From the CEO

Have you ever wondered why we get such a sense of renewal and optimism with the coming of spring? As the spring equinox brings the length of day and night into a period of near equality, we all witness an awaking of our natural surroundings – and for ourselves. More daylight means we produce less melatonin and become more energized and confident. Additional light also increases our body’s vitamin D and serotonin (the “happiness hormone”) to make us feel healthier and uplifted.

At Butterfield, we truly enjoy witnessing the proverbial spring in the steps of our residents and staff that coincides with the emergence of warm weather and the greening of campus. And, as we now move into springtime for 2023, I am pleased to say the renewal is quite literal for our Special Care Center as the renovations process will soon get under way to significantly refresh the common areas and living spaces for our residents requiring specialized support for cognitive impairment. As this major project progresses, we pledge to keep you updated.

On the topics of energy and optimism, our cover profile for this issue highlights Pat Molle, an individual who exemplifies those characteristics every day. She and her family have deep roots in Northwest Arkansas, and her lengthy, successful real estate career gave her enormous insight about the remarkable growth of the region – from its humbler beginnings to now.

You are invited to get to know Director of Facility Services Joe Perme, the leader behind dozens of residence renovations each year, campus capital building projects and countless maintenance projects that come with comfortably housing 400 people. You’ll also meet newcomers Rick and LaVonne Kirkpatrick, an adventurous couple who are just settling in at Butterfield.

Health and well-being are central to the BTV mission, and we are pleased to share details about a big adventure our Director of Well-being Jennifer Neill has planned for some of our highly motivated residents and Carriage Club members. Butterfield already has a robust hiking program, and it is about to go international with a journey to walk the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.

And, because we especially celebrate the contributions and vitality of seniors, we offer a glimpse into a fantastic exhibition of photos by octogenarian and renowned photographer Andrew Kilgore. Considered by many to be an Arkansas treasure, Kilgore has 100 works on display at the Walton Arts Center through March 19, 2023.

Wishing you well,

Quintin Trammell Chief Executive Officer

Even though her name and phone number were on real estate signs for decades, Pat Molle is a very private person. She’s humble about her career success and has overcome some big heartaches. She credits deep faith and dogged perseverance with getting her through. During her 27 years in real estate, she used “Good Golly, Call Ms. Molle” as the catchy slogan on her business cards.

Molle was born in Lowell, Arkansas, when it was truly just a rural, agricultural spot in the road. She grew up on her grandparents’ farm in Lowell, the oldest of four siblings. She had an endless stream of cousins and friends to play with and roam the farm and countryside. During those early years, she became passionately bonded to her roots and homeland.

Life changed dramatically for Molle at age 9. When this region could no longer support her dad’s job skills, the family moved to southern California, where he worked in the aircraft industry. Molle was heartbroken by the move and so homesick, but eventually adapted to the new lifestyle – with small yards, the ocean, beach parties, traffic and freeways.