festival Over 40 all-new creatures Save $15 on a family of four

TM

Tickets: LittleRockZoo.com

publisher's letter

Merry Christmas to all!

Anyone who knows me knows my love for Christmas. I am the one with her tree up first, the lights taken down last and who still loves watching Christmas Vacation and The Christmas Story, despite having seen them at least 100 times each. There is a magic about this season that I have never outgrown, and hope I never do.

That is one of the reasons why I love this issue of AY About You, a veritable holiday stocking full of wonderful goodies just waiting to be opened and shared. In this edition we take you to Searcy, which is quickly becoming one of the happiest places on earth in December, what with millions of lights, a Living Nativity and many other attractions.

The holidays are all about comforting memories, and nowhere is that better expressed than in food. Our Comfort Food Bucket List tells you where to find the best meatloaf, greens and pie, where good food and down-home service are always on the menu.

Christmas brings out the best in all of us as people, as communities and as a state, and our two nonprofit spotlights showcase groups who channel that goodness to help people all year long. Junior Achievement, of which I am proud to serve on the state board of directors, teaches kids the value of money and financial matters, while the Arkansas Duck Derby supports a great cause through a duck hunt that attracts hundreds.

We also provide you with plenty to get out and see and do this Christmas, from GloWild at the Little Rock Zoo to lighting displays statewide to concerts, programs and community events to brighten your spirit and warm your heart.

Amidst the festivities, decorations and giftgiving, it is essential to remember the profound significance of Christ's birth. He is the ultimate gift, the source of love, grace and redemption, and the reason we rejoice during this season. As it is written in Luke 2:11, "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a savior, who is Christ the lord," which reminds us the true meaning of Christmas lies in the miraculous arrival of Jesus, who came into the world to bring salvation and eternal hope.

From all of us at AY Media Group to each and every one of you, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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

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READER FEEDBACK HEATHER’S FAVORITE THINGS: “QUEEN ESTHER” AT BRANSON’S SIGHT & SOUND THEATRE “These are literally AMAZING! I would love to go! I want to take my kiddos!”

Whitney McLain-Billings ARKANSAS NEWS LEGEND CRAIG O’NEILL ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT “It was great following your career from B98 to THV11. Wishing you all the best in life. Thank you very much.”

Cornell Davis “Congratulations on your retirement; I’ve so enjoyed seeing and hearing you on the air for many years. Sit back, relax and keep on keeping on!”

Tammy White Thomas

THV11 news anchor and broadcast legend Craig O’Neill has officially announced his retirement after more than 50 years of working in the industry.

“You have been such a bright light! Congratulations on your retirement!”

Beth Franks “Man, he caused a lot of laughter throughout our homes and cars across this state of ours. Thank you, Craig!”

Patsy Stebbins FACES OF ARKANSAS: THE FACE OF INTERIOR DESIGN, TOM CHANDLER & ASSOCIATES “They are the best, the very best.”

Diane Zook

Fans of black-eyed peas — the veggies, not the band — will love this recipe.

FACES OF ARKANSAS: THE FACE OF DIGITAL, SYNERGETIC SOCIAL “So PROUD of you Hayden Medlock!!! You’re the BEST!!!”

Jo Mitchell WHY DID THE FOOTBALL TEAM CROSS THE ROAD? BATTLE OF THE RAVINE RESUMES COLLEGE FOOTBALL’S GREATEST RIVALRY “Great post. I certainly enjoyed reading every word. Go Reddies!!!”

Danny Riggan

!

TRENDING ON AYMAG.COM

Follow heatherbaker_ar on IG for weekly Bucket List restaurant giveaways.

Shaquille O’Neal-Owned Restaurant to Make Arkansas Debut Volstead Proper to Bring Bourbon Flights, High-Class Eats to Conway Battle of the Ravine Resumes College Football’s Greatest Rivalry HTeaO Opens the Doors of First Arkansas Store New Indoor Go-Karting Venue Opens in NWA

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TINA — The Tina Turner Musical is stopping at Walton Arts Center Dec. 12–17 for eight performances only. (Photo

by Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade, 2023.)

The fragrance experts at Aromatique have been perfecting the smells of the holidays and more for 40 years now.

HOOK OUR BEST OFFER OF THE YEAR! Camp IN this winter at the Bass Pro Shops Pyramid!

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LIVE RACI N G D EC EMB ER 8 - MAY 4

R A C I N G / S M O K E-F R E E C A S I N O / H O T E L / S PA / E V E N T C E N T E R / D I N I N G V I S I T O A K L AW N .C O M T O B O O K Y O U R S TAY.

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give

OAKLAWN HEADLINER

the gift of learn more

tickets on sale now at oaklawn.com

discovery!

SATURDAY

DEC. 30

Museum of Discovery memberships provide an entire year of educational experiences!

BRET MICHAELS MONDAY

JAN. 1

museumofdiscovery

A gift you over can use & over again!

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Give the gift of experiences this season!

Gift Certificates are available for the

THE ROCKET MAN SHOW

Jacksonville Shooting Sports Complex, Splash Zone Water Park, & the Jacksonville Community Center!

TRIBUTE TO ELTON JOHN

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-522-4700.

for more info: www.JacksonvilleParks.com

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aymag.com

agenda

Top

you just can't miss!

BALLET ARKANSAS’ 45TH ANNUAL NUTCRACKER SPECTACULAR Dec. 8-10

Robinson Center, Little Rock As the largest and longest-running holiday production in Arkansas, the 45th Annual Nutcracker Spectacular features live music by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra and a cast and crew of nearly 400. Presented by Ballet Arkansas, this production is Arkansas’ must-see event of the season.

THE LIVING NATIVITY Dec. 1-3, 6, 8-10

First Assembly of God, Searcy Over the years Searcy has taken on an almost Hallmark effect in which lights and holiday cheer turning the small city into a winter wonderland. The Living Nativity is an experience in and of itself for the whole family.

NORTH LITTLE ROCK SERTOMA CHRISTMAS PARADE Dec. 3

Argenta Arts District, North Little Rock Hosted by the city of North Little Rock, the North Little Rock Sertoma Club and North Little Rock Tourism, this annual Christmas parade marks a fitting start to the month of December. The parade will travel from Pershing Boulevard to Main Street and provide plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy.

TOM SEGURA LIVE Dec. 7-8

Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, Hot Springs Highly anticipated comedian Tom Segura will be joining Oaklawn for two nights of laughs this December. Known for his work as a comedian, actor and writer, Segura sells out venues coast to coast and has appeared in several Netflix specials.

Tickets are available at oaklawn.com/entertainment.

TINA — THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL Dec. 12-17

Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville TINA — The Tina Turner Musical is based off of the one and only Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. This high-energy performance captures Turner’s dynamic musical style and includes a soundtrack full of her most-loved hits. Recommended for ages 14 and up.

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1 Lorrie Morgan’s Enchanted Christmas Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville

events

1-31 GloWILD

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Holiday House General Shopping Statehouse Convention Center, Little Rock

Jingle Bell Run 5K Two Rivers Park, Little Rock

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Kevin Gates Live JJ's Live, Fayetteville

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Home for the Holidays Albert Pike Memorial Temple, Little Rock

2023 Christmas Cocktail Party Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, Little Rock

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2

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Mosaic Templars Cultural Christmas on the Square Center Grand Reopening Mountain View Square, Weekend Mountain View Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, Little Rock

Little Rock Zoo

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1-3

2

Ferndale Country Mistletoe Kisses Market Christmas Parade and Benton Event Center, Craft Show Benton Fernadle’s Farmers Market, Little Rock

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7 John Fullbright Live Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, Little Rock

Skillet/ Theory of a Deadman Simmons Bank Arena, North Little Rock

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9 White Elephant 5K Fayetteville Downtown Square & Gardens, Fayetteville

Simmons Bank Arena, North Little Rock

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Jazzy Holidays Bryant High School, Bryant

FayetteVINTAGE Winter Market Block Party Fayetteville Town Center, Fayetteville

Mariachi Herencia de México presents A Very Mariachi Christmas Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville

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Christmas Day

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Jeff Dunham Still Not Canceled Simmons Bank Arena, North Little Rock

Innaugural Christkindlmarkt Renewal Ranch Events, Conway

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North Little Rock Sertoma Christmas Parade Argenta Arts District, North Little Rock

Bret Michaels Live Oaklawn Event Center, Hot Springs

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An Afro-Fusion Affair Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville

Holiday Lunch & Tour Moss Mountain Farm, Roland

New Year’s Eve Revival Maumelle Event Center, Maumelle

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet Robinson Center, Little Rock

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NYE Ball Drop ACDI, Benton

aymag.com

hot springs FUN THIN

RINGS IN D GS IN HOT SP

ECEMBER

DARYL FELSBERG AND FRIENDS

DEC.

DEC.

9

2023 1-3

4

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WHEN: Dec. 9 | Doors open 6 p.m. for dinner guests and 7 p.m. for show-only guests.

Show starts at 7:30 p.m.

7-10

ELF THE MUSICAL

Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the elf in his quest to find his true identity.

WHERE: The Pocket Community Theatre, 170 Ravine St. | pockettheatre.com

WHEN:fun Dec. 1-3, 7-10 | 7 p.m.

Check out these Sunday performances start at 2:30 p.m. attractions and happenings in Spa City this month.

HOT SPRINGS CHRISTMAS PARADE 2023 The Oaklawn Rotary Club of Hot Springs is pleased to once again bring the annual Christmas Parade back to historic downtown Hot Springs.

Proceeds from this parade help fund scholarships for local youth.

Taco Mama

WHERE: Downtown Hot Springs WHEN: Dec. 4 | 6:30 p.m.

Taco Mama takes pride in its freshly prepared, award-winning, from-scratch classic Mexican food. Chef Diana Bratton and her husband, Shane, opened Taco Mama in 2009, and the restaurant has been nothing but a success since.

Taco Mama is also vegan- and vegetarian-friendly. The restaurant offers food-truck services for private events as well as catering — and the menu is not just limited to Mexican food, thanks to Bratton’s 36 years in the industry.

Enjoy a margarita and delicious food indoors or out on the dogfriendly patio. Restaurant staff invite diners to come taste the difference.

ICE ON ICE

DEC.

WHERE: Vapors Live, 315 Park Ave. vaporslive.com

DEC.

ns and o i t c a r t t se fun a this month. e h t t u Check o gs in Spa City in happen

DEC.

Larger-than-life jokester Daryl Felsberg brings his hilarious comedy to Spa City for one night. In addition to the comedy show, patrons can upgrade to a dinner ticket to enjoy a delicious dinner by Smoked Craft BBQ.

This unforgettable event marks the unofficial start of the holiday season. Enjoy signature drinks, sample delectable cuisine prepared by Chef Diana Bratton, and dance the night away to live music by the sensational Mr. Lucky. The evening of elegance and entertainment benefits Project HOPE Food Bank.

WHERE: Hamp Williams Building, 510 Ouachita Ave. WHEN: Dec. 7 | 6:30-10 p.m.

OAKLAWN OPENING DAY

DEC.

8

Oaklawn Opening Day will feature the $150,000 Advent Stakes for 2-year-olds. The legendary Oaklawn has been in operation for more than a century, and this is its third year opening an expanded season in December.

WHERE: Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, 2705 Central Ave. | oaklawn.com

1209 Malvern Ave. / 510 Ouachita Ave. / 501-624-6262 tacomama.net / TacoMamaHotSprings / tacomamahotspringsar

WHEN: Dec. 8 | Gates Open: 11 a.m.

First Post: 12:30 p.m.

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JACOB FLORES MUSIC Spanning more than a decade, Jacob Flores and his music have been a staple in Hot Springs. This one-man band features incredible live looping and a super eclectic mix of both originals and covers of popular music.

Always with a smile on his face, Flores can be found performing at weddings, private parties and corporate events, as well as local schools and retirement communities. His passion for music and performance, as well as his music's diversity, is as unique as the city in which he performs. Visitors and locals of Hot Springs can find this five-time winner of Hot Springs' Best Local Performer by visiting jacobfloresmusic.com.

KARAOKE AT THE FRONTIER CLUB

Fridays in Dec.

Enjoy an evening as a star. Be sure to catch Karaoke Fridays at the Frontier Club, located across the street from Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort.

WHERE: Frontier Club, 2700 Central Ave. facebook.com/hsfavdivebar WHEN: Fridays | 7-10 p.m.

BRET MICHAELS: PARTI-GRAS TOUR

DEC.

30

Get ready for a good time with rock-and-roll frontman Bret Michaels live at Oaklawn’s Event Center. Best known as the face of 1980s glam band Poison, Michaels will help attendees end 2023 on a high note.

LOCATION: Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, 2705 Central Ave. | oaklawn.com EVENT DATE: Dec. 30 | 7 p.m.

All information is correct and current at time of writing. Consult hotsprings.org for updated information.

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aymag.com

home

Neil and Megan Robinson, coowners of Neil Robinson Custom Homes in Hot Springs, use their home to showcase the latest in home building.

Work-Life Balance

Neil Robinson Custom Homes builds custom residential spaces that work and play

By NICHOLE SINGLETON // Photos by HEATHER SWAYZE 20

P

Neil Robinson Custom Homes has perfected the technique of building home-office spaces.

eering into the window of a homeowner from 2019 and earlier would show a vastly different image than looking through the window of a homeowner today.

The husband-and-wife owner team of Neil Robinson Custom Homes in Hot Springs knows firsthand how the dynamic structure of the American home has changed since the COVID-19 pandemic, and the duo has found the key to the balancing art of meshing the workspace with the comforts of home — both as business owners and residents.

“I think if it’s going to be your home office, you definitely have to keep it separate, like a separate area, for a lot of reasons,” Neil Robinson said. “You can still make it part of your living space, but if it’s not separate, then it becomes you never being away from your work.”

Forbes Advisor reported data that saw the number of Americans working from home double in 2023 to 12.7 percent from findings in 2019 that calculated just 6 percent, or 9 million people. Additionally, Forbes Advisor reported data that projected a continual rise in which 32.6 million Americans would work from home by 2025 — nearly doubling the figure of today.

As business owners with four children between the ages of 4 and 14 still at home, the Robinsons’ need to separate work and home is understandably significant for the family to achieve work-life balance.

“We have glass double doors for the entry to our office, and to be able to close those doors and then have our family time is extremely important,” Megan Robinson said. “I know I would be in there all the time, doing paperwork, design stuff and those kinds of things.”

As the trajectory in remote and hybrid work models continues to trend upward and commuting to the office transitions into a normality of the past, the demand for quality home-office space has jumped up the priority list for homeowners.

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“We definitely do a lot more offices for people who work somewhat at home and somewhat at a location,” Neil said.

At the same time, the Robinsons have seen a trend in clients moving further out from the city and purchasing property with acreage and land. Within the last few years, the couple have only built one home in the city, while the rest of their portfolio boasts custom builds further out in the county.

As much as separation is key for a successful harmony within the home for families who work remotely, the practicality and operation of the home office itself is also important. The time of working in the dining room while the dining table imitates a conference table is no longer feasible.

The level of functionality of the space within the home office is also essential for productivity.

“Our office is set up to where we both have computers and sit across from each other, and we have a big space where we can lay out a full set of plans and have all of us be able to go through it,” Megan said.

Neil and Megan are among millions of Americans who work remotely or run a business out of their home, but in the case of the Robinsons, they added some flair to

aymag.com

their work-from-home operation by designing their custom-built dwelling to not only operate as their home, but also as a living showroom for their clients to experience design in its functional form.

The Robinsons’ business strategy to omit a brick-and-mortar storefront and merge their showroom with their personal residence has proven advantageous in offering clients more designs they can physically encounter and witness in action while in residential use.

Clients can see and feel the custom features available to them.

“We’ve done different things throughout the home to be able to show each client different options throughout, and it does help that they’re able to see, touch and feel that kind of thing,” Megan said.

With this elevated client experience comes the pressure of staying current on design trends, which calls for regular renovating each year, but it is a worthy task Neil and Megan proudly embrace after seeing the impact it has on their clients.

“We have to update every year to keep up with trends and stuff like that, but it’s really interesting. If you look at some of the projects we’ve completed and then compare it to our home, a lot of our clients pick up some of the same stuff we have,” Megan said.

As the Robinson team approaches the company’s 10th year in business, its portfolio is solely comprised of custom builds, as the couple has never built the same home twice. By not building spec homes, Robinson clients have the freedom and flexibility to request designs unique to their own preferences that cater directly to their needs and wants. This adds to the demand of research the Robinsons must maintain to keep up with the fluid trends of architectural design.

“We have to stay relevant to all of those things and consider everything because we never know what type of client is going to call,” Megan said.

Floor plans and design aspects may be a custom fit for each client, but the Robinsons

The Robinsons renovate yearly to keep up with design trends.

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As present-day living flourishes amid technological advances, the convenience of working from home is as significant as the balance within the home and the functionality of home-office design. describe a common trend over the last few years that is leaning toward more simplicity in the American home.

“When we go in, [clients] want everything to be white, or they want their walls, ceiling, trim to all be one solid color, either a cream or a white,” Megan said. “This gives [the home] a more timeless look so they don’t have to update later and have to go through the remodel process.”

The era of real hardwood floors or different flooring styles in various rooms of the house is dwindling away as the Robinsons say clients no longer find flooring transitions throughout the home appealing. Homeowners have now been leaning towards more practical flooring that establishes a seamless design across the floor plan.

Additionally, as life becomes more modernized, the days become filled with more technology-based routines that translate into influences within the home. The Robinsons recently installed a touchless kitchen faucet that operates with voice commands to allow users to say how much water they wish to fill the glass, for example.

The Robinsons also described how accessible, common workings of their home have evolved to have attributes that are more modern and dependent on phones.

“Just from our phones, we can turn our lights on and off, close the garage, turn the oven on from the grocery store, turn the pool heater and pool lights on,” Megan said. “I mean, everything is just more modern. Even my heat and AC can all be operated from my phone.”

As present-day living flourishes amid technological advances, the convenience of working from home is as significant as the balance within the home and the functionality of homeoffice design.

“We live in this right-now world where we want everything right now, right now, right now, and people just don’t want to wait,” Megan said.

Companies such as Amazon and DoorDash have created an environment that allows people to receive almost anything instantaneously.

Packages arrive the next day, groceries are delivered within an hour or two, and even information and media are right at the fingertips.

This has made Neil and Megan’s decision

Neil, left, and Megan Robinson

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All the Neil Robinson homes are custom, and the couple say they have never built a home twice.

The Robinsons embody the trend of people craving life away from the city on property of their own. Now that people have more flexibility and time to enjoy it, there is no rock left unturned when it comes to amplifying the comforts of home life.

to work from home and have their residence serve as their showroom that much more valuable to how they do business, a benefit that directly appeals to their clients.

“That has been a great thing for us to have the office right there with all of our paperwork, house plans and all of our files right there with us,” Megan said. “Sometimes we’ll get messages at, say, 8 or 9 o’clock at night, and we would rather go ahead and respond to that message right away so that the client is comfortable and not up all night worried about this question they had.

“The office is right there, so it’s easier to go and answer a question right away than to have someone wait all night long.”

With more and more of the American workforce working from home or in a hybrid environment, the desire to upgrade the residence to accommodate this new, modern lifestyle is surging forward to become a normality of the future. Spec homes are becoming less appealing as options become available, such as those offered by Neil and Megan, in terms of fully customized forever homes that specifically meet the preferences of clients.

The Robinsons embody the trend of people craving life away from the city on property of their own. Now that people have more flexibility and time to enjoy it, there is no rock left unturned when it comes to amplifying the comforts of home life.

“We’ve also seen a rise in the outdoor space that has pretty much doubled the heated and cooled space,” Megan said. “People are adding fire pits. They’re adding outdoor kitchens. They’re adding covered outdoor spaces. It seems they’re more geared to being outdoors, and it’s really interesting how that has changed in the last several years.”

Neil and Megan have worked to establish a prime image that illustrates a harmonious balance between work life and home life, then exemplify a quality of service that puts their clients first.

“We’re just a husband-and-wife design-build team, and we’re there from the start to the very end. Clients can always get in touch with one of us, and one of us is always available,” Megan said. “If one of us is in the field, the other one is normally at the office or vice versa.

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WE BUILD CUSTOM HOMES THAT FAMILIES CAN GROW IN.

DESIGN. BUILD. TEAM Neil Robinson 501-620-0442 Megan Robinson 501-520-9908

designer

Fairley Merry Christmas Renowned interior designer makes pink the new red and green for the holidays

By KELLI REEP // Photos provided

“Every time I see a beige-on-beige room, a little part of my colorcraving soul dies,” said Tobi Fairley without a hint of hyperbole. One visit to Fairley’s website yields a trove of people and surroundings bathed in brilliant color. Her approach to interior design has led her to be featured in the pages of House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Better Homes & Gardens and, that inimitable favorite, Southern Living. She takes this colorconscious approach to everything, including holiday decor. Here, she offers advice and tips for making the holidays unique, beautiful and bright.

AY About You: Tell us a little about yourself. What led you to become an interior designer, and what keeps you engaged?

Tobi Fairley: I was always creative as a child, and I had a great aunt and cousin who had both earned interior design degrees. That was my first introduction to the field, and I also got a degree in interior design and started my own business at age 27. I am constantly inspired by my travels, by inspiration on social media and in magazines. When you love design like I do, it is a lifetime passion and commitment.

AY: Barbie, the movie, has made pink the new black. What trends do you see for Christmas that incorporate pink and other colorful trends?

Fairley: I definitely think the Barbie movie brought a new appreciation for pink, but I have always loved it. I had a pink convertible 1965 Mustang (restored, of course) as my first car, and my current home is full of pink, including my dining room chairs and my pool furniture, cushions and umbrellas.

I am sort of known for it. I have had a pink Christmas tree in my entryway since 2017, and I just keep adding to it and cannot imagine growing tired of it. I think pink trends in Christmas decor have been coming on strong for a few years and will continue to be a trend this year.

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AY: What is your favorite way to design for Christmas?

Fairley: I love Christmas trees and have four of them around my house, but I also like to bring a bit of Christmas into other rooms by hanging wreaths on interior windows and doors, decorating fireplace mantles, displaying collections. I teach a three-part Christmas workshop online that shows all the ways I add Christmas into my home and how you can decorate yours similarly.

AY: What advice would you give a home or business owner looking to hire someone to decorate their spaces for the holidays?

Fairley: In the same way someone would consider an interior designer, a holiday decorator should be able to show you photos of their work and share references from other clients who have used them. I also think you should collect images of holiday decor you love, maybe on a Pinterest board, and share those with the designers you are interviewing so you can make sure your style and the results you desire are the style in which they typically work. There are a lot of different ways to approach holiday decorating, from rustic to whimsical to formal and fancy. You want to know what style you are going for and communicate that well to anyone you hire to help you create that look.

AY: What design tips do you have for home or business owners who plan to decorate their spaces themselves but want a more designer touch?

Fairley: First, look for inspiration on Pinterest and Instagram for the style you are wanting to create, then read blogs or articles on how to decorate, or even take an online course so you understand the techniques and tips that professionals use when decorating for the holidays. Once you have that solidified, plan an ample budget for decor.

Holiday decorating adds up quickly, and it shows when you skimp on decorations. If your budget is not huge, start with one area — maybe just a tree this year — and as the budget allows, add in other spaces, like a mantle or doorway decorations, next year. Also, stick to buying products and decorations that you love and are true to your style so you can use them for years and add to them over time. Many of the ornaments on my pink tree, I have been collecting for over 20 years. They may have originally been on a tree in my daughter’s nursery, but as I collected more over time, I had enough to decorate an entire nine-foot tree in my entry in shades of pink and gold. It is OK to start small and grow into a bigger collection as you go.

Designer Tobi Fairley’s iconic pink Christmas tree illustrates her color-conscious style.

AY: Some folks see decorating for the holidays as more of a chore than a creative way to connect with their loved ones. What advice would you give them to make holiday decorating more joyous?

Fairley: Make it a fun tradition. I love taking out my decor I collect each year and remembering how pretty it is. If some of the pieces were collected in my travels or were gifted from people I love, it warms my heart to get to pull them out again. I also turn on the holiday music, light a fire if it is cool enough and set the mood for decorating — and all the while, I am thinking about how much my family and friends are going to love being in my home that I make inviting and beautiful this time of year.

AY: Design is not all you do. You are also a life and business coach. Would you tell us how you moved into this industry?

Fairley: My life and business coaching work are for other designers and creatives. For years, I had people ask me how I grew my business, how I charged, how I got published in national magazines, how I developed my product lines. My business-consulting offerings were born of that about 15 years ago. As I worked with creatives on their businesses, I realized a lot of what was holding them back from success was more personal development and mindsets, so I got certified as a life coach so I could better help these amazing and creative people step into the best versions of themselves and their businesses.

it is so much fun to take my creative career and combine it with those old dreams of teaching. I have been leading workshops, courses both live and recorded, and mastermind groups and programs for about 15 years now.

Most recently, my team and I have been creating online workshops that are two to three sessions on a specific topic, either business- or design-related, and people love them. I currently have “How to Decorate for Christmas with Color,” "How to Show Up on Social Media like a Pro,” and “How to Create Additional Revenue Streams for Your Business” as my most recent workshops. We have a lot more workshops planned for 2024, including more on interior design. I think people are currently enjoying our workshop series because they are not as long of a commitment as working with me in one of my programs for six to 12 months. They also are a lot less expensive. You can buy a workshop, learn a specific skill and then put it right to work. This seems to feed our need for learning but also for speed and instant gratification.

AY: What led you to create design and business courses?

Fairley: When I was a little girl, besides being creative and rearranging my bedroom at night when my parents were asleep, I also often dreamed of being a teacher. Playing school was my go-to way to spend time. As an adult,

AY: You also have a podcast. What is it like producing that? What success do you see from the episodes you have had so far?

Fairley: I have had a podcast for five years, and as of the end of December, I will have created 300 episodes. The podcast drives lots of people to my

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brand, programs and courses, but it is also a way for me to share my knowledge and insights about interior design, the business of interior design, entrepreneurship, and lots of other helpful ideas and topics completely free to other creatives and design enthusiasts.

A lot of my content and advice is good for anybody and any business.

I often get comments from listeners who say things like, “I sent this to my lawyer husband” or “my sister, who’s a doctor” or “my friend, who owns a small business.” It is extremely rewarding to help other creatives and many others who are out there, trying to navigate business and life like I am. A little secret is we are launching an all-new rebranded podcast in January, and it will also have video, so you will not have to just listen, but you can watch my guests and me starting next year.

AY: What has been the best thing to come out of life and business coaching?

Fairley: The relationships I have built with designers and creatives all over the world. We have had students from England, South America, Australia and more, and those relationships have been priceless to me and, hopefully, for them too. Many of those people have made lifelong friendships with other students. I plan to continue teaching and leading and collaborating with creatives in the field of interior design and in the business of design. We have lots of exciting new things coming out in 2024, so stay tuned.

Everyone is creative, even if they do not fancy themselves as such. It may be they just have not flexed that muscle much in their lifetimes, probably because somewhere along the way, they were told they were not creative. I encourage everyone to tap into their creativity. Take a class in painting or sculpting or interior design. Try some small projects or craft ideas without judgment — you are a beginner, after all. Think of it as fun and entertainment, not that you are supposed to be good at it right off the bat.

According to a great Forbes article in 2021, multiple studies have shown correlations between creativity, art, wellbeing and happiness. Our mental health and wellbeing are enhanced with more creative pursuits. Creativity taps into a different part of our brain and helps us relax and let go of many of the stressors in our day-to-day. My best business ideas come when I let myself be creative.

AY: What is the No. 1 cause of burnout for creative people who run their own businesses? What can they do to avoid that happening or rectify it when it does?

Fairley: We think burnout is caused by overworking, but it is usually caused by overthinking. It is mental exhaustion, most of the time, more than physical. Adding to that, it is usually coming from a place of scarcity or not enough; for example, thinking you do not have enough time, enough money — even thinking you, yourself, are not enough. When we are thinking scarcity thoughts, we typically try to outrun them, so we work harder and longer hours and try to prove ourselves. That is a recipe for burnout. I am a huge fan of journaling, which sounds simple and even silly, but if we can see on paper what we are thinking, we can start to make some intentional shifts in our thoughts. When we do not write down what we are thinking, we tend to just believe our own thoughts, and unfortunately, our thoughts are not always serving us.

AY: What else is on the horizon for you?

Fairley: One of my newest endeavors is a store I started with my daughter we call Fairley Fancy. We have a small boutique in Sheridan, but we are also online at fairleyfancy.com and ship all over the country. We started it in June with my mom, who is often the person running the day-to-day of the shop in Sheridan. We have colorful home decor, gifts and ladies clothing. My furniture line with Woodbridge furniture is also sold on our site. My daughter is studying apparel merchandising at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, so we have combined her love of fashion with my love of design, and it has been a hit. We just launched our first holiday collection for both home and apparel online at fairleyfancy.com. This business has been a labor of love, and it is so fun having all three generations doing this together.

Fairley said she loves Christmas trees and has them all around her house.

Fairley advised those with limited budgets to focus on bringing high-quality decorations to one space, such as a tree, then add another space, such as a door, the next year.

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food

Meatloaf and sides at Holly’s Country Cookin’ give diners a taste of home.

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Built for

Comfort Nothing says Arkansas cuisine like home cooking

By DWAIN HEBDA // Photos by JAMIE LEE

O

ne of the best fish-out-of-water movies to have come along is the comedy My Cousin Vinny, in which New York attorney Vinny Gambini, long on street smarts and short on legal experience, travels to Alabama to defend his cousin who has been wrongly accused of murder. Aside from the seriousness of the legal matter at hand, Gambini also finds himself navigating all manner of cultural issues of life in the deep South.

In one scene, Gambini and his fiancee, Mona Lisa Vito, played to Oscar-winning perfection by Marisa Tomei, enter a local diner. The menu reads only “Breakfast” and “Lunch,” both of which start with a dollop of lard the size of a softball on the flattop.

“You guys down here hear about the ongoing cholesterol problem in the country?” Vinny asks the cook.

Amusing though that might be in the context of the film, it is also an all-too-often critique by the rest of the country — the highfalutin snobs anyway — belittling the rich food traditions found in Arkansas and elsewhere.

Well, to paraphrase esteemed Southern philosophers Lynyrd Skynyrd, “a Southern man don’t need them around anyhow.”

Those who dismiss the food of the South as merely fried critter and sweet tea are not only woefully misinformed but have not been paying attention to what is going on in the culinary world lately. Home cooking at its best is in vogue regardless of region these days, when the dining public yearns to return to food in its most authentic form. Social media is alive with this movement showcasing the little-known and the undiscovered, from Maine crab shacks to Milwaukee buffets to Texas taco stands.

While every region of the country has its own version of home cooking, there is just nowhere that really compares to the South when it comes to comfort food or the skill it takes to transform the humblest of ingredients into the kinds of things people travel hundreds of miles for, especially when that journey brings them home.

Here’s to Nana’s fried chicken, Daddy’s collard greens and Mama’s apple pie, but for those who cannot make it home for that, AY About You has compiled a special Bucket List that might provide a suitable substitute and is headlined by the four excellent establishments to follow. Save room for seconds, baby.

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Holly’s Country Cookin’

T

he first sign of a really good down-home restaurant is a lack of pretense. This rule applies at its most pure to Holly Hayes, owner of Holly’s Country Cookin’ in Conway. Put the “g” on the name of the place, for instance, and she will gently offer a correction — around here, it's cookin', hon.

“I grew up in Perry County. I grew up cooking with my mom and my grandma, and we were always stay-at-home moms for a long time,” she said.

“My aunt Bobby had Bobby’s Country Cookin’ in southwest Little Rock. When she retired, she sold hers, and she got me started. It’s set up a lot like hers was. We wanted to stick with the Southern comfort foods, like our chicken and dumplings and meatloaf that are so popular.

Bobby was my inspiration.”

Holly’s Country Cookin’ shares other elements of the family’s hospitality bloodline, including the kind of work ethic that brings employees in at 4 a.m. to start prep for the weekday lunch crowd. Why? Because they do things right around here, or they do not do them at all.

“We cook for hours,” Hayes said. “Ernestine, the lady that’s been with me forever, she gets here and puts all the vegetables on. She puts the rolls on to rise.

The pinto beans have to cook. It takes a lot of time. You can’t fast-cook it and get the same taste. You just can’t.

“I always hear, ‘Oh my gosh, I haven’t had this since I would eat at my grandmother’s,’ or, ‘This tastes just like my grandmother’s. I can’t find this anywhere like you make it,’ or, ‘My mom passed away, and I haven’t had this since I was a kid.’ It brings back memories for a lot of people.”

One reason why the menu is reminiscent of home for many people may be because the offerings reflectso much of Hayes’ own family legacy. The pie crust is from her grandma’s recipe, for instance, and the chicken and dressing is a dish she has served her own family at the holidays for years. When asked what a

first-timer should order to get the full-on Holly’s Country Cookin’ experience, Hayes doesn’t bat an eye.

“They have to have some fried chicken, potato casserole, pinto beans or turnip greens,” she said. “The potato casserole and our mac and cheese are very popular. They’ve got to have the fried okra. For dessert, our homemade coconut pie is the No. 1 seller of our pies.

We’ve gotten awards for the banana pie also.”

Another popular item is the chicken-fried steak, which, Hayes is proud to point out, is hand-cut into steaks from a case-sized eye of round, then lovingly breaded and fried.

“We cut and tenderize that daily,” she said. “We have chicken-fried steaks and fried chicken every day, but the other meats rotate out on different days.”

Even with its limited hours (weekdays for lunch only), the nature of the art form demands long hours, and the work is hard.

Hayes takes her craft so seriously that she has trained everyone on her team to exacting standards, including the next generation of ownership.

“My daughter, Jessie Miller, started when she was 14, and she is now in her 30s. She’s followed in my steps, and she is my right-hand person,” Hayes said. “She’s been making pie crust since she was 14.

That was her first job, and she is a pro — pie crust maker, the filling, she can do any of it.

My daughter is definitely a blessing to me, and she’s following in my footsteps, and she’s right there with me.”

HOLLY’S COUNTRY COOKIN’ 116 Harkrider St., Conway 501-328-9738 | hollyscountrycookin.com Monday through Friday: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Closed Saturday and Sunday

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The Croissanterie

W

ith a name like the Croissanterie, one might expect the Little Rock eatery to be a little on the froufrou side. Perish the thought.

“I’m from a small town in southeast Arkansas, in Dumas,” said Jill McDonald, co-owner. “I grew up in the same town as both sets of my grandparents and my mother. We would sit down at the table and eat together at a set table and talk about our day. We would do the same thing for lunch at my grandparents’.

There’s so many great memories that I have, and they all seem to center around food.”

“For as long as I can remember, I’ve been baking with my grandparents, my mother and my sister growing up,” said Wendy Schay, co-owner. “I was a nurse in my previous life. I graduated from [UA Little Rock], and I worked at [the University of Arkansas for

Medical Sciences in Little Rock] in the [neonatal intensive care unit], taking care of the little babies. I was always taking baked goods to work for the fellow nurses and doctors.

I’ve been making cakes and breads and baked goods for my kids since they were little, and they’re 23 and 24 now.”

Life led the future business partners to each other at culinary school, where they were instructors. By that time, McDonald was channeling her inner food nerd into researching and creating recipes, and Schay was a competition-grade baker. They opened the Croissanterie as a food truck in 2020 and their brick-and-mortar location in 2022.

“We’re definitely the odd couple in the kitchen,” McDonald said. “She does all the breads and all the sweets and all the pastries. I have absolutely no time or patience for that because I like to cook and just create. Baking, like they say, is a science; you have to be precise, and it’s all about weights and measurements and making sure it’s exact. Cooking is just not that way. ‘Let me taste this. OK, I’m going to add a little bit more.’”

“Baking is the exact opposite,” Schay agreed. “I need my lists. I need to check them off. It needs to be the same amount every time to get the same result every time, but the reason we work well together is because we have the same drive. We both just jump in, both feet, and make sure it gets done.”

Still, the flaky delicate croissant does not, at first, compute with hearty comfort food until one experiences the Croissanterie’s custom-made versions, which Schay engineered to be sturdier to stand up to sandwich innards — including burgers and grilled cheese — without losing their flaky consistency. The croissants are available by themselves, take center stage in sandwiches and as French toast, and ride shotgun on the restaurant’s substantial breakfasts. For those still stuck on croissants as comfort food, the place makes a mean biscuits and gravy that has been ranked the best in town by AY About You. The duo’s Southern roots also shine in its catering menu, which is available for everyday occasions and events such as Thanksgiving meals and Christmas breakfast packages, with pre-order for the latter due by Dec. 17.

“I think it just goes back to memories,” Schay said of why the Croissanterie has taken hold so quickly. “It’s home-cooked meals and family around the table and comfort food. I’ve had grown men with tears in their eyes tell me, ‘My mom used to make bread like this,’ or ‘My grandma used to make bread like this.’

“For us, it’s just our passion, and it’s something that we can do and bring joy to people. It’s something that we love doing.”

THE CROISSANTERIE 14710 Cantrell Road, Little Rock 501-412-4244 | thecroissanterielr.com Wednesday through Friday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Closed Monday and Tuesday

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So Full Cafe/Black Swan Catering

C

urlethia Swanigan’s mother, Delois Sykes, is a magician in the kitchen who learned from her mother how to keep the table loaded for seven siblings and assorted other relatives.

“My mother is from Camden, Ark., and she’s a country woman,” Swanigan said.

“There was breakfast and dinner on the table every single day, including Saturday. We always had a hot breakfast — usually scrambled eggs, probably toast, oatmeal — and dinner was a meal.

“She’s 93, and there are things she still has. She’s going to have cornbread every single day. There is cornbread in her house if you go right now.”

Sykes was a hard taskmaster in the kitchen, and Swanigan said she did not truly fall in love with cooking until she went to college at the New Orleans School of Cooking.

There, everyone from her instructors to her dorm monitors seemed to have perfected a different dish.

“I mean, it was amazing. That’s when I realized I really like to cook,” she said. “The way I learned is going to sound really crazy. I kept trying until it tasted like my mama’s.

I’d try a little of this, try a little of that, take something out. I was like, ‘Nope, doesn’t taste like Mama’s.’ Sometimes I would call her, and she’d say, ‘Well, just add a little bit.’

I don’t know how much a little bit is. She is one of those ‘pinch’ ladies.”

In deciphering her mother’s dishes, Swanigan also gained confidence when creating her own, and today, both form the bedrock of the soul food restaurant, So Full Cafe, and the companion Black Swan Catering she owns with husband, WIlliam.

“Some of my things are exactly her version, like her chicken and dressing. I figured it

out,” she said, “but some things are my version of hers, like greens. We grew up on pork.

We are not afraid of the hog. They haven’t done a thing to us. We grew up with a nice piece of pork in our greens.

Well in our restaurant, I have a lot of people who don’t eat pork, so I have learned to make greens using turkey, and it tastes just like my mom’s.”

Swanigan’s fare is in such demand for events that the restaurant is only open to the public on Sundays, but that is the day diners need her grub the most anyway. Highly recommended for first-timers are the baked chicken, pork chops, and a sidecar of macaroni and cheese, greens, candied yams, and purple hull peas. The hot water cornbread is mandatory, as well — another recipe Swanigan recreated from her mother’s dish so meticulously that even Sykes herself admits it is spot-on.

“Cooking just makes my heart just bubble,” Swanigan said. “I had a wedding last weekend in Warren, and it was a Hispanic family. There was pork tenderloin, macaroni and cheese, and green beans. One of my employees said, ‘I didn’t know Hispanic people ate soul food.’ It makes me so happy because there is a commonality to food.

“No matter where you’re from, no matter your circumstances, how you were raised, how you grew up, where you grew up, there are certain things that you recognize, and those are those things that break the barriers.

We fear what we don’t recognize, and we judge that, and that’s where that conflict comes in. ‘I don’t know what that is, and I’m not going to try that,’ but if people ask me about oxtails, ‘Well, what is oxtails?’ I always say, ‘Think of roast beef with a bone. That’s it.’”

SO FULL CAFE/BLACK SWAN CATERING 7805 Kampground Way, North Little Rock 501-615-8551 Sunday: Noon to 5 p.m.

Closed Monday through Saturday

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Burge’s Hickory Smoked Turkeys & Hams

W

ith all due respect to every other longstanding restaurant in central Arkansas, the unquestioned master of comfort food protein, especially during the holidays, is Burge’s Hickory Smoked Turkeys & Hams. Six decades and counting of Arkansans both local and at addresses around the world cannot be wrong.

“The original Lewisville store started in ’62, and my store [in Little Rock] opened in ’74,” said Jeff Voyles, owner.

“We have customers all over the country that order and have our product shipped to them. The food is consistent; it’s not fancy, but it’s the same each time, and that’s why people will come back and eat a smoked turkey sandwich five or six times a week in our restaurants. They know exactly what it’s going to taste like.

They know the bread’s going to be toasted a certain way. It’s consistency and quality and good service.”

In addition to the company’s lineup of sandwiches that draws in loyal patrons — some of them showing up five days a week — Burge’s does a bumper business during the celebratory seasons to end the year. Calls for Burge’s signature smoked ham and turkey begin to trickle in in August, and leading up to Thanksgiving and Christmas, all hands report to battle stations.

“Our 10- to 12-pound whole turkey still leads everything, but our smoked half ham, spiral sliced, is almost as big a seller,” Voyles said. “The traditional bird you set on the table, we’re going to sell around 6,000

in an eight-week period. The hams will be real close to that. That doesn’t include pick-ups in Little Rock or what we go through in the restaurant.”

Volume like that, in addition to what’s needed for over-the-counter sales, requires some serious logistical planning to stay stocked, fill orders and cover the stepped-up foot traffic in the store.

“We have a boneless smoked turkey breast that we use on our sandwiches, and that’s what we use to make the smoked turkey salad,” he said. “We go through about 800 pounds of turkey breast just in the Little Rock store a week, and that number increases substantially during the holidays.”

With that much ingredient being used, it is no surprise that the smoked turkey salad is the store’s biggest seller and is available on a sandwich, in a salad or in a take-home container, 100 of which fly off the shelves daily — easily triple or quadruple that during the final two months of the year. Other items might escape the newcomer’s eye but are equally known and loved by regulars.

“Our coleslaw has a loyal following,” Voyles said. “Louise Henderson — we call her Mama — has been here 38 years, and that’s her recipe. It’s got a nice sweetness and a little bit of a vinegar bite to it. I never would eat coleslaw until I came into this business with Burge’s, and it’s my favorite. The coleslaw is a very popular item. It’s unique.”

Voyles said the company was looking good for the 2023 holidays, having worked almost six months ahead. Yet he admitted the dawning of Halloween still sets off a fever dream of what is to come in November and December “There’s never an easy way to get through the holiday period,” he said. “In fact, I get a little panic in my system about October when I realize we’ve got another month before it’s starting. That fear kind of motivates you a little bit, and by the look up, it’s Jan. 1.”

BURGE’S SMOKED TURKEYS AND HAMS 5620 R St., Little Rock 501-666-1660 | smokedturkeys.com Monday through Friday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closed Sunday

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AY’s ARKANSAS

Comfort Food Bucket List

PRESENTED BY Holly’s Country Cookin’ The Corner Diner l @ Little Rock J’s Market Cafe l B North Little Rock lack Bear Diner l B Fayetteville, North Little Rock lue Heaven l B Benton obby’s Cafe l B North Little Rock obby’s COuntry Kitchen l B Little Rock rewster’s 2 Cafe l B Little Rock ache l C Little Rock afé Bossa Nova l C Little Rock apitol Smokehouse Grill l C Little Rock heddar’s Scratch Kitchen l C Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Little Rock heers l C Little Rock, Maumelle hef’s In Downtown Cafe l C Jonesboro opper Grill l C Little Rock orky’s l C Little Rock. North Little Rock eluca’s Pizzeria l D Hot Springs mma Lee’s Kitchen l E Hot Springs at Jaws Soul Food and Southern Eats l F Little Rock

l Flying Fish Little Rock

l Frontier Diner Little Rock adwall’s Grill l G Sherwood rampa’s Catfish and Seafood l G North Little Rock

us’s World Famous Fried Chicken l G Little Rock enly’s Vintage Kitchen l H Fayetteville ole in the Wall Cafe l H Conway olly’s Country Cookin’ l H Conway omer’s Kitchen Table l H Little Rock l I zzy’s Little Rock itchen Express l K Little Rock indsey’s Hospitality House l L North Little Rock oca Luna l L Little Rock ucy’s Diner l L Rogers ae’s Grill l M Blytheville arketPlace Grill l M Conway, Springdale cClard’s Bar-B-Q l M Little Rock, Hot Springs ockingbird Kitchen l M Fayetteville eal’s Cafe l N Springdale lympia Steak & Seafood l O Blytheville enguin Ed’s BBQ l P Fayetteville hil’s Family Restaurant l P Hot Springs ed Door l R Little Rock ock House l R Searcy osie’s Pot & Kettle Cafe l R Little Rock ims BBQ l S Little Rock

l Smokin’ Joe’s Ribhouse Bentonville, Rogers outhern Food Company l S Fayetteville parky’s Roadhouse Cafe l S Eureka Springs

l Stoby’s Restaurant Conway, Russellville ue’s Kitchen Express l S Jonesboro ’s Place l T Pine Bluff ailgater’s Burger Company l T Hope he Busker l T Little Rock he Faded Rose l T Little Rock he Grumpy Rabbit l T Lonoke he Pantry l T Little Rock he Purple Cow l T Conway, Hot Springs, Little Rock, North Little Rock he Root Cafe l T Little Rock he Wooden Spoon l T Gentry ncle Chubbs Soul Food & Barbecue l U Fayetteville illage Inn l V Bentonville, Fayetteville, Fort Smith agon Wheel l W Greenbriar agon Wheel Country Cafe l W Springdale oods Place l W Camden hole Hog Cafe l W Bentonville, Bryant, Conway, Fayetteville, Little Rock, North Little Rock illiams Famous Fried Chicken & l W Soul Food Centerton

3C heck off the Comfort Food Bucket List as you visit a small sample of our favorite places.

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Hickory Smoked Turkeys and Hams

smokedturkeys.com 526 Spruce St • Lewisville, AR 5620 R St • Little Rock, AR 2019 Arkansas Food Hall of Fame Inductee

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food

Make Yourself

COMFORTABLE Hole in the Wall Cafe serves up some cooking and hospitality

By JAMIE LEE // Photos by JAMIE LEE

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I

t is Friday at 12:30 p.m. at the Hole in the Wall Cafe in historic downtown Conway. There is a line to the door, and folks are patiently waiting their turn to grab a tray and get their lunch. The smell of fried chicken wafts through the air and the room is buzzing with activity.

Over here, men in suits discuss business; over there, women chat over lunch, and throughout, families, college kids, blue-collar workers and elderly gentlemen discussing the weather fill the dining room.

“Hi! How are you today?” said one cheerful server; “How is your mom doing?” asked another. “Ya’ll come back!” they all chimed in unison.

There is something special about the Hole in the Wall, and it is not just the cooking. A shining gem in a sea of chain restaurants, it is the type of place that makes one want to become a regular. Here, people still enjoy conversation over a home-cooked meal, reminiscent of a time when it was OK to stop and have lunch at a more leisurely pace.

After the lunch rush, Toni Burrows sat down to visit about her business over a few glasses of sweet tea. It is immediately apparent why Burrows’ customers feel the way they do about the cafe, starting with the easygoing and friendly owner. She is a master of customer interaction, from stopping multiple times to check in with customers down to the suggestion box stuffed with cards that actually get read, some making it up onto the wall.

“This restaurant has been such a blessing to me, and I have some of the best customers around,” she said.

Born and raised in DeValls Bluff, Burrows came to Conway in 1995. Departing a career in interior design, she opened Hole in the Wall Cafe in September 2010 fulfilling her lifelong dream of having a restaurant.

“The only food background I have is that my mother and grandmother were excellent cooks,” she said. “I stayed a lot with my grandmother when I was younger. Her name was Doll Elrod, and she taught me how to cook. I would drag a chair around the kitchen and watch her. There were four of us girls, and I was the only one that had a passion for cooking.

“My grandmother didn’t use recipes, so I had to make all the recipes when I opened here. That was one of the hardest things for me, but I wanted to make the food consistent — and it is. My grandmother was my inspiration for opening this place.”

The Hole in the Wall Cafe does not pretend to be something other than what it is: good home cooking, served with a smile.

Housed in a former cotton gin, Hole in the Wall Cafe is the dream of owner Toni Burrows, opposite, and serves up comfort food favorites.

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“These customers are our living, and they will be treated well. We know their names, their birthdays, and they know all of us.”

— Toni Burrows, owner of Hole in the Wall Cafe

The name was initially hard to come by and feels a little ill-matched with the cafe’s various cavernous dining spaces. Burrows said it was not always so.

“The first building we were in only sat 90 people. I would have people standing around, holding their trays waiting for a place to sit,” she said. “Everyone said I should call it Cooking by Toni, but I didn’t want to name if after myself.

I was talking to a friend of mine about a restaurant, and he said, ‘Oh, it’s just a hole-in-the-wall joint.’ I said ‘Bam! That’s perfect. That’s the name.’”

In January 2012, Hole in the Wall moved to its current location on Markham Street inside a historic cotton gin in downtown Conway.

“They ginned the last cotton here in this building in 1971. The East Hall addition was built in the ’90s,” she said. “I have customers come in that say their uncle or cousin used the cotton gin. It’s a great piece of history to share with everyone, and I love to hear their stories and memories they share with us.”

The atmosphere is not the only thing feeding diners’ nostalgia here as the food regularly inspires comments about being as good or better than people remember from their own growing up.

All of the Hole in the Wall’s fare is homemade, and Burrows has a hand in everything made from scratch in the kitchen. The only thing in a box here is the to-go containers many diners require to take home leftovers.

“Everything here is made from my recipes. All the desserts are homemade.

Our mashed potatoes are real. Our gravy is made from scratch,” Burrows said.

“We buy the eye of round for our chicken-fried steak and process it ourselves.

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Hungry patrons line up at lunchtime for a plate of goodness that might include chicken-fried steak, homemade sides and Hole in the Wall Cafe’s famous strawberry shortcake. of sweet. Other popular options include coconut cream pie, chocolate four-layer delight and praline pecan pie.

The Hole in the Wall serves up its creations cafeteriastyle which in some eateries can feel institutional. Diners here never have that problem due to the quality of the food and the friendly and attentive staff, both of which have to meet the high standards of the owner.

“I tell everyone that I hire, ‘At most places, customers are nothing but a body in a seat. Not here. These customers are our living, and they will be treated well,’” Burrows said. “We know their names, their birthdays, and they know all of us. I had flowers sent to me a few days ago from the daughter of one of our regulars. I was worried about not seeing her for a bit, so I called her daughter to check on her, and then I took her some food.

“They become like family. You must treat people like you want to be treated. A lot of places say that, but we really take that to heart here.”

Open for lunch Tuesday through Friday, the dining room is closed Saturday through Monday because weekends are reserved for events. The main area seats 220, the bar room seats 28, and the East Hall seats 100. While the restaurant is only open for public service four days a week, Burrows said that is enough for a full-time job, especially with off-site catering, which accounts for a large percentage of sales.

“There are more ways to lose money in the restaurant business than there are to make money,” she said. “Between payroll, catering and everything else that comes along with it, you must stay on top of it. With chain restaurants opening left and right around the area, you have to bring something to the table that makes people want to come back to you.”

The Hole in the Wall Cafe does not pretend to be something other than what it is: good home cooking, served with a smile. While there is a misconception among many that home cooking is simple, it is not.

There is a skill to cooking that elevates everyday ingredients and lets the food shine, and I can personally attest to tasting the effort, care and time given to each dish.

In establishing her dream restaurant, Burrows set a high bar from the start. From the cafe’s tagline — “Where It’s all About the Food” — to the lengths the staff goes to to feed people and make them feel like family, she is succeeding.

“I’ve just always had a passion for food,” she said. “Times are different now; people don’t cook anymore. It’s all about fast food. What we do here, this type of place, is becoming an art that is soon to become a thing of the past.”

The chicken is fresh. We are the real deal.”

Standouts of the menu start with the trademark fried cornbread, available every day and prepared in a cast iron skillet that encases the sweet bread in a delicious crust. Entrees available every day include customer favorites chicken-fried chicken, chicken-fried steak and chicken parmesan. Daily vegetable side dishes include fried okra, broccoli casserole, turnip greens, macaroni and cheese and green beans.

In addition, the cafe offers rotating daily specials ranging from chicken-and-cream sauce served with cabbage (Tuesday) to meatloaf with corn (Friday) among other delectable plates.

I visited on the fried chicken day and was treated to juicy, flavorful chicken that was seasoned nicely and had a crispy, light breading. I also sampled chicken-fried steak that was tender and moist and covered with a delightful homemade gravy. Seriously, you could serve this gravy on a flip-flop. The chicken parmesan was another super-flavorful choice; Burrows serves it up with a twist that deletes the red sauce in favor of a bed of rice pilaf. The result is a dish that is a little Italian, a little Southern.

The portions here make leaving room for dessert a challenge, but one worth taking given the homemade treats available to polish off the meal.

The cafe’s signature strawberry shortcake is made with fresh strawberries and a cream cheese center, giving the dessert just the right amount

HOLE IN THE WALL CAFE 1016 Markham St., Conway 501-205-1325 facebook.com/theholeinthewallcateringandevents Tuesday through Friday: 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Closed Saturday through Monday To-go and curbside service are available.

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CHEF’S CHOICE Christmas is all about traditions, and that includes food. After all, what would a festive dinner or holiday party be without the kinds of dishes that arm the heart as well as fill the belly?

AY About You reached out to some well-known food experts and asked them to submit a dish that makes their holidays special and meaningful. This collection of classically trained chefs and talented home cooks did not disappoint, as the delectable dishes on the following pages attest. May you discover in these recipes a new family favorite to brighten the season for your family.

Tori’s Christmas Cranberry Cheesecake INGREDIENTS

Cranberry jam 16 ounces fresh cranberries 1 cup granulated white sugar 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract Crust 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/4 cup brown sugar 4 tablespoons butter, melted 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Cheesecake filling 24 ounces cream cheese, softened 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream 2 tablespoons sour cream 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 tablespoons corn starch 1/2 cup granulated white sugar 1 vanilla bean White chocolate mousse 8 ounces baking white chocolate bars (two 4-ounce bars) 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 8 ounces whipped topping, such as Cool Whip Candied cranberries (optional) 8 ounces fresh cranberries 1 1/2 cups water 1 1/2 cups sugar 1/2 cup sugar or super-fine sugar

INSTRUCTIONS

Candied cranberries Beginning the night before, combine water and 1 1/2 cups of sugar in a sauce pot over medium heat. Heat the mixture until all the sugar is dissolved while stirring slowly. Remove from heat and let cool for a bit.

Add cranberries, stir, cover and refrigerate overnight. The next day, drain cranberries in a colander.

Add 1/2 cup of sugar to a shallow bowl and coat cranberries in sugar. Set aside until ready to decorate.

Cranberry jam In a sauce pot over medium heat, combine cranberries, sugar and vanilla extract. Mix well and cook cranberries, stirring often. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

Preheat oven to 325° F and grease a 9-inch springform pan. Also needed is a large roasting pan that is bigger and longer than a springform pan. (Try the aluminum foil disposable ones.)

Those who are not sure about their springform pan holding up in water can wrap the outside of the springform pan in heavy-duty aluminum foil from bottom up to the side. It is best to wrap the outside of the springform pan in foil before adding the crust and cheesecake batter.

Crust Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter and vanilla. Stir very well until all ingredients

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are incorporated. Press graham cracker mixture into the pan evenly all over the bottom and about halfway up the sides.

Spread half of the cranberry jam over the crust.

Cheesecake Beat cream cheese and sugar on mediumhigh speed until smooth, about 2 minutes.

Add vanilla extract and sour cream. Mix until combined.

Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Scrape sides and bottom of the bowl, and beat until incorporated well.

Lower speed and add corn starch. While on medium-low speed, pour in heavy cream.

Mix until combined. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl and mix again until smooth.

Cut vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds into the cheesecake batter. Mix well until incorporated throughout.

Spoon all the cheesecake batter into the springform on top of the jam.

Place roasting pan in the oven and place cheesecake springform pan inside the roasting pan. Carefully add water to the roasting pan until about halfway up the side of the springform.

Bake for 70 to 75 minutes. Turn off the oven and open the door halfway. Let the cheesecake rest for about 10 minutes before taking it out of the roasting pan in the oven.

Carefully remove the foil.

Let the cake rest for 20 minutes on the

My dish is Tori’s Christmas Cranberry Cheesecake, a recipe that I share the credit for with my sister, Toni. The dessert is an absolute must for my holidays. It is beautiful and delicious.

My family holiday would not be complete without it.

counter, and then gently run a greased butter knife between the sides of the cheesecake and the springform to carefully separate it. There is no need to actually remove the cheesecake from the springform pan until it is time to add topping.

Cool cheesecake for 1 hour.

Spread remaining cranberry jam over the top of the cheesecake. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before adding the mousse.

White chocolate mousse Break up white chocolate bars and melt them according to package instructions.

Beat cream cheese with an electric mixer for a couple of minutes.

Drizzle in melted white chocolate while continuing to beat cream cheese.

Mix well.

Fold in whipped topping gently until combined.

Spread white chocolate mousse over the top of the cheesecake. If desired, separate the mousse into two batches and use one batch to decorate using a frosting tip.

If you prepared the candied cranberries, spread them on top of the white chocolate mousse.

Tori Morehart, owner DownHome Catering, Benton

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Smoked Rabbit Bolognese

My mother cooked spaghetti with meatballs almost every week growing up as a kid. It truly is a nostalgic dish for me from when I was younger. I wanted to recreate it in my own way, and this recipe does that.

INGREDIENTS

8 pounds smoked rabbit meat 5 pounds heirloom tomatoes, quartered and pureed 1 head garlic, chopped 10 shishito peppers halved 2 carrots, small dice 2 onions, small dice 1/2 stalk celery, small dice 1 can roasted red bell pepper 500 grams red port wine 200 grams sherry vinegar 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup oregano 1/2 cup basil Salt and pepper to taste 1 package favorite pasta Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, grated

METHOD

Saute rabbit until cooked through.

Strain excess liquid, throw in mirepoix of garlic, shishito, carrots, onions and celery. Saute vegetables until fond is created in bottom of pan.

Deglaze with vinegar and reduce by 75 percent.

Add wine and reduce by 75 percent.

Add all other ingredients and simmer for 1 hour, seasoning with salt and pepper throughout entire process.

In separate pot, prepare any pasta until al dente. Pour Bolognese over pasta.

Finish with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and basil.

Chef Joshua Garland DONS Southern Social, Hot Springs 44

Boeuf Bourguignon

A favorite comfort food worldwide, Boeuf Bourguignon features fall-apart-tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich red-wine gravy. The ultimate comfort food, the dish is rustic yet sophisticated. Take time preparing it because every step combines to produce a finished product that is worth the wait.

INGREDIENTS

3 pounds beef stew meat, cut into large cubes 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 1/2 cups pearl onions, peeled 6 large carrots, rough chopped 5 cloves of garlic, smashed 6 sprigs fresh thyme 2 fresh bay leaves 1/2 cup crushed San Marzano tomatoes 1 pound mushrooms, halved 2 cups red wine (Burgundy preferred) 1 cup beef broth 4 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Salt and pepper to taste Fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley to garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 300° F In a large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven, add olive oil and bring to medium-

high heat. Cook bacon until crispy. Remove from pan and rest on a paper towel-lined plate. Do not drain bacon grease from pot.

Heavily season beef with salt and pepper.

Add to pot and sear until deeply browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Add 2 tablespoons of the butter, mushrooms, thyme, bay leaves, garlic, carrots, tomatoes and onions, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Sprinkle in flour, and cook for additional 2 to 3 minutes.

Add wine, scrape all of the browned bits from the bottom of the pot, and bring to a simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to allow alcohol to cook out.

Add beef stock and incorporate all ingredients.

Return beef and bacon to the pot.

Cover and transfer to oven for 3 hours or until beef is fork-tender.

Strain all liquid and return to pot. Cook over medium-high heat with the addition of remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Reduce until the sauce can coat the back of a spoon.

Serve over a favorite recipe for mashed potatoes or egg noodles, and enjoy.

Chef Alex Zumwalt, Owner, Your Culinary Solution, Hot Springs 45

aymag.com

Peppermint Cake Roll Cake rolls prevail during many holiday seasons, from the patriotic months of summer to the harvest months to the winter holidays. Made of homemade chocolate cake, a minty cream cheese filling and a dark chocolate ganache, this cake will fill everyone with holiday joy.

INGREDIENTS

Chocolate cake 3/4 cup granulated sugar 3 eggs 3/4 cup flour 1/2 cup dark cocoa powder 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons milk 2 tablespoons vanilla 1 teaspoon peppermint extract Cream cheese filling 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 4 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 teaspoon peppermint extract 8 ounces white chocolate chips 3-4 cups powdered sugar 1/3 cup crushed peppermint candies Chocolate ganache 8 ounces dark chocolate chips 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/3 cup crushed peppermint candies

INSTRUCTIONS

Chocolate Cake Preheat the oven to 350° F and line a 12-by-17-by1-inch (or similar) jelly roll pan with parchment or foil.

Spray with non-stick spray. Set aside.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine sugar and eggs. Use the paddle attachment to whip for about 5 minutes until pale in color and triple in size.

In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt. Sift three separate times to ensure the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined before adding to the batter.

To the whipped egg mixture, fold in milk, vanilla and peppermint extract until combined. Then add in the dry ingredients and gently fold just until combined. Do not overstir.

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and use the spatula to spread it to the corners.

Bake in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes or until set in the center. Remove and allow to cool for no more than 5 minutes.

Sprinkle the cake with a light layer of powdered sugar. Place a sheet of parchment on top and invert the entire pan so that the cake is now resting on the parchment. Carefully remove the pan and the foil/parchment it was baked on.

Sprinkle another light layer of powdered sugar over the bottom (now top) of the cake. Starting at the short end, fold the parchment over so that it is wrapped in the cake as it rolls.

Continue to roll the cake as tightly as possible while carefully ensuring that the cake stays in alignment. Rest the cake on a wire rack so that the seam is on the bottom.

Allow to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours or in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

Cream cheese filling In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the softened butter, cream cheese and peppermint extract. Combine until smooth.

Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments and stir until smooth. Allow to cool slightly before adding to the butter mixture with half of the powdered sugar. Mix on low speed until combined.

Add in the remaining half of powdered sugar and mix on low speed until combined.

Move up the speed and continue to whip on medium/high speed for about 2 to 3 minutes until smooth and fluffy. Set aside until ready to assemble.

Once the cake has cooled completely, gently unroll the cake. Spread the frosting across the surface of the cake in an even layer, leaving a 1/2-inch margin.

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Sprinkle the frosting with a light layer of crushed peppermint candies.

Reroll the cake following the same directions as before. This time, keep the parchment on the outside of the cake and keep the cake tucked tight as you roll with the filling inside. Rewrap in the parchment and chill for about 30 minutes or longer.

Chocolate ganache frosting When ready, remove the cake from the refrigerator and place the cake roll on a wire rack. Place a piece of parchment under the wire rack to help with cleaning up.

Melt chocolate and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl for 1 minute. Stir until smooth.

Using a spatula, spread the ganache over the surface of the cake roll, down the sides and to the edges.

Sprinkle additional crushed candies along the top of the cake.

Place the cake back in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

When ready to serve, cut off the end of the cake to create a sharp edge so that the beauty of the inside of the cake shows. Place the whole cake on a serving platter or slice individual pieces onto serving plates.

Amy Gramlich AY About You columnist

RŌBER’s Whipped Potatoes Awarded Best New Restaurant by readers of AY About You, RŌBER is an exciting and sophisticated new dining spot that nearly everyone in central Arkansas is talking about. Executive Chef Heather Baber has crafted a fresh, interesting menu using the best local ingredients. The whipped potatoes herein, batched for holiday meals, are a favorite of customers and a must-have on her own table.

INGREDIENTS

7 1/2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes 1 1/4 pounds butter 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese 1 3/4 cups heavy cream 1 1/2 cups whole milk 1 1/2 tablespoons salt 3/4 tablespoon pepper

DIRECTIONS

Put butter in stand mixer so the butter can start softening.

Boil potatoes until soft (not mushy).

Using whisk attachment in mixer, slowly add potatoes to stand mixer after they are boiled and drained.

Once potatoes are broken down, add cheese, salt and pepper.

Slowly add in heavy cream a little at a time.

Heather Baber, executive chef/owner RŌBER Cocktails + Culinary, Benton 47

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Pan Dulce

INGREDIENTS FOR FIRST DOUGH: 5 grams active dry yeast 13 grams honey 150 grams 00 pizza flour or panettone flour 90 grams milk

INSTRUCTIONS:

Dissolve yeast in milk. Add the rest of the ingredients and work until smooth. Set on a bowl and cover with plastic wrap.

Proof for 1 hour at 82° F or until double in volume.

I NGREDIENTS FOR SECOND DOUGH:

First dough (all of it) 350 grams 00 pizza flour or panettone flour 100 grams sugar 7 grams kosher salt 10 grams honey 160 grams whole eggs 50 grams yolks 35 grams dry yeast 125 grams butter 1/2 lemon zest 2 each vanilla beans (or vanilla paste) Orange blossom extract to taste 100 grams walnuts 75 grams raisins 75 grams spiced rum 100 grams toasted almonds 50 grams toasted hazelnuts

OTHER INGREDIENTS:

Pan dulce is a cousin of panettone consumed in Argentina around the holidays and, although difficult to bake, pan dulce is much easier than its Italian relative. Nevertheless, it is time consuming, and it is a labor of love.

Before you start, take into consideration that this is a two- or three-day process, and you will need panettone molds and some ingredients that are out of the ordinary in the US. This recipe is for a 1-kilogram mold or equivalent (two each at 500 grams or four each at 250 grams), and the method is for a home oven using a stand mixer. The use of a wired thermometer is recommended for precise results.

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Powder sugar Oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

Soak raisins in rum and set aside.

Rough chop half of the nuts and keep aside. Set the other half of the nuts whole aside as well.

Mix eggs with whisk and add dry yeast. Continue mixing until yeast is dissolved.

Add eggs to first dough with the rest of the ingredients except for the butter, nuts, rum and raisins.

Work on mixer, using a hook, until dough forms.

Add butter in cubes a little at a time.

Continue working until full gluten development. (look up “windowpane test for dough.”)

Remove from mixer bowl, form a ball, and rest, covered, at room temperature for 1 hour.

After the hour, use a rolling pin to spread the dough.

Remove raisins from rum and dry a little. Add raisins and chopped nuts to the spread dough. Roll the dough like a cinnamon roll so the nuts stay inside. Cut the roll into five parts and mix them together. Repeat this process two more times. This will spread the nuts evenly.

Weigh your dough to desired weight and shape into a

Cover the top of the bread with the glaze and add the rest of the nuts.

Wait until the topping is set and the bread is ready to enjoy.

The bread will last for one week or more depending on humidity and conservation methods.

ball. Set the ball into the panettone mold.

Paint the dough with a thin layer of oil or spray oil. This is to prevent the dough from drying during the long proofing process.

Cover the mold with plastic wrap and proof between 70° F and 82° F for 12 hours or until dough is almost to the top of the mold.

Tip: Use the oven turned off with the oven light on to proof the bread. Set the bread right under the light. Additionally, set a thermometer right under the bread to make sure the temperature is adequate.

Once the bread has risen, remove from oven.

Set an oven-safe pot and lid big enough to fit the bread in the oven.

Turn the oven to 450° F. Once it reaches that temperature, wait 30 minutes.

Carefully remove pot from oven and set the bread in the center of the hot pot. Add 3 or so ice cubes on the inside of the pot, and cover with the lid immediately. This will create steam and help with even rising and baking.

This baking method is called the “Dutch oven method.”

Set the pot in the oven. Immediately change the oven temperature to 300° F to 325° F. Cook for 20 minutes.

Remove the lid (watch for hot steam), and set the thermometer in the center of the piece. Cover the pot with the lid again, and continue baking.

It may take 30 minutes or longer to reach the desired internal temperature.

Once the inside temperature is 190° F to 203° F, carefully remove the bread from the oven and set on a cooling rack for 1 hour.

Use powder sugar and some of the leftover rum to make a glaze as thick or thin as desired.

Chef Matías de Matthaeis

Red Oak Steakhouse, Saracen Casino Resort, Pine Bluff

Wine Notes

Tips for the ideal accompaniment to holiday meals.

VARIETY

USA VERSUS EUROPE

“Depending on the crowd, it is best to have more than just one wine. For people who like fruity wines, moscatos are the rage. For everyone else, a pinot noir is a safe choice, especially central California pinot noir which tends to be a little riper and richer.”

“Those who are going to have chardonnay with the meal only should go with European because they are more food-friendly wines. Those who are having chardonnay as a cocktail without food should definitely go Californian (or Chilean or Argentinean), which are excellent as an aperitif. Those who want to compromise should go with a Washington state chardonnay which hits the middle of the road between California and Europe.”

SAY WHAT? “Traditionally for Thanksgiving, I like something called Gewürztraminer, a French wine with really interesting flavors.

It is not dry, so guests who do not like dry wines will enjoy it, and guests who like more sophisticated pairings will love it. It is a great option to please everyone.”

ROSY UP THOSE CHEEKS “A red wine that will do well in many situations is from a Spanish wine region called Rioja.

Look for a Crianza, which is appropriate for food dishes but is also geared toward easy drinking. The wine bridges the gap both ways.”

— Keith Lipsmeyer, wine director for Red Oak Steakhouse, Saracen Casino Resort, Pine Bluff

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food

Have Your Cake, and Eat it Too Gourmet nutcake company enjoys worldwide appeal

By Sarah Coleman // Photos provided

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said Ken Kauffman, owner of Homestyle Heritage.

“She actually made friends by sharing the cakes, and it had become her own special tradition.”

Kauffman, Byler’s son-inlaw, said October has always been the biggest month for putting together these cakes.

Byler, who created the cake recipe, always received rave reviews about them, the most common being that they did not taste like the traditional American fruitcake that many turn their nose up to. As the name suggests, the cake — now officially known as gourmet nutcake — is made almost completely of nuts, with 70 percent of the recipe allotted to walnuts and Anna Mary Byler pecans. By contrast, traditional fruitcakes are made mostly with fruit, doused in a lofty amount of alcohol such as brandy or whiskey, and include dates and raisins in addition to other pairings.

Historically created as a way to enjoy the sweet produce from autumn harvests, fruitcakes have always been tied to Christmas, making for a popular holiday dessert. According to PBS, fruitcakes were also incredibly popular because of a long shelf life, which would have been useful in a time where refrigeration was nowhere to be found.

For all of those who were introduced to Barbara Park’s Junie B. Jones and the Yucky Blucky Fruitcake at a young age, it probably comes as no surprise that fruitcake is either loved and cherished or the complete opposite by the buying public. According to Kauffman, many customers remark that they hate fruitcake, but definitely enjoy Anna Mary’s nutcake. The name change has helped the company pivot from fruitcake’s spotty image and has also led to the company’s legendary catchphrase, “We’d be nuts to call this fruitcake.”

Since the cakes are heavily made up of nuts, they are all mixed by hand without equipment. According to Kauffman, this prevents the cake from dissolving into a a slurry of nut butter and separated cherries. The cakes are also packed and decorated individually by hand.

Unlike other store-bought fruitcakes, Anna Mary’s

ith temperatures cooling down in even the warmest parts of Arkansas and towns lighting up from corner to corner in celebration of the holidays, many are following through with their holiday plans and toasting to traditions both new and old. For the Kauffman family, the tradition of friendship created through cake has turned into a fullfledged business operating right outside of Huntsville in Madison County.

To tell the story of how Homestyle Heritage came to be, it is impossible to not mention the life and legacy of a woman who has become the company’s namesake, Anna Mary Byler. Byler was described by her family as someone who was kind and devoted, an excellent baker and an even better mother. A woman strong in her Amish Mennoite faith who shared joy through her recipes, she is immortalized in caricature on the packaging of Anna Mary’s products. More than that, she is the woman who created the cake that so many have come to love both in Arkansas and all over the world.

“From the time I first met Anna Mary, she was busy making fruitcakes to share with her family and friends,”

Workers mix ingredients by hand, something that sets an Anna Mary’s cake apart from the rest.

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“From the time I first met Anna Mary, she was busy

making fruitcakes to share with her family and friends.”

— Ken Kauffman, owner of Homestyle Heritage

Anna Mary’s tradition has been carried out yearafter-year by the Kauffmans.

Gourmet Nut Cake comes as close to a homemade dessert that can be purchased in a store.

Barbara Kauffman, Ken’s wife and Byler’s daughter, did not originally set out to sell the cakes following her mother’s death. However, she began to make them as a way to honor her late mother. As one of Byler’s 13 children, Barbara grew up on the famous cakes and saw the positive impact sharing the cakes made on the community. “[Barbara] mentioned selling the cakes in our store at that time, but I wasn’t sure they would sell,” Ken said.

“Our store in central Georgia was a small bulk food store, and I just thought they would be too expensive.”

Undaunted, Barbara asked her husband about making a cake for Christmas and putting one out on the counter to see if it would sell.

“If it didn’t sell, she said, we would have something to honor mom with for the holidays, so she made the cake,” Ken said. “Before she could even set it on the counter, a customer asked to buy it and didn’t bat an eye at paying $25 for it.”

While the Kauffmans might not have gotten a cake

for themselves that Christmas, they did get the gift of confidence that the nutcakes would sell. According to Ken, part of the reason the cakes have always been a little more expensive has been due to the labor that goes into making them.

“We made more cakes, and we kept selling them.

It was quite a shock to us; we were so surprised about how much people liked them and kept coming back for them,” Ken said.

With the business gaining momentum, the Kauffmans decided to embark on finding wholesale outlets.

Starting with Kroger, the family began selling at the front door of select locations in Georgia.

“As that exposure grew, so did the popularity of the cakes in general,” Ken said.

In 1997, the Kauffman family reached a major mile-

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An Anna Mary’s Gourmet Nut Cake varies from traditional fruitcakes because it is primarily made with nuts.

stone for the cakes, now solidified by the Anna Mary brand name, when they began shipping via mail order.

Orders quickly grew to total thousands of pounds of cake to customers all over the world. In its first year, Anna Mary’s was recognized by the National Mail Order Association as one of the top 500 products in the U.S. “As time went on and our children began growing up, they began also helping us in the business,” Ken said. “Our children have several fond memories of long evenings at the bakery during the big fall baking rush. They would come after school and stay until we went home for the day, and when they weren’t actually busy helping with the cakes, they could all be found playing in the warehouse and making houses out of the boxes.”

A former educator, Ken was still teaching at the time the business’ growth started accelerating, so he hired hire a couple of employees to assist Barbara and the children with making the cakes. Fall became a increasingly busy time as workers raced to keep up with holiday orders.

In the early 2000s, the business was still growing, and the Kauffmans relocated to Arkansas. At that time, the family was also in the business of making pound

The brand’s biggest wholesale customer is Harps Food Stores, which starts carrying the delicacy the first week of November.

cakes, but the Kauffmans later dissolved that when the business fell upon hard times during the 2007 recession.

Ken said they were sad to see that part of the business go but were beyond grateful to retain everything else.

Today, the business produces and ships tons of product annually and is also known for green tomato relish and a number of pickle products. Wholesale accounts represent the company’s largest sales segment. The brand’s biggest wholesale customer is Harps Food Stores, which starts carrying the delicacy the first week of November.

Customers can also get a cake by ordering directly through the Anna Mary’s website, annamarys.com.

Each year, the company observes a tradition of gifting the 10,000th cake made to someone with a special memory or a special connection to the woman who started it all, Anna Mary Blyer.

“We’ve been carrying this recipe for 32 years now and marketing it. It’s become a popular item, especially here in Arkansas,” Ken said. “Our website has also been steadily growing, and so we’ve really been pulling customers from all over the world.”

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COCKTAILS

The holidays are here and it is time for parties and gatherings all over central Arkansas.

Christmas is a time for toasting the season over good food and with good company at home or at a favorite bar or restaurant. This collection of tasty holiday cocktails is sure to please; enjoy in moderation while gathering to celebrate with friends.

Cheers!

Annie Oakley

Siempre reposado tequila, Mexican coffee, Cantera negra coffee liqueur, Serrano cherry syrup, Chocolate bitters,

HEIGHTS TACO & TAMALE CO. 5805 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock 501.313.4848 Photos by JAMIE LEE

The Zappa

Rothman & Winter Orchard Pear Fruit Liqueur, St Elizabeth Allspice Dram liqueur, Buenos Aires London Dry Gin, Topo Chico, Lemon juice, Sliced pear garnish

Cardamom Cardigan

Absolut pear vodka, Amaretto, honey syrup, Lemon, Cardamom bitters

LOCAL LIME 17809 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock 501.448.2226

HILL STATION 2712 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock 501.747.2230

Sugar Plum Sparkler

Ginger-infused gin, Cassis Noir de Bourgogne, Lime, Ginger beer, Plum bitters BIG ORANGE : MIDTOWN 207 N. University Ave., Suite 100 Little Rock 501.379.8715

Runaway Horses Legent straight bourbon, Asian pear-ginger shrub, Walnut bitters

KEMURI 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock 501.660.4100

Apple Cider Smash MOCKINGBIRD 1220 S. Main St., Little Rock 501.313.5413

Fresh muddled lemons, Yellow Rose bourbon, Apple cider, Burlesque Bitters, Cinnamon-sugar rim

you

GETTING TO KNOW

2023

The old year is drawing to a close, giving way to the promise of new adventures and new joy in 2024.

And right around the corner lies AY’s BEST OF awards, where our readers get the opportunity to nominate and vote for the best in Arkansas people, businesses, restaurants, health care, places to work and more.

Getting to Know You is a special feature highlighting some of the winners and finalists from 2023’s BEST OF voting. Looking through them, you will quickly see why they were ranked tops in the state, and you may just discover a new favorite store, cafe or service provider in the process.

Don’t forget – nomination and voting season for the 2024 AY BEST OF awards is coming up fast, so stay tuned to AY About You for all the details!

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CONWAY REGIONAL ADVANCED PAIN MANAGEMENT CENTER Winner, Best Pain Specialist (Mikio Ranahan, M.D.)

2023

Chris Maranto, M.D., from left, Heath McCarver, M.D., and Mikio Ranahan, M.D. Pain is the most common reason for seeking medical care in the United States, according to the National Institutes of Health.

“Everyone has pain somewhere, of some kind, and it can be treated,” said Heath McCarver, M.D., a pain management specialist at the Conway Regional Advanced Pain Management Center. McCarver and his colleagues, Chris Maranto, M.D., and Mikio Ranahan, M.D., have been recognized as the state’s best pain specialists by AY in 2023. They find purpose and satisfaction in helping patients find relief from pain.

“There is rarely ever one way to get rid of pain,” McCarver said.

“It usually requires a combination of techniques, including medication. If you approach it from several different angles, usually you can find a combination that gives relief.”

The physicians at the Conway Regional Advanced Pain Management Center specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of different types of pain, including acute and chronic pain. In addition to pain in joints throughout the body, the doctors treat migraine headaches, fibromyalgia and reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome.

They also provide nerve blockers and medication management for cancer-related pain.

“There is no magic pill,” Ranahan said. “If someone has one solution to all your problems, that is a red flag because pain affects all

aspects of your life. For most patients suffering from chronic pain, one pill or one procedure is not going to make everything better. It takes several routes to manage pain.”

The Conway Regional pain management specialists believe in a multidisciplinary method of treating all types of pain, often teaming up with orthopedic surgeons, oncologists, neurologists and neurosurgeons, therapists and counselors as part of an individual painmanagement plan.

“We want to know whether they have had injuries, surgery, and specifically look at X-rays, [computerized tomography] and MRI images,” Maranto said. “We need to know what has already been done before we make our plans.”

“Another myth is that people are stuck with pain,” McCarver added. “Pain is very common, but it is also uncommon that we can’t find relief. We can get rid of pain, at least to a much more functional level.”

Ranahan said low-impact exercise and smoking cessation can help people avoid the pain that sends so many people to the pain management center.

“Staying active is the most important thing to do under the advice of your physician,” he said. “Low-impact exercise and sports such as cycling, swimming, running and walking are generally helpful.”

2200 Ada Ave., Suite 301 • Conway • 501.358.6560 • conwayregional.org

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HEATHMAN FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY Winner, Best Family Dentist Top 3, Cosmetic Dentist

2023

Dr. Montgomery “Monty” Heathman is the owner and founder of Heathman Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Little Rock and the Dental Clinic of Stuttgart. Heathman has been in practice for more than 21 years and has won AY’s Best of for five consecutive years. He is a second-generation dentist, following in the footsteps of his father, the late Dr. N. Dwight Heathman Jr. Montgomery Heathman grew up in Springdale and graduated from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. He graduated with his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry in Memphis in 2000. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the Arkansas State Dental Association, the Central Arkansas Dental Association and the Xi Psi Phi dental fraternity. In addition, he has served in numerous local, state and national organizations.

“The best part of my job is the relationships and friendships I’ve developed with my patients, employees and colleagues over the years,” he said. “Being a ‘people person,’ I value these relationships tremendously. I love the profession of dentistry, and it is very rewarding to help patients with their dental needs, creating and enhancing their smiles, as well as helping them to attain excellent oral health.”

Heathman’s clinics offer the latest in cosmetic procedures as well as general dentistry, including tooth-colored fillings, ceramic crowns and veneers, root canal therapy, tooth extractions, temporomandibular joint therapies, implant restorations, All-on-4 implant dentures, smile makeovers, and full-mouth rehabilitation, as well as Botox and dermal fillers.

“When we found out we were being honored as AY’s Best of again, we were grateful that our patients thought of us,” Heathman said. “They let us know that we are serving them and their families the right way. It is a reflection of our simple mantra: Serve others.

“What I feel that makes our practices special is that our teams and myself listen to what our patients’ wants and needs are. We are genuine, compassionate and understanding in our approach in order to tailor our options of services to each individual. We treat our patients like family in a family setting.”

Montgomery Heathman, DDS

Heathman Family Dental • 12501 Cantrell Road • Little Rock • 501.223.3838 The Dental Clinic of Stuttgart • 2001 S. Buerkle St. • Stuttgart • 870.673.2687 heathmanfamilydental.com

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BOWEN HEFLEY ORTHOPEDICS

2023

Top 3, Best Othopedist (Samuel A. Moore, D.O.) Founded by orthopedic surgeons Bill Hefley, M.D., and Scott Bowen, M.D., in 1997, Bowen Hefley Orthopedics has grown into one of the most trusted names in orthopedic care in Arkansas. The practice has grown to serve patients across the state and now boasts nine surgeons, six physician assistants and six physical therapists.

One of those talented surgeons, Samuel A. Moore, D.O., joined the Bowen Hefley team in 2012. Moore comes from a family of medical professionals, and he relishes the opportunity to provide relief to those who have been plagued with pain for years on end.

“Our practice has a smaller group than most, which allows us to provide the individual care that people expect,” Moore said. “We are a one-stop shop, from patient treatment to our own physical therapy group to the MRI department.”

Moore specializes in arthritis and sports injuries, including surgery of the hip, knee and shoulder. His training in osteopathic medicine means he is focused on treating his patients holistically — a commitment that complements Bowen Hefley’s own dedication to care, improvement and quality of life.

“Bowen Hefley’s goal is to continue to provide excellent care, not just as a business, but as a calling to serve the people of central Arkansas,” he said. “I want to continue to focus our care on excellent outcomes and improved patient experiences.”

Little Rock • North Little Rock • Russellville bowenhefleyortho.com • 800.336.2412 • DrSamuelMoore.com

GETTING TO KNOW YOU...

THE CROISSANTERIE

2023

Winner, Best Bakery Winner, Best Dessert Winner, Best Restaurant (Newly Opened) Top 3, Best Breakfast Since they first started taking private orders for their delectable Frenchstyle croissants in 2018, Wendy Schay and Jill McDonald, certified executive chefs, have created an edible empire. From vending at farmers markets to a food truck and now their own cafe, the Croissanterie in Little Rock, the pair of former culinary instructors now offer a wide range of services: full-service custom catering, as well as cakes, breakfast, lunch and dinner.

“If it’s food-centric, we can probably do it,” Schay said.

Those croissants do not come easy, either. The Croissanterie’s commitment to traditional French techniques means that it takes three days to create the buttery, flaky layers that keep customers craving more. On top of that, Schay and McDonald are dedicated to using as many local and seasonal products as possible, making 80 to 90 percent of their offerings completely from scratch.

While the Croissanterie continues to expand its reach, adding layers to an already winning concept, Schay and McDonald continue to be grateful for the support that has allowed them to get this far. The pair said they were surprised and excited to find out they were among AY’s Best of 2023.

“We are really in the people business,” McDonald said. “It’s such an honor to be recognized by your community and peers, especially when we are so new to the show and up against such great restaurants. Thank you!”

14710 Cantrell Road • Little Rock • 501.412.4244

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Wendy Schay, left, and Jill McDonald

GETTING TO KNOW YOU...

CONWAY ORTHOPEDIC & SPORTS MEDICINE CENTER Winner, Best Sports Medicine Clinic Top 3, Best Orthopedic Group

2023

J. Tod Ghormley, M.D., from left, James Head, M.D., H. Scott Smith, M.D., Grant Bennett, M.D., Jay Howell, M.D., Robert McCarron, M.D., and Bryan Head, M.D. Conway Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center brings innovation and expertise in orthopedics and sports medicine care to north central Arkansas. Voted as one of AY’s Best Orthopedic Groups for 2023, COSMC has provided comprehensive orthopedic care to central Arkansas since 1988.

The center is anchored by the experience and expertise of orthopedic surgeons H. Scott Smith, M.D., Grant Bennett, M.D., Jay Howell, M.D., J. Tod Ghormley, M.D., James Head, M.D., Bryan Head, M.D., and Robert McCarron, M.D., who provide comprehensive orthopedic care for north central Arkansas and the River Valley. The center offers a wide range of services, including specialized care for the hand, upper extremity, foot and ankle; minimally invasive surgeries of the knee and hand; total hip, knee and shoulder replacements; and sports medicine services.

The talented group of orthopedic surgeons, surgical specialists, nurses and therapists offer a wide array of bone and joint disease evaluation, treatment and surgeries, including: • Total joint and partial joint replacement of hips, knees, shoulders and elbows • Arthroscopic joint surgery of knees, elbows, shoulders, wrists and ankles • Hands (carpal tunnel release and reconstructive surgery) • Pediatric orthopedics (clubfoot, bowlegs and

pediatric fractures) • Feet and ankles (sprains, strains, fractures and reconstructive surgery) • Sports medicine (all sports-related injuries for athletes of all ages) Additionally, orthopedic surgeons Bennett, Smith and Ghormley utilize Mako robotic-arm assisted surgery in many hip and knee replacements. Conway Regional was one of the first health systems in Arkansas to offer the state-of-the-art service.

Mako is a new approach to joint replacement that offers assistance to the surgeon for a more precise, customized positioning of implants for each patient. A computerized tomography scan of a knee or hip is uploaded into the Mako system software, where a 3D model is created. This 3D model is used to preplan and assist surgeons in performing a hip or knee replacement.

From a surgeon’s perspective, the advantages are the precision and intraoperative customization provided by Mako. Many times, that precision enables orthopedic surgeons at COSMC to remove less bone or decrease the amount of soft-tissue trauma.

“For many patients, this may translate into improved range of motion and less time on crutches or a walker,” Bennett said. He added that the majority of his patients return home the day after surgery.

550 Club Lane • Conway • 501.329.1510 • conwayregional.org

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COY’S SOUTHERN EATS

2023

Winner, Best Arkansas Handmade Products One need not go too far into Hot Springs to find evidence of the Coy’s legacy. Though the 1940’s steakhouse is no more — for now, but more on that later — former patrons continue to share their memories of the famed eatery, and the Manning Brown and Caffey families take very seriously their mission to carry on those historic (and delicious) flavors.

Coy’s Southern Eats was founded in 2018 to bring the spices and renowned house dressing mix back to Coy’s fans old and new. For Tracy Manning Brown, director of business development, the most important thing Coy’s Southern Eats can do for customers of all stripes is keep a smile on their faces the Coy’s way with downright delicious flavors.

“Coy’s has meant so much to so many people,” Manning Brown said.

“Coy’s Southern Eats has given us the ability to reach a new generation that might have never known Coy’s at all.”

She said she is particularly proud of the company’s ability to diversify its offerings without straying from the image and soul of the Coy’s brand.

Coy’s Southern Eats has plans to continue reaching audiences far and wide in addition to keeping its roots alive and well: the Brown family has announced the return of a physical restaurant to Hot Springs early next year.

“We are just so honored to be a part of your lives and to still mean so much to so many people,” Brown said. “We are so excited to see you in person again in 2024.”

205 Progress Way, Suite 400 • Bryant • 501.517.2381 coyssoutherneats.com

GETTING TO KNOW YOU...

WRIGHT PLASTIC SURGERY & MED SPA Winner, Best Medical Spa/Nonsurgical Cosmetic Clinic Winner, Best Plastic Surgeon

2023

Since 2018, the motto of Wright Plastic Surgery has been “Your Beauty, Our Expertise.” That expertise is just one reason among many that Dr. Eric Wright was voted AY’s best plastic surgeon of 2023. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, his goal is to listen to all patients in order to develop a plan that meets their individual goals.

“I love that plastic surgery is the combination of aesthetically restoring and improving the function of the human body,” Wright said. “At our practice, it is rewarding to see the longevity of care provided, whether it is a surgical or nonsurgical procedure.”

The clinic has recently opened in a new and expanded location, allowing Wright and his handpicked team to provide exceptional care to even more patients. Each person Wright sees receives personalized attention to help each look and feel their best, and Wright's unmatched staff support patients from beginning to end.

“I am very thankful that I can continue to provide the care and attention our patients need, and receiving this honor affirms the direction our practice is headed,” Wright said. “Thank you to the AY readers. Our practice’s growth is due to your continued support.”

Eric J. Wright, M.D.

1811 Rahling Road, Suite 100 • Little Rock 501.575.0088 • drwrightplasticsurgery.com

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CONWAY REGIONAL GASTROENTEROLOGY CENTER Winner, Best Gastroenterology Clinic

2023

Martin Moix, M.D., left, and Ron White, M.D. Vast experience and innovation are staples for the Conway Regional Gastroenterology Center, which was voted AY’s Best Gastroenterology Clinic for 2023.

Gastroenterologists treat diseases of the digestive tract — esophagus, stomach, colon, small intestine, pancreas, gallbladder and liver. An interventional gastroenterologist does advanced procedures like endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography; stenting of the esophagus, duodenum, colon and bile ducts; endoscopic suturing; endoscopic mucosal resection and others.

The center’s founder, Martin Moix, M.D., is a gastroenterologist with more than 25 years of experience in treating diseases of the intestinal tract. His physician partner, Ron White, M.D., has more than 29 years of experience as a gastroenterologist. They are joined by Brittany Burris, APRN, Alex McCord, APRN, Marissa Plata, APRN, Kate Vasquez, APRN, and Kelly Wright, APRN. Being a gastroenterologist means doing repetitive tests, such as colorectal screenings, that can save lives. Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women.

“A colorectal screening for people over age 50 can be a lifesaver.

It’s the biggest takeaway that I can give you,” Moix said. “Ninety percent of colorectal cancer can be detected with the screening.”

Recalling an experience in which he was able to remove a polyp and prevent a woman from contracting cancer, Moix added, “The times that we can prevent somebody from getting a horrible illness make it all worthwhile. In GI, we are fortunate to be on the preventive side of things, knowing that somebody is not going to have to suffer through surgery and chemotherapy.”

Moix and White are also bringing many innovative procedures to Faulkner and surrounding counties. The Conway Regional Gastroenterology Center has implemented pH studies, which measure acid reflux in the esophagus, and esophageal manometry studies that test whether a patient’s esophagus can properly move food into the digestive system. Moix said the future may include non-invasive scanning of the liver, gastric pacemakers, collaborative endoscopic workups for bariatric surgery patients, ERCP to relieve bile duct obstructions, fibro scanning to assess scarring of the liver and other innovative procedures.

2200 Ada Ave., Suite 201 • Conway • 501.852.1360 • conwayregional.org

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LAW OFFICES OF KATHERINE E. BLACKMON Winner, Best Law Firm

2023

Katherine Blackmon Carrol Katherine Blackmon Carroll is the owner and managing attorney at the Law Offices of Katherine E. Blackmon in Little Rock, a traumainformed family law firm with an emphasis on helping clients navigate difficult times with empathy and expertise.

Almost three decades ago, Blackmon Carroll opened her oneroom law practice in the Centre Place building downtown. “I asked God to send me clients in the area of law where I was most needed, and my first custody case walked through the door,” Blackmon Carroll said. “I now own the 11th floor in that same building, and God is still sending me amazing family-law clients.”

As proud as Blackmon Carroll is of her own accomplishments, she is even more proud of and thankful for her team, including Jalen Toms, senior associate attorney, Lydia Hicks Hamlet, associate attorney, and

the newest member of the firm, Jordyn Nykaza, associate attorney. Their tenacity, work ethic and fierce advocacy enable them to guide clients through some of the most emotionally fraught times of their lives, fighting aggressively for their clients while also walking with them through the emotions that go hand in hand with a divorce or custody matter.

“I think people would be surprised to know that while we are a tough group of attorneys, we are also a very sensitive group of people,” Blackmon Carroll said. “We genuinely care not just about the case, but how our clients feel while going through it and, ultimately, how they feel when their case is over.”

From the start, Blackmon Carroll’s law firm has been built on hard work and integrity; with this dedicated team, the firm’s reputation for excellence is firmly cemented.

212 Center St., Little Rock • 501.372.7636

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TIPTON & HURST

2023

Winner, Best Florist Winner, Best Gift Shop Winner, Best Party Planning/Products/Rentals Winner, Best Seasonal Designer

Howard Hurst It is hard to argue with quality and dedication that spans three generations and has survived two pandemics (Spanish flu and COVID-19 for those wondering). Howard Hurst, president and CEO of Tipton & Hurst, took over the family business in 1984, just shy of a century after his grandfather, Joseph Hurst, opened up shop with David Tipton in 1886.

“I grew up in and around the business, helping where I could, from odd jobs as a teenager to working in marketing as a college graduate. I knew from an early age that I wanted to be in the family business,” he said.

The company’s 137 years of success have all come down to Tipton & Hurst’s commitment to guaranteed satisfaction. If there is a mistake, the company will always work tirelessly to make it right.

Tipton & Hurst stands by the quality of its products, and for good reason; those products, more often than not, furnish customers’ most memorable occasions.

“It’s very gratifying to be a part of important moments in the lives of our customers,” Hurst said. “From the birth of a beloved grandchild

to a treasured daughter’s wedding to the death of a cherished loved one, Tipton & Hurst brings comfort and trust to consequential life events, as well as beauty and happiness in everyday ways.”

Tipton & Hurst is much more than a florist — just step inside a Tipton & Hurst storefront to find out. The company is quickly becoming the state’s foremost provider of gifts, home decor, food and bridal needs, as well.

“Our primary goal is to continue to be the premier provider in the South of fine gifts, florals and home decor,” Hurst said. “We plan to expand our reach and upgrade technology and systems, ultimately improving the shopping experience for our customers far and wide.”

Hurst is humbled to see Tipton & Hurst recognized as one of AY’s Best of 2023, but true to form, he is not content to let the company rest on its laurels.

“We only improve and grow by creating a customer-driven experience. We thrive on feedback,” he explained. “Of course, we appreciate your vote, but most importantly, we want to hear from you so we can learn how to earn that vote year after year.”

501.666.3333 • tiptonhurst.com

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PINNACLE HEARING

Winner, Best Audiology

This year, Pinnacle Hearing celebrates a decade of “Helping Arkansas Hear,” thanks in no small part to the tireless dedication of Dr. Mary Chatelain and her team. Pinnacle Hearing has a distinctive advantage over the competition: the clinic works with the top prescription hearing aid manufacturers, allowing Chatelain to create a custom treatment plan for each patient’s unique needs.

The “one size fits one” approach makes for more meaningful patient relationships and better results. After all, those relationships are what it is all about, both for Pinnacle Hearing and the people it serves.

“The most rewarding aspect of my job is when a patient shares with me that they no longer struggle to hear their family and and they finally feel like they belong again,” Chatelain said. “Those moments are the very reason why Pinnacle Hearing exists, and they mean the world to us.”

Pinnacle Hearing aims to make a positive impact outside the walls of its clinics as well, and provides hearing education to public schools, first responders, churches and musicians. The clinic has also formed partnerships with rural hospitals to bring crucial hearing health care services to underserved communities.

“As someone who grew up in south Arkansas, I always had a strong desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of people in my community,” she said.

“I never imagined I would have the opportunity to assemble a team of professionals who share that vision and work together to bring it to fruition. I feel incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by such a passionate and caring team who are dedicated to Helping Arkansas Hear.”

10700 N. Rodney Parham Road • Little Rock • 501.225.6060 415 Hospital Drive • Camden • 870.837.2823 pinnacle-hearing.com

2023

Mary Chatelain, Au.D.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU...

THE FIX SALON

2023

Winner, Best Hair Salon

Natalie Black Blaney opened the Fix Salon in 2018 with the goal of creating a space where hairstylists could collaborate, learn and grow — and have fun while doing so. In the years since, the Fix Salon has become a fast favorite among customers and a productive environment for the stylists who call it home.

“People go to most salons to look a certain way,” Blaney said.

“People come to the Fix Salon to feel a certain way.”

Blaney said she loves watching her stylists master new techniques while providing customers the highest standards of professionalism and cutting-edge quality. The team has already grown to 14 strong, and Blaney hopes to add even more through the salon’s assistant-mentorship program.

“I am so proud of my team,” she said. “They love the salon and the environment we’ve created, and they motivate me and each other daily.”

Whether they are discussing color formulas or cutting techniques, bouncing new ideas off one another, or helping out behind the scenes, every member of the Fix Salon team is in it together.

Given that dedication, it is little surprise the salon has landed in AY’s Best of 2023.

“Of course I think we are the best, but to have others in our community feel the same way — what an honor,” Blaney said. “We would love to have your vote again [in 2024], and if you’re not sure why we are the best, come see us, and we will show you.”

3700 Old Cantrell Road, No. 101 • Little Rock • 501.319.4554 fixsalonar.com

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CONWAY REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER Winner, Best Hospital Winner, Best Rehabilitation Hospital Winner, Best Foot & Ankle Surgeon (James Head, M.D.) Winner, Best Surgeon (Lower Extremity) (James Head, M.D.) Winner, Best Surgeon (Upper Extremity) (Jay Howell, M.D.) Winner, Best Foot & Ankle Surgeon (James Head, M.D.) Top 3, Best Cardiology Clinic (Conway Regional Cardiovascular Clinic) Top 3, Best Physical Therapy Clinic (Caleb Marsh, Conway Regional Home Health) Top 3, Best Health & Fitness Center (Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center) Top 3, Best Overall Company Top 3, Best In-Home Care Top 3, Best Radiology Clinic Top 3, Best Place to Work

For more than 100 years, Conway Regional has provided high-quality, compassionate care to the communities it serves. What started in 1921 with a donation of land to the city of Conway to establish a new hospital grew into a not-for-profit medical center with 60 beds by 1957.

Today, Conway Regional Health System provides comprehensive health care services to the growing communities of north central Arkansas and the River Valley. Conway Regional is an economic force in the community as one of Conway’s largest employers.

Centered on a 170-bed, acute care medical center, the health system provides patients with a variety of services, including primary care, heart health, orthopedic care, neuro-spine surgery, vascular surgery, gastroenterology services, women’s health care and surgery services. Additionally, the health system operates a rehabilitation hospital and a 70,000-square-foot health and fitness center. In June 2019, Conway Regional announced a management agreement with

2023

the Dardanelle Hospital and has since renamed it Dardanelle Regional Medical Center.

In 2020, Conway Regional Medical Center became the third hospital in Arkansas to receive Magnet designation by the American Nursing Credentialing Center. Magnet recognition is the gold standard for nursing excellence, and only 8 percent of hospitals nationwide achieve Magnet recognition status.

Conway Regional is an economic force in the community with more than 225 physicians on the medical staff, more than 1,800 employees and 100 community volunteers. Conway Regional team members and their families make Conway Regional one of Conway’s largest employers. The dedicated team members at Conway Regional uphold the organization’s mission by providing high-quality, compassionate care to those in the community, and they also work tirelessly to support their community outside of the hospital walls.

2302 College Ave. • Conway • 501.329.3831 • conwayregional.org

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GETTING TO KNOW YOU...

RUSSELL CHEVROLET Winner, Best Auto Service Department Winner, Best New Car Dealership Top 3, Used Car Dealership

Since its inception in 1963, Russell Chevrolet has cultivated an atmosphere in which customers can shop for and purchase new and used vehicles with no pressure or gimmicks. Founder John Russell made service after the sale a priority, and his grandson, Brett Russell, has not changed that winning formula.

“My grandfather and father always believed in making sure the customer was satisfied through their whole journey of automobile ownership, and that continues today,” Brett said.

Of course, it has not always been a smooth journey. When the dealership moved to its current location in 1974, Russell Chevrolet acquired the Rolls-Royce franchise — a short-lived endeavor.

“Needless to say, Arkansas wasn’t ready for that brand of automobile,” Brett said.

Today, Russell Chevrolet has enjoyed a number of successes, including recognition with Chevrolet’s Mark of Excellence for three years in a row. The dealership also has the largest General Motors Co. parts department in the state, and Russell Chevro-

2023

let's fleet of vehicles delivers to body shops and other dealerships daily. While the dealership has plenty of reason to boast, Brett said he is most proud of still being able to work with his father, Bob Russell.

“At 85, he still comes into work when he’s in town, and I continue to value his insight and experience,” Brett said.

Customers seem to appreciate Russell Chevrolet for its honesty and for employee longevity. Two managers recently hit 45 years on the job, while another reached 40, and that kind of experience cannot be found just anywhere. The trust that Russell Chevrolet has earned from its customer base is just one reason the dealership was also voted one of AY’s Best of in 2022 and 2023.

“We are honored again by the amazing award and attribute it to our fantastic staff. They are truly the life of everything we do,” Brett said. “We look forward to working with returning and new customers and hope that we can reward them with enough great service that they remember us for another year.”

6100 Landers Road, North Little Rock • 501.835.8300 • russellchevrolet.com

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GETTING TO KNOW YOU...

LAKE HAMILTON & HOT SPRINGS ANIMAL HOSPITALS Winner, Best Veterinarian

2023

Brian Peters, DVM Brian Peters, DVM, worked as an associate for seven years before buying the Lake Hamilton & Hot Springs Animal Hospitals in 2008. As the chief veterinarian at both practices, he upholds a commitment to providing cutting-edge care and forming lifelong relationships with patients.

From puppyhood or kittenhood to senior care, the team works to ensure that every pet is treated like family. The practice also takes great pride in caring for the working dogs of the Hot Springs community — including members of K-9 units for the Arkansas State Police, the Garland County Sheriff ’s Department, the Hot Springs Police Department and Arkansas Game and Fish.

Lake Hamilton & Hot Springs Animal Hospitals also provide educational programs for schools in the community, from show and tell to after-school activities and even a hands-on high school science class.

High school seniors who complete the educational program can also receive a veterinary scholarship. All of this outreach helps develop the next generation of veterinarians and deepens the relationship between the practice and the communities it serves.

“Dr. Brian” points to the commitment of his team as being instrumental in the success of both hospitals, and he said he hopes to increase his staff and extend their hours in order to take care of more pets.

He said he was honored to be one of AY’s Best of 2022 and thrilled to be named one of AY’s Best of 2023. He emphasized the commitment he and his team have to go “above and beyond” in 2024.

“Quite frankly, I take care of all of our patients like they were my own,” he said. “They truly are a part of my family, so to be recognized for that is amazing.”

Lake Hamilton Animal Hospital • 1525 Airport Road, Hot Springs • 501.767.8503 • lakehamiltonanimalhospital.com Hot Springs Animal Hospital • 1533 Malvern Ave., Hot Springs • 501.623.2411 • hotspringsvet.com aymag.com 69

GETTING TO KNOW YOU...

DOWNHOME CATERING

2023

Winner, Best Caterer Top 3, Best Catfish

In 2003, in a little old block building way out in Pulaski County, Tori Morehart embarked on a journey that would change her life. Two decades later, DownHome Catering has moved twice, most recently setting up shop in Benton. While the address might have changed, one thing has not: the DownHome Catering ethos of “faith, food and family.”

“People place their trust in me and my business to be a part of their special occasions,” Morehart said. “Whether it’s a holiday meal or party, a wedding, a baby shower, or a celebration of life, I feel blessed to have played a role in my customers’ lives.”

Morehart puts her heart and soul into the business, and she comes by it honestly. She inherited a love of cooking for others from her mother, who never let anyone leave her home without at least offering a meal. Now, Morehart’s catering customers, many of whom go back years, have become like family to her.

DownHome Catering already finds itself serving up delicious homecooked meals in just about every corner of the state — with enough notice, that is — but Morehart hopes to continue bringing that DownHome goodness to more Arkansans year after year.

“It is an honor to be recognized for something I love doing,” she said.

“Thank you so much for all your love and support of DownHome over the last 20 years. I can’t wait to continue catering all your events and occasions in 2024."

3813 Quail Lane • Benton • 501.804.4330 downhomecatering.catertrax.com

GETTING TO KNOW YOU...

SMILE DAILEY

2023

Winner, Best Cosmetic Dentist Top 3, Best Dentist For more than two decades now, DJ Dailey, DDS, has been helping patients build healthy and confident smiles at Smile Dailey Dental in Little Rock. Dailey and his team take pride in the results they are able to provide, and their expertise is evident every time someone refers a friend or family member to Smile Dailey.

“I have a passion for aesthetics,” Dailey said. “There is a level of artistry that goes into creating the perfect smile that fits each patient, and I spend a lot of time with each patient deciding what best matches their needs.”

The quality of Dailey’s work is also reflected in the excellence of his team and facility. With a dedicated staff that treats patients like family and overhead screens that show relaxing scenes during treatment, patients have plenty of reasons to smile.

As one of AY’s Best of 2023, Dailey said, “I feel blessed that our community thought of us. It provides reassurance that I am succeeding at my goal of providing the best treatment possible for my patients.”

In looking towards the new year and AY’s Best of 2024 Dailey provided some sound advice: “The more we smile, the better we feel.

It’s been shown through research. Smile on, everyone!”

DJ Dailey, DDS

17200 Chenal Parkway, Suite 250 • Little Rock 501.448.0032 • smiledailey.com

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GETTING TO KNOW YOU...

CONWAY REGIONAL NEUROSCIENCE CENTER Winner, Best Neurosurgeon (Regan Gallaher, M.D.) Winner, Best Neurologist (Regan Gallaher, M.D.)

2023

Mark Clark, Ph.D., from left, Tim Freyaldenhoven, M.D., Keith Schluterman, M.D., and Regan Gallaher, M.D. Conway Regional Neuroscience Center in Conway is one of AY’s best neurology clinics in 2023. The Conway Regional Neuroscience Center’s physicians treat illnesses of the brain and neurological system, including multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, migraine headaches, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, neuropathies and sleep disorders, as well as the side effects of strokes.

Tim Freyaldenhoven, M.D., and Keith Schluterman, M.D., combined their practices into a partnership with Conway Regional Health System in 2017 to form the Conway Regional Neuroscience Center. Freyaldenhoven and Schluterman have shared the same office space since 2004 and have been friends since medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. They have provided neurological care to Faulkner County and the surrounding region since 2002, when Freyaldenhoven joined the Conway Regional medical staff.

Schluterman followed in 2004.

“A major change for us was that we got to focus more time on clinical care and less on business operations,” Freyaldenhoven said. “The partnership secured neurology coverage for Conway Regional and enabled them to recruit additional neurologists to help us accommodate the needs of the communities that we serve.”

The center’s medical staff has expanded since it was formed.

In 2017, Regan Gallaher, M.D., joined, an experienced, boardcertified neuro/spine surgeon. Gallaher is a former neurosurgery chief resident in the Baylor College of Medicine in Texas. He also completed a residency in neurosurgery at the University of New Mexico. A neuropsychologist, Mark Clark, Ph.D., along with Savannah Bradbury, P.A., and Elana Russell, APRN, complete the staff.

2200 Ada Ave., Suite 302 • Conway • 501.932.0353 • conwayregional.org

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GETTING TO KNOW YOU...

RENEW MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Winner, Best Mental Health Facility

2023

Danielle Lynch started Renew Mental Health and Wellness in 2019.

Working by the motto, “Break the Stigma,” the Renew team is made up of nurse practitioners and other specialists trained to create individualized treatment plans for every client.

“I think that if people saw the office we started in — which wasn’t much bigger than a closet — compared to where we are now, they would be shocked,” Lynch said. “I love seeing our growing positive impact on patients and how their lives change because of the work of our team.”

In addition to its diversified approach to mental health, the clinic also strongly promotes inclusivity and accessibility. Lynch launched a nonprofit, Magnolia Mental Health, alongside the clinic to help make mental health care more affordable for patients and expand Renew’s reach in the community.

“No one is left out or cast away for beliefs, views or needs,” she said.

“We welcome everyone with open arms, and we are excited to see how we can continue to help.”

Renew was honored to be among AY’s Best of 2023, and Lynch said that the recognition only further validates the good work her team is doing.

“We are beyond thankful, and we hope you will trust us in the future to help you or your family,” she said.

1150 E. Matthews Drive • Jonesboro • 870.243.0424 renewmentalhealthandwellness.com

GETTING TO KNOW YOU...

PAINTED ROCK HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Top 3, Best Medical Spa/Nonsurgical Cosmetic Clinic Top 3, Nurse Practitioner

2023

Pamela Volner, APRN, FNP-C, knows a thing or two about dedication.

Inspired by the strong female figures in her life to go back to school as a mother of three and obtain a graduate degree, Volner set her sights on opening a clinic of her own. After nearly a decade of striving, she opened the doors of Painted Rock Health and Wellness in August 2020.

“I wanted my daughters to know that it is never too late to achieve your goals and to realize your dreams,” she said.

Volner has not slowed down since meeting that goal, however, and she hopes to add more locations and services as the business grows. The Painted Rock ethos is all about supporting clients’ health, wellness and aesthetic goals while keeping services as affordable and comfortable as possible.

“A beautiful exterior starts with a healthy interior,” Volner said. “Our goal is to help everyone feel comfortable in their own skin. This starts with feeling healthy and strong.”

Volner was surprised, honored and excited to be voted one of AY’s Best of 2023, and the recognition only bolsters her commitment to helping make people happier and healthier through her work.

“I love that I have clients that I have been treating for 10 years,” she said.

“The best part is hearing clients say, ‘I have never felt better,’ or, ‘You made me feel beautiful.’ ” Pamela Volner, APRN, FNP-C

9421 W. Markham St. • Little Rock • 501.226.4090 paintedrockhealthandwellness.com

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GETTING TO KNOW YOU...

CONWAY REGIONAL WOMEN’S CENTER Winner, Best OB/GYN Clinic Winner, Best Place to have a Baby

The Conway Regional Women’s Center was voted AY’s Best Place to have a Baby in 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023.

Twelve of Conway’s most highly skilled OB-GYNs representing three different clinics deliver babies exclusively at the Conway Regional Women’s Center, and the staff provides exceptional, family-focused care.

Parents are offered childbirth education classes, nutrition and lactation counseling, support groups, and a number of options for delivery.

The labor and delivery unit consists of 16 birthing suites and eight additional rooms that are available when needed to accommodate the growing number of families delivering at Conway Regional. Suites are equipped with all the equipment necessary for a traditional delivery, as well as showers, refrigerators and other hotel-like conveniences.

The center also features two surgical rooms, a 24-hour staff and anesthesia coverage if a cesarean birth becomes necessary. Internationally

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certified lactation counselors and support nurses are available to provide breast-feeding support throughout the stay and after the mother goes home.

Local, highly qualified pediatricians support the women’s center nursery. The nursery was the first in the state to join the Arkansas Children’s Hospital Nursery Alliance. The nursery alliance coordinates care between neonatologists at Arkansas Children’s Hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit, and physicians in Conway Regional’s NICU and newborn nursery to help improve the quality of care.

Above all else, it is the warm, personal relationship with their delivering nurse and physician that parents praise most often when recounting their delivery experience at the Conway Regional Women’s Center.

To put it simply: when one’s family is growing, Conway Regional will be with them every step of the way.

2302 College Ave., Building 2 • Conway • 501.513.5240 • conwayregional.org

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people with hearing loss, using hearing aid is associated with a reduced risk of dementia.

Congratulations on being named

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Research suggests hearing aids: lower the risk of falls, improve quality of life, and reduce the impact of anxiety/depression.

ng Aids uations (adult + pediatric) t g Amplification

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48 million

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28 million

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2023 Mary Chatelain, Au.D.

10700 N Rodney Parham • Little Rock

2823

501-225-6060

l Drive

415 Hospital Drive • Camden

www.pinnacle-hearing.com

870-837-2823

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3704 N. Rodney Parham & 12015 Hinson Road, Little Rock 501.225.2428 // lrmontessori.org

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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!

501.224.9000 • 516 S. Rodney Parham Rd., Little Rock • briarwoodnursingandrehab.com

travel

Mary and

Bright

From the manger to Main Street, Searcy does Christmas like no other The nativity scene, as presented by Searcy First Assembly of God, is the highlight of the Living Nativity in Searcy.

By MAK MILLARD // Photos provided 76

Church members pull out all the stops to give visitors an immersive glimpse into the story of Christmas.

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said visitors representing 31 states, seven countries and more than 250 Arkansas cities made their way through the gates of Bethlehem by way of Searcy. Even the COVID-19 pandemic could not put a dent in people’s holiday spirits, thanks in part to the drive-thru nature of the performance.

“It was actually a huge event that year, so big that we had the police out to help with traffic because the streets in Searcy got bottlenecked,” Ferren said. “It was a traffic nightmare, but it was neat to see that many people wanting to see the real meaning of Christmas.”

The event holds a special place in many people’s hearts, providing a feeling of hope during a season that can be as painful for some as it is joyful for others. It is, after all, a timeless message.

“People are hurting. People are afraid. People are concerned about the world, but what we’re putting on here, this nativity, that’s where the hope’s at,” Ferren said. “We try to portray that the best we can. It’s just a reminder that, ‘Hey, it may look bad, and it may be bad, but everything’s going to be OK because of that baby that was in that manger.’ He’s got it in his hands, and it’s all under control.”

The Living Nativity, as it is now called, is the result of countless hours of work starting as early as October. There are structures to be set up and repaired, decorations to place, roles to assign, and costumes to size — and that is not even to mention the flurry of activity on the actual days of the show, running this year on Dec. 1 to 3, 6 and 8 to 10.

“I get here about 8 o’clock in the morning, and guys start arriving. All of the tiki torches have to be filled with fuel every day; we go through gallons of tiki fuel,” Ferren said. “The kindling in the fire pits, the extra firewood put out, feeding the animals. The staff that’s in the production will start arriving after work. We try to get them here at least an hour and a half before so they can eat, get in costume, get out and get ready to go.”

Cattle, cast and crew are all in place by the time the first cars roll into the parking lot. While in line, guests are greeted by an attendant with hot chocolate. Then they can tune their radios into the church’s FM frequency

f someone had been driving around Searcy in the late 1980s around Christmastime, he or she might have noticed a group of teenage boys setting up a homemade nativity scene at the edge of their church parking lot. It might not have looked like much, but for Mark Ferren, now pastoral care and outreach minister at Searcy First Assembly of God, that simple structure planted the seeds for what would become one of the city’s most beloved holiday traditions.

“We did that for two or three years, and then we stopped. Nineteen years ago, I talked to the pastor, and we talked quite a bit about it,” Ferren said. “I told him the dream I had of doing a large-scale nativity, and we went for it.

It’s grown a little bit every year and become a pretty big outreach.”

“Pretty big” is an understatement. The production, now a sprawling recreation of the birth of Christ, attracts people from all over. Despite the rainy weather during last year’s event, Ferren

“A lot of people have their windows down. They smell the smoke. They hear the sounds, and I heard a little voice. He said, ‘There he is. There’s my baby Jesus.’”

— Mark Ferren, pastoral care and outreach minister at Searcy First Assembly of God 77

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“The whole month of December is a special time for us with the city of preparing the joy of Christmas.”

— Tonia Hale, co-chair of Searcy’s Holiday of Lights committee

The Living Nativity is one of many holiday attractions in Searcy.

for narration and enter through the gates of the “city,” where no detail has been spared. A layer of sawdust transforms into sand under the glow of torch lights. The street bustles with vendors hawking their wares to those in town for the census while Roman soldiers patrol close by. Also among the dedicated actors is a collection of farm animals, from donkeys and sheep to camels.

“The main thing that you see is the characters from the Christmas story,” Ferren said. “You’ll see the census taker and the tax collector. You come around. You see the innkeeper and Mary and Joseph there, trying to get in for a night’s stay.”

As visitors continue along, they come across the shepherds guarding their field and, above, the angel bearing good news. After a few more shops, the three wise men can be spotted in the distance. Just before leaving through the city gates, that iconic scene at last unfolds: the infant Jesus, settled in the manger, with Mary and Joseph.

Depending on how long the line gets by the time the gate closes, the production might go on until nearly 11 p.m.. Even if the parking lot is full, Ferren said, organizers let everyone go through. The nativity is truly a labor of love, and the feedback from locals and tourists alike makes it well worth the effort.

“I had someone the other day say, ‘We started out 19 years ago, bringing our kids through this, and we haven’t missed a year. Now our kids bring their kids.’ It’s pretty humbling to hear that,” he said.

For Ferren, who worked for many years in the children’s ministry and whose own children have grown up around the Living Nativity, it is especially gratifying to see the impact the production has on its youngest visitors.

“One of my all-time favorite quotes, I happened to be standing out by the front gate, and there was a car coming through,” he said. “A lot of people have their windows down. They smell the smoke. They hear the sounds, and I heard a little voice. He said, ‘There he is. There’s my baby Jesus.’”

Ferren said he loves that the church is able to portray to the community what Christmas is all about. For its part, the community responds in kind. Support ranges from the mayor’s office to other churches in the area.

“Last year, we had a church that came, and their people served our people supper,” Ferren said. “There’s a gentleman from another church that comes almost every day when we’re working and helps build it.

It’s become a community event, and our church is just humbled and so proud to be able to do this for the community.”

Searcy First Assembly of God is not alone in going all out during the final months of the year, however. As Tonia Hale and Tommy Centola, co-chairs of Searcy’s Holiday of Lights committee, can attest, the Christmas season brings with it a citywide effort to make Searcy an epicenter of holiday cheer.

“Most people really enjoy Christmas as a gathering time for friends and family. It’s a joyful time. It’s a time to remember,” Hale said. “It’s just a cozy feeling when you know people are coming here and you’re bringing joy to others throughout the holiday season.”

Centola joined the committee three years ago, and, following the departure of the previous Holiday of Lights chair, he partnered with Hale to bring their combined Christmas expertise to the event.

“Tommy and I both do a pretty good show in the front of our own homes, so we’re really interested in Christmas and how the city has started doing so much more during the holiday,” Hale said. “It brings us joy to bring joy to others.”

Searcy is also being recognized on a wider regional stage for the extent of its holiday happenings. Having already extolled the city as “the ultra-festive Christmas town of our sugar-plum dreams,” Southern Living magazine is set to feature the area among its “Cutest Christmas Towns” in 2024.

“It took us by surprise,” Centola said. “It’s not like we sent anything in. They contacted us, so we were really thrilled.”

The Holiday of Lights calendar kicks off with events in November, including a few that put the “lights” into “Holiday of Lights.”

The lighting ceremony at the White County Courthouse was held on Nov. 20. Once lit up, the state’s oldest courthouse is complemented by the impressive displays adorning the rest of downtown.

The Holiday of Lights committee works to turn Searcy into a Christmas dream town with light displays and seasonal events.

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Lighting ceremonies at the White County Courthouse, left, and Harding University, below, ring in the holiday season each year.

Homeowners also get in on the action, as Hale and Centola can confirm. Harding University hosted its own lighting ceremony on Nov. 27. The university’s beautiful trees draped with icicle lights make for an unforgettable walk around campus, and the lights will stay shining through New Year’s. All that is to say no stone is left unturned and no light unstrung.

Parks and businesses throughout the city are also aglow with all manner of displays and decorations throughout the season, in addition to providing treats and warm beverages to aid visitors during their holiday shopping trips or downtown strolls. Of course, there is always room for more.

“Last year, the advertising and promotion commission helped purchase a 3D recreation of the White County Courthouse,” Centola said. “This year, we’re adding three new two-dimensional buildings depicting the Rialto [Theater] with the flashing lights on the marquee; Smyrna Church, which is the oldest church in the state of Arkansas; and the [Historic Benjamin Clayton] Black House.”

Also new this year is a projection-mapping display that can show Christmas scenes and highlight different areas of the city and more on the side of the courthouse. The new display will run for six weeks and is set to become a regular feature of the Holiday of Lights programming.

“We’re always looking for opportunities to showcase new things. We’re very excited about it,” Centola said. “It took a lot of work to pull this off. It’s showing cooperation among the city and the county, which I think will just keep the Holiday of Lights in Searcy growing more and more.”

As the season ramps up, early December sees events such as a Polar Express movie night and pajama party, Christmas music at Smyrna Church, and “Characters in the Park,” for

which Santa Claus himself will headline. Santa can also be found reading The Night Before Christmas from the courthouse balcony, and visitors can sign up for picturesque carriage rides, take in the holiday-themed pieces at Art Alley, or catch Christmas concerts and caroling throughout the season.

“The whole month of December is a special time for us with the city, of preparing the joy of Christmas,” Hale said.

One of the biggest items on the Holiday of Lights agenda is the annual Christmas parade on Dec. 2. Sponsored by Unity Health, which is based in Searcy, last year’s parade featured more than 120 floats that represented everyone from churches and local businesses to police, firefighters and emergency medical services.

“We start as early as possible to try to get people to sign up for the parade. The participation alone is just so fantastic,” Centola said. “It’s

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an off year for elections, so we don’t have a tremendous number of political entries, but we want to showcase the union of the White County Quorum Court, Searcy City Hall and the council by having them appear on a single float together.”

At its core, Searcy’s transformation at Christmastime is a particularly shining example of the strength of its community — one with halls decked, bells ringing, and every eave, pillar and balcony covered in lights. From the courthouse to the city parks and in most every shop, church and home in between, the residents of Searcy are not just putting on a show for their visitors; they seem to be living and breathing what the holidays are all about from now until the new year. aymag.com

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The Nights Before Christmas

By SARAH COLEMAN

The nights before Christmas — the whole month of December, actually — have a lot in store for Arkansans. With no shortage of traditions both new and old, there are plenty of exciting holiday events to enjoy in the Natural State and nearby Branson, Mo.

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Arkansas Christmas Performances, Concerts and Productions: Razzle Dazzle: A Holiday Spectacular Dec. 1-3 The Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, Pine Bluff

The Living Nativity Dec. 1-3, 6, 8-10 Searcy First Assembly of God Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some) Dec. 1-16 The Weekend Theater, Little Rock A Christmas Story Dec. 1-4, 8-11 The Pocket Community Theatre, Hot Springs Ballet Magnificat! Presents Most Incredible Christmas Dec. 3 UAM Fine Arts Center, Monticello

A Very Merry Motown Christmas Dec. 20-23 Arkansas Repertory Theatre, Little Rock A Fertle Holiday with the Main Thing Dec. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23 and 29-30 The Joint Comedy Theater, North Little Rock Fort Smith Symphony: Holiday Celebration Dec. 2 ArcBest Performing Arts Center, Fort Smith

Community Christmas with the South Arkansas Symphony Dec. 2 El Dorado Municipal Auditorium Miracle on 34th Street Dec. 6-17 Argenta Community Theater, North Little Rock All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 Dec. 7-10 Wildwood Park for the Arts, Little Rock A Christmas Story: The Play Dec. 7-17 The Royal Theatre, Benton

Ballet Arkansas’ 45th Nutcracker Spectacular Dec. 8-10 Robinson Center, Little Rock A Very SoNa Christmas Dec. 9 Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville Rhonda Vincent - Christmas Dec. 9 ArcBest Performing Arts Center, Fort Smith The Snowman: A Family Concert Dec. 10 Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville A Christmas Carol Dec. 1-3, 6-10, 12-17, 19-24 TheatreSquared, Fayetteville

38th Annual The Nutcracker Western Arkansas Ballet Dec. 16-17 ArcBest Performing Arts Center, Fort Smith A Very Mariachi Christmas Dec. 21 Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville Nutcracker! Magic Christmas Ballet Dec. 31 Robinson Center, Little Rock Elf Dec. 3, 7-10 The Pocket Community Theatre, Hot Springs

Branson Christmas Events: Dean Z: The Ultimate Elvis Christmas Dec. 1, 6, 8, 11, 13 Clay Cooper Theatre

An Evening of Holiday A Capella with the Undertones Dec. 14 Mount Sequoyah Center, Fayetteville

The Duttons’ Christmas Show Dec. 1-2, 4, 6-8, 11, 13 Dutton Family Theater

A Wacky Tacky Christmas Spectacular Dec. 14-16 Fort Smith Little Theatre, Fort Smith

The Hits Christmas Show Dec. 1-15 Branson Event Center

A Christmas Story: The Musical Dec. 15-16 King Opera House, Van Buren The Haygoods Christmas Extravaganza Dec. 1-28 Clay Cooper Theatre

The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Presents Home for the Holidays Dec. 15-17 Robinson Center, Little Rock

A Merry Country Christmas Concert Dec. 1 - 23 Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater

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Clay Cooper Country Express Christmas Dec. 1, 3, 5-8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 27, 28 The Clay Cooper Theatre

Presleys’ Country Christmas 2023 Dec. 3-4, 6-11, 13-18, 20-22, 24-25, 27-30 Presleys’ Country Jubilee

Hot Rods & High Heels 1950’s Christmas Dec. 1, 4, 6, 8, 27, 29 Clay Cooper Theatre

A Celtic Christmas Dec. 4 -7, 11, 13,18, 20, 27 King’s Castle Theatre

Sanders Family Christmas Dec. 1-2, 5-9, 13- 16, 20-23, 27-30 Little Opry Live Theatre

Cassandré The Voice of an Angel Christmas Spectacular!

Dec. 5, 7 Hughes Brothers Theatre

SIX Christmas Show Dec. 1 - 17, 20, 22, 27-30 Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater Hughes Brothers Christmas Show Dec. 1-2, 4-9, 11-16, 18-23, 26-30 Hughes Brothers Theatre

Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dec. 1-31 Dolly Parton’s Stampede

A Shepherd’s Christmas Carol Dinner Show Dec. 5-6, 8, 11, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 25 The Shepherd of the Hills Playhouse Theatre Matthew Boyce’s Retro Christmas Spectacular Dec. 10-14 Americana Theatre

Silver Dollar City’s An Old Time Christmas Events: All events Dec. 1-30 Dean Z: The Ultimate Elvis Christmas The Living Nativity — Dockside Theater Tinker Junior’s Toy Shop — Boatworks Theater

Branson Christmas Wonderland Dec. 1-3, 5-17, 19-24, 26 -31 King’s Castle Theatre

Coming Home for Christmas — Red Gold Heritage Hall

The Texas Tenors Present Deep in the Heart of Christmas Dec. 2-4, 7-11, 14-17, 27-29 Mickey Gilley Grand Shanghai Theatre

Christmas to Remember — Riverfront Playhouse

A Christmas Story Dinner Show Dec. 2- 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25-26 The Shepherd of the Hills’ Playhouse Theatre

A Dickens’ Christmas Carol — Opera House Frontier Fa-La-La Follies — Silver Dollar Saloon

Arbour Season — Gazebo

nonprofit

Believing in Achieving Junior Achievement of Arkansas provides pathways to personal success

By TODD TRAUB // Photos provided

With headquarters in Colorado Springs, Colo., Junior Achievement USA serves 102 areas in the U.S., including Arkansas, and the organization has a global reach with JA Europe. Utilizing more than 100,000 volunteers in school year 20212022, Junior Achievement USA taught more than 70,000 classes in about 14,000 schools and reached more than 3 million students.

Founded by Theodore Vail, president of American Telephone & Telegraph; Horace Moses, president of Strathmore Paper; and Massachusetts Sen. Winthrop Murray Crane, Junior Achievement offered its first program, the JA Company Program, after-school at the high school level. Junior Achievement introduced Project Business in middle school classrooms in 1975 and has continued to expand.

Lawyer and philanthropist Sheffield Nelson founded Junior Achievement of Arkansas in 1987, and it has also expanded. The organization primarily provides a diverse range of low-income K-12 students with critical thinking skills, financial literacy, workforce readiness and entrepreneurship education they can use to break the cycle of poverty. Junior Achievement is dedicated to providing a positive, unbiased learning experience that promotes economic opportunity and equity so each student can have a better chance at success in life.

With a delivery model that utilizes volunteers and programs that have been shown to promote students’ self-belief and sense of purpose, Junior Achievement offers a volunteer-delivered curricula that is aligned with state and national standards and delivered to schools at no cost.

I

n its choice of language describing its mission, Junior Achievement sounds almost like a construction or engineering firm.

In service nationally since 1919 and in Arkansas for 36 years, Junior Achievement uses terms and phrases like “creating pathways,” “bridging gaps” and “overcoming barriers.” In its way, then, the organization is working to build and engineer a brighter future for vulnerable young people.

“I have been with the organization for 13 years, and I can tell you there have been so many life changes because of this organization,” said Tonya Villines, president and CEO of Junior Achievement of Arkansas.

A nonprofit, Junior Achievement USA is the largest organization in the United States dedicated to teaching students the skills they need to attain economic success, plan their futures, make wise financial decisions and prepare themselves for a successful career when they join the workforce.

Supported by thousands of volunteers and its corporate partners, Junior Achievement teaches financial literacy, entrepreneurship and business skills through classroom and after-school programs to help young people acquire the knowledge they need to overcome social, racial and economic barriers to a career and monetary stability.

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Junior Achievement provides programming geared toward helping K-12 students gain the skills they need to excel.

“I’m very involved in several local nonprofits, and I can’t overstate how truly impactful Junior Achievement’s work is,” said volunteer Magen Tune, a senior vice president and local market executive with Bank of America’s local markets organization. “The JA team makes it easy for volunteers to get involved. They provide the content, lesson plans and other tools to address the immense need for adequate financial education in Arkansas.”

Junior Achievement programming focuses on preparing the most vulnerable Arkansas students for successful adulthoods by teaching them the skills, knowledge and behaviors needed to land high-wage jobs and to manage their money effectively.

“JA is committed to giving young people the knowledge and support necessary to erase inequities, bridge gaps, overcome barriers and break through ceilings,” Villines said. “We are doing this so today’s kids can live in a more equitable and just tomorrow.

Together with our partners, we empower the next generation with lessons on how money works, how education leads to career success and how to start to run a business.”

The Junior Achievement pathways approach stresses financial-literacy concepts over multiple grades, before students start making life decisions such as paying for college, buying a house or car, and saving for the future.

“The need for this enrichment education has never been greater for Arkansas students,” Villines said. “Additionally, JA’s programming correlates to Arkansas state standards and helps reinforce the curriculum that teachers are teaching in the classroom, connecting the dots to real-world understanding.”

Everyday classroom teachers are often busy enough educating students in the basics, along with scheduling, grading papers and additional responsibilities, so they do not have time to teach life skills such as budgeting, Villines said. Through its business and community volunteers, Junior Achievement serves as an extension to the teaching team, bringing its model of education to students without putting more work on the teachers.

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“We work with students kindergarten through 12th grade. Even our little kindergarten classes that we go through, they’re talking about what a budget is, how to start their own lemonade stand,” Villines said.

According to the 2021-2022 Junior Achievement Alumni Report, 18 percent of Americans have participated in the Junior Achievement program at some point during their K-12 education. As part of their experience, 76 percent of JA alumni reported that a volunteer visited their class, after-school program or another setting to teach them about money, jobs or business.

Of those, 64 percent say they remember the concepts the volunteer taught them about money, jobs or business, and 56 percent said they are currently in a career or job or have worked in a similar position to the one their JA volunteer had.

Of the Junior Achievement alumni, 91 percent said they were in their dream job or career as compared to 25 percent of average Americans; 46 percent said they live paycheck to paycheck as compared to 64 percent of average Americans; and 68 percent of alumni ages 18 to 34 said they are saving for retirement, while 40 percent of average Americans are doing so.

The numbers are encouraging given the rates many of the nation’s young people are up against. Junior Achievement

Tonya Villines, center, president and CEO of Junior Achievement of Arkansas, poses with JA members.

part of the state, and 40 percent covered northwest Arkansas.

“Our programs are implemented in and out of the classroom, at after-school sites and at virtual online schools across the state,” Villines said.

Over the past 36 years, Junior Achievement has prepared more than 350,000 kids in the state for future success. The more than 22,000 students impacted last year represent a 68 percent increase from 2021-2022. This year, nearly 400 volunteers accounted for more than 60,000 USA cites Pew Research Center figures showing student contact hours that served 46 Arkansas schools. that the U.S. has the highest income inequality Partnering with entities such as the Academies of Central Arkanamong the Group of Seven leading industrial nasas, which utilizes the Ford Next Generation Learning model, Junior tions. While income and wealth gaps have narAchievement of Arkansas offers programs aligned with approved rowed, there continue to be disparities, especialstate and national education department curricula. ly between white and Black households. In 1970, “What we are doing with academies is providing a curriculum to there was a 78 percent gap in income between these students,” Villines said. “They go through a career fair. We’ve got white and Black households, which had only imthe big career fair coming up in November. What they’re doing right proved to 64 percent by 2018. now in the classroom is going through the career fair curriculum.”

A 2020 study by the Brookings Institution That includes learning what questions to ask in interviews, how to showed the median net worth of white families dress, how to interact with hiring managers and what attractive career in America was 10 times greater than that of opportunities might exist.

Black families.

“The thing to note, too, with our curriculum, what really makes Hispanics and Latinos in the U.S. face simius so unique, is we’re actually a supplement to the schools,” Villines lar challenges, the Ecosaid. “We go in and nomic Policy Institute tell the superintenstates. Hispanic men dents and principals earn nearly 15 percent that our curriculum less than their white correlates with the counterparts for work national, state and requiring comparable local standard, and skills and education. that’s with the DeHispanic women earn partment of Educa33 percent less. Other tion. That gets their research shows the attention.” overall wealth gap more Someone selecting than doubled between a Junior Achievement America’s richest and program chooses a poorest families, regardgrade level (elemenless of race, between tary, middle or high 1989 and 2016. school) and selects a Junior Achievement pathway from either — Tonya Villines, president and CEO USA cannot provide the financial literacy, enlegislative and legal solutrepreneurship or tions to reduce the diswork readiness. There parities. Rather, it approaches the problems by are close to 30 virtual, classroom or after-school programs, which providing young people the knowledge they can range in focus from high to moderate to minimal and include busiuse to bridge racial and cultural gaps and break ness education, the global marketplace and taking stock of one’s inthrough glass ceilings. dividual future.

Now also working with young adults ages 18 Junior Achievement has also recently moved into the realm of cato 25, Junior Achievement served more than reer advancement and certification for young employees.

22,000 Arkansas students last year. Sixty per“[We’re] moving into young adult ages 18 to 25. We’re working cent of JA's programming covered the central with those students now,” Villines said. “That’s something that came

“JA is committed to giving young people the knowledge and support necessary to erase inequities, bridge gaps, overcome barriers and break through ceilings. We are doing this so today’s kids can live in a more equitable and just tomorrow.”

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out over the summer. We’ve got some online curriculum. Somebody that’s graduated, if they want to do upscaling on certain things, we’ve got coursework online if they want to get certified.”

In addition to keeping up with state and national education standards, Junior Achievement strives to remain current technologically.

Digital engagement has become an important part of today’s learning experience, and with that in mind, the organization initiated JA Connect Learning Pathways, Junior Achievement’s first entirely virtual, selfguided student experience.

It features a flexible, modular repository of activities related to work and career readiness, and the online activities are designed to help students acquire knowledge and apply and practice new skills and behaviors in and out of the classroom.

“This digital curriculum is available directly to parents, students and young adults to help prepare more young people to succeed in a global economy,” Villines said.

Junior Achievement of Arkansas operates with a “very lean” staff of eight employees who are not necessarily full time, Villines said. Therefore, the hands-on classroom work depends entirely on volunteers.

Fundraisers are also important to Junior Achievement’s work. Typical events in JA areas are bowl-a-thons, golf events and the Junior Achievement Hall of Fame event, which combine to raise about $400,000 each year to support Junior Achievement of Arkansas’ student programming.

“So those are standard with all JA areas across the country,” Villines said.

It is the volunteers carrying out the unique programs truly set Junior — Magen Tune, volunteer that Achievement apart, she added.

“Our volunteers are the secret sauce of success at JA,” she said.

“They expose youth to the fundamentals of life and help young people develop confidence and character needed for success in school, work and life.”

Villines noted that 56 percent of JA alumni say they are working in the same field or have worked in the same field as their past JA volunteer.

Whether they are business professionals, college students, parents or retirees, the volunteers come from all walks of life to serve as role models and share their knowledge of finan-

“Getting involved with Junior Achievement is incredibly easy, and once you do, you’ll be hooked.”

Adults who were members of Junior Achievement as students reported greater than average job satisfaction, financial stability and retirement savings rates.

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cial matters and business operation and ownership. Without them, JA simply could not operate.

“These dedicated individuals are the backbone of our organization,” Villines said.

Volunteering is fun and relatively easy, Villines added, and JA sees a high rate of returning volunteers.

“All of our programs are online now,” she said. “We’ve joined the technology.

Most kids, they don’t have textbooks anymore. It’s a laptop or tablet.”

Volunteers go through a training session that is 30 minutes to an hour long.

During the session, volunteers follow a link to the JA program deck, which provides their talking points, as well as slides and videos.

“The great thing about it that the volunteer adds is personalization,” Villines said. “They can talk about their journey in their career and the mistakes they made.”

People can opt to volunteer in person or virtually, through job shadows, or, if they have limited time to spare, through the condensed JA in a Day one-day opportunity.

“Getting involved with Junior Achievement is incredibly easy, and once you do, you’ll be hooked,” Tune said. “JA has a small but mighty staff who equip volunteers with the tools and confidence needed to lead these classes. The sessions are interactive, fun and an incredible way to see that you’re making

a real difference.”

Each year, Bank of America selects two central Arkansas high school juniors or seniors for its Student Leaders program, an eight-week paid summer internship providing students with firsthand experience serving their communities.

The students hone their workforce, leadership and civic-engagement skills through internships with local nonprofits, Junior Achievement of Arkansas and the Museum of Discovery.

Toward the end of the internship, student leaders from across the country convene in Washington, D.C., for a week to participate in a leadership summit. Junior Achievement has hosted Bank of America Student Leaders interns for the past three years.

“Junior Achievement’s focus on financial education and dedication to improving the financial lives of others is a natural fit and a longstanding partnership for Bank of America,” Tune said.

While Bank of America is one of Junior Achievement’s partners and supporters, Tune, who serves on the JA board and is currently treasurer, has also personally volunteered by teaching Junior Achievement financial education courses and a week-long financial course to Little Rock’s Summer Youth Employment participants. The experience, she said, is one to recommend.

“I always walk away from volunteering feeling like I have really connected with students and provided them with advice and the tools necessary to be successful in the future,” she said. “I love connecting with the students in a meaningful way.”

Junior Achievement Values • Belief in the boundless potential of young people • Commitment to the market-based principles of economics and entrepreneurship • Passion for what we do, and honesty, integrity and excellence in how we do it • Respect for the talents, creativity, perspectives and backgrounds of all individuals • Belief in the power of partnership and collaboration • Conviction in the educational and motivational impact of relevant, hands-on learning Source: arkansas.ja.org

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Get the latest Arkansas news!

DUCKS | DINNER | PRIZES THE PREMIER HUNTING EVENT OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS FRIDAY, JANUARY 5, 2024 University of Central Arkansas HPER Center

MORNING COMPETITIVE HUNT

EVENING BANQUET

• 4 hunters per team on private land

• Dinner and Drinks

• Teams will be randomly paired with landowners and hunting locations

• Silent and Live Auctions

• Winning team members and landowner will share equally in grand prize

• Men’s and Women’s Raffles

• Each hunter will receive a gift package

• Gun Raffles • 2023 Fully-Loaded Polaris Ranger • Other Big Ticket Raffle Items

501-513-5191 | ARKANSASDUCKDERBY.COM

nonprofit

Ducks in a Row An instant hit, the Arkansas Duck Derby continues to grow and support Conway area health initiatives

By TODD TRAUB // Photos provided

H

Matt Troup, president and CEO of Conway Regional Health System, third from left, greets a group of hunters.

ow does one put together a statewide duck-hunting event?

Not overnight, for sure.

Heading into its fifth year, the Arkansas Duck Derby, presented by the Conway Regional Health Foundation, has survived the COVID-19 pandemic to establish itself as a popular, financially successful annual event for hunters from around the state and elsewhere.

The derby has raked in $1.77 million for Conway Regional health initiatives in four hunts, and a widening circle of participating landowners and a growing pool of teams are setting their sights on bagging some birds.

“The trajectory of where this thing is going is what really has me excited,” said physician Thad Hardin, a Conway Regional Health Foundation board member who helped get the duck derby off the ground.

Every January, teams of four put up $1,500 in entry fees for a morning of hunting on grounds donated by several of the state’s landowners. The evening festivities include a banquet with a raffle, live and silent auctions, food, entertainment, and a few suspenseful rolls of the dice to decide which ducks are assigned certain point values that determine the winning team.

This year’s Arkansas Duck Derby is set for Jan. 5. The teams are assigned a landowner and a host within a two-hour radius of Conway.

“It’s a very big operation,” Hardin said.

Hardin, 43, is a McGehee native who did his residency training in Jonesboro before coming to Conway.

He had hunted in the NEA Baptist Charitable Foundation’s Duck Classic in the state’s northeast corner and thought a similar event might take off in Conway.

“I thought that Conway was a very similar [community] as far as shop local and be local, as Jonesboro was.

I thought an idea like the duck derby would do very well,” said Hardin, who is also a member of the Conway Regional Health System’s board of directors.

As early as 2017, Harding began kicking around the idea of a duck derby, and it took two years for the first event to take flight. Hardin knew initially he would need the foundation’s backing in order to finance

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The derby banquet includes a raffle, live and silent auctions, food, and entertainment.

the first event, which was designed to benefit Conway Regional’s men’s health initiatives.

“That’s kind of how it started,” said Hardin, who also shopped around the idea with community leaders and foundation members. “When I got elected to the board in 2017, that’s when I brought up the idea because then I had access to the foundation and an army of Conway Regional people.”

Hardin had seen how enthusiastically Conway residents joined forces Rolling with changes to support the community, and he was convinced a new-to-the-area event The Arkansas Duck Derby grew in its second year, which saw more like a duck derby would work. He just did not know how to put on such landowners and more teams at an event Hardin said “had all the momenan event. tum.” The growth led the banquet to move to the Health, Physical Educa“I was more of an idea guy. I had no idea what it would cost,” Hardin tion and Recreation Center on the University of Central Arkansas campus said. “I’ve never done anything like it other than participate.” in Conway.

The Conway Regional Foundation agreed to bankroll the derby up to In its first years, the derby held the banquet on Thursday and announced $50,000 for the first three years. The land would be donated, but a venue the land assignments for the next morning’s hunt, and some winners were and a banquet, among other things, would cost money. then announced at a luncheon the same day. An event is bound to go The members of the foundation did not expect to make a profit the first through some changes as it grows, but just as the COVID-19 pandemic three years but were on board because they liked the idea and, in most cases, changed practically everything else, it caused some changes with the derby. a new, large-scale event takes a few years to earn some cash. The first ArThe banquet had to skip 2021, but in 2022, the case numbers seemed to kansas Duck Derby raised more than $525,000. Between 25 and 30 owners be declining, and everything was back on schedule. Then the surge hit, and donated land, 25 teams participated, and Hardin and the organizers were the duck derby was forced to delay the banquet until March, even when the met with lines out the door for the first banquet at the Spiritan Center on actual hunt began on schedule in January. the St. Joseph Catholic Church campus in Conway.

“It’s not really duck season anymore,” Hardin said of the March banMatt Troup, president and CEO of Conway Regional Health System, quet. “We lost a little bit of momentum. It wasn’t really ideal.” said the duck derby is one the system’s highest-grossing fundraisers. It was Still, the 2022 derby turned a tidy profit, and in 2023, the event came a financial success from the get-go, Hardin added. out of the pandemic with a twist to the format. For the first time, the hunt “We were in the black from fundraising and banquet were held on the same Friday, and donations and sales before we even got and the hunting teams were notified in adto the event, so every single dollar we raised vance what grounds they would travel to. at the event was profit,” Hardin said. “It exThat made things more convenient for ceeded everyone’s expectations.” the hunters, who previously felt the presNo one knew if 200 would show or 400 sure to leave the former Thursday night would show, but it was more than 550 who banquet early to get some rest before the packed the 350-seat center for the first bannext morning’s hunt. quet. To see the line extending out the door “We got some feedback from huntand the people standing elbow to elbow was ers and landowners and talked among our heartening, Hardin said, adding that he had committee members, ‘Hey, what if we got an inkling something was trending in the it done all in one night?’” Hardin said. “I — Thad Hardin, derby founder derby’s favor. think that really took the banquet to an“In my mind, I kept thinking it’s going other level. It created a lot more fun and to be better than [350],” Hardin said. “I drama at the event, I think.” felt like there’s some traction, and we’re doing good.”

The Arkansas Duck Derby has grown from its first 550-person banquet It was not just the turnout that was inspiring; it was the community turnout to between 900 and 1,000 and from 25 teams the first year to 35 support Hardin thought he had seen when he first arrived in Conway. so far this year.

“People from Conway love Conway, and they’ll do whatever it takes to “We’ve seen significant growth in our landowners involved, and we rehelp Conway succeed,” Hardin said. ally can’t have the event at all without landowners,” Hardin said.

“People from Conway love Conway, and they’ll do whatever it takes to help Conway succeed.”

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who wins. As many as eight to 10 teams can be in contention at that point, Hardin said, with at least two or three heading into the final toss.

The winning team takes home prizes and bragging rights.

“You see one side of the room go crazy, and the other side goes, ‘Aw, man,’” Hardin said of the final roll. “It creates a lot of excitement.”

The heart of the hunt

It should not be forgotten, Hardin said, that the Arkansas Duck Derby was designed to help improve the health of not just Conway’s citizens, but residents from around the north central Arkansas region.

“That was my dream all along for this event, which was to provide health care where it wasn’t really provided,” said Hardin, noting the seven-county area and some 300,000 people in the Conway Regional Health System’s footprint.

He added that men, historically and statistically, can be somewhat reluctant patients who avoid going to the doctor. Thus men’s health initiatives, plus an adult psychiatry unit for Conway Regional Medical Center, were the primary objectives when the duck derby was founded.

Such initiatives are still supported, but the Arkansas Duck Derby funds have also helped provide for a mobile health unit. When delivered, the RVsized unit will provide screenings for prostate cancer, cholesterol, diabetes and high blood pressure, can be outfitted to provide mammograms, and can go to state fairs, churches, manufacturing plants and rural areas.

As well as augmenting men’s health and the needs of Conway Regional, Arkansas Duck Derby money has also supported Script to Fit — a nutrition program that fights diabetes and poor heart health among people who need more than physical therapy but do not need a rehabilitation hospital — and Rock Steady Boxing, a nationally recognized program that benefits Parkinson’s patients.

Because these programs are often not covered by insurance, the funds raised for them help Medicaid patients and those with fixed incomes who might struggle paying for additional therapies.

“Two programs where the foundation saw a need, and the Duck Derby is able to help provide to meet that need,” Hardin said.

Conway Regional Health System was founded in 1921 and offers 27 services ranging from behavioral health to surgery. Its locations include emergency room and after-hours clinics, primary care clinics, specialty care medical offices, imaging and lab facilities, a rehabilitation hospital, therapy centers, and a health and fitness center.

The Arkansas Duck Derby may be a good time for all, except perhaps the ducks, but the derby’s support of the health system’s mission and the health of the local population comprise what Hardin hopes will be the event’s legacy.

“When we look back 20 or 30 years from now when the duck derby is still going, we can see life after life after life that was impacted,” Hardin said.

For landowners, there is a $1,500 tax-deductible donation and an additional tax-deductible donation for overnight accommodations, a hunter gift package, an equal share in prizes should the hosted team win, tickets to the banquet, recognition as a sponsor, and a company name on social media, signage, event brochures and literature.

In the Arkansas Duck Derby’s current iteration, the landowners are locked in well in advance and are treated to a dinner in December, during which the foundation shows its appreciation and teams, signed via open registration, are randomly assigned to a landowner. The owners then notify the teams, which allows them to plan their travel arrangements and make accommodations.

Teams receive a gift package and tickets to the banquet.

The teams have been mostly local, but many come from around Arkansas, some have come from Texas, and, this year, one is attending from Oregon, which is home, coincidentally, to the University of Oregon Ducks.

The teams hunt according to Arkansas Game and Fish Commission rules, which means kids of hunting age are allowed to, and have, participated.

The banquet is designed to hold some appeal for non-hunters through some of the raffle and auction items. There are items geared toward male and female hunters, and there is a youth raffle for a hunting rifle.

“People should know you don’t have to be a duck hunter to come here and have a good time,” Hardin said. “It is literally an event that it is OK to bring people to.”

“Our banquet and auctions are very popular among the community, including non-hunters and hunters alike,” said Troup, who noted that the duck derby is a good fit for the system thanks to hunting’s popularity among “physicians and local businesspeople, including numerous Conway Regional Health System supporters.”

Some of the real entertainment, however, comes with a roll of the dice after the hunters return with their ducks.

Points are randomly assigned via dice rolls to each bird’s species and sex.

A mallard could have nine points one year, Hardin said, and four the next.

“It makes it a little more equitable from hunting spot to hunting spot and gives more people a chance to win,” Hardin said.

The final five or six rolls are saved for the banquet so everyone can see

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The giant Chinese dragon is new for this year’s event.

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G LO !

Zoo’s popular GloWild returns for third year

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he Little Rock Zoo’s GloWild lantern festival returned for its third installment in November. The unique look at holiday lights drew more than 30,000 visitors to the zoo last year and raised more than $200,000 for the Arkansas Zoological Foundation, which reinvests proceeds back into the zoo in the form of new exhibits and other improvements.

This year’s dates run from Nov. 16 through Jan. 7, and for 40 nights in between, GloWild will feature more than 500,000 LED lights in the form of specially designed displays that represent animals contemporary, prehistoric and even mythical. The displays will be divided by theme and spread across the entirety of the zoo’s roughly 33-acre footprint.

Tianyu Arts & Culture, the largest Chinese lantern festival producer in North America, designs and sets up the lanterns and displays in partnership with the zoo.

Zoo director Susan Altrui said GloWild adds a unique and family friendly component to the area’s holiday calendar and has provided a successful alternative to the former Boo at the Zoo event. The popular Boo at the Zoo was the zoo’s signature event for 25 years before it became too expensive to do every year. (Never fear, Halloween fans. The zoo still holds its Howl-O-Ween Parties in the Plaza the last three Saturdays of October.)

Altrui said the cost of candy alone was running in the $40,000 to $50,000 range. Plus, the event was highly labor intensive because zoo staff were responsible for putting up and tearing down all the displays, as well as storing them.

“We started to see a decline in attendance,” she said. “There’s a lot of competition these days for Halloween events. There’s a lot more haunted house and trunk-or-treats events now.”

Altrui said she challenged her staff to come up with something “unique and different.”

By MARK CARTER // Photos by RYAN PARKER

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Thus, GloWild was born. Tianyu does all the work to put up and tear down the equipment, which the organization owns and stores. The zoo splits the event profits with Tianyu and keeps all sponsorship and concessions revenue.

GloWild is now the zoo’s signature event, and anyone who has been there may not need to ask why that is. In its first two years, GloWild has elicited rave reviews across the age spectrum.

“We wanted to bring something new and exciting to the zoo,” Altrui said, “something new for families to do during the holidays.”

Crafted by Tianyu’s Chinese artisans in the tradition of Chinese lantern festivals, GloWild provides a “truly unique experience that no other place has,” Altrui said.

“It has so many different illuminated animals, animal displays and botanical features,” she said. “They really set this event apart.”

Each year brings different displays, Altrui added.

Themed sections from last year’s event included the Tranquil Forest, Cactus Corridor, Wisteria Corridor, Prehistoric Animals and the Arctic Winter Zone, which includes Christmas holiday-themed displays.

Past displays have included a giant fox, a peacock, golden bears, various dinosaurs, frogs, flowers, lions and even glow-in-the-dark snails. One new display visitors can expect this year is a 100-foot-long, 20-foot-tall dragon, Altrui said.

Jessica Scott, associate director of the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and an Arkansas Zoological Foundation board member, said GloWild is ideal for families looking for activities they can do together to experience the magic of the holidays.

Exhibits included pandas, top, a fly caught in a spider web, right, and monkeys playing in and around a tree, opposite.

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We have a good zoo. It’s time to have a great zoo.

— Susan Altrui, director of the Little Rock Zoo

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“GloWild gives visitors a chance to see our zoo in a whole new ‘light’ and has allowed the zoo to become part of a new holiday tradition for thousands of families,” she said. “That community impact is priceless, and I believe it also reminds people that the zoo is a place they want to visit year-round.”

Scott, a Little Rock native, said some of her best childhood memories were forged at the zoo. As a member of the AZA board, she said she feels a responsibility to help make sure future generations are given the same opportunity.

“My own daughter is 9 years old, and the zoo is the backdrop for so many of our own memories. Like great cities, great zoos require investments of time and money, and that is where our board comes in,” she said. “We tell the story of the zoo and fundraise for projects, but I love that we also volunteer at events and even occasionally get drafted to help with landscaping. I get great satisfaction from being part of a team that is so dedicated to making sure our zoo will still be a place that families are excited to visit together for decades to come.”

GloWild is family friendly, but it is not just for kids.

“GloWild is something both young and old really enjoy,” Altrui said. “People without kids love coming to the festival, and it’s a great event even for teens; it’s very social-media friendly. I’ve also seen grand-

A glo-tree, top, a giant lizard, above, and a corridor of lanterns, opposite, helped welcome visitors to the 2023 event.

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parents, couples, even couples on first dates. It really attracts a wide audience.”

It attracts a regional one, as well. Altrui said GloWild has drawn visitors from across the state, as well as from neighboring states.

“It really has been a great tourist attraction for Little Rock,” she said. “We’ve seen a lot of tourists from cities like Memphis, [Tenn.], Tulsa, [Okla.], and Shreveport, [La.]” Scott said zoos play an important role in the community, and not just because kids love them.

“They are also economic drivers that bring people to the city every year,” she said. “The Little Rock Zoo attracts many visitors from outside central Arkansas, bringing in millions of dollars in shopping and dining revenue annually. Zoos are also amenities that make cities more attractive to people looking to relocate. Our zoo makes a big impact on our local community. They put on educational programs in local schools; provide a place where parents and children can have a memorable day together; and host popular community events like GloWild, Zoo Brew, Wild Wines and Howl-O-Ween.

There is something for everyone.”

GloWild ultimately helps the zoo spread its message of conservation. Scott said AZA board members

have been thrilled to see increased awareness of the need to protect the natural resources here in Arkansas and worldwide.

“I think people are realizing that the effects of a warming planet put so many of our species at risk and that we can make changes in the way we live that reduce our carbon footprint while maintaining our quality of life,” she said. “Zoos play an important role in educating the public and are often the first places we are exposed to the conservation movement. Not everyone realizes how active the Little Rock Zoo is in conservation efforts. Just this year, the zoo worked with partners around the state to breed and release 43 endangered eastern collared lizards into their native habitat in the Ozarks. The zoo also supports numerous species-protection and habitat-conservation programs around the world.”

For Altrui, in addition to the infusion of brilliant lights and holiday spirit it provides, GloWild represents the zoo’s own forward momentum. The zoo renewed its accreditation last year, and attendance is up, as zoo attendance is nationwide. Plus, the zoo and growth opportunities are on Mayor Frank Scott Jr.’s agenda, she said.

Altrui credits this national return to the zoo, at least in part, to a renewed emphasis on conservation. She called it a “shift in the business model of zoos” and said a focus on conservation now is the expectation not just from patrons, but from the general public.

“Zoos promote conservation learning and the appreciation of nature and wildlife,” she said. “We’re seeing, especially in millennials and in Gen Z, that parents want their kids to grow up with these values.”

While the Little Rock Zoo is in good shape, “we do need to take it up a notch,” Altrui said.

“There will never be a time when I say the zoo doesn’t need money,” she said. “That’s always going to be the case. We must make sure we’re designing what’s next and looking into the future.”

Money for the zoo is part of a bond project the mayor hopes to pass next year. Altrui said that could help the zoo “take it to the next level” by replacing old and outdated exhibits. GloWild proceeds, meanwhile, will go to a planned collared lizard exhibit and a conservation-education exhibit. Other projects in the planning stages include a new lemur exhibit, amphitheater renovations and a large front-entry project, the details of which are not ready for public consumption.

Zoo expansion, long a hot topic in Little Rock, is a possibility if the bond project is approved by voters. Altrui said the zoo is at a good size but could possibly stand to expand three or four acres to the east. The renowned Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, she noted, currently sits on the same acreage as the Little Rock Zoo. “It’s not the size of the zoo but what you do with the acreage,” she said.

The potential of the Little Rock Zoo has yet to be met, Altrui said, and GloWild is an event that will help get it there.

“We have a good zoo. It’s time to have a great zoo,” she said. “We feel a lot more momentum now at the zoo than we ever have. There’s more sponsorship money, more donations coming in. There’s more of a spotlight on the zoo. People are starting to see the zoo for the resource that it is.”

2023-2024 GLOWILD DATES AND TICKET INFORMATION INDIVIDUAL DATES: Dec. 1-3, 7-10, 14-23, 26-31 Jan. 4-7 TIMES: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

EVENT PRICING Zoo members: $17 (family four pack: $60) General public: $20 (family four pack: $65)

Sensory Night will be Dec. 7. Event light and noise will be adjusted for sensory sensitivity. The GloWild New Year’s Eve Party will be Dec. 31 and is free with regular GloWild admission. Kids ages 2 and younger will be admitted for free. Parking also is free during GloWild. The Arkansas Diamond Express train and the zoo’s carousel will be open ($3 per ride) each night of the event, weather permitting. Café Africa and the Safari Trader Gift Shop will be open during event hours. Visit LittleRockZoo.com/extra-fun/glowild to purchase tickets. Tickets may also be purchased at the gate.

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arts & culture

A Celebration of Community

By JOHN CALLAHAN // Photos by DWAIN HEBDA

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Iyom Uche Onyla, right, and Sister Mary Theodora Ajagu dance down the aisle to offer their gift during the Igbo Mass.

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B

y its nature, a Catholic Mass is a celebration and feast in a deeply symbolic way.

Each third Sunday of the month, however, the Catholic Igbo (pronounced EE’boo) community of central Arkansas gathers at St. Augustine Church in North Little Rock to hold a much more literal celebration of not just their faith, but their culture and community.

The Igbo are a predominantly Catholic people primarily from southern Nigeria who form one of the largest ethnic groups in Africa by population.

There is a significant Igbo diaspora across other nearby African nations and countries such as the United States, Jamaica, the United Kingdom and Canada, in some cases due to the Atlantic slave trade and in others due to much more recent immigration. The Catholic Igbo community of cen-

tral Arkansas is made up of these recent immigrants and their children or grandchildren, and the community consists of about 50 to 60 families.

All Catholic churches share many of the same basic characteristics — the order of the Mass, for example, will be effectively the same no matter where in the world one is. Yet in many other respects, individual parishes have their own local flavor that varies from place to place, culture to culture and country to country. As one of only three predominantly Black Catholic churches in Arkansas, St. Augustine reflects the African heritage of its parishioners in the design of its stained glass windows and stations of the cross, but the monthly Igbo Community’s Sunday celebrations go far beyond a stylistic homage.

If one were to visit St. Augustine Church on the third Sunday of the month without realizing it, the first thing they might notice would likely be the men and women dressed in colorful Nigerian clothing. The next thing this visitor would notice would no doubt be the fact that the Mass is not in English.

“We have an African priest, Father James Ibeh, and when the Igbo Catholics gather to celebrate Mass, it is said in our language. Most of the people here belong to different parishes, but on this particular day, every Igbo person who is a Catholic comes here.” said Hyginus Ukadike, chairman of the Igbo Catholic Community in Arkansas whose regular parish is Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic Church in Little Rock.

St. Augustine became the center for the Igbo Catholic community because it was the parish of Father Remigius Okere, the priest who first organized the Igbo Mass. Today, the organization is led by three officers hand-picked by the priest: Ukadike, the chairman, Joseph Onyilagha, the secretary, and John Ekeanyanwu, the liturgist, who assists the priest in organizing the Mass and leading worship.

“It has been over a decade since the Igbo Catholic community came about,” Ekeanyanwu said. “At that time, many of our parents and relatives did not speak English very well, so it was difficult for them to understand and follow what was happening in the Mass. So the community decided to get together with the blessing of the bishop. All of the proceedings of the Mass are done in the Igbo language, though sometimes the homilies are repeated in English for the children.”

“The main purpose is for us to worship the way we do it back in Nigeria, to try to teach our children how Catholic Mass is celebrated in [our homeland],” Onyilagha said. “We also try to engage in the activities that we do at home.”

The first of these activities occurs during the part of Mass called the presentation of the gifts, when the communion bread and wine are brought forward. Also called eucharist, this sacrament is the central and most crucial part of the Mass, where bread and wine literally become the body and blood of Jesus and are then taken in a symbolic feast.

In many American Catholic parishes, this is a rather solemn event, but in an Igbo Mass, the entire Igbo community joins the presentation of the gifts. Singing and dancing to worship music in their language, they bring gifts of their own and, starting in the back of the church, dance down the aisle to the altar. Many come bearing fruit and other produce that ranges from pineapples to bunches of bananas and bags of tomatoes but can include a wide variety of items.

According to Ukadike, this tradition dates back to pre-Christian Nigeria. At the end of farming season, farmers would bring offerings to the shrines of their gods to give thanks for the harvest, and these offerings would then be blessed and sacrificed by a priest of the native religion.

When Nigeria became primarily Christian during the period of British colonization, this tradition continued in a new form, with donations being made to the local church instead of local shrines.

“That became a way for each church to raise resources to take care of John Ekeanyanwu welcomes congregants to the Igbo Mass at St. Augustine Church in North Little Rock.

Families bring forward gifts of food, fruit, beverages and other items, as well as sport native dress, to celebrate their culture and religious tradition. things by selling these items at a bazaar,” Ekeanyanwu said. “If you sell bicycles, you might bring one bicycle; if you sell refrigerators, you bring a refrigerator; if you sell televisions, you bring a television. If you grow bananas, you bring a basket of bananas, and the church will sell it to raise money, so we decided to continue that process here in America.”

After Mass, the Igbo community holds a bazaar to sell the goods they have brought, raising money not only for the parish, but to support the community itself and its longevity by educating children in the Igbo language and culture.

Any true cultural celebration would not be complete without food, and every Igbo Sunday is followed by a lively feast of traditional Nigerian cuisine. Dishes include jollof rice, fufu and bean-based foods like moi-moi and akara.

While a shared faith is what brings the Igbo community together each month, the bonds participants form extend into everyday life.

“We have several responsibilities that we carry out in the community,” Ukadike said.

“When there is death in the community, we meet. When there are births, we meet. Generally, we are there as a support for members of the Igbo Catholic community — not only Catholics, but also the Nigerian community as a whole. In the service that we provide for people, we don’t ask, ‘Are you an American?’ or ‘Are you an Igbo?’ As long as there is a need for us, we will always be there to assist.”.

Father Ibeh delivers the homily, or sermon, in the native Igbo language.

“We have an African priest, Father James Ibeh, and when the Igbo Catholics gather to celebrate Mass, it is said in our language.

Most of the people here belong to different parishes, but on this particular day, every Igbo person who is a Catholic comes here.”

— Hyginus Ukadike

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arts & culture

Light the Night

Across Arkansas, light displays reflect the joy of Christmas

By AY STAFF | Photos provided

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ne of the most magical traditions of the holidays is the festive decorating that sends lights and glitter shimmering through the jet-black night.

Arkansas is full of wonderful community displays that are sure to lend joy to any family’s holiday experience.

Check out what is going on in town, or take a short drive to visit something new — the displays are guaranteed to amaze the young and the young at heart.

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Little Rock

Arkansas’ capital city sets the pace for the state by showing out for the holidays. Take a walk around the Arkansas State Capitol Building or visit the River Market district for a feast for the eyes. Everywhere the eyes can see — Hillcrest, the Heights, SoMa and all points west — the small shops and homes in the neighborhood will shine this time of year.

Conway

As Clark W. Griswold of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation fame once said, “I’m gonna do it right, and I’m gonna do it big,” and the same can be said for the gargantuan decorated Christmas tree in Conway’s city center. Stroll along the brightly decorated downtown to discover unique shops and great local dining.

North Little Rock

Not to be outdone by its neighbor across the river, Dogtown puts on finery of its own during the holidays. Watch Argenta come alive from the plaza, located in the heart of the entertainment district. Other neighborhoods will also be dressed up, including Lakewood and Park Hill.

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Hot Springs

Spa City prides itself on being the life of the party, and Christmas is no exception. Experience the time-honored tradition of strolling through Garvan Woodland Gardens while it is lit up for the holidays, or skip the line and find a choice spot at Superior Bathhouse, the Ohio Club or any downtown perch to soak up the lights.

Fayetteville

The decorations in Fayetteville’s downtown are almost more than one’s mind can take in, with millions of lights glowing and blinking from every angle. Lights of the Ozarks is a beloved Fayetteville tradition that must be seen to be appreciated. The free display lasts through New Year’s Day.

Jonesboro

Representing northeast Arkansas, Jonesboro’s Christmas at the Park boasts 400,000 lights, a football-field-sized walk-thru light tunnel and a half-mile of drive-thru displays that dazzle the eyes. Community caroling and fireworks are offered on designated evenings.

Benton

Looking for the quintessential American Christmas scene? Look no further than Benton, where the courthouse square will once again glow for the season. While there, take time to visit the charming merchants and new restaurants in the resurgent downtown.

Bentonville

For production value, it is hard to beat Bentonville’s holiday display, which transforms the already-beautiful town square into a living Christmas card. Throughout the season, the Town Sam Built becomes the City of Christmas, boasting music, entertainment and the jolly old elf Santa himself.

El Dorado

An ideal place to take the family, El Dorado’s Yuletide celebration offers train rides for the kids and carriage rides for the family beneath the twinkling lights of Union Square. The annual Christmas parade the first Thursday in December adds to the fun.

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Searcy

Most months, Searcy is a relatively small town, but come December, this White County community grows three sizes into the heart of Arkansas Christmas. The lights alone are something to behold; take in breathtaking displays downtown and at Harding University.

Batesville

A small town with big holiday spirit, Batesville bills itself the Christmas Capital of Arkansas, thanks to a holiday display of more than a million lights, a 70-foot Ferris wheel and even an outdoor skating rink. If that does not invoke the Christmas spirit, Ebeneezer, nothing will.

Eureka Springs

Arkansas’ most unique city puts on its finery for the holidays. Stroll through Eureka Springs’ historic downtown, and marvel at the artistry and color of the many lights and decorations. Even the ghosts that are rumored to haunt the city add to the merry variety.

Mountain Home

For sheer firepower, follow the glow to the north to the charming burg of Mountain Home. There, enjoy the Coulter Celebration of Lights blanketing the campus of Arkansas State University—Mountain Home and continue to the city square for additional holiday festivities, including the Winter Festival Dec. 14 to 17.

Pine Bluff

The pride of Jefferson County is back once more with what is being billed as the Arkansas’ largest drive-thru holiday exhibition. More than 240 displays illuminate 1.3 miles of winter wonderland in Pine Bluff Regional Park. The free event is sure to warm the heart.

Branson, Mo.

OK, so it is not Arkansas, but anyplace that goes this big — more than 6.5 million lights — has our respect. The Midtown section of Silver Dollar City alone boasts 1.5 million lights and 50-foot tunnels, and there are surprises around every corner, including a parade and steam locomotive. Do not miss the eight-story animated Christmas tree in the town square. The displays are open now through Dec. 30.

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continues to be a nostalgic staple in homes during the holidays across the country. Headquartered in Heber Springs, Arkansas for over 41 years – we invite you to join us in creating timeless traditions with Aromatique.

2 5 Christmas Giveaway DAYS OF

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ou have decorated the house, trimmed the tree, addressed the cards and planned the Christmas dinner menu. Isn’t it about time you did something nice for yourself?

Fear not! The happy elves over at AY About You have been working hard in conjunction with local merchants to once again bring you AY’s 25 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS giveaway by offering a prize a day to one lucky winner. All you have to do is enter.

You have been very, very good this year — OK, you tried — and now here is your reward. Register every day of AY’s 25 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS, and experience the holiday magic for yourself.

How To Win

Visit AY About You’s social media platforms every day in December leading up to Christmas. Get the code word of the day and enter it at aymag.com/contests. That's it! Winners will be notified with information on where to pick up their prize; all merchandise must be picked up in person.

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Beyond the Lens!

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This fun-filled sled includes six combo tickets to Beyond The Lens! and gives access to all the exhibits and one FlyRide adventure. During November and December, experience the Polar Express Journey to the North Pole on FlyRide and be immersed in the runaway train episode from the holiday classic. The sled also features a cuddly plush Yeti doll and many Polar Express themed games for great holiday family fun.

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Value: $340

Jones & Son Fine Jewelry

3115 76 Country Blvd.

Branson, Mo. 417-337-9333 beyondthelens.com

No holiday season is complete without a light display — especially if it is the brilliant twinkle of a beautiful pair of Tacori sterling silver and amethyst earrings that catch everyone’s eye. Jones & Son carries the top bridal and fashion brands on the market, so be sure to pair this exceptional gift with a beautiful ring, bracelet or necklace to complete the look.

Value: $350 11121 Rodney Parham Road Little Rock 855-901-7464 jonesandson.com

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Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa Let the experts at Wright Plastic Surgery provide the glow up needed to start the new year off right.

The innovative Glo2Facial treatment combines exfoliation, infusion and oxygenation to revitalize skin for a hydrated, supple, smooth and more refined look. With six customizations available to address various skin concerns, Glo2Facial is suitable for all ages, skin types and seasons. The instantly noticeable results make it the ideal preparation for the next big outing or event.

Value: $195 1811 Rahling Road, Suite 100 Little Rock (501) 575-0088 | drwrightplasticsurgery.com

BWG Herbal Teas Murry's Dinner Playhouse Take a break from the hustle and bustle this holiday season and enjoy a show at Murry’s Dinner Playhouse. This timeless classic features the story of Belle and the Beast. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will be lifted; if not, he will be doomed for all eternity. Based on the Academy-Award-winning Disney animated feature, it is one of the most popular shows of all time for a reason. The show is on now and runs through Dec. 31.

Value: $150 (gift card) 6323 Colonel Glenn Road Little Rock 501-663-8376 | murrysdp.com

Make the holiday season that much cozier with this treat from BWG Herbal Teas: ten assorted bags of BWG herbal tea, two ceramic mugs handmade by local potter Emily Richards and an electric tea kettle with an infuser. With carefully crafted blends made for sleep, support or good old-fashioned self-care, BWG Herbal Teas are a lovely way to fill one's cup.

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Value: $240 bwgherbaltea.com bwgherbaltea@gmail.com

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Dryden Pottery

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Take home a selection of handcrafted items from Hot Springs’ own Dryden Pottery: two bamboo hand-carved cups, an Arkansas trinket dish, a hand-glazed and pressed soap tub, a ceramic toad, and a hand-thrown miniature vase. Founded in 1946, four generations of the Dryden family have produced pottery for more than seven decades.

All Dryden Pottery is microwavable, oven safe and dishwasher safe. The pieces are available to purchase online and at the business’ retail store in Hot Springs.

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Value: $150

Tipton & Hurst

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341 Whittington Ave. Hot Springs 501-623-4201 | drydenpottery.com

Tipton & Hurst is the go-to destination for more than just flowers. Find decor, gourmet food baskets and more – like this Simon Pearce glass Christmas tree. Simon Pearce’s elegant and masterfully created evergreen trees in glass are as inspirational in Arkansas as they are in Vermont, where they are created. Be inspired during the holidays, or enjoy them year round.

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Value: $235 Locations in Little Rock, Conway, North Little Rock and Pine Bluff 501-666-3333 | tiptonhurst.com

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Ageless Aesthetics of Arkansas

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The Crown Shop

Let the professionals at Hot Springs’ Ageless Aesthetics set your skin up for success with this combination of awardwinning SkinMedica products, including the TNS® Advanced+ Serum, Lytera® 2.0 Pigment Correcting Serum, HA5® Rejuvenating Hydrator and HA5® Smooth and Plump Lip System. Designed to target the appearance of aging skin, hydrate and address discoloration, this system also includes the only growth factor serum proven to address sagging skin.

Value: $610 135 Medical Park Place Hot Springs 501-623-2500 | agelessaestheticsar.com

Family owned since 1971, The Crown Shop has the best gift selection in town.

Rest assured there is something special for everyone on your list, with one-stop shopping for popular lines like ENewton Design, NEST Fragrances, YETI, Consuela Bags, Coton Colors, Mud Pie and many more!

Mrs. Polka Dot Find the ideal preppy and personalized gift with $100 to spend at Mrs. Polka Dot. Whether one is shopping for babies, bridal gifts, men, women or Greek life, there is something with the right initials on it. Give (or get for oneself) a timeless gift in the classic prep style.

Value: $150 (gift card) 611 Beechwood St. Little Rock 501-603-5177 | mrspolkadot.net

Value: $150 (gift card) 10700 N. Rodney Parham Road Little Rock 501-227-8442 | thecrownshop.com

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Silver Dollar City

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Named No. 1 Theme Park in America by Tripadvsior and USA TODAY, Silver Dollar City opens the revamped Fire in the Hole indoor family coaster in 2024 — the largest in the Heartland! Soar on 40 rides and attractions, see the demonstrating crafts colony, clap along with resident entertainment and special concerts, and dine on Ozark-inspired flavors.

Win four day passes good now thru Aug. 29 (blackout dates apply). Experience An Old Time Christmas now through Dec. 30.

Value: $384 399 Silver Dollar City Parkway Branson, Mo. 417-336-7100 | silverdollarcity.com

Main Street El Dorado Put El Dorado on the to-visit list with this selection of gifts.

This basket features products from several local boutiques, including Too Spoiled Rotten, Southern Threads Boutique, Kyle & Co. Lash and Skin Studio, All About Flowers, the Murphy Arts District, and Shelly's Shoes. Also included are two tickets to see Jeremy Camp in concert and a $75 shopping spree in downtown El Dorado.

Value: $400 El Dorado 870-862-4747 | mainstreeteldorado.org

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Hot Springs Hat Company Fort Thompson Sporting Goods Not sure what to get the outdoor enthusiast?

Send them on a shopping spree at Fort Thompson Sporting Goods and let this gift card take care of the rest. From Patagonia to Browning and Echo Duck Calls to Muck boots, there is something for every hunter, camper and Natural State explorer to enjoy.

Value: $150 (gift card) 5802 Warden Road Sherwood 501-835-3006 | ftthompson.com

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Top off an outfit with this American Hat Makers leather hat.

Crushable, packable, and guaranteed for life. Pick one up at Hot Springs Hat Company next door to the historic Ohio Club in downtown Hot Springs. Hot Springs Hat Company has a hat for every occasion.

Value: $150 332 Central Ave. Hot Springs 501-463-9210

Dr. Suzanne Yee Triple board-certified surgeon Dr. Suzanne Yee is delighted to offer a box of Upneeq eye-lift drops to help revelers look their best this holiday season.

This prescription eye drop was formulated specifically to address drooping eye lids, but oneself can benefit from this treatment, which is approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

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Value: $210 12600 Cantrell Road, Suite 100 Little Rock 501-214-0661 | drsuzanneyee.com

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16 Townsend Spice & Supply Food deserves to be pampered. No dish is complete without the right blend of spices, and the seasoning aficionados at Townsend Spice & Supply have home cooks covered with a present that is present every time one steps into the kitchen.

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Sissy’s Log Cabin From diamonds to designer jewelry, Sissy's Log Cabin has extraordinary styles for everyone on your list. Elevate a holiday look with this iconic David Yurman Madison chain bracelet in sterling silver. This piece features an elegant blend of sculptural links and signature cabled links, creating a rich symphony of texture and design.

Value: $350 501-663-0066 sissyslogcabin.com

Value: $200 (24 spice containers) 725 E. Main St. Melbourne 870-368-3688 | townsendspice.com

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Hot Springs Souvenirs & Gifts The Spa City is known for its singular style, and that goes for its gift shop, as well. At Hot Springs Souvenirs & Gifts, there is something for most anyone to adore — like this premium Amahi ukulele. From pet products and jewelry to T-shirts, stickers and much more, Hot Springs Souvenirs & Gifts puts the “one stop” in one-stop shopping.

Value: $186 334 Central Ave. Hot Springs 501-624-1076 | hotspringsgifts.com

Healing Hemp of Arkansas Titanic Museum Attraction This Christmas, the Titanic Museum Attraction in Branson, Mo., pays tribute to the 135 children who were aboard the Titanic. The ship is beautifully decorated in the Edwardian style — and there are rare red bear sightings. These huggable Christmas bears are looking for forever friends. You can see the bears and adopt them during the Christmas season at the Titanic Museum through Dec. 31. Reservations are required.

The family pass is good through June 2024.

Value: $400 3235 W. 76 Country Blvd. and U.S. 165 Branson, Mo. 417-334-9500 | 800-381-7670 | titanicbranson.com

Sample a few favorite products from the team at Healing Hemp of Arkansas — HHA Better Days 25-milligram gummies, HHA Better Sleep CBD/CBN gummies and HHA 1,500-milligram full spectrum tincture — and let the holiday stress melt away. Also be sure to check out Healing Hemp’s full range of offerings to suit most every taste, from soft gels, teas and chocolates to skin care and pet products.

Value: $150 8210 Cantrell Road Little Rock 501-313-5243 healinghempofarkansas.com

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The Skin Retreat at Shewmake Plastic Surgery

Heathman Family Dental Heathman Family Dental is dreaming of a pearly white Christmas with this gift, a Colgate Optic White professional take-home whitening kit. Easy to use, rechargeable and designed for results without irritation or mess, the system is whitening made simple.

Value: $500 12501 Cantrell Road Little Rock 501-223-3838 2001 S. Buerkle St. Stuttgart 870-683-2687 heathmanfamilydental.com

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DAY Little Rock Zoo

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There is no such thing as the perfect family trip, but a visit to the Little Rock Zoo comes close. This one-year household membership covers up to two adults and their children under 18. Membership supports the Zoo's efforts to promote conservation and education, making membership a wonderful way to benefit humans and animals alike. In addition to free daily admission for a full 12 months, Zoo membership includes a host of other benefits, including free or discounted admission to more than 160 zoos in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

Dr. Kris Shewmake has been transforming lives since 1996, and with this gift, he and his talented team will help the recipient face the New Year with confidence. This hydrafacial treatment from Shewmake Plastic Surgery uses a patented device to exfoliate, cleanse, extract impurities and hydrate the skin.

Value: $200 11220 Executive Center Drive, Suite 201 Little Rock 501-492-8970 | theskinretreat.com

Value: $119 (Family Plus membership) 1 Zoo Drive Little Rock 501-661-7200 | littlerockzoo.com

Origami Sake Make a splash at the holidays by being one of the first to give a box from Arkansas’s first and only sake brewery. This gift package includes one bottle of your choice of Origami Sake –– A Thousand Cranes or White Lotus –– and two premium stemless Riedel glasses to enjoy with friends, available only at Origami Sake.

Value: $150 (gift card) 2360 East Grand Ave. Hot Springs 501-463-6906 | origamisake.co

North Little Rock Welcome Center

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Put a trip to North Little Rock on the calendar with this excellent sampling of Arkansas-made products courtesy of NLR Tourism. Rep city and state pride with a scarf, hoodie and mug combo; bring a little delight to cocktails and mocktails with Pink House Alchemy’s simple syrup; and satisfy snack and drink cravings with goodies from Diamond Bear Brewing Co., Leiva’s Coffee and Moonlight Mixes.

DAY

Value: $150 600 Main St., Suite 100 North Little Rock 501-758-1424 | northlittlerock.org

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arts & culture

Leave the

Leg-Lamp On Visit Ralphie, Randie, Mom and the old man at the Royal Theatre this Christmas

By KELLI REEP Photo provided 118

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hat brings more cheer to the hearts of Arkansas’ Grinches and Scrooges than Red Ryder BB guns, a flat tire on the way home from shopping for a Christmas tree, or the electric glow of a table lamp clad in fishnet stockings and cloaked in satin fringe? A Christmas Story, the play, will be performed at the Royal Theatre in Benton Dec. 7 to 17. The play is sponsored by Everett Buick GMC. Directed by Matthew Burns, A Christmas Story will bring to life Ralphie, Randy and their long-suffering parents, who create one of the most memorable holidays of their lives and those of viewers. Set in 1940s Indiana, A Christmas Story is told from Ralphie’s perspective as a 9-year-old who desperately wants to see a Red Ryder BB gun under the tree on Christmas morning but must first convince the old man and thwart the concerns of his mother to make that reality. In his quest, he faces bullies, the aptly-named Scut Farkus, writing assignments and an utterly indifferent department store Santa.

Will Ralphie get the gift of his dreams, or will this Christmas be one of his most horrible, marked by the deranged pink bunny onesie his aunt is sure to provide?

The Royal Theatre in Benton has been a fixture in that community for a century and first served as a movie theater until it was sold to actor Jerry Van Dyke in the late 1990s. After the turn of the 21st century, Van Dyke provided the Royal Theatre to the Central Arkansas Community Players, now known as the Royal Players. This group of volunteer actors began live theater productions for the community in what became a National Register of Historic Places listing in 2003.

“What was then called the Central Arkansas Community Players was organized in August 1994 by Bob Carson, Ray Baxter, Fred Wingfield and Gayla McCoy,” Burns said. “The group’s first production was Thornton Wilder’s Our Town, which took place at Benton High School’s Butler Auditorium, where most of the productions took place in the next few years. The next project came in February 1995 and was a dinner-theater show called An American Sampler, which was coordinated by physician Sam Taggart and Alma Joyce Hahn.

“The theater’s relationship with entertainer Jerry Van Dyke was key to the future of our organization, and when he decided to cease operating the Royal Theatre as a movie house, he sold the building to the Central Arkansas Community Players, and they changed their name to the Royal Players. A youth theater division was later formed, the Young Players, and the Royal Players now present, on average, six shows each season, and the Young Players perform three to four.”

Burns began his theater career as a Young Player with the Royal Theatre and he now acts, directs, directs music and coordinates lighting, among other responsibilities, for both Royal Players and Young Players. A graduate of Benton High School, he is a proud alumnus of the Arkadelphia’s Ouachita Baptist University Theater Department.

When he is not at his job at Little Rock Pediatric Clinic, Burns can be found behind a camera, taking photos of shows; at a laptop, working on light, set or graphic designs; or on a stage, singing somewhere around central Arkansas. Over the past 12 years of being involved in live theater, he has designed and directed multiple shows around central Arkansas, including at the Studio Theatre in downtown Little Rock, as well as at the Royal Theatre. His roles include Cogsworth in Beauty and the Beast, Eugene in Grease: The Musical, Jamie in Escape to Margaritaville and Neil Sedaka/Lou Adler in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, among others.

“When I was in high school, there weren’t really many options to be involved in theater,” Burns said. “I was involved in choir during my time at Benton High, but I wanted to get more into theater, so I got involved with the Royal Theatre in 2012. Since then, I haven’t looked back. I went to college at Ouachita Baptist University and pursued a musical theater degree, then came back home to use what I learned. I designed multiple shows, worked alongside Daphne Shoppach with the Young Players program and acted in all the shows my first season back after college. Today, I can juggle work and perform, design or direct shows in my spare time.”

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The Royal Theatre 2023-2024 Season Royal Players • A Christmas Story Dec. 7-17 Sponsored by Everett Buick GMC • She Loves Me Feb. 15-25 Sponsored by the Ww and Anne Jones Charitable Trust • Bonnie and Clyde April 18-28 • The SpongeBob Musical June 13-23 Sponsored by McCombsMedical • The Hunchback of Notre Dame Aug. 8-18

Young Players • YP2S Footloose January Sponsored by Arvest • Mary Poppins Jr. March 7-17 Sponsored by Everett Buick GMC • Sister Act Jr. July 11-21 Sponsored by Everett Buick GMC According to Burns, the Players provide programming once a month, from acting classes to technical internships to the productions the Young Players put on that feature children ages 5 to 13. A second stage accommodates youth ages 13 to 23.

“I think there is a stigma about working with kids in the theater,” Burns said. “People tend to think they are all loud and don’t listen, but that is far from the truth. You have the occasional group that has this as a social hour, but a lot of kids inside of our program are some of the most professional children you will ever meet when it comes to productions.”

The Royal Theatre’s Young Players most recently began its After School Acts program for young thespians. This program also offers older Young Players an opportunity to intern in the class and work with younger members.

“One of the biggest draws of the Royal Theatre is how many opportunities we have for child actors to be involved in shows,” he said. “We have so many options for everyone at the Royal that there are usually roles for all ages in productions.”

Carissa Lumpkins, secretary of the Royal Players board of directors and chair of the marketing committee, said she became involved with

the Royal Theatre because of her daughter.

“When my daughter was only 4 years old, I took her to see Annie at the Royal, and she turned to me and said, ‘Mommy, I want to be up there!’ as she pointed to the stage,” Carissa said. “When she was old enough, she auditioned for the first time and was cast in Aladdin Jr. She was hooked, and I jumped in to help wherever I could.”

While directors, music directors and choreographers are offered a stipend, most of the roles at the Royal Theatre are accomplished by volunteers, from actors, lighting directors and costumers to set designers, box office workers and concession attendants, to name a few.

Lumpkins said the best way to become involved with the Royal Theatre is to follow its social media accounts and watch for opportunities to contribute.

In addition to A Christmas Story, the Royal Theatre has produced other holiday plays and musicals, including A Christmas Carol, which was performed last year as well as in 1998 and both times directed by Tom Crone. Other performances include Elf, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Christmas in the Ozarks, Miracle on 34th Street, It’s a Wonderful Life and Oliver! The Young Players have also performed A Charlie Brown Christmas more than once.

When asked what makes the Royal Theatre such a draw, particularly during the holidays, Burns said, “Downtown Benton has grown so much and has lots to offer, and the holiday season is no different. People love to see Christmas come alive on stage and enjoy a family outing. The courthouse lights are a must-see, and we enjoy being a part of that atmosphere surrounding that.”

As the Royal Theatre looks to its next century, it has big plans to expand both its programs and productions.

“We have purchased land and are currently working towards raising money and building our own costume storage, The Royal Costume House,” Lumpkins said. “We have previously been in buildings graciously loaned to us by the city of Benton, but we didn’t own our own space, and we recently had to move again.

“We hope to have this space to call our own soon. [It] is set to be completed by summer 2024. In addition to storing our costumes, props and larger stage pieces, we will also be able to continue to offer costume rentals to other theaters, schools and individuals, as well as a rehearsal space for our shows and workshops. We still have many of the costumes from Gayla’s Costume Shop, and we recently inherited the stock of Costume Closet in Little Rock.”

The theater’s long-range goals include the possibility of opening a second stage in a different location for productions with more sociallydriven themes aimed at adult audiences. Another goal is to establish an endowment for the Young Players program so the group does not have to fundraise as often.

“It’s important to remember how much the arts have an impact on a child’s life,” Burns said. “Think of the impact COVID-19 had on the lives of adults when there wasn’t as much live entertainment available. I think my main joy in theater is seeing how much of an impact the arts can have on a child’s life. Just by giving them an outlet or allowing them to be a part of something they feel proud of or to just allow them to be able to be themselves in a production or put on a costume and act like someone else for an hour is incredibly beneficial.”

Lumpkins said the Royal Theatre is celebrating 30 years of building community in Saline County play by play.

“We are thankful for the continued support of our actors, crews, volunteers, sponsors and community,” she said. “If you are interested in getting involved with the Royal Theatre in any capacity, please reach out to us at theroyalplayers@gmail.com.”

A Christmas Story runs from Dec. 7 to 17, and tickets are $18 for general admission; $15 for seniors ages 60 and older, members of the military and college students with a valid ID; and $8 for youth in 12th grade and younger. Tickets may be purchased online at theroyalplayers. ticketleap.com.

To keep up with the Royal Theatre, the Royal Players, the Young Players and other happenings with Benton’s premier stage, find the group on Facebook and Instagram, or visit theroyaltheatre.org.

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HEALING TOUCH T

here is perhaps no greater calling than to heal and bring comfort to another, as much an art as a science. Health care professionals are the first to celebrate children, are among the last to honor elders, and are the skilled, caring practitioners for every phase of life in between. This month, AY About You is honored to once again recognize the Women of Health Care who give so much of themselves at the bedside, in the operating room and in helping to meet the challenges of providing quality care for all. We salute them, one and all, for their compassion, their expertise and for living out their sacred vocation.

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Knowledge

is POWER

By SARAH DECLERK // Photo provided

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or Donna Boehm, chief nursing officer at North Arkansas Regional Medical Center in Harrison, education has been key to her career of more than 30 years, allowing her to move up the ladder from certified nursing assistant.

“It sounds kind of corny, but I have a passion for taking care of patients, and it is so rewarding and is such a very hard job, but it’s the only thing I want to do, and I’ve been doing it for a long time,” she said. “People ask me, ‘How have you been doing this so long?’

It’s so hard, but I have a heart for it, so I just continued my education, and the more I learned, the better a nurse I became.”

Boehm began working as a CNA at a nursing home in 1989, a decision she said was motivated by one of her childhood pastimes.

“My dad was a preacher when I was little, and he would go preach on Sundays,” she said. “I would go play the piano, and I loved the residents there, so I’ve always had a passion for taking care of patients, but it started when I was little.”

She went on to become a licensed practical nurse after completing the LPN program at the Francis Tuttle Technology Center in Oklahoma and worked at the Oklahoma Children’s Hospital for a year. She added that she and her three sons moved from Kansas City, Mo., to Oklahoma City, where her parents lived, following her divorce. When her father retired, the family moved to Harrison.

“We looked around to see where we could find a Christian school for my kids and where there would be a college for me to continue my career, and Harrison kind of fit both of those, so this is where we came, and I’ve been here ever since,” she said. “I always say that I’m a city girl at heart, but I’ve lived here in Harrison longer than I lived in Kansas City.”

She earned an associate’s degree in nursing at North Arkansas College in Harrison to become a registered nurse, then completed a Bachelor of Science. Boehm said her nursing education has given her a broader perspective of the profession as she progressed from learning to care for patients to learning about individual diagnoses.

“You learn about leadership as you go, and every nurse out there is a leader,” she said. “You don’t have to be a charge nurse. You don’t have to be a clinical supervisor. Every nurse is a leader, and as you continue your education, you learn more about leadership, and I think that makes you a better nurse.”

She has worked in numerous roles at North Arkansas Regional Medical Center, starting as an LPN on the pediatric medical-surgical floor in 1992. She became a charge nurse when she became an RN and eventually became manager of the medical-surgical floor.

When her youngest son graduated high school in 2008, she worked for nine months as a travel nurse. She said the experience, which took her to Children’s Mercy Kansas City and a few other hospitals, was fun, but she was ready to return to the city of about 13,000 and a hospital where most everyone knew her name.

“You get to see the people that you take care of, so you’re go-

Donna Boehm, chief nursing officer,

North Arkansas Regional Medical Center, Harrison ing to see them at Walmart. You’re going to see them at Hudson’s.

You’re going to see them anywhere, and just the feeling of knowing that you made a difference in their lives, they recognize you, and you just made a hard time in their life so much better — to me, a lot of times in the big city, you don’t get to see that,” she said. “You never see that person again, but we do get to see that here, and I like that a lot.”

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SPOTLIGHT Boehm also traveled to Los Mochis, Mexico, for mission trips, which she called an “eye-opener.” There, she helped provide medical care to patients who often lived in homes with dirt floors and no electricity. She said the gratitude of the patients there was heartwarming and that people may not realize how good life in the U.S. can be compared to other places.

“The thing I remember so much is somebody donated some red-and-white candy-stripe readers from somewhere, so we took them down there,” she said. “They don’t have glasses and things, so we let those who needed glasses or readers pick those out, and we had a whole village with red-and-white striped glasses on, and they were so excited about that. I remember that to this day.”

After returning to North Arkansas Regional Medical Center, she worked in the intensive care unit for three years, then worked a second stint as medical-surgery manager before becoming director of nursing. She was promoted to chief nursing officer about a year ago.

“My proudest moments are the people who come up to me and say, ‘Yeah, I was a nurse. You were my nurse manager. You were my charge manager when I was a baby nurse.’ They remember everything you did for them, and they remember how they grew with you,” she said. “I love to teach. I love to see the nurses grow.”

An avid reader, Boehm said the hospital has a leadership book club that has discussed books such as The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, The Myth of “Fit” and Who Moved my Cheese?

“Every nurse on the floor, CNA on the floor, everybody in the hospital can be a leader,” she said, adding that she works to give leadership tools and encouragement to the staff she manages. “Leadership is hard. You have to make some really tough decisions, but just having that group around you that encourages you and helps you.”

Boehm, who is currently working toward her Nurse Executive Leadership certification, said she has seen continuing education become more popular among nurses during her career.

“When I started in my director of nursing role, we had a lot of nurses, associate-degree R.N.s, going to get their BSN, and now I believe over 80 percent of our nurses have their BSN. They are also continuing that education up to a nurse practitioner,” she said.

She added that she hopes more nurse practitioners return to hospital care, rather than working at clinics. Although she has considered becoming a nurse practitioner, she said it would take her away from the role she likes best.

“I know nurse practitioners can go back and work at the bedside, but I still like the bedside, and we still need bedside nurses in the hospitals, working with patients,” she said. “A lot of times, we see those nurse practitioners going into the clinics, which is fabulous, but my passion right now is the bedside nursing. We need nurses at the bedside.”

Boehm is a member of the Arkansas Hospital Association and the American Organization for Nursing Leadership. She is also a board member of Boone County Search and Rescue, which helps find people who are lost in the area.

As chief nursing officer, she supervises about eight managers and ensures the nursing staff provide quality care to patients, the hospital runs as efficiently as possible and the staff follows guidelines put forth by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

She also fills in for missing staff members, such as the health supervisor, when needed, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, she spent a day on the COVID floor. This year, her many professional accomplishments earned her an alumni award from her college alma mater.

She also helps with recruitment and said building the nursing team is a major goal for the hospital.

“One of the good things about being the nurse in health care is that there are a lot of different areas you can go into in a hospital.”

“Getting nurses is really important right now, with all the nurses wanting to travel and the nursing shortages, the amount of nurses that left during COVID. We work with the college and their nursing program to provide clinicals here to grow them and help get nurses here,” she said. “We work with other hospitals, too, on doing clinicals. We are not collaborating, but we have helped high schools begin a CNA program. I think it’s really important that we get to students younger these days to help them and let them know what kind of career choices there are out there.”

Boehm added that while nursing is a difficult job, it is one she pursues because she likes to help people.

“One of the good things about being the nurse in health care is that there are a lot of different areas you can go into in a hospital,” she said. “You have labor and delivery, [emergency room], med-surg, ICU. Outside of the hospital, you have the clinics. You have surgery centers. There’s always a place to go. You can find what you like to do, but I think you have to have that passion to be able to do it.

“It’s a really hard job. Sometimes we don’t have a good day.

Sometimes we hold a patient’s hand who’s dying, but it’s that passion to let you know you made a difference sitting there, holding that patient’s hand for that day.”

She said the field is evolving to include artificial intelligence, which could free nurses up to spend more time with patients by using AI to complete admission and discharge work. However, the field is changing in many negative ways, as well. Hospital expenses are on the rise, Boehm said, but Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement has not increased, which has led to the shuttering of entire hospitals or of hospital services, especially labor and delivery.

“With reimbursement the way it is, hospitals are being forced to change the way and what they are delivering as services, so some of that means cutting service lines to be able to continue to have a hospital, and we’ve seen that all around us,” she said. “We’ve seen labor and delivery departments being shut down. We’ve seen hospitals being shut down, and again, it goes back to the finances and the reimbursement, so we are in a health care crisis. Like I said, we’re losing labor and deliveries. We’re losing ERs. We’re losing whole hospitals, and people can die from that.”

The insufficient reimbursement can cause medical personnel to feel like they have been left out in the cold after the praise hospital workers received during the pandemic, she said, and a representative from North Arkansas Regional Medical Center traveled to Washington, D.C., to discuss the issue with legislators. For her part, Boehm said she hopes to continue encouraging other nurses and help make the hospital the best that it can be.

“My goal is to continue to provide quality care to my patients as best we can and to continue to be here, to be a part of the community, to be able to take care and provide for their health care needs,” she said. “I want to continue with nurses and providing good health care. I want to encourage their education. I just really want to be able to make a difference and have a really good hospital.”

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Jennifer Sadler, MD

Vivian Lipton, MD

Donna Boehm

Ting Li, MD

Chief Nursing Officer

Congratulations

Donna Boehm BSN, RN Chief Nursing Officer

NARMC

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THE STANDARD OF EXCELLEN

CE IN D

ERMA TOLO

Congratulations

GY

Rachel Sims, RN and Bailey W. Pollock, PA-C for being named Best Women in Healthcare!

SKN at Franks Dermatology | 4220 N Rodney Parham Rd, Suite 102 | Little Rock | 501-859-8973 Franks Dermatology | 4220 N Rodney Parham Rd, Suite 320 | Little Rock | 501-246-1042 125

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Clear as a

BELL

By SARAH DECLERK // Photo provided

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ary Chatelain has many responsibilities as wife and added. While some patients can use over-the-counter aids, others mother of three, but she also has a fourth baby — Pinrequire medical-grade ones, and still others benefit from features nacle Hearing in Little Rock. like Bluetooth or fall detection.

“It’s almost like having a child,” she said. “It’s al“No two people are alike, and not everybody needs a top-ofways on the back of your mind. It’s something that I don’t just get the-line hearing aid that has all the bells and whistles, but not evto clock out and leave and not ever worry about.” erybody can use an over-the-counter product,” she said. “Learning Born and raised in Arkansas, Chatelain earned her Doctor of about that and being able to provide the appropriate treatment and Audiology in 2007. She attended Louisiana Tech University before counseling and see each patient, learning about them and not just spending her fourth year and an additional year in Florida, then putting them in a category and making assumptions, that’s how I returned to her home state. do things with my patients.”

She said she chose audiology because it is a fairly new profesThose looking to start their own practices must understand that sion compared to other medical fields, such as dentistry and mistakes are inevitable, mentors are essential and negative feedchiropractic. back is a fact of life, she said, adding that the endeavor “Audiology came about after World War is well worth it.

II, when we had all the servicemen coming “If you truly have that desire planted in your back with noise-induced hearing loss,” heart, run with it because you can make the she said. “To me, it was really neat to community such a better place,” she said.

“There is a real see a profession that was fairly new, She added that owning her own and I knew that we had a large baby practice allows her to implement shortage in audiologists, boomer population that would be changes and provides flexibility and hitting that demographic of hearfreedom when it comes to scheduland in our rural areas, these ing loss, and I thought it was a reing, choosing which manufacturers people don’t always have ally neat career to get in on and to work with and training staff. make an impact.”

“It’s not just if they do their job, adequate access to health After returning to Arkansas, but are they enjoying it? Are they she worked five years at a retail breathing life into patients?” she said. care, and we’re making a company based in New Jersey.

“You can really create a culture that difference in Camden “At first, I really loved it because honors others and that gives people they really gave me a lot of autonomy, pride in what they’re doing. I love that with that.” and I was able to go out and do different aspect of it.” health fairs, and really, it was a lot of grassIn addition to her responsibilities at roots marketing,” she said. “As time went on, Pinnacle Hearing, Chatelain was recently apit really became apparent that they were owned pointed by Gov. Sarah Sanders to the Arkansas by a manufacturer, and it really became more about Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology the numbers and hearing aids and less about patient care, so and Audiology.

I just felt like I was kind of practicing in a way that didn’t really “That is something that I’m really excited about, being able to honor myself and didn’t really honor the patient, and I wanted to lead in our profession, to lead my colleagues and to keep audiology get back to really providing the best patient care.” at the forefront and educate the community about who they should She opened Pinnacle Hearing in 2013. The practice employs sevsee when there’s a hearing issue,” Chatelain said. en staff members between its locations in Little Rock and Camden.

Humility, patience and self-control are crucial to leadership, she “When I first started the business, the focus was on hearing aids said, cautioning entrepreneurs to focus on matters at hand. and educating the customer on hearing aids and less on focusing “It’s easy to wake up and have 20 different new ideas, and you on the full scope of audiology,” she said. “Now, what I love is we are can’t run off with all those ideas,” she said. “There’s a time for seen more in the medical profession as [the field that] is respondreaming and talking about vision, but you also have to not lose sible for hearing care.” sight of what you’ve got to do today.”

Learning about patients’ day-to-day lives is key to determining Joy is another essential component of leadership, she added. whether they need hearing aids, counseling or outside referrals, she “It takes having joy because you’re going to have to have that

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SPOTLIGHT

inner happiness that’s not dependent on circumstances,” she said.

“There’s always going to be things that aren’t perfect, but keeping that joy inside of you and not losing that is also important to leadership.”

Going forward, Chatelain said, she hopes to continue expanding her services, find ways to provide appropriate hearing aids to those with low incomes, and increase access to telehealth in rural communities.

“There is a real shortage in audiologists, and in our rural areas, these people don’t always have adequate access to health care, and we’re making a difference in Camden with that,” she said, adding that telemedicine allows patients in northwest Arkansas and Jonesboro to attend follow-up appointments and have their hearing aids adjusted remotely.

That is important due to the mounting evidence that hearing loss not only impedes a person’s ability to work and socialize, but contributes to falls and early-onset dementia, she said.

“When I first started Pinnacle, if someone had hearing loss, our focus was, ‘OK, let’s get an assistive device or let’s get them aided so they don’t miss out on communicating with their loved ones,” she said. “Now, through research, we know that it’s more than that.”

There are also personal stories about the impact of hearing loss. Chatelain recalled one patient who is in her 90s and had both a visual impairment and hearing loss.

“Her family was concerned because she had been having so much difficulty hearing,” Chatelain said. “Well, what we learned after we did her hearing test is her hearing has gotten worse, and the hearing aids she was wearing were medical grade, but they weren’t giving her the amount of amplification she needed for her hearing loss,” Chatelain said. “We got the new ones in her ears, and she sat there for a while. She was just listening, and then she said, ‘You know, I feel like a human being again,’ and that is why I do what I do.”

Chatelain not only sees patients but mentors students as a preceptor for the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. She is currently training a resident who works for Chatelain full time and will graduate in May. “It definitely, at times, can make things a little bit slower when you’re training people,” Chatelain said, “but it’s also really cool to be able to give back to the profession, and the things I’ve learned, the things that I think are important, the way I practice, that’s something that doesn’t end with me.”

Women in leadership roles can enhance professions throughout the medical industry, she said, adding that some women might feel hesitant to take on additional responsibilities because of family obligations.

“They don’t want to take away from their family, but the way I look at it is you can’t afford not to,” she said. “We need women to step up with their ideas. We need their creativity, and we need them to be willing to take chances, and when they see that there’s a need in their community, when they see some type of diagnostic test not being performed or some type of treatment that isn’t being performed and there’s a need for it, that they have the courage to make that happen.”

About 80 percent of audiologists are women, she said, adding that she has faced some challenges as a female entrepreneur — challenges she has come to see as advantages.

“As a mom, as a wife, your mind is never singularly focused on one thing, and I think that, as a business owner, it really can’t

Mary Chatelain, Au.D., Pinnacle Hearing, Little Rock and Camden

ever be singularly focused on one thing,” she said. “You have to be able to pivot quickly, look at different things in your environment, make changes, and so just being a woman and being able to multitask and look at things differently, I think that has definitely been an advantage.

“It’s hard sometimes when your schedule might not be as flexible to pick up the children or make it to every event, but again, I think that’s just made me stronger as a mom and, also, stronger as a professional because I’ve learned how to manage my time, and I’ve also learned that it is OK to miss things here and there. You can’t be 100 percent for every single thing in your life.”

She added that she feels vindicated because of something one of her children recently told her.

“My oldest daughter recently shared with me just how much she admires me, and that brings me so much joy and warmth that I’ve modeled for her a strong work ethic,” Chatelain said. “Sometimes you don’t realize that your kids are watching, and the things I might have remembered that I failed at when she was in elementary school or junior high or high school, that thing I felt like I missed, she doesn’t remember any of that. She is seeing the times that I’ve had to work, the times that I’ve missed things, she watched that, and now that is something that is ingrained in her character.”

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The

Right FIT

By JOHN CALLAHAN // Photo provided

T

he possibility that Cari Cordell, orthopedic surgeon at CHI St. Vincent Orthopedic Clinic-Hot Springs, would pursue a career in health care was never much in doubt.

Her aunt was a nurse who taught nursing school at Baptist Health in Little Rock, so, as Cordell likes to say, she was “brainwashed” as a small child to go to medical school. Becoming a doctor, however, is never quick nor easy, and the road to her particular specialty was a long and winding one.

Cordell earned her undergraduate degree at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia followed by medical school and residency at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. Early on in college, Cordell shadowed an anesthesiologist, thinking it might be the path for her. She discovered, however, that she was more interested in what was happening during the surgery than in putting the patient to sleep before it.

After watching a surgeon who is now one of her partners perform surgery on a fractured humerus — a scene that Cordell described as looking “like they had slaughtered a couple of hogs in the [operating room]” — she knew she wanted to be a surgeon.

Cordell considered plastic surgery or neurosurgery but settled on the field of orthopedics because she enjoyed working with the patients, who are often healthy, active and looking to get back into sports after an injury.

“I decided early on that I wanted to do orthopedic oncology, working with kids and adults with cancer,” Cordell said. “Then I had a terrible experience with a little 5-year-old who was diagnosed with cancer in his lower leg. We had to do a below-the-knee amputation when he was 5, and he actually turned 6 in the hospital.

It was just too much. I thought, ‘I don’t have the stomach for this, I can’t do it.’ I’d be depressed every day.”

Cordell then attended Loyola University Chicago for a fellowship in hand and microvascular surgery followed by a second fellowship for shoulder and elbow surgery at St. Francis Orthopaedic Institute in Columbus, Ga. Her parents began to joke that she just never wanted to leave school while also providing immense and essential support.

A mother of two, Cordell had her first child during her first fellowship and her second child during her second fellowship, and her parents helped her move from Little Rock to Chicago to Columbus within the span of 24 months. Her younger sister moved to Chicago to help take care of the first child while Cordell finished her first fellowship, and her mother drove her from Georgia to have her second child, born three months premature, in Arkansas.

“When I was in high school and I was trying to decide if I wanted to go to medical school, I counted up the years and figured out how long it would take me to be done, and I said to my grandfather, ‘I’m gonna be 30 years old before I have my first real

job,’ and I ended up being 33,” Cordell said. “I thought 30 was so old. I mean, that seemed so incredibly ancient. My grandfather just looked at me and said, ‘Cari, you know, you’re going to be 30 one day. You can be 30 and be 30, or you can be 30, be a doctor and do what you want to do.’

“He was right, even though it was a huge commitment. All of my friends graduated from college. They all started working and getting married, and I kept going to school, but I turned 30, and I was really glad that I just pushed through and made it. I’m doing what I always wanted to do.”

When at last she finished her education in 2011, she came back home to Hot Springs, where she remains.

Today, to call Cordell’s schedule busy would be an understatement. Tuesdays and Thursdays consist of clinic visits that start at about 7:30 a.m. and end whenever the work is done. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays are for surgeries on roughly the same schedule, and Cordell is also on call one weekend a month. Since her clinic is the only level 2 trauma center in the state south of Little Rock, on-call days are almost always busy, drawing patients from southern Arkansas, northern Louisiana and eastern Oklahoma.

To manage that sort of workload, Cordell said, the most important qualities for a doctor in her position are “dedication and being able to balance life and work at the same time.”

“My kids are understanding, and their father is a doctor too, but it’s hard sometimes if I’m on call and I miss out on certain events like class parties, volleyball tournaments or gymnastics meets,” she said. “I wouldn’t do anything differently.”

While she would not have chosen any other career path, the unexpected realities of being a doctor led her to make a few different choices in college.

“I did everything in biology, chemistry. It was all science focused. If I had to go back, I’d probably take a bunch of business classes,” she said. “I never realized how much of a business it is — financial planning, managing, stocks, bonds and investing. I wish I would have learned a bit more on the business side of things.”

Cordell’s position as an orthopedic surgeon is proof of the obvious — that women can make it in the field —and the number of female doctors is steadily increasing year by year. Despite that, orthopedics ranks lowest among medical fields in female participation, a 2021 report by the Association of American Medical Colleges states. About 37 percent of the overall physician workforce at that time were women, with 65 percent of pediatricians being female, yet women only accounted for nearly 6 percent of orthopedic surgeons.

“Honestly, I did not encounter any challenges as a female until I chose orthopedic surgery as my career choice,” Cordell said. “I learned quickly that the key to success was to interact confidently

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“I have always wanted to help people, make people better and improve their quality of life. It has become more challenging with increased costs of health care and decreased reimbursements to hospitals for services provided.”

Cari Cordell,

orthopedic surgeon, CHI St. Vincent Orthopedic Clinic-Hot Springs with my male counterparts, whether it was in the operating room or on the golf course.

“There were four men in my class, and we all became very good friends during our five years of residency. When I started my first job after my fellowships, I was the first female orthopedic surgeon in town. One of my senior partners said they were happy for me to have joined the practice and that they would take the sign down on the treehouse that said, ‘No girls allowed.’”

Despite the low overall numbers, trends show that efforts to bring more women into the field are finding success. The same AAMC report showed that while female participation in residencies and fellowships for sports medicine is still the lowest at 10.7 percent, the number has grown faster than any other area at a rate of about 27 percent between 2016 and 2021.

Like every other area of medicine, technology for orthopedic surgery is advancing at a rapid pace. Perhaps the most significant developments in recent years are new treatments for Dupuytren’s contracture, a condition in which tissue in the hand gradually thickens and tightens, causing affected fingers to stay bent towards the palm, which can make them difficult to use. The standard treatment had been surgery to cut out these sections of tissue, but new methods such as enzyme injections and needle aponeurotomy have made it possible to treat the condition without surgery. Other advancements in the field include implants for small joint replacements, new technology in skin grafting and

wound care for traumatic injuries, and synthetic bone grafting.

Despite improvements in technology that create better treatment options for patients, other developments in the health care industry have sometimes made it challenging to provide the best options.

“I have always wanted to help people, make people better and improve their quality of life. It has become more challenging with increased costs of health care and decreased reimbursements to hospitals for services provided,” Cordell said. “In the last couple of years, I think that the worst thing that I’ve seen on my part is insurance companies just not letting us take care of patients like we were trained to — for example, denying an MRI scan of the shoulder because the patient hasn’t failed conservative treatment, even though I’ve documented that they’ve done six weeks of therapy, they’ve had an injection, and they’re still hurting.

“We have to do peer reviews, and that takes time away from patients because we’re having to schedule different things to try to get stuff accredited by an insurance company, but the thing that’s been the most detrimental in hindering us to take care of patients is the pushback that we sometimes get from insurance companies.”

She added that the decision to pursue orthopedics was a good one.

“Orthopedics is constantly improving with technology and different implants and different equipment,” she said. “For the most part, I would say that everything about this career has been great.”

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Thank You for honoring me as AY’s Best Women in Health Care 2023

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From left to right: CaSondra Long RDH, Sarah King DDS, Samaria Mascagni DDS (Owner Arkansas Family Dental), Christina McCormic RDH, Angela Lehman RDH (Hygiene Director)

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Problem

SOLVER

By DWAIN HEBDA // Photo provided

T

he complexities of today’s health care market are common tems listed in 2018’s compendium were absent from the 2021 knowledge bordering on cliche these days but are precisely report, most either by merging with or being acquired by other what feeds Rebekah Fincher’s furnace as the chief adminhealth systems. The overall number of systems remained level, istrative officer of Conway Regional Health System. which is another direct reflection of what is growing out of all Fincher, whose areas of direct responsibility include physician the consolidation activity, as entities continue to merge and form enterprise, marketing, communications and public relations, physinew health systems. cian relations, medical staff administration, and graduate medical Conway Regional, by contrast, has always been an indepeneducation, has served in this role or its equivalent for nearly a dedent entity, dating to its establishment as Faulkner County Hoscade. Focusing on strategy, growth and business development, she pital in 1925. The road has not always been smooth for the entity has been at the forefront of the hospital’s sustained success, which, — the city of Conway purchased the hospital out of foreclosure considering the state of independent community hospitals as nothin 1937, and Baptist Health opened a hospital on its doorstep in ing short of a dying breed, is saying something.

2016, ramping up direct competition — but Conway Regional has “I think [Conway Regional] is an awesome case study,” she said. weathered these challenges and continues going strong today. The “Every single day, we live out this purpose of being a stand-alone organization’s 2022 annual report noted the system, anchored by its community health system where 180-bed hospital, employs 1,900, all across the country you see conincluding 225 physicians, and solidation happening among health serves a seven-county footprint.

“Access to health care, for me, systems, not just hospitals. Conway Fincher said rather than being the city has an incredible amount a limitation, Conway Regional’s is something that I have been of pride, as does Conway Regional. size and independent status is When you think about the compassionate about from growing actually a catalyst for the kind of munities we serve in central Arkanstrategic decisions and innovaup in a small town.” sas and the River Valley, you think tive thinking that is so critical to about the people that work here keeping the health system moving and the physicians who choose to in the right direction. take care of their patients here, there is a lot of pride in what we do “Being able to make your own decisions operationally, having every single day. an independent governing board, being able to make capital deci“I think the advantage to that is when you have pride in your sions locally has been key,” she said. “That goes for what equipment work and you can make decisions about how to care for your pawe’re going to invest in, what growth really looks like from a facility tients and how to take care of your community, people are generally and equipment standpoint, what service lines are needed. Being happier. Giving folks the ability and autonomy to be able to make able to do all that locally helps us to be nimble, and I think is what decisions as part of a coordinated team effort creates a really special has really translated to the growth and success that you’ve seen over place to be. For me, that’s the part that is really, really special about the last eight years.” being here in Conway.”

Conway Regional enjoys a partnership with CHI St. Vincent Based on recent statistics, consolidation is not just a factor in in Little Rock, which gives the Conway health care system buying the health care market; it has become a fact of life in many compower and allows it to centralize certain back-office functions. The munities as hospitals bow to enormous economic pressures and relationship has been successful and provides a ready blueprint for join vertically integrated health systems. As last summer’s Agency other partnerships, Fincher said. for Healthcare Research and Quality Compendium of U.S. Health “The St. Vincent partnership is the best of both worlds; it gives Systems pointed out, this has resulted in a health care market that us access to a national health system because CHI St. Vincent is more concentrated than ever before. The compendium showed is part of CommonSpirit and allows us to have some purchasing 76 percent of hospitals, 93 percent of hospital beds and more than power as a small independent hospital. I don’t know of any other half of physicians in general and primary care physicals in specific arrangement that’s like it in Arkansas,” she said. “We are pretty belonging to a vertically integrated health system. Numbers in each resolved as an organization that there are things that we do really, of these categories are several percentage points higher in 2021 really well and that need to happen here, but there are some things than in 2018. that we just need an external partner for. Let me use the example Equally telling is the fact that health systems themselves are of hematology/oncology; I think these are things we might need changing hands at a rapid clip. The report noted 63 health sysan external partner for, and there are other things that fall into that

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SPOTLIGHT

Rebekah Fincher,

chief administrative officer, Conway Regional Health System

category, as well. I think [partnering] has created space for those conversations to happen.”

At the same time, the health system has demonstrated an innovative mindset in addressing organizational and consumer needs internally. For instance, Fincher spearheaded the effort to create a graduate medical education program at Conway Regional whereby medical students can serve their residency in one of three specialties — internal medicine, family practice and rural training.

“With the emergence of medical schools in Arkansas, our part in that was to create more residency slots to train medical students that want to be physicians,” she said. “We’ve created a training ground, and when all our programs are in full complement in 2024, we’ll be training 33 residents. We’ll matriculate and graduate a class each year. That will be our contribution to addressing the physician shortage and access-to-health-care shortage here in Arkansas.”

In addition to the homegrown talent Conway Regional hopes to educate and retain through its graduate program, the organization has been extraordinarily successful in attracting other medical talent to central Arkansas. Fincher estimated more than 30 physicians have been successfully recruited over the past few years. While her area of operations does not direct-

ly recruit and hire — nor does it deliver patient-facing medical services — she noted the overarching strategy for Conway Regional’s success lies with every department working together.

“Health care is a team sport — everything from your physicians to nursing to your environmental services to your marketing and your administration team,” she said.

“How well marketing gets a message out there starts with the team that’s doing patient care, which gives [marketing] something authentic to talk about.”

Fincher was born and raised in rural Arkansas, and the Shirley native, who earned her undergrad at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway and her graduate degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, said this has inspired her to drive easier access to medical care for those living outside the metro areas of the health system’s footprint.

“Access to health care, for me, is something that I have been passionate about from growing up in a small town,” she said. “Getting to influence what access to health care in Arkansas looks like every single day is something that I consider a privilege.”

Fincher applies the same passion and skill to employees’ careers, especially women in health care, by improving means of advancement and mentoring wherever it is needed.

“I started in a very different role in the organization, a very frontline business-development role that offered, very frankly, no pathway to growth in the organization,” she said. “I will forever and always be incredibly grateful to Matt Troup, [president and CEO], for deciding to invest in me. Because of that investment and by some hard work, some grit, and a lot of luck, I think I have somewhat met his expectations and hopefully continue to.

“As a result, I feel a real commitment to doing the same thing for women who want to be in health care. At Conway Regional, 70 percent of our workforce is women, but that doesn’t always mean that women find their pathway on the administrative or business side. If you’re privileged enough to be in a position of leadership and there is someone that you can take the time to invest in and grow, I think we each have an obligation to do that, male or female. As women especially, we must recognize that we need to do that for one another. I think the opportunity to do that is really special, and I’m very grateful that I get to be a part of that conversation.”

Fincher said the human component is, ultimately, what sets Conway Regional apart from the competition because employees and staff serve a constituency that are not only patients, but friends, family members and neighbors. Such commitment to serve is a vital piece to not just meet today’s challenges, but to advance and sustain Conway Regional Health System well into the future. Creating an environment that caters to employee satisfaction, delivers next-level care and does it in a way that is fiscally responsible is a challenging journey, but one Fincher considers well worth taking.

“I am drawn to health care because of the complex nature of it,” she said. “Every single day, when I come to work, the challenges that are put in front of us are complex, and they require creative and innovative solutions. They take into account people and processes and everything else. That is what has really drawn me to health care. Very frankly, it’s one of those things you could look at like exercising: Once you get into it, you kind of become addicted to it.

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Path of

PERSEVERANCE

By JOHN CALLAHAN // Photo provided

S

ome people know just what they want to be from the very start and turn childhood dreams into career paths. Others are not sure where they will end up but nevertheless find the place they belong. Julie Nix, corporate vice president of surgery, women’s and children’s, and rehabilitation services at Baptist Health in Little Rock, lies somewhere in between those two paths. She said she knew she wanted to be a part of the health care industry, but the road she ended up traveling to get there turned out to be a much better fit than the one she had initially imagined.

Nix took her first job in health care as a receptionist at Orthopedic Associates, an orthopedic clinic in Little Rock, while at the same time taking a few hours of night classes to work toward her undergraduate degree and her lifelong dream of becoming a nurse.

“I started out in nursing school and discovered, ‘I don’t think I want to be a nurse. I don’t think I like this actually,’” Nix said.

“I like helping people, but I didn’t want to be a nurse, so I ended up deciding I wanted to be an early childhood education teacher.

I switched my major from nursing, still working as a receptionist, and eventually decided I didn’t want to be a school teacher either.

It just wasn’t for me.”

As two doors closed, another opened. Having been promoted to receptionist coordinator and director of marketing, Nix said she found she enjoyed the managerial and marketing aspects of her work much more than the prospects of nursing or teaching.

In this role, she helped coordinate the merger of her clinic with other orthopedic groups to create OrthoArkansas. During that process, she worked closely with the orthopedic program manager at Baptist Health. She joined Baptist in 2004 as the orthopedic and neurological project line manager and has been with the organization ever since.

Nix credits much of the success of her career to her education, something she worked hard to obtain with the support of a coworker. While still at OrthoArkansas, Nix became close with Tina Cakmes, a marketing consultant who pushed Nix to be the best she could be.

“One day, Tina said to me, ‘Julie, I see so much potential in you, but you’re never going to get any further without a college degree. You’ve got to get it,’ and at that point, I started taking six to

nine class hours a semester at night until I finally got that degree,” Nix said. “I waited about a month, and then I started my graduate program and got that degree, and amazing things have happened because of that education.

“Did I ever think when I took that job as a receptionist that I would eventually become a corporate vice president? Probably not, but that’s just how amazing the opportunities have been.”

Nix, motivated by her father’s encouragement and by Cakmes, earned her bachelor of business administration degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2013 and a master of science and health administration degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2016. The same year, she earned

Julie Nix,

corporate vice president of surgery, women’s and children’s, and rehabilitation services, Baptist Health in Little Rock

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SPOTLIGHT “I’m constantly putting together business plans. I come up with her masters degree, she became assistant vice president of patient an idea of something like taking a mobile health unit around the services at Baptist Health. state to help these moms. You have to put together your business In 2022, she moved into her current role, in which she works on plan to support that. Some things give a return on your investment, strategic goals for growth and physician alignment to ensure that and your business plan works, but sometimes we do things because Baptist Health remains a leader in the provision of comprehensive it’s part of our mission at Baptist Health, and I see that a lot in our surgical, women’s and children’s, and rehabilitation services. Nix is women’s services.” a forward-looking executive, which befits a leader who needs to The world of health care has changed immensely over the think in strategic terms. Rather than managing day-to-day operanearly 20 years of Nix’s career. This is most obviously true in the tions at Baptist Health, she directs efforts that will change the fucase of technology, which has improved many treatments to levels ture of health care in the Natural State. that might have been considered science fiction a few decades ago.

“Right now, one of the exciting things I’m working on is deWhere once a woman would need a week in a hospital to recover veloping a maternal navigation program,” Nix said. “Arkansas is from a hysterectomy, today she could come in for the operation at ranked No. 1 in maternal mortality, and that’s a terrible thing to be 7 a.m. and be home in time for lunch. Likewise, the experience of ranked No. 1 for, so we are putting together programs to help and being a woman in the health care industry has changed. assist women in having access to the resources that they need, from “You feel a little more comfortable sitting at the table with a prenatal care all the way through the baby’s first year of life. We’re bunch of men now, whereas years ago, you looking at an app that would be availweren’t even offered a seat at the table,” Nix able for moms who are underinsured, said. “One piece of advice I give to younger uninsured, on Medicaid — anybody women that I mentor is don’t get so hung that wants access.

“We’re in the development stages “You don’t give up — you up on man versus woman. Be your best you.

Don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Comof this right now. The app would be try once, you fail, you pare yourself to you, try to be better, and don’t available for moms free of charge. They let jealousy sidetrack you. Support other fewould have access to clinicians if they try again. We’ve all had male executives, and celebrate their successes had a question. They would have access with them, not be envious of them. The conto care coordinators if they need help plenty of failures in our stant competition in corporate America can with transportation or if they need help lives, but we all have turn ugly if you’re not mindful of it.” with food. If they need help finding a Nix emphasized that any leader should provider or help filling out Medicaid many successes to show strive to be the kind of leader that people papers or Special Supplemental Nutriwant to follow. She herself has found great tion Program for Women, Infants and for learning from them.” success from trying to be an approachable Children papers, they would have that leader and said members of her teams rouresource available to them. It’s a really tinely come to her to voice their ideas, exciteamazing app. The first lady of New Jerments, frustrations and needs. sey implemented something similar to As the future of the health care industry promises more imthis; New Jersey used to be No. 1 in maternal mortality, and now provements in treatment options, the future also promises its fair they’re not, so we know that this can work.” share of challenges. Like most every other industry has been since Nix has also been involved in the planning and development the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitals are struggling with staffing of a new mobile health unit Baptist Health expects to launch in issues, and Arkansas is in a particularly difficult spot.

2024. This mobile unit will take advanced practice nurses around “We have a real challenge because our insurance reimbursement the state to what Baptist Health has identified as the top five areas is at a rate much lower than other parts of the country,” Nix said. with the least access to prenatal care on a weekly basis.

“When we try to hire physicians, they’re getting offered X salary Another goal for the health system is the implementation of in California, Y salary in New York and Z salary in Arkansas, but 24/7 obstetrician coverage. Emergencies wait for no one, and a their reimbursements for insurance are so much higher, they can woman in labor might not have a half hour for the physician to afford to pay their physicians more. drive to the hospital. Baptist Health hopes to implement a 24“Then we have so many people who are uninsured and so hour laborist program in 2024 at its facilities in Little Rock, North many people on Medicaid, and even commercial rates and MediLittle Rock, Conway and Fort Smith, where some 6,000 babies are care rates are low. When you try to pay the salaries to attract redelivered each year. ally good physicians, whether it be OB doctors, rehab doctors or Just as she seeks to improve and expand Baptist Health’s prosurgeons, it’s hard to make your math work. That’s probably our grams, Nix works to keep the system’s technology on the cutbiggest challenge.” ting edge. Recent additions include a da Vinci robot capable of Whatever challenges she might face, Nix said she will continue performing general surgeries, more specialized machines like the to press forward and find solutions with the same determination Mako and ROSA robots for joint replacement, and a Mazor robot that got her to where she is now. for spine surgery.

“You put your mind to something, and you don’t give up, no “I also do the financial performance and make sure that we matter what,” Nix said. “I mean, no matter what. Failure is not an have a financial return on our investment. I look at everything from option. I have two adult daughters, and I tell them that ‘fail’ stands quality to efficiency. I look at surgeons. I look at how long patients for ‘first attempt in learning.’ are staying,” Nix said. “If Medicare says they should stay one day, “You don’t give up — you try once, you fail, you try again. We’ve how many days are they staying, one or two? Metrics like surgical all had plenty of failures in our lives, but we all have many successes site infections, 30-day readmissions to the hospital — all of those to show for learning from them.” quality measures we look at on a weekly or monthly basis.

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As a woman-led organization since day one, AY About You knows firsthand the importance and expertise of women in the workplace. That is why we take every opportunity possible to highlight female accomplishment, and we are proud to have found another way to do so — AY’s Best Women in Health Care.

We hope you enjoy this third-annual listing featuring some of Arkansas’ best women in the industry as voted on by our readers.

List published by facility in alphabetical order.

A

Dana Abraham, M.D., FACS Abraham Breast Clinic, Arkansas Surgical Hospital Shannon Pogue Access Medical Clinic Bono location Annie Cavenar, DP.T. Advanced Physical Therapy Abi Land, DP.T. Advanced Physical Therapy Sandy McDonald, P.T., PRPC Advanced Physical Therapy Kelsey Moix, DP.T., PRPC Advanced Physical Therapy Ashley Posey, DP.T., PRPC Advanced Physical Therapy Tina Merritt, M.D. Allergy & Asthma Clinic of Northwest Arkansas

Lori Kagy, M.D. Arkansas Allergy & Asthma Clinic

Hannah Beene-Lowder, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Marcene McVay-Gillam, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Lindsay Still, M.D. Arkansas Allergy & Asthma Clinic

Lauren Bolin, P.A. Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Tamara Perry, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Jasmin Lease, PA-C Arkansas Bone & Joint Orthopedic Practice

Carla Brown, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Kristi Porterfield-Pruss, RRT, RPSGT Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Megan Butler, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Arundathi Reddy, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Dia Watson, PA-C Arkansas Bone & Joint Orthopedic Practice Jennifer Andrews, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital Lindsay Arthur, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital Meenakshi Atteri, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital Amanda Bailey, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital

J. Nicki Ames, M.D. Ames Direct Primary Care

Eva Barlogie, P.A. Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Katherine Thomas, R.N. Arkansas Aesthetics

Emily Barnes, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Kelly Burks, M.D. Arkansas Allergy & Asthma Clinic

Debra Becton, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Rebecca Cantu, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital April Clawson, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital Kaitlin Cockerell, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital Jill Fussell, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital Laura Hollenbach, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital McKinsey Jansen, BSN, R.N., CCRN Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Amy Scurlock, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital Sabina Siddiqui, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital Kathryn Stambough, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital Lindsey Wolf, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital Teressa Brown, P.T., DP.T., Ph.D, OCS Arkansas College of Health Education Katherine Lafargue Mccrady, PA-C Arkansas Dermatology

Stacie Jones, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Annaleigh V. Harper, PA-C Arkansas Dermatology

Rebecca Latch, M.D. Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Emilee T. Odom, PA-C Arkansas Dermatology

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What does it mean to be taken care of? At Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, it means providing peace of mind. We’ve been taking care of Arkansans for over 70 years, providing affordable, reliable health insurance … to keep you healthy and help you heal. We’re investing in your community to keep this diverse and wonderful state strong. And looking out for your physical, emotional and social health, connecting you with resources, and helping you navigate the healthcare system — so you and the ones you love can live your best life, your whole life long.

Take good care, Arkansas.

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Congratulations

DR. DANA ABRAHAM Thank you to the readers of AY Magazine for naming Dr. Dana Abraham one of the Best Women in Health Care.

We’re proud to work with the best!

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Brooke Walls, PA-C Arkansas Dermatology Sarah King, DDS Arkansas Family Dental Rebecca Lee, APRN Arkansas Family Dental Angela Lehman Arkansas Family Dental CaSondra Long Arkansas Family Dental Samaria Mascagni, DDS Arkansas Family Dental Christina McCormic Arkansas Family Dental Rose Alfano, APRN Arkansas Heart Hospital Melanie Amick, APRN Arkansas Heart Hospital Abby Connerly, APRN Arkansas Heart Hospital Beth Crowder, APRN Arkansas Heart Hospital Irina Lendel, M.D. Arkansas Heart Hospital Monica Lo, M.D. Arkansas Heart Hospital Kelly Hall, APRN Arkansas Heart Hospital Sarah Jones, APRN Arkansas Heart Hospital Abby Nolen, APRN Arkansas Heart Hospital Angela Simmons, APRN Arkansas Heart Hospital Rebecca Young, APRN Arkansas Heart Hospital Anita Deal, R.N. Arkansas Hospice Julia Ponder, DNP Arkansas Nurse Practitioner Association Brittany Allen, APRN Arkansas Palliative Care Nikki Taylor, APRN Arkansas Palliative Care Kristi Hawkins, M.D. Arkansas Pediatric Clinic Lori Montgomery, M.D. Arkansas Pediatric Clinic

Diana Braziel, PA-C Arkansas Urology

Amanda Novack, M.D. Baptist Health

Jamie Burton, M.D. CARTI

Shawn Clawson, APRN Arkansas Urology

Julie Nix, MSHA Baptist Health

Destiny Cato, M.S., LGC CARTI

Lauren Hendrix, M.D. Arkansas Urology

Kathy Sue Parnell, M.D. Baptist Health

Gail Reede Jones, M.D. Arkansas Urology

Stephanie Parson Baptist Health

Iris Kennedy, APRN Arkansas Urology Sarah Lilly, PA-C Arkansas Urology Allison Morrow, APRN Arkansas Urology Sarah Stevenson, PA-C Arkansas Urology Lisa Vinal, APRN Arkansas Urology Leslie Ann Wilcox, RNP Arkansas Urology

Tracy Sisco Baptist Health Kimberly Walker, R.N., MSN, NEA-BC Baptist Health Susan Williams, MSN, R.N. Baptist Health Amanda Bledsoe, D.C. Bledsoe Chiropractic Samantha K. Devlin, O.D. BoozmanHof

Wischelle Williams, APRN Arkansas Urology

Stephanie Stanley Moss, O.D., FAAO BoozmanHof

Tara Pappas Scallion, DDS Austin Family Dentistry

Mellinda Stewart, O.D. BoozmanHof

Joni Barker, APRN Autumn Road Family Practice Sara Blair, M.D. Autumn Road Family Practice Erin Hekmatpour, M.D. Autumn Road Family Practice Atalie Sessions, APRN Autumn Road Family Practice

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Jalesia Austin, DNP, APRN, FNP-C Baptist Health April Bennett, MSN, CHFP, R.N. Baptist Health Mandy Burton, APRN Baptist Health Kelley Hamby, R.N., BSN Baptist Health Gillian Hutchison, R.N., MAT Baptist Health Courtney Jasna, BSN, R.N., CMSRN Baptist Health Dani LaRoe, R.N. Baptist Health Jessica Mathisen, MSN, R.N., CNE Baptist Health

Mary C. Sullivan, O.D. BoozmanHof Hannah Banning, PA-C Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

Megan Crain, RDN, L.D. CARTI Jerri S. Fant, M.D., FACS CARTI Morgan Gary, PA-C CARTI Rhonda Gentry, M.D. CARTI Julie Glover, DNP-FNP, B.C., TTS CARTI Mariann Harrington, M.D. CARTI Cheryl Payne, M.D. CARTI Grace Raja, M.D. CARTI Stacy Smith-Foley, M.D. CARTI Toronsa M. Simpson, MSN, APRN, FNP-C CARTI Dianna Sutliff, MSN, APRN, FNP-C CARTI Diane Wilder, M.D. CARTI

Angela Carson, P.T.A Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

Kristina Skinner, D.O. Central Arkansas Cardiology Associates

Dede Cravens, P.T. Bown Hefley Orthopedics

Heather Owens, M.D. Central Clinic For Women

Kierstin Daugherty, PA-C Bowen Hefley Orthopedics Grace Jenkins, PA-C Bowen Hefley Orthopedics JoBeth Peace, PA-C Bowen Hefley Orthopedics Lisa Sallings, P.T. Bowen Hefley Orthopedics Shelly Bray, M.D. Bray Family Medicine Stephanie Farmer, APRN Bryant Medical Clinic

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Celina Watson, O.D. C Klear Vision OP.T.ique Melody Moore, R.N. Cabot Emergency Hospital

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Amy Wiedower, M.D. Central Clinic for Women Michelle Chapman, LPC Chapman Counseling & Consulting Halah Al-Dadah, M.D. CHI St. Vincent - Hot Springs Amy Clifton, APRN CHI St. Vincent - Hot Springs Cari Cordell, M.D. CHI St. Vincent - Hot Springs Nicquel Gordon, M.D. CHI St. Vincent - Hot Springs Karen Horton, APRN CHI St. Vincent - Hot Springs Oyidie Igbokidi, M.D. CHI St. Vincent - Hot Springs

We are honored to have our women be named Best Women in Healthcare!

20 Lin Chen, MD.

Kristen Sager, MD.

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Lynn Cleveland, MD.

Tiffany McConathy, APRN Samantha Wideman, APRN Virginia Laliberte, APRN

Sheryl Knott, APRN

Jennifer Hocutt, APRN

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Maggie Moore, R.N. CHI St. Vincent - Hot Springs

Mallory Lefler Conway Regional

Jaime Turner P.A. ENT and Allergy Center

Julia Norris, APRN CHI St. Vincent - Hot Springs

Stacey Johnson, APRN Conway Regional

Felicia Johnson, M.D. ENT Center of the Ozarks

Nazneen Tata, M.D. CHI St. Vincent - Hot Springs Mary Thaxton, M.D. CHI St. Vincent - Hot Springs Nidhi Jain, M.D. CHI St. Vincent Diabetes and Endocrinology Clinic - Little Rock Tena Murphy, M.D. CHI St. Vincent Heart Clinic Jennifer Co, M.D. CHI St. Vincent Little Rock Diagnostic Clinic Zainab Siddiqui, M.D. CHI St. Vincent Little Rock Diagnostic Clinic Rachel Wayne, M.D. CHI St. Vincent Little Rock Diagnostic Clinic Beverly Foster, D.C. Chiropractic Health & Rehabilitation Sarah Davis, O.D. Conway Family Eye Care Keitha Holland, M.D. Conway OB-GYN Mary Burgess, M.D. Conway Regional Katie Deacon, APRN Conway Regional Jessica Dewberry Conway Regional Rhonda Dixon, APRN Conway Regional Hailey Farris, M.D. Conway Regional Reagan Garber, D.O. Conway Regional

Meghan Mallett, APRN Conway Regional Leslie Mann Conway Regional Gina McNew, M.D. Conway Regional Lauren Norris Conway Regional Kala Slaton, M.D. Conway Regional Allison Tiner, APRN Conway Regional Heather A. White, APN Conway Women Health Center Samantha Corral, CNM, DNP, IBCLC Creekside Center for Women Ashley Mason, M.D., FACOG Creekside Center for Women

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Lauren Harmon-Grantham, DDS Dental Solutions Leslie Monroe, DDS Dental Solutions of Little Rock Lesli Devlin, R.N. BSN, RNC Devlin Cosmetic Surgery Ashley Powell, CST Devlin Cosmetic Surgery Leslie Dickinson, DDS Dickinson Dental Rachael Chandler, APRN Diffine Family Practice Angela Lovett, M.D. Dr. Angela Lovett Pain Clinic Carmella Montez Knoernschild, DDS, P.A. Dr. Carmella Montez Knoernschild, DDS, P.A. Meg Dunn, DDS Dunn Family Dental

Dawn Hughes, M.D. Conway Regional

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Amanda Irby, BSN, R.N. Conway Regional

Haley Endacott, APRN-BC, AE-C ENT & Allergy Center

Rimsha Hasan, M.D. Conway Regional Christen Henson, R.N. Conway Regional

Kim Clatworthy Elder Independence Home Care Steffany Benton, DNP, MNSc, APRN, FNP-BC EmployWell

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Stacy C. Busby, M.D. Forrest City Medical Center

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CJ Cobb Legacy Spine & Neurological Specialists Kelli Schlesinger, M.D. Legacy Spine & Neurological Specialists Anne Benoit, MPA Lifepoint Health

Djuana L. Cartillar, DDS Forrest City Medical Center

Brandi Alexander, APN Lifespring Women’s Healthcare

Teresa Jeffers, M.D. Four Seasons Allergy and Asthma Clinic

Lorie Oswalt, APN Lifespring Women’s Healthcare

Bailey W. Pollock, PA-C, P.A. Franks Dermatology

Sarah Hays, D.C. Little Rock Chiropractic & Acupuncture

Kelly Gibbs, M.D. GastroArkansas

Alexandra Sanroma, PA-C Little Rock Dermatology Clinic

Debra Morrison, M.D. GastroArkansas

Karen Spruell, R.N. Little Rock Dermatology Clinic

Angela Nutt, M.D. GastroArkansas

Ashley Blackwood, APRN Little Rock Family Practice

Lingyi Chen, M.D. Genesis

Melinda Patterson, M.D. Little Rock Family Practice

A. Lynn Cleveland, M.D. Genesis

Tierney Russell, APRN Little Rock Family Practice

Jennifer Hocutt, APRN Genesis

Natalie Burr, M.D. Little Rock Pediatric Clinic

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Sheryl Knott, APRN, AGCNS-BC Genesis Virginia Laliberte, AOCNP Genesis Tiffany McConathy, AOCNP Genesis

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Ann-Marie Magre, M.D. MANA Family Medicine Shelby Brogdon, O.D. McFarland Eye Care Brita Rook, M.D. McFarland Eye Care

Kristen Sager, M.D. Genesis

Angela Case, R.N. Melanie Prince Plastic Surgery

Samantha Wideman, APRN, FNP-C Genesis

Melanie Prince, M.D. Melanie Prince Plastic Surgery

Nikki Sanders Donaldson Heathman Family Dental

Shelly York, MBA Miracle-Ear

Cathy Carollo, R.N., BSN, M.A. Hospice Home Care

Jaclyn Piasta, R.N., MSN, RNFA, WHNP-BC, NCMP Monarch Health

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Cheryl A. Hull, M.D., FAAD Hull Dermatology & Aesthetics Michelle Eckert, M.D. Jefferson Regional Kathy James Kathy James Psychotherapy and Wellness Jennifer Acklin, M.S., OTR/L Kidsource Therapy

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Alicia Washington NAMI Arkansas Martie Savage, R.N. NAMI Arkansas Heather Abernathy, FNP National Park Medical Center Jennifer Jones, MNSc, FNP-C National Park Medical Center

Congratulations to these incredible women for being named

BEST WOMEN IN HEALTHCARE! We provide a full range of gynecology services and obstetric care for women.

Dr. Amy Wiedower

Our services include pregnancy treatment and annual women’s health checkups, screenings, and birth control.

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Dr. Heather Owens 9601 Baptist Health Drive, Suite 500 Little Rock, Arkansas 72205

501-523-0572 Fax Number: 501-227-5005

Congratulations to our Director of Housing, Dawn Yakoubian, for being recognized as one of the 2023 Women in Healthcare.

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Dawn is a licensed Residential and Assisted Living Administrator and has worked at Presbyterian Village for 15 years, and has been involved in senior living for almost 30 years. The Village is blessed to have Dawn on our team!

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Becky Norwood National Park Medical Center

Stephanie Billingsley Ozark Dermatology

Taylor Salyer, M.D. Parkhill the Clinic for Women

Ashley Aughenbaugh, M.D., OB-GYN Saline Women’s Clinic

Casey Willis National Park Medical Center

Janelle Claborn, PA-C Ozark Dermatology

Lindsey Seale, M.D. Parkhill the Clinic for Women

Wendy Bennett, APRN Saline Women’s Clinic

Traci Kiernan, D.C. Natural State Health Center

Mary Susan Hilton, PA-C Ozark Dermatology

Christina Green, M.D., OB-GYN Saline Women’s Clinic

Jill Flaxman, M.D. Natural State Pain and Wellness Clinic

Karlee VanDam, PA-C Ozark Dermatology

Lacey Staton Perry County Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

Tina Nichols, DDS Nichols Family Dental

Kristy Walker, PA-C Ozark Dermatology

Stacy Armstrong, D.O. North Arkansas Regional Medical Center

Danielle Williams, R.N. Ozark Dermatology

Donna Boehm, BSN, R.N. North Arkansas Regional Medical Center Nicole Caton, D.O. North Arkansas Regional Medical Center Vivian Lipton, M.D. North Arkansas Regional Medical Center

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Dana Browning, D.C. Pain Care Associates Gena Woodward, M.S., P.T. Pain Care Associates Chanel Bullock, APRN-FNP-C Pain Treatment Centers of America

Ting Li, M.D. North Arkansas Regional Medical Center

Jaclyn Cooper, APRN Pain Treatment Centers of America

Macy Massey, APRN North Arkansas Regional Medical Center

Adrienne Friedly, APRN Pain Treatment Centers of America

Jennifer Sadler, M.D. North Arkansas Regional Medical Center

Honey Hull, APRN Pain Treatment Centers of America

Donielle Swanson, APRN, PNP-C North Arkansas Regional Medical Center

Venecia Johnson, ACNP-AG, B.C. Pain Treatment Centers of America

Laureen Benafield, M.D. Northwest Arkansas Pediatrics, A MANA Clinic

Lacey Parker, M.D. Pain Treatment Centers of America

Meredith Denton, M.D. Northwest Arkansas Pediatrics, A MANA Clinic Stacy Furlow, M.D. Northwest Arkansas Pediatrics, A MANA Clinic Meredith Mahan, M.D. Northwest Arkansas Pediatrics, A MANA Clinic Virginia Thomas, M.D. Northwest Arkansas Pediatrics, A MANA Clinic

Nicole Rinewalt, M.D. Pain Treatment Centers of America Noemi Ramsay, M.D. Pain Treatment Centers of America Angel Samuel, APRN Pain Treatment Centers of America Stacie Smith, P.A. Pain Treatment Centers of America Kristy Thompson, APRN Pain Treatment Centers of America

Andrea Mabry, M.D. Pinnacle Dermatology Marla Wirges, M.D. Pinnacle Dermatology Kay Lynn Brunt, PA-C Pinnacle Spine & Orthopedic Maria Foreman, CMA Pinnacle Spine & Orthopedic Amber Higgs, CMA Pinnacle Spine & Orthopedic Kassidy Hill-Howard Pinnacle Spine & Orthopedic Giselle Rios, CMA Pinnacle Spine & Orthopedic Dawn Yakoubian Presbyterian Village Archana Jarathi, M.D. Prime Endocrinology

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Lindsey Gillum MSN, APRN, FNP-C Revive Lifestyle Medicine Jourdan Quinn, APRN, FP-BC Revive Lifestyle Medicine Kristin Roller, M.D. Roller Weight Loss & Advanced Surgery Char Boulch, CNO Saline Health System Katherine Knight, APRN Saline Internal Medicine Associates Jamie Irwin, D.O. Saline Pediatric Associates

Heather Whaley, M.D. Pain Treatment Centers of America

Ajitha Yeluru, M.D. Saline Pediatric Associates

Jeanine Andersson, M.D. OrthoArkansas

Emily Hinton, M.D. Parkhill the Clinic for Women

Payal Gandhi, M.D. Saline Primary Care

Kathryn McCarthy, M.D. OrthoArkansas

Stephanie Lowry, M.D. Parkhill the Clinic for Women

Laura Hardin, M.D. Saline Primary Care

Jamie Abbott, M.D. Ozark Dermatology

Meredith L. McKinney, M.D. Parkhill the Clinic for Women

Kristin Patton, M.D. Saline Weight Loss Center

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Maggie Hicks, RNP Saline Women’s Clinic Angela Myles, M.D., OB-GYN Saline Women’s Clinic Monica Cooper Sei Bella Med Spa Anne Trussell, M.D. Sei Bella Med Spa Anne Santifer SHARE Arkansas Jennifer Gabbard, R.N. Shewmake Plastic Surgery and The Skin Retreat Rachel Sims, R.N. SKN at Franks Dermatology Melody Fain-Oliver South Central Endoscopy Rianna Rowland Superior Senior Care Sarah Swetnam, R.N., BSN Swetnam Cosmetic Surgery

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Kelly Pierce, M.D. The Breast Center, A MANA Clinic Jan Alexander, M.D. The BridgeWay Kathryn Chenault, M.D. The Neurology Clinic Shelly Gibbs, M.D. The Woman’s Clinic Jill K. Jennings, M.D. The Woman’s Clinic Elizabeth Paladino, WHCNP The Woman’s Clinic Amanda K. Payne, APRN The Woman’s Clinic

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Marielie Heidi Agesilas, M.D. UAMS Health Family Medical Center in Springdale Alice P. Alexander, M.D. UAMS Medical Center

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Thank you for recognizing these champions for children as the “Best Women in Health Care” in 2023.

As the only health care system in the state solely dedicated to caring for children, Arkansas Children’s statewide network of care ensures children have access to pediatric health care close to home in all four corners of our state, and beyond.

archildrens.org

Jennifer Andrews, M.D. Lindsay Arthur, M.D. Meenakshi Atteri, M.D. Amanda Bailey, M.D. Eva Barlogie, P.A. Emily Barnes, M.D. Debra Becton, M.D. Hannah Beene-Lowder, M.D. Lauren Bolin, P.A. Carla Brown, M.D. Megan Butler, M.D. Rebecca Cantu, M.D. April Clawson, M.D. Kaitlin Cockerell, M.D. Jill Fussell, M.D. Laura Hollenbach, M.D. McKinsey Jansen, B.S.N., R.N., C.C.R.N. Stacie Jones, M.D. Rebecca Latch, M.D. Marcene McVay-Gillam, M.D. Tamara Perry, M.D. Kristi Porterfield-Pruss, R.R.T., R.P.S.G.T. Arundathi Reddy, M.D. Amy Scurlock, M.D. Sabina Siddiqui, M.D Kathryn Stambough, M.D. Lindsey Wolf, M.D.

Congratulations Ragda Ahmed, MD Julia Allen, MD Stacy Pollack, MD Amanda Smith, MD from your friends at

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Caring Beyond Healthcare

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Debbie Brady, LCSW, ACSW UAMS Thomas and Lyon Longevity Clinic

Hannah Hare White, APRN Unity Health

Kimberly Reynolds, M.D. West Little Rock Women’s Center

Paige Kelly, BSN, R.N. Wright Plastic Surgery

Jennifer Dukes Casey, M.D. UAMS Neighborhood Clinic on Capitol Mall

Alicia Moore, PA-C Unity Health

Julia Watkins, M.D. West Little Rock Women’s Center

Maegan Whitehead, L.E. Wright Plastic Surgery

Olivia Ness, Au.D., CCC-A Unity Health

Suzanna Blackburn, APRN White River Health Family Care Sugarloaf

Jessica L. Coker, M.D. UAMS Women’s Mental Health Clinic Lauren E. Gibson-Oliver, M.D. UAMS Family Medical Center in Little Rock

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Jasmine Estell Vein & Aesthetic Care Little Rock Mimi Lee, M.D. PA Michelle Hadlock Vein & Aesthetic Care Little Rock Mimi Lee, M.D. PA

Leslie Harrell, D.O. UAMS Radiation Oncology Rajani Jagana, M.D. UAMS Cystic Fibrosis Clinic

Mimi Lee, M.D., P.A. Vein & Aesthetic Care Little Rock Mimi Lee, M.D. PA

Rosalyn Perkins, MNSc, APRN, WHCNP-BC UAMS Medical Center

Ragda Ahmed, M.D. White River Health System Julia Lee Allen, M.D. White River Health System Yinan Chen, M.D., Ph.D White River Health System Amanda Smith, M.D. White River Health System

Congratulations!

W Christa Singleton Vein & Aesthetic Care Little Rock Mimi Lee, M.D. PA

Sonia T. Orcutt, M.D. UAMS Surgical Oncology Clinic Marla Vance UAMS

Misty L. Virmani, M.D. UAMS Medical Center

Stacy Pollack, M.D. White River Health System

Julie Goodwin, M.D. West Little Rock Women’s Center

Caroline Carlton, M.D. White River Health System Women’s Clinic

Sarah Holland, APRN West Little Rock Women’s Center

Scarlett Grandy, CNM Willow Creek Women’s Hospital

The Woman’s Clinic is honored to have our women be named Best Women in Healthcare!

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23 Dr. Shelly Gibbs Dr. Jill Jennings

Since the 1930s, our patients have counted on us to provide expert care, often across multiple generations of families from grandmothers to mothers and daughters.

We now provide hormone pelleting!

Amanda Payne, APRN Elizabeth Paladino, APRN 9601 Baptist Health Drive Suite 1200, Little Rock | Phone: (501) 664-4131 | Fax: (501) 664-9470 146

Thank you for voting Dr. Leslie Dickinson BEST WOMEN IN HEALTHCARE

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Life. Changing. Dentistry.

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501.223.2900 1111 South Bowman, Suite B5 Little Rock, AR 72211 drlesliedickinson.com

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Meeting the needs of our communityMeeting the needs of our community Meeting the needs of our community

Our programsto can include: environment help address past experiences and • Medical psychological evaluation We offer aand variety of features specially designed with We offer a variety of features specially designed with • Individualized treatment plancan include art, music, women in mind. Treatment can include art, music, women ina mind.

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Treatment include music, aromatherapy, journaling and yoga. The individualized • Medication management and can education (as needed) treatment plan journaling can includeand assessment, stabilization, treatment plan can include assessment, stabilization, aromatherapy, • Structured daily clinical programyoga. The individualized focused treatment interventions (trauma-informed focused treatment interventions (trauma-informed treatment cantherapy include assessment, stabilization, • Group andplan family care andtreatment solution-focused therapy) and help with care and solution-focused therapy) and help with focused interventions (trauma-informed • Scheduled visitation establishing links to outside community resources establishing links to outside community resources so care and solution-focused therapy) and help with so • Recreational therapy • Coping and links life-skill establishing to training outside community resources so • Discharge planning We can help treat: We can help treat: • Acute mental health issues, including mood • Acute mental health issues, including mood We can help treat: anxiety and anxiety disorders • and Acute mentaldisorders health issues, including mood are here forphysical you. and emotional abuse) • Trauma (sexual, physical and emotional abuse) •We Trauma (sexual, and anxiety disorders ••Learn Low self-esteem and bodyand image more at thebridgeway.com.

Trauma (sexual, physical emotional abuse) • Low self-esteem and body image •• Relationship issues • Relationship issues Low self-esteem and body image •• Postpartum • Postpartum depression Relationshipdepression issues •• PTSD • PTSD Postpartum depression •• Borderline personality disorder • Borderline personality disorder PTSD •• Self-harm • Self-harm Borderline personality disorder • Self-harm

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21 Bridgeway Road • North Little Rock, AR 72113 800-245-0011 800-274-3439 •needs thebridgeway.com IfWeyou you you knowhave help, we are canorbesomeone the oranswer been looking for.here.

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Physicians are on the medical staff of The BridgeWay, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of The BridgeWay. The facility shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.

For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.231468-1588 6/23

thebridgeway.com

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thebridgeway.com

Since 1983, The BridgeWay has provided behavioral healthcare services to our surrounding communities.

Our programs are designed to give each patient individualized care to help manage their symptoms, resolve problems, recognize life stressors and effectively cope with their condition.

Our programs can include: • Medical and psychological evaluation • Individualized treatment plan • 24-hour nursing care • Medication management and education (as needed) • Structured daily clinical program • Group and family therapy • Scheduled visitation • Recreational therapy • Coping and life-skill training • Discharge planning

We are here for you.

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21 Bridgeway Road • North Little Rock, AR 72113 800-245-0011 or 800-274-3439 • thebridgeway.com

Physicians are on the medical staff of The BridgeWay, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of The BridgeWay. The facility shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.

For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.231468-1588 6/23

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people

ETIQUETTE RULES!

Some say manners are out of fashion, but Little Rock Junior Cotillion wants to bring them back in style

By EILEEN BEARD // Photos provided

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athleen Henry Joiner still remembers the first time someone with bad manners made her feel small. She was a young woman then, attending one of her first dances in a gown and heels. She felt like a million dollars, gliding across the floor with her date, but when it came time to trade partners, “This guy looked me up and down and said, ‘Nope.’ I’ve never forgotten that, and I’m old.”

Henry Joiner, longtime director of Little Rock Junior Cotillion, teaches young men and women not to be that guy.

“My license plate says, ‘Be kind,’ and I mean that,” she said Cotillion refers to a series of classes that teach formal group dances in addition to manners and etiquette. If it sounds a little old-fashioned, it is.

After all, the name cotillion is derived from a formal style of square dance that began in the early 18th century among French royalty. “‘Etiquette’ seems stiff and kind of snobby. I like ‘social graces,’” Henry Joiner said, “but etiquette is just a learned set of rules for society designed to make social situations run smoothly.”

Later, etiquette became popular with English nobility, and eventually it was adopted by wealthy families in the United States and especially the South.

“I think the tradition of the gloves and the grand march probably is a Southern thing, but the quest to teach our young people to be respectful is pretty much universal,” Henry Joiner said.

The Little Rock Junior Cotillion was founded in 1948 to teach dance and manners to fifth- through eighthgraders in central Arkansas. A former cotillion student herself, Henry Joiner became the director of the organization in 1986. She personally presides over each class, shaking hands with Kathleen Henry Joiner every single student that enters the door, providing dance instruction and teaching “Moments for Manners,” mini-lessons in etiquette that she hopes her pupils will use for the rest of their lives.

For those who think those ballroom dance lessons unnecessary, Henry Joiner begs to differ.

“There are events like prom, debutante balls or Greek formals when you need to know how to do a basic waltz, foxtrot or cha-cha. I got to do the waltz with my son at his wedding,” she said.

Henry Joiner stresses the program is not just for the elite anymore, a common and stubborn misconception people have held for years. For that reason, financial assistance is available for those who want to participate but are unable to afford it.

“Manners have nothing to do with your status or how much money you make or how much education you have,” she said. “You can be the King of England and have horrible manners.”

Henry Joiner does concede the origins of some social graces are a tad silly. For instance, legend goes that the United Kingdom’s King Edward VII grew too fat for his suit and had to stop using the bottom button as a result.

“He was a large man and he liked to eat, so his clothes kept getting tighter and tighter, and to be comfortable at the end of dinner, he would unbutton the bottom button on his jacket,” she said. “At the time, everyone wanted to be like royalty, so they all copied him. That has somehow continued to today.”

On a three-button jacket, Henry Joiner still tells young men that opening or closing the top button is optional, one should always close the middle button, and one should always leave the bottom button undone mostly because it is tradition, but also because it is practical. In fact, antiquated fashion informs many rules of etiquette. Take the longstanding tradition of a gentleman pulling out a chair for his female companion.

“When they first started doing that, women wore hoop skirts and corsets, so they literally couldn’t seat themselves,” Henry Joiner said, noting the custom is not determined by opportunity. “If you’re going on a date and trying to impress a woman, a man could still hold the door and pull out a chair. In business, if he did that, it

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A rude snub by a dance partner as a young woman inspired Henry Joiner to instruct generations of young people on proper manners.

would be inappropriate. Everyone is equal in a business meeting.”

Despite the changing times and the evolution of customs here and there, Henry Joiner argued that social graces are still important to know.

While the lessons have not changed much since the Little Rock Junior Cotillion began, Henry Joiner said they are more relevant than ever.

“Knowing all these rules makes you more confident, and people will gravitate toward you because you’re comfortable in different situations,” she said. “We have lost civility in our world. So many people don’t do the right thing anymore. They do what’s best for them instead of what’s best for the situation or for other people.

“So many well-known people in society, whether actors, singers or politicians, are becoming bolder and not being considerate to others. I think it has emboldened people to say, ‘XYZ did this, so why can’t I do it?’”

Technology has also made an unmistakable impact on today’s youth.

Every tweener and teenager has a smartphone now. Texting has made communication fast and informal, so people think less about what they say. Plus, kids have the ability to access nearly anything online, including scenes of sex and violence they are too young to process.

“I’ve got students that act age-appropriately, and I have kids who have experienced far more than they should have, and they’re not as well-behaved,” Henry Joiner said. “I blame social media. You hear that over and over and over again, but I think it’s really true.”

Online comments have also made users meaner, she said, from giving them the ability to insult someone without looking them in the eye to a piling-on effect in which a mean comment opens the door for others to say mean things. This online bullying has increased with sometimes devastating consequences, and it is only getting worse, which also helps normalize bad behavior.

The increased pace of life also has a deteriorating effect on good manners.

“Part of it is the busyness of life now,” Henry Joiner said. “For parents to get their children to all the things we’re expected to get them to, get them healthy food, and get them clean and in bed at night, and still

work a full-time job, it’s hard to put things like a manners lesson into daily practice.”

Henry Joiner has still not lost hope, which is why she is committed to teaching young people good manners and social graces after all of these years, not just because it is the right thing to do, but because they will benefit from knowing them.

“When I teach, I tell them I’m giving them a toolbox. Your toolbox can be a fishing tackle, a makeup box, a jewelry box, it doesn’t matter what, but it’s really your brain,” she said. “The things I’m telling you, you don’t have to use all the time, but when you need it, you pull that tool out and you use it.

“It all goes back to self-confidence. Once you know the rules, you can relax. You can pull them out of your toolbox and use them whenever you need them.”

Despite its old-fashioned connotation, cotillion enrollment remains healthy and has expanded to include professional clientele as companies discover that good manners are, in fact, good business.

“I had a financial wealth company ask me if I could talk to their new hires about how to conduct themselves around potential investors. They had found that young people were alienating potential investors because they didn’t know how to order food or write good emails,” she said. “There was just a general lack of knowledge. You’re going to present yourself far better if you have a basic understanding of these rules.

“I don’t see my enrollment going down because things are so bad. In fact, it might be going up because things are so bad. Some of our etiquette rules, in my opinion, can go by the wayside. As far as respecting another human being because we’re all God’s children, that’s fading too, and I hope that comes back.”

When in doubt, Henry Joiner points to one final rule.

“Someone told me you have your Golden Rule — treat everyone like you want to be treated — and then you have the Platinum Rule, which is treat everyone like they want to be treated,” she said, “If you don’t know the first thing about where your fork goes on your plate, you can still have good manners by being respectful and kind to others.”

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BEST BEHAVIOR

Little Rock’s very own Miss Manners, Kathleen Henry Joiner, shared six skills every young person should know to become a more thoughtful and successful person.

1

MAKE A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION.

It is all about the handshake. A good, firm handshake portrays confidence, but it is also a show of respect. That handshake will definitely come in handy in future business dealings, but the most polite should have it ready for every new person they meet.

A proper handshake is executed right hand to right hand, web to web. (Henry Joiner admits social graces are unfairly skewed toward right-handed folks.) The grip should be firm, and the wrist should be stiff, not limp. What is most important, she said, is to make good eye contact.

“Look people in the eye when you’re speaking to them. Never look over their shoulder wondering who else you can talk to,” she said.

2

MIND THOSE TABLE MANNERS.

Henry Joiner’s No. 1 rule for good table etiquette is to put the phone away. From there, she teaches pupils which fork to use for which course, a handy skill for formal dinners and wedding rehearsals.

The trick is to always use the utensils on the outside first and work inward. Remember to keep those elbows off the table, and always pass the food to the right.

“Rules of etiquette are like driving laws — not stopping at a red light could cause a collision,” she said. “At a dinner, not passing food to the right could cause a collision.”

Cotillion gives young people a While sympathetic to parents with busy schedules, Henry “toolbox” of social graces they Joiner advised parents to fit in a quick lesson on table manners can use throughout their lives, at dinner.

Henry Joiner said.

“There are even manners at fast-food places. Don’t leave your table messy and dirty,” she said. “Similarly, don’t jump in front of somebody else in line. Clean up after yourself in the bathroom.”

3

4

BE A GOOD SPORT.

This lesson applies to winners, losers and spectators. If winning, do not gloat, because the opposing team is probably feeling pretty down on themselves. If losing, do not lash out in anger and say or do something that will cause later regret.

“I’ll say players have to follow the rules of the game. It all comes down to respect,” Henry Joiner said. “I was so distressed when I heard Razorback football fans booing our own team in the game against Mississippi State.

As spectators, I tell them booing is so rude, and we don’t yell at the umpire or coach either.”

5

WORDS MATTER.

Other than being kind, Henry Joiner also encourages students not to use foul language. Curse words are considered inappropriate at school and church, and frankly, she does not think children should use them at all. Teaching children to watch their language carries over to their adult lives, where cursing in an office might offend and alienate coworkers and lead management to take them less seriously.

“I preach be kind and respectful. Foul language is not respectful language,” she said. “Words matter; once it comes out, you can’t put it back in.

Whatever damage you’ve done, it’s been done. It’s not going to go away.”

BE GRACIOUS.

One of the most endangered rules of etiquette is writing thank-you notes, Henry Joiner said. Sending a thank-you note makes a person stand out from the crowd because people do not receive many thank-you notes anymore, she added. She said while an email note will suffice in many situations, for important things such as job interviews and significant people such as mentors, friends and family, it is always best to follow up with a handwritten thank you. “[Thank-you notes] are always welcomed, and you will definitely score points if you send one,” she said. “I would still write a handwritten thank-you note and put a stamp on it and mail it if it’s something that’s really important, like a wedding gift. These people have taken an hour or more to find the gift, wrap it, they’ve spent money on it, and you can’t write a five-minute thank-you note?

That’s a slap in the face in my opinion.”

6

DRESS THE PART.

There is a reason cotillion still requires young men and women to dress in suit jackets and gowns, and that is because people behave differently when they are dressed in formal clothes, be it in the ballroom or the boardroom.

“People who are dressed casually do not act as nicely, as obediently or as mannerly as people who are dressed up with more respectful clothes on,” Henry Joiner said. “When kids are dressed up, they behave better as a group.

“We are so casual now in our attire. I’m surprised by how people dress at the grocery store. I even see it in our churches; you dress up out of respect to the Lord, not necessarily for comfort.”

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This side of SEVEN – By Jason Pederson

A special

message to Childr en of all Boys and ages Girls, Santa Cla us here.

Some of so many you may Santas m be w entioned confused in this ar ondering why th about w er ticle. You hy knows Sa might als e are nta lives they all live in A o be rkansas at the No and the r w rth Pole eindeer. with Mrs hen everybody . Claus, t he elves Well, tha t’s build toy easy! Santa need s a lot o sa f he world at nd spread cheer Santa Pete and surp lp during the yea Christma ris r to s. He also the one y Davidson checks gets invit e children all ov ou might er the ed to a lo have had I do not things twice. t of part a want to ie disappoin t your school. It me out. T is a big jo s, like t anyone he nice p , b, and s e o I get m ople in t Helpers — y frie his a a I chose t nd they make sur rticle are just th nds to help hem beca e I can be at — San use of th ta’s in many because e joy the they mak y have fo places at once. e people r C smile, ju st like I d hristmas and I know A o. rkansas is o so I have taken sp ne of the nicest p ecial car the very e to selec laces in the world best job. t helpers , and I also kn world, c who wil o wt hild l do jolly. Wh ren in Arkansas hat of all the ch ildren in y, e ar the me! You a ven the Razorba e among the nice cks wear st and m re lucky ost to live in red, just such a m l agical pl ike I hope th ace. is clears up any q you migh uestions th or confu your veg ave. Stay good, m sion etables. I ind your p will be t here befo arents, and eat re you kn Merry Ch ow it. ristmas,

Santa

Diamond State Santas

S

tarting in the 1890s, the Salvation Army began putting unemployed men to work by dressing them in Santa Claus suits and having them ring bells next to red kettles outside department stores to help solicit donations from holiday shoppers. About that same time, those department stores started hiring men in tailored Santa suits with (ideally) real white beards to bring more shoppers to their stores. The movie Miracle on 34th Street cemented the department store Santa in pop culture lore. Photos with Santa started about the same time.

This year in central Arkansas, Park Plaza’s Santa arrived at the Little Rock mall on Nov. 24. Santa’s sleigh landed at North Little Rock’s McCain Mall Nov. 30. These two high-profile helpers see a lot of kids, but they cannot do it all, so I contacted four other Santas who spread Christmas cheer in Arkansas until the Big Guy can do the real work on Christmas night.

Edmund Gwenn and Richard Attenborough, the actors who portrayed Santa Claus in the 1947 original and 1994 remake of Miracle on 34th Street, remain two of the gold-standard Santas captured on film. Ed Asner (Elf), Tim Allen (The Santa Clause franchise), Kurt Russell (The Christmas Chronicles) and Arkansas’ Billy Bob Thorton (Bad Santa) also make most top-10 lists.

When Chris Kennedy of North Little Rock was looking for a role-model Santa, he decided on Larry Jefferson. In 2016,

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Jefferson was hired as the first Black Santa at the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn. A native of Nashville, Ark., Jefferson is a graduate of Henderson State University in Arkadelphia. He currently lives in Irving, Texas, and Kennedy recently had his picture taken with his inspirational St. Nick.

“It was a goal of mine to get my picture taken with a Black Santa,” Kennedy said, “but [ Jefferson] was in Minneapolis, so after we had our daughter in 2016, the closest Black Santa to us was in New Orleans. We were making plans to go see him, but he passed away, so we kind of put the dream on hold.”

During that hold, Kennedy went to Santa School in New Hampshire and is now the only New England Santa Society graduate working in Arkansas. At 36, he is much younger than the other working Arkansas Santas, but Kennedy’s beard and belly are real, and he said that once kids see the white beard and red suit, they are ready to tell Santa what they want for Christmas.

“Luckily I have a 7-year-old, so she helps prepare me for a lot of that,” Kennedy said. “She helps me know what toys and TV shows the kids are talking about.”

Wayne Cox of Conway said others saw him as Santa before he considered playing the role himself.

“My wife had breast cancer. We were at CARTI. She was getting treatment,” he said. “These people kept looking at me and told me the guy they used for their Santa had cancer, and they asked me to fill in for him.

I did that for free for 14 years.”

Cox serves as Santa each year at the Arkansas State Capitol lighting, as well as Christmas tree lightings in Little Rock, Conway and Cabot.

The 72-year-old is a member of the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas. He is also one of 56 members of a private Facebook group called Diamond State Santas.

Like Cox, Pete Davidson was in his late 50s when he started donning the red suit. He will soon be 70, and he said the demand for his services this time of year can be so great that it can negatively impact his health.

“Last year, I just couldn’t say no as much as I should have, and I got sick a couple of times,” Davidson said. He added that his favorite visitors are children who have special needs.

“One little girl who I have seen for 10 straight years has autism,” he said. “When I first saw her, she was non-verbal and did not want to be touched. She just flapped her hands and danced around my chair, making light squealing sounds. She has worked hard over the years, and last year, she sat on my lap and read to me her gift list that she had written herself.”

Playing the role of Santa can earn these men anywhere from $125 to $325 per hour or per appearance, depending on the date and number of children. Christmas Eve is, of course, the most desired time for a home visit and therefore the most lucrative day of the year. The first weekend in December is also big. The only Santa of the four who does not have a rate schedule is Gary McGhee.

“I only do it for foster children,” he said. “I work with the CALL and [the Arkansas Department of Human Services]. I have never been paid for being Santa. I just prefer to do it for the kids.”

The 76-year-old said teenage foster kids are not as skeptical as one might think.

“They have bonded with me on several occasions,” he said. “They may be usually shy, but when they see Santa, they open up and have their picture taken with me and really converse with me.”

Like their boss, the real Santa Claus, these men are generous. They all donate some of their time and/or a percentage of their income to worthy charities. All four Santas said a decent Santa suit costs $500 to $600, but a custom suit costs about $2,500. Most of the men have multiple suits.

“I started out renting a suit, and now I have six,” Cox said.

“Why? Well, for example, I do a pet store. I’m not going to wear one of my finer suits to the pet store. I use my finer suits for the Capitol or Chenal Country Club.”

Kennedy is excited to debut a new custom suit for the first time this year.

“Every Santa has his own style and flair,” he said.

As far as the most important must-haves for any authenticlooking Santa Claus, a great Santa Gary Cox shares a laugh. suit is paramount, along with a quality beard — but appearance alone is not enough. It must be paired with an amazing smile, inner joy and a love of children.

Not every child whispers into Santa’s ear a desire for a PlayStation or a bicycle. Some of the wishes shared are heartbreaking. To be reunited with one’s family, to get one’s father out of prison and to bring a loved one back to life are just a few that these Santa’s helpers have heard over the years.

“I did a Breakfast with Santa one time, and this little girl came up to me, and she had drawn a picture of a doll,” McSanta Chris Kennedy, left, meets Ghee said. “I said, ‘Is this a doll one of his idols, Arkansas native that you want for Christmas?’

Santa Larry Jefferson. and she said, ‘No, that’s a picture of my sister. I want to make sure you don’t forget her on Christmas.’”

The four Santas are all Christians. They understand and celebrate what is known as the reason for the season but do not consider it part of their responsibilities to interject their religious beliefs into their role as Santa — that is, other than allowing the peace, joy, love and perspective that their Christian faith provides them with to shine through. If children fall in love with Santa and the gifts he brings, they may carry a love of Christmas into adulthood, become givers themselves and celebrate what many consider to be the holiday’s ultimate gift, Christ’s salvation.

James E. Faust, who served as second counselor in the first presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, shared a story in the 1998 First Presidency Christmas Devotional entry, “The Man Who Would be Santa,” that described Santa this way: “First of all, he is a joyous individual. … Next, Santa Claus is interested in making others happy. He increases the happy moments in the lives of everyone he meets. He loves his work; he gets fun out of his job.

He is childlike, simple, humble, sincere and forgiving. Finally, he is a giver. His philosophy is to give himself away in service. He is a friend to everyone. He smiles. Perhaps you and I could attain greater happiness if we emulated Santa Claus a little more, for his way is the way of the infant Jesus, also.”

JASON PEDERSON For two decades, Jason Pederson served as KATV-Channel 7’s Seven On Your Side reporter. Now on the other “side” of his awardwinning time on the news, he now serves as deputy chief of community engagement for the Arkansas Department of Human Services.

His perspective-filled and thought-provoking column, “This Side of Seven,” publishes exclusively in AY About You magazine monthly.

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MURDER MYSTERY: A

s the judge ordered the defendant Jack Worls to stand, a small figure among the spectators raised a pearl-handled revolver.

His verdict was fatal — four shots to the chest. Helen Spence, Worls’ killer, made no attempt to escape.

She was not the least bit sorry and never would be. She had done what was hers to do. Avenging the death of a loved one was seen as a righteous act among the river people. The White River house boaters lived simply — fishing, hunting and harvesting mussels. Some of the men, including Helen’s father. Cicero, also acted as guides for dry-landers, so, that December morning in 1930, nothing seemed unusual when Worls showed up wanting Cicero to take him out on the water.

Not long after the men left, Cicero’s wife, Ada, realized they had not taken the food she had made for them. Calling out to Helen to join her, they headed out down the river. Catching up to Cicero’s boat, they saw both men standing up in it, voices raised angrily. Losing his balance, Cicero fell towards Worls, who pulled a gun and fired on him.

Worls shrugged, saying to Ada and Helen, “He wouldn’t show me where the still money is.”

Then, as casually as flicking a fly away, he rolled Cicero overboard.

Thinking quickly, Ada said, “I’ll show you. This here girl is simpleminded. She don’t know where the money is.” Worls then pulled Ada into the boat with him, shoving Helen’s boat away with her own paddle.

Cicero was no moonshiner, but between local scuttlebutt and his own heavy drinking, Worls became foggily convinced that Cicero had money from illicit booze stashed in a tree along the river.

Hours later, fishermen found Helen in a state of shock. Ada was also found, brutally beaten and raped but alive. She clung to life until early

By Sarah Russell

The River Girl

January, just weeks before Worls’ trial. Her death left the prosecution with no eyewitness, and Helen could not legally testify, being under 18, but standing in the blue gunsmoke in the courtroom that fateful day, Helen showed dry-landers she could deliver justice anyway.

After shooting Worls dead, Helen calmly handed her gun to a good friend of the family, Sheriff L.C. Brown. Brown knew he was in no danger. Nor was anyone else, but he would long wonder why the river people, as was their way, had not dealt with Worls themselves. Law enforcement had long stood back in these cases.

Helen was arrested, tried and sentenced to five years for second-degree murder, a verdict that roused fury among river folk and dry-landers alike. Worls had, after all, killed both her parents.

Finally, the Arkansas Supreme Court ordered a new trial. In the interim, Helen became the newest waitress at the Rothenhoffer Café under the supervision of the DeWitt sheriff and his wife. There, the pretty, sweetnatured girl became a favorite among locals.

Since Worls’ death, Helen had also become the cover girl for a multitude of national publications, including The New York Times, The Washington Post and Helen Spence Daring Detective. Having such high-profile attention brought in a lot of extra people to Helen’s tables. It also protected Helen somewhat from her drunkard manager, Jim Bohots, the sole rooster in the henhouse of waitresses.

Then one day, up from the river came a young man named John Black, someone Helen was close to. His visits did not go unnoticed by Bohots, whose jealous rage forced Black to quickly retreat. It became widely known that the boorish and profane Bohots was sexually harassing his staff, including Helen, and demanding she be be very, very nice to him lest he “hurt someone close to her.”

Thus, few shed a tear when, in February 1932, Bohots was found shot

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dead in his car at the local lovers’ lane. An investigation cleared Helen of the crime, but she was still going to jail for shooting Worls. The Arkansas Supreme Court sentenced her to two years at Jacksonville’s Pea Farm, officially known as the Arkansas State Farm for Women.

Helen would trade one form of bondage for another through a bygone practice called called debt concubinage, whereby wealthy landowners could purchase a prisoner’s parole in return for unpaid mandatory labor over a specified period of time. Through this system, after less than a year at Pea Farm, Helen essentially became the indentured servant of a Lonoke man who paid a thousand dollars, $22,000 today, for her service.

The type of work expected of her was not publicly documented — although it is noteworthy that this practice applied only to female prisoners — but whatever it was, Helen was not having it. Less than two months into the arrangement, she went to authorities and confessed to killing Bohots.

By July 1933, Helen was back at Pea Farm, where she soon made it clear she was not planning on staying long. After each escape attempt, she was taken to the Big House, where she was stripped, literally put over a barrel and repeatedly lashed by a leather whip. In September, she made it as far as the Arkansas River before being returned for punishment, but this time nothing was heard from inside the Big House except eerie silence.

What exactly transpired during her “correction” is not known, but as a result of it, Helen developed an alarmingly high fever from a supposed kidney infection. The prison doctor, in what was archaic treatment even then, repeatedly administered enemas, douches and morphine. Soon she was in a coma. Higher-ups had to be notified.

Realizing the urgency of the situation, the state’s top prison official personally took Helen to the Beebe hospital, where she was diagnosed with kidney and heart damage, her injuries being consistent with that of a severe beating. Reluctantly, the medical team had to send her back to Pea Farm.

The prison matron, a Mrs. Brockman, brazenly and routinely bussed her younger inmates to Memphis, Tenn., for prostitution. On one such trip, during a West Memphis bathroom break, Helen escaped again, making it almost to Brinkley. Her escape was made easier by the fact she had sewn red-checkered dinner napkins into the lining of her prison uniform.

Once in the bathroom, she simply reversed her outfit.

This time, officials shipped her to the state mental hospital, citing “homicidal mania.” Not accurate, said the doctors, who instead diagnosed her with a condition which today translates to post-traumatic stress disorder. Considering the teenager had, in a short span of time, witnessed Cicero’s murder, lost Ada, killed Worls and possibly Bohots, been tried three times, and endured multiple beatings and potentially sexual assault, PTSD was very likely. Still, the overcrowded hospital insisted Pea Farm take her back.

Her welcome would be harsh. While at the hospital, Helen wrote and sent to a publication a manuscript detailing the abuses at Pea Farm.

Prison officials intercepted it, and upon her return, Helen was housed in the same area as trusty guard Frank Martin. There, she was confined to a 6-by-10-foot cage, released only for meals, and then searched and locked back up. Inmates were forbidden to speak to her, even when she eventually returned to the fields.

Inevitably, Helen bolted again, armed with Martin’s revolver. Martin and the warden’s husband, Assistant Superintendent V.O. Brockman tracked her down the next day, but true to her word, Helen had left Pea Farm for good. A headline in the July 11, 1934, edition of the Arkansas Gazette read, “NOTORIOUS GIRL FUGITIVE KILLED BY TRUSTY GUARD.” Warden Brockman was quoted as saying Helen’s death was “a great burden off my shoulders.”

A young Helen Spence, with her father, Cicero, in a photo shot in the 1920s.

Helen wound up buried next to her father.

Thousands came day and night to gawk at the girl’s casket, which the DeWitt funeral home had placed on display in a front window. To those who had known her, it was the final injustice suffered by the young girl.

The night before her burial, legend has it, her former beau, Black, broke into the funeral home, stealing her away to be buried in the darkness next to her father, a cedar sapling placed at her otherwise unmarked grave.

Now Helen could rest in peace.

However, the ordeal was not over for Martin and V. O. Brockman, who claimed that a cornered Helen had aimed the gun at them, forcing their hand in self-defense. The public was not buying it, and the outcry was so swift, fierce and unrelenting that an investigation into the matter was ordered.

Inmates said the men actually watched Helen escape but did nothing to stop her. There was no evidence that Helen had taken Martin’s revolver from a locked location, which lead some to believe it had been left to bait her. That revolver was found still firmly tucked into her clothes. The single bullet hole to the back of Helen’s head confirmed Martin had not shot in self-defense. It came to light, too, that his previous conviction was for the murder of an unarmed man.

Martin and V.O. Brockman were subsequently tried but acquitted. The Brockmans were fired. When released from prison, Martin told others he made a deal with the Brockmans — his freedom for Helen’s murder.

In time, Pea Farm closed, and the area turned into a residential area with street signs bearing the first names of the inmates — and yes, there is Helen Street. Over at the Pea Farm Bistro in Cabot, reclaimed wood from the prison shares space with wall displays that tell Helen’s story.

Pictures fade, but the river people’s belief that Helen suffered an injustice never has. In fact, this article is based on the book Daughter of the White River by Denise Parkinson, herself a former river girl, who met L.C. Brown Jr., the son of the sheriff who took the gun from Helen in the courtroom. Junior had never forgotten the sweet teenage Helen who did not seem to mind the kid who tagged along with her and Black. He had quite a story to tell Parkinson.

Black had for years kept the location of Helen’s grave a secret, but before his death, he revealed that information to the younger Brown, trusting that he would take care of Helen. When Brown’s mortality, was at hand, he told Parkinson where Helen was. In time, Helen would even be given a proper tombstone, placed quietly in the serenity of an unmarked cemetery.

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Snowball

By Joe David Rice

A

merica has slightly more than 25,000 cities, towns and villages scattered across its 3.8 million square miles. Only two in this vast array of human settlements are called Snowball. One is in central Minnesota, about equidistant between Minneapolis and the Canadian border.

The other can be found some 875 miles almost due south, in the Ozarks of north-central Arkansas.

The northern locale receives about 55 inches of snow annually, or approximately 10 times that of its southern cousin. While Snowball would seem appropriate for a small Minnesota town, it does not strike one as a good fit for an Arkansas hamlet.

As it turns out, Snowball is the unintended name of the quiet little burg in Searcy County.

Settlers arriving in the Calf Creek valley in the 1830s eventually constructed a grist mill and a cotton gin.

In 1885, the settlers built a two-story stone Masonic lodge, which was also used for school and church functions. The Masons named this new structure Snow Hall to recognize Benjamin Franklin Snow, the Searcy County sheriff at the time. When residents petitioned the federal government for a post office a few years later, a careless bureaucrat — or maybe a prankster — in the postal system apparently converted the application for a Snow Hall Post Office into a formally approved Snowball Post Office. The community’s been known as Snowball ever since.

The current version of Snowball, Ark., is a far cry from its look of a century earlier. A general store and hotel appeared shortly after the post office opened, and a stave mill, which produced narrow strips of oak for wooden barrels, went into operation in 1912. The stave mill moved to Marshall, and a fire in the fall of 1945 claimed most of Snowball’s business district, causing the town’s population — which at one time reached 500 or so — to dwindle when the younger set sought futures elsewhere and old-timers gradually died off. The post office closed its doors in 1966.

Snowball enjoyed a temporary reprieve in the 1970s, when a number of back-to-the-landers settled in the area, but the subsistence lifestyle of the movement proved more difficult than anticipated, and over the years, many of these new residents opted out and left for more appealing alternatives.

Anyone who wants to check out what is left of Snowball can turn west onto Arkansas 74 from U.S. 65 a short distance above Marshall. After driving seven miles through pretty countryside, travelers come to what was supposed to have been Snow Hall. Visitors can find a few homes, the entrance to the former Snowball High School (which has since been converted into a pavilion) and the boarded-up post office. As for the original Masonic Hall, it is gone, but another two-story stone structure honoring Snow stands proudly in its place.

Joe David Rice, former tourism director of Arkansas Parks and Tourism, has written Arkansas Backstories, a delightful book of short stories from A through Z that introduces readers to the state's lesser-known aspects. Rice's goal is to help readers acknowledge that Arkansas is a unique and fascinating combination of land and people — one to be proud of and one certainly worth sharing.

Each month, AY will share one of the 165 distinctive essays. We hope these stories will give you a new appreciation for this geographically compact but delightfully complex place we call home. These Arkansas Backstories columns appear courtesy of the Butler Center for Arkansas Studies at the Central Arkansas Library System. The essays have been collected and published

by Butler Center Books in a two-volume set, both of which are now available to purchase at Amazon.com and the University of Arkansas Press.

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care. As our communities grow, we are growing alongside you to ensure all of your healthcare needs are met right here in

FOUR YEARS IN A ROW!

Conway. When your family needs medical care, you can trust our board-certified providers to provide you with the

2023

comprehensive care you deserve when you need it most.