Conway+ 2018 Community Profile & Resource Guide

CONWAY

2018 Community Profile & Resource Guide

SAY CHEESE

Show us your good side in our #HeyConway selfie scavenger hunt p. 90

QUALITY OF PLACE When it comes to economic development, nice cities finish first

p. 14

Take a Hike

And explore other ways to enjoy The Natural State p. 46

2018 Community Profile & Resource Guide

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CONTENTS 10

About Conway

64 Conway+Health

900 Oak Street: The Team Behind the Scenes

Health Care Facilities

All About Conway

Q&A with Matt Troup: A Culture of Compassionate Care at Conway Regional Health System

14 Conway+Economy

Q&A with Tim Bowen: UCA Grad Returns to Conway to Lead Baptist Health

Here’s to Good Health

Quality of Place Drives Economic Development Decisions

Making a Plan

28 Conway+Education

Excellence in Education

Public School System

Private and Parochial Schools

Higher Education

34 Conway+Leisure

900 Oak Street Conway, AR 72032 501-327-7788 GetSmart@ConwayArkansas.org 6

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Arts and Culture

Q&A with Palmer Music Company Owner Preston Palmer

74 Conway+Lifestyle

Finding Your Place in Conway:

Community Outreach and Involvement

Q&A with Jay and Molly Bernard: Connecting to the Community

New to Conway? These Tips Can Help with Your Home Search

Making a Wise Move

Making a Home

80 Conway+Communities

Conway Shopping Districts

Making a Life

Q&A with Bell & Sward Co-Owner Erik Sward

Events and Festivals

Conway’s Neighbors

Explore the Great Outdoors

#HeyConway Selfie Scavenger Hunt

Parks and Recreation

Q&A with Kings Owners Dustin Botsford and Marcus Bobbit: Conway’s Live Music Scene

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Index of Advertisers

Making Merry

ON THE COVER Bravo! Students from the Red Curtain Theatre organized a flash mob in Toad Suck Square during the 2017 Toad Suck Daze festival.

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy in this publication, the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce cannot guarantee the correctness of all information or the complete absence of error or omissions. For changes or to submit your comments, please contact the Chamber.

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[ ABOUT CONWAY ]

900 OAK STREET The Team Behind the Scenes

The city of Conway has a coalition of community and economic development organizations working together daily on its behalf. While each organization has a slightly different focus, they all work in partnership to thoughtfully improve the lives of Conway-area residents.

The Conway Area Chamber of Commerce, Conway Development Corporation, Conway Downtown Partnership, and Conway Convention and Visitors Bureau work together on one mission: making Conway, Arkansas, the best it can be.

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Partnership, teamwork, community, and ambition: It’s what makes Conway great. And it all starts at 900 Oak Street.

Conway Area Chamber of Commerce

Conway Downtown Partnership

Founded: 1891

Founded: 2001

Who they are: A nonprofit organization made up of approximately 1,400 area businesses working to grow the local economy.

The chamber is governed by a 33-member board of directors.

Who they are: A nonprofit organization focused on the redevelopment and continued growth of downtown Conway. They are governed by a 14-member board of directors.

What they do: Plan and organize networking events. Offer advertising and sponsorship opportunities. Advocate job-creating infrastructure and policies. Provide business consulting, lead generation, and referrals.

You may have seen: They’re the organizers of Toad Suck Daze.

They also host large events like Business Expo and Taste of Conway.

What they do: Market downtown Conway as a destination for investment and jobs. Promote downtown events. Advocate for and execute public space improvements (landscaping, “streetscaping,” etc.).

Conway Development Corporation (CDC)

You may have seen: They’ve partnered with city government to develop downtown Conway’s streetscape and the renovation and redevelopment of multiple historic buildings.

Founded: 1959 Who they are: A nonprofit organization whose mission is to grow the area economy, mainly through job creation. The CDC is governed by a 14-member board of directors.

What they do: Recruit new businesses to Conway. Help existing businesses expand. Pursue state economic development incentives on behalf of local companies. Develop and market job-creating real estate.

You may have seen: They own and developed the Meadows Technology Park – home to DXC Technology and the new Acadia behavioral health facility.

Conway Convention and Visitors Bureau (Advertising and Promotion Commission) Founded: 2000 Who they are: Created by the city council to facilitate tourism and the promotion of the city of Conway, the Advertising and Promotion commission collects taxes on hotel/motel accommodations and levies taxes on all prepared food and beverages. The board consists of seven members each of whom serves a four-year term. The A&P Commission does business under the name “Conway Convention and Visitors Bureau.”

Conway Area Leadership Institute Founded: 1988 Who they are: A nonprofit organization that prepares emerging leaders to serve the Conway-area community. Formerly the Faulkner County Leadership Institute, CALI became part of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce in 2016 and is governed by the Chamber’s board of directors.

What they do: Plan and execute an eight-month curriculum inspired by Conway2025. Connect graduates of the program through alumni networking events. Support the youth leadership program.

You may have seen: Hundreds of professionals have graduated from the Faulkner County Leadership Institute since its inception. The inaugural CALI class graduated from the program in November 2017.

Applications for the new class are available in January of each year.

What they do: Advertise and promote events taking place in the city to regional audiences. Recruit sporting events, conferences, and other events from around the country to Conway. Administer annual grants to local tourism-related events.

You may have seen: They’ve recruited and sponsored many of the youth sporting events held in Conway, including the high school All-Star games.

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ALL ABOUT

CONWAY

People discover Conway in a number of ways – some during their freshman year at one of our three college campuses.

Some find Conway along their career path. Others are the latest of generational Conway residents.

Regardless of when or how people discover Conway, what they discover is the same: Conway is a growing city – rooted in education – with a diverse economy and a visible sense of community.

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A smart choice

Sustained growth

A group of local business leaders made a strategic decision more than 125 years ago to pursue institutions of higher learning as a means of growing the Conway economy. That choice has paid countless dividends ever since. As the colleges have grown, so has their economic impact. Perhaps more importantly, over time they have laid the foundation for Conway’s modern workforce.

Conway has enjoyed a decades-long reputation for growth. With an estimated 2016 population of 65,300, the city has doubled in size since the mid-1990s. It is among the nation’s top 20 percent of fastest growing cities with populations over 50,000.

Median Age (city of Conway): 27.9 Median Age (state of Arkansas) 37.7

The presence of Hendrix College, the University of Central Arkansas, and Central Baptist College is without a doubt the reason Conway has such a remarkably young and educated population.

Those two qualities stand out nationally as the city competes for jobs in today’s economy. The result is a regional economy that has been recognized as one of the most diverse in the nation.

Conway’s growth has been driven by its regional economy, central location, public school system, and young population. As the city has added people and amenities, its regional influence has also grown. Conway’s labor, retail, and health care trade area now includes Russellville (45 miles west), Heber Springs (40 miles north), and Maumelle (20 miles south).

2016 POPULATION ESTIMATE: 65,300 (and counting) 1990: 28,767 2000: 43,167 2010: 58,908

Population 25 years and older: 35,552

Commitment to community 7%

High school graduate

24%

37%

Less than high school, no diploma

Some college, no degree Associate degree

8%

24%

Bachelor’s degree or higher

For Conway residents – new and established – giving, volunteering, and celebrating with each other is a way of life. Whether it’s a special election to invest in schools and infrastructure or a private capital campaign to benefit a nonprofit, Conway has a demonstrated record of success. The residents here continuously plan for and invest in improvements to the place they call home.

Together, the dynamics of growth, education, and communitymindedness create a town that is ready to meet people where they are. Professional, educational, and civic opportunities are around every corner. Discovering and seizing those opportunities is an experience every Conway resident should share.

Nationally ranked From the generosity of its residents to its affordable cost of living, Conway has earned national recognition for its exceptional quality of life.

Year Ranking Source Recognition

2018 #8 CBS News 10 Cheapest Places to Live in the U.S. 2017 #3 Forbes 7 Places in the U.S. So Cheap You Can Afford to be an Entrepreneur 2016 #2 Travelocity 25 Most Giving Cities in the U.S. 2016 #7 Southern Living South’s Best College Towns 2015 #51 of 961 NerdWallet Best Small Cities for Working Parents 2015 #45 College Values Online 50 Best Small College Towns in America 2014 #46 of 200 Forbes The Best Places for Business and Careers 2014 #3 The Simple Dollar The Most Affordable College Towns 2014 #1 The Washington Post The Fastest-Growing City in Every State, in One Map 2013 #19 of 25 CNNMoney Where the Jobs Are 2013 #9 Kiplinger 10 Cheapest U.S. Cities to Live In Sources:

U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division U.S. Census Bureau, 2011-2015 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate 2018 Community Profile & Resource Guide

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Capital Campaign A vision for what Conway can be

Startup Space Conway has resources available to make great things happen; entrepreneurs need the space to gather. The Conway Area Chamber of Commerce and Conway Development Corporation, in partnership with Conway Corporation, will develop the Arnold Innovation Center. Honoring recently retired Conway Corporation CEO Richie Arnold, this downtown facility will become the epicenter of Conway’s startup community. With plans for co-working space, leasable office suites, and seminar facilities, the Arnold Innovation Center will provide a continuum of space for Conway startups as they grow.

CONWAY125.COM

QUALITY OF

PLACE

drives economic development decisions More than 125 years ago, a group of business leaders from a young cotton town raised $50,000 to recruit Hendrix College to Conway, followed by Central College (Central Baptist College) two years later. The business community recruited Arkansas State Normal College (the University of Central Arkansas) in 1907. This group was the Conway Board of Trade, now known as the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce.

Faced with the possibility of losing Hendrix College during the Great Depression, the Chamber stepped up once again, forming Conway Corporation to raise the needed funds to keep Hendrix in Conway and assist the city’s other educational institutions.

Conway’s commitment to education was solidified, setting the stage for decades of future growth and earning it its “City of Colleges” nickname.

The Chamber is the historic change agent in Conway, and this is just one example of how strategic decisions by the business community can define a city for generations.

What will this generation of Conway

residents be remembered for?

Launched in the spring of 2017, the Conway 125 capital campaign will bring to fruition seven public and private projects that will create an exceptional quality of life for Conway residents. These projects were identified through the Conway2025 community visioning process, which was completed in 2010.

Brad Lacy, president and CEO of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce, said these “generation-defining” projects are much more than simple, nice-to-have amenities; they can drive economic development decisions.

“The winners in modern-day economic development will be the cities that focus on quality of place and have amenities. Economic development today is all about talent recruitment and retention.

The places that can attract and retain talent will be the places that attract new companies and retain and grow existing ones. It is important that Conway continues to raise the bar and build superior quality of place.”

A capital campaign is in the works for the Grand Theatre, a state-of-the-art, 300-seat performing arts venue in Conway’s original downtown theatre. Photo courtesy of DLR Group | Westlake Reed Leskosky

Two of projects have already received financial commitment, evidence that Conway 125 is more than a wish list. Conway Corporation has pledged $1 million toward the creation of the Arnold Innovation Center in downtown Conway. The Innovation Center is named in honor of retired Conway Corporation CEO Richie Arnold and will be the main focus of the “Startup Space” component of Conway 125.

The Conway Area Chamber of Commerce, through Conway Foundation Inc., has made its own commitment, purchasing the former “Grand Theatre” at Oak and Chestnut Streets.

A capital campaign for the theater is in the works.

“These projects are ambitious but clearly within reach,” said Lacy. “Our goal is to see all of these projects completed over the next five years.”

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Making a

PLAN

ADAM HARRISON Trinity Development

LIZ HAMILTON H+N Architects

JIM RANKIN Trinity Development

Central Baptist College Master Plan

The Reserve at Tucker Creek

72-unit upscale apartments (Spring 2018)

JOANNA NABHOLZ H+N Architects

St. Joseph Spiritan Center (Summer 2018)

Photo by Mike Kemp

JON VIRDEN Corco Construction

GEORGE COVINGTON JR. Covington Roofing Company

City of Conway Tennis Complex (Spring 2018)

BRENT SALTER Salter Properties JLofts Downtown (Fall 2018)

NATHAN SALTER Salter Construction JLofts Downtown (Fall 2018)

JASON COVINGTON Covington Construction

1121 Front Street – Mixed-use building

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EXCELLENCE IN

EDUCATION

As the home of a high-performing public school district, three nationally ranked colleges, two top-notch private and parochial schools, and a three-day festival benefiting educational initiatives, Conway is a place that values lifelong learning. The institutions and the people who make them up are recognized continually at the state, regional, and national levels.

National Merit Semifinalists

Best Colleges

National Librarian Award

The U.S. News and World Report recognized Central Baptist College among the top 50 Best Regional Colleges in the South (48th) for 2018.

The University of Central Arkansas was also ranked on the Best Colleges list, coming in at number 72 among Regional Universities in the South.

Hendrix College made the top 100 in its respective category as well, ranking number 76 among National Liberal Arts Colleges.

Jamille Rogers Thomas, media specialist at Marguerite Vann Elementary School, was one of 10 winners nationwide to receive the American Library Association’s 2016 “I Love My Librarian” award.

She and the other winners were recognized in a ceremony in New York City.

The Princeton Review – College and Beyond listed the MBA program at UCA as one of the best in its Best Business Schools 2018 list. In October 2017, Thrillist – a digital lifestyle brand – listed Hendrix College as the Best in Arkansas on its list of “The Best College in Every State.”

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Teacher of the Year Randi House, a kindergarten teacher at Theodore Jones Elementary School, is the 2018 Arkansas Teacher of the Year.

Perfect Score Three Conway High School seniors made a perfect “36” on the ACT so far during the 2017-2018 school year.

Ten students from Conway High School and Conway Christian High School were named semifinalists in the 2018 National Merit® Scholarship Program. The seniors now have the opportunity to continue in the competition for 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $32 million. The National Merit® Scholarship Program is a nationwide standard for academic achievement.

Congratulations to these students!

Conway High School Chloe Baker Hunter Davis Matthew Depner Gopi Lukhi Madelyn Moss Catherine Peppers Tanner Ruth Noah Smith Epifanio Torres-Smith Conway Christian High School Jackson Quick

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Conway Christian High School 2018 National Merit® Semifinialist: Jackson Quick Conway High School 2018 National Merit® Semifinalists. Bottom row, from left: Gopi Lukhi, Madelyn Moss, Chloe Baker, and Matthew Depner. Middle row, from left: Noah Smith, Epifanio Torres-Smith, and Catherine Peppers.

Top row, from left: Hunter Davis and Tanner Ruth.

Gov. Asa Hutchinson with Jamille Rogers Thomas, 2016 “I Love My Librarian” award recipient.

Superintendent Dr. Greg Murry, Arkansas Teacher of the Year Randi House, Theodore Jones Elementary School Principal Dr. Tammy Woosley, and Arkansas Commissioner of Education Johnny Key.

PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM CONWAY PUBLIC SCHOOLS | 2220 PRINCE STREET 501-450-4800 | ConwaySchools.org | @ConwaySchools FOUNDED: 1878 | MASCOT: Wampus Cat | SCHOOL COLORS: Blue & White NUMBER OF SCHOOLS: 16 | 2017 ENROLLMENT: 10,001 Conway Public Schools consists of a preschool, nine elementary schools, four middle schools, one junior high school, one high school, and a career center. The district has established a reputation for high performance. Over the last decade, six out of nine elementary schools have spent time at the top of academic rankings – from benchmark exams and state-assigned letter grades to National Blue Ribbon achievement awards.

PRESCHOOL

Sallie Cone Preschool Center 1629 South Boulevard 501-450-6693 sallieconepreschool.weebly.com

Julia Lee Moore 1301 Country Club Road 501-450-4830 jlmes.conwayschools.org Marguerite Vann 2845 Carl Stuart Road 501-450-4870 mves.conwayschools.org Theodore Jones 1800 Freyaldenhoven Lane 501-450-6645 tjes.conwayschools.org

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS (K–4th) Carolyn Lewis 1805 Old Military Road 501-450-4835 cles.conwayschools.org

Ellen Smith 1601 South Donaghey Avenue 501-450-4815 eses.conwayschools.org Florence Mattison 2001 Florence Mattison Drive 501-450-4820 fmes.conwayschools.org Ida Burns 1201 Donaghey Avenue 501-450-4825 ibes.conwayschools.org Jim Stone 4255 College Avenue 501-450-4808 jses.conwayschools.org

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Woodrow Cummins 1400 Padgett Road 501-513-4417 wces.conwayschools.org

MIDDLE SCHOOLS (5th–7th)

Bob & Betty Courtway 1200 Bob Courtway Drive 501-450-4832 bc.conwayschools.org Carl Stuart 2745 Carl Stuart Road 501-329-2782 cs.conwayschools.org Raymond and Phyllis Simon 1601 East Siebenmorgan 501-513-6120 si.conwayschools.org Ruth Doyle 800 Padgett Road 501-450-6675 rdi.conwayschools.org

CONWAY JUNIOR HIGH (8th–9th) 1815 Prince Street 501-450-4860 cjhs.conwayschools.org

CONWAY HIGH SCHOOL (10th–12th) 2300 Prince Street 501-450-4880 chs.conwayschools.org

CONWAY AREA CAREER CENTER

2300 Prince Street 501-450-4888 cacc.conwayschools.org The Conway Area Career Center fosters learning through career and technical education. Programs of study include architectural drafting and design, cosmetology, culinary arts, photography, and welding, among others. The Career Center is located on the Conway High School campus but serves students attending high schools throughout Faulkner, Van Buren, Cleburne, Perry, and White counties.

PRIVATE AND PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL

CONWAY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

502 Front Street | 501-329-5741 StJosephConway.org | @SJSBulldogs

500 East German Lane | 501-336-9067 ConwayChristianSchool.org | @ConwayChristian

FOUNDED: 1879 | MASCOT: Bulldog SCHOOL COLORS: Purple & Gold GRADES: Pre-K through 12th grade 2017 ENROLLMENT: 431

FOUNDED: 1992 | MASCOT: Eagles SCHOOL COLORS: Blue, White & Red GRADES: Pre-K through 12th grade 2017 ENROLLMENT: 500

St. Joseph School has provided quality, Catholic education to students in Conway since 1879.

Its ultimate goal is to integrate faith and learning in order to develop the whole person: soul, mind, and body. St. Joseph Catholic School is accredited by the Arkansas Nonpublic School Accrediting Association and is under the direction of the Diocese of Little Rock.

Conway Christian School, established in 1992, provides a comprehensive educational program for students. The interdenominational, college preparatory school strives to provide an environment where students can grow spiritually, mentally, and emotionally. Conway Christian School is accredited by the Arkansas Nonpublic School Accrediting Association and the Association of Christian Schools International.

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HIGHER EDUCATION Conway is the proud home of three institutions of higher learning, earning it the distinction as the “City of Colleges.” Central Baptist College, Hendrix College, and the University of Central Arkansas consistently produce graduates who stay in the area and enter the workforce. This is part of the reason Conway surpasses the state and national averages when it comes to the educational attainment rate – more than one-third of Conway’s adults age 25 or older have a bachelor’s degree or higher.

CENTRAL BAPTIST COLLEGE

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HENDRIX COLLEGE

1501 College Avenue 501-329-6872 CBC.edu | @CentBaptCollege

1600 Washington Avenue 501-329-6811 Hendrix.edu | @HendrixCollege

FOUNDED: 1952 (predecessor Central College founded in 1893) MASCOT: Mustang SCHOOL COLORS: Blue & Gray FALL 2017 ENROLLMENT: 745 DEGREES OFFERED: 42 bachelor’s degrees, 6 associate degrees, 25 minors

FOUNDED: 1876 (moved to Conway in 1890) MASCOT: Warrior SCHOOL COLORS: Orange & Black FALL 2017 ENROLLMENT: 1,249 DEGREES OFFERED: 33 undergraduate majors, 35 minors, M.A. in accounting

Central Baptist College is a four-year, private, liberal arts college owned and operated by the Baptist Missionary Association of Arkansas.

Hendrix College is a four-year, private college of liberal arts affiliated with the United Methodist Church.

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UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS 201 Donaghey Avenue 501-450-5000 UCA.edu | @UCABears

FOUNDED: 1907 | MASCOT: Bear SCHOOL COLORS: Purple and Gray FALL 2017 ENROLLMENT: 11,350 DEGREES OFFERED: 84 undergraduate degrees, 32 master’s degrees, 11 post-master’s certificates, 10 graduate certificates, 7 doctoral degrees, 3 associate degrees, 2 certificates of proficiency, 2 technical certificates, 1 specialist program

University of Central Arkansas is a four-year, state-run institution granting bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees.

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Capital Campaign A vision for what Conway can be

Grand Theatre Conway can host a variety of educational cultural events in the revitalized historic Grand Theatre located on the southwest corner of Oak and Chestnut Streets. The Conway Area Chamber currently has the Grand Theatre building under contract.

Upon completing a feasibility study by Westlake, Reed & Leskosky (a Clevelandbased architecture firm specializing in theatre restoration), the Chamber will enter a private fundraising period to build out a state-of-the-art, 400+ seat performing arts venue in Conway’s original theatre.

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ARTS CULTURE You don’t have to live in a big city to experience and appreciate the arts and celebrate your community’s culture.

With three colleges, a symphony, thriving arts organizations, and a vibrant downtown, there’s always something going on in Conway.

EXPERIENCE OUR CITY’S CULTURE WITH THESE SPECIAL EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

WINTER

FALL

Christmas Open House

ArtsFest

This Sunday afternoon event kicks off the holiday shopping season. Enjoy special deals and discounts from downtown merchants.

Conway Symphony Orchestra

Moonlight Madness Take advantage of extended hours at your favorite downtown stores during the semiannual Moonlight Madness shopping event.

Illuminate: A Downtown Christmas Celebrate the holiday season in downtown Conway, home to the state’s tallest Christmas tree. The entire family can enjoy amusement rides and trips around downtown in a horse-drawn carriage.

SUMMER Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre The state’s only professional Shakespeare company produces a selection of the Bard’s plays along with other productions during its annual summer festival.

Moonlight Madness Take advantage of extended hours at your favorite downtown stores during the semiannual Moonlight Madness shopping event.

SPRING Toad Suck Daze A free-admission, family-friendly festival, Toad Suck Daze takes place on the streets of downtown Conway during the first weekend of May.

Farmers Markets From May to October, get a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts at one of Conway’s two outdoor farmers markets.

A citywide celebration of the arts, ArtsFest takes place at various locations throughout Conway.

Beginning with a free outdoor community concert in September, CSO performs a full season of six concerts.

UCA Public Appearances From the fall until the spring, enjoy a variety of performing arts programming in UCA’s Donald W. Reynolds Performance Hall.

BRUCE D. BEAR UCA Athletics

For Fun: Watching UCA Bears win conference championships in sport after sport.

ERIK LEAMON The Ride

For Fun: Riding and running with my friends and family

MELANIE WATSON UCA Community Outreach

For Fun: Cooking classes at UCA Downtown

Photo by Mike Kemp

Making a

LIFE

We asked a fun group of Conway experts (and one Bear) what they do for fun.

AMANDA HORTON Reynolds Performance Hall

For Fun: Taking advantage of Conway’s arts culture on or off campus

JULIE DOSSETT-MORGAN Reynolds Performance Hall For Fun: Any performance at Reynolds that is followed up with ice cream

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Palmer Music Company Preston Palmer, Owner

How should parents decide what instrument their child should learn?

There is no greater joy in the musical world than finding “your” instrument.

When helping your child decide which instrument is right for them, consider their physical ability, age, and interest.

By physical ability, I don’t mean your child must be able to leg press 500 pounds

to take up the violin. But I certainly wouldn’t recommend the tuba to a 6-year-old. I recommend younger kids take up either piano, ukulele, or violin. Lately, ukulele has been my favorite starter instrument and for good reason. Ukes are inexpensive, ranging anywhere from $45-$80 for an entry-level instrument. They are

small, so they work for any age.

The strings are typically made of nylon, so they are much easier on the fingers than guitar or violin.

Lastly, the chords are easy to make, AND, those chords transfer well to the guitar – if that is the direction the student wishes to go!

You definitely want to take your child’s interest into account. It is important to talk to your child and see why he or she wants to learn music. What songs do they sing along to in the car? Do they love electronic music, or do you see them totally fascinated by the banjo players at Silver Dollar City? These are the things to think about and to discuss with our staff before committing to an instrument.

And the good news is you can always switch to a different instrument if you made the wrong choice! We want your child to pursue a lifelong relationship with music, and we are committed to making sure they love what they learn!

How do I know when my child is ready for music lessons?

I like to tell people that your child is ready for lessons when their attention can be held in a lesson for 15-20 minutes. I have had 6-year-olds who could focus for an hour and 16-year-olds who were good for about five minutes! If your child is excited to come to lessons, they will rarely have a problem staying engaged in the lesson.

Also, it is important that they are able to commit 15-30 minutes per day to practice. We teach you new and fun things at each lesson, but the learning happens at home!

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What are the unexpected benefits of music lessons?

There are too many to list here, from educational and cognitive benefits to social and health benefits. There are few areas in life that don’t benefit from the practice of learning a musical instrument. It is said that children who study a musical instrument are more likely to excel in all their studies, work better in teams, have enhanced critical thinking skills, stay in school, and pursue further education. Need I say more?

Children are natural musicians. Babies coo and babble; young children clap and sing. When music becomes a part of their everyday lives, children can develop a lifelong love and understanding of its many forms and styles.

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EVENTS

& FESTIVALS

Several events, festivals, and expos take place in Conway throughout the year, many of which benefit charitable causes and organizations. The following list is by no means exhaustive, but it provides a look at some of the community’s most established annual events.

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10 ANNUAL COMMUNITY EVENTS

1

ArtsFest 1

ComiCon-way

September/ October 2018

1

Various locations

around Conway artsinconway.org ArtsFest is a citywide, weeklong celebration of the arts organized by Conway Alliance for the Arts (CAFTA).

Dazzle Daze

4

November 2-4, 2018 Faulkner County Library 1900 Tyler Street AND Conway Expo Center & Fairgrounds 2505 East Oak Street

2

December 2018

1

Downtown Conway facebook.com/conwaychristmas

comicon-way.com This literacy-based annual event hosted by the Faulkner County Library is Arkansas’s premier comic, sci-fi, anime, and gaming convention.

3

Conway’s annual Christmas Parade benefits the American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Faulkner County.

Illuminate

November 15-17, 2018

1

Conway Christmas Parade

Conway Expo Center & Fairgrounds | 2505 East Oak Street

1

conwayregional.org/dazzledaze

Dazzle Daze is the annual fundraiser for the Conway Regional Women’s Council. This three-day shopping extravaganza features more than 85 merchants from around the country.

Faulkner County Fair and Parade

EcoFest October 6, 2018

1

Laurel Park

2310 Robinson Avenue

5

EcoFest is an interactive and educational community event designed to explore ways to experience and enjoy nature while learning how to practice good stewardship of the environment.

Toad Suck Daze 1

May 4-6, 2018 Downtown Conway toadsuck.org

Founded in 1981, the awardwinning Toad Suck Daze festival provides funding for education initiatives in Faulkner County. The three-day, free-admission family festival takes place in downtown Conway the first weekend of May.

September 2018

1

conwayecofest.com

8

November 24, 2018 Downtown Conway

Conway Expo Center

& Fairgrounds

2505 East Oak Street faulknercountyfair.net

6

A parade through downtown Conway kicks off the festivities. During the weeklong fair, exhibits featuring livestock, food, crafts, art, and photos will be on display, along with other fair favorites.

Turkey Trot 1

November 22, 2018

(Thanksgiving Morning)

9

Centennial Valley Country Club

1600 Centennial Club Drive uwcark.org/turkey-trot Take part in fitness before your Thanksgiving feast while benefiting United Way of Central Arkansas.

Complete with food and a costume contest, this 5K run and walk is fun for the entire family.

conwayarkansas.org

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A new holiday tradition for central Arkansas, Illuminate features Ferris wheel, mini-train, and horse-drawn carriage rides that are available throughout the holiday season.

The monthlong event kicks off the Saturday after Thanksgiving with Small Business Saturday and the ceremonial lighting of Conway’s 54-foot-tall Christmas tree.

Taste of Conway 1

10

October 11, 2018

Conway Expo Center & Fairgrounds 2505 East Oak Street conwaychamber.org

Taste of Conway is part of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce’s Business Expo.

Local restaurants offer up a wide variety of samples from their menus.

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Moving for a Mission

Individuals of all skill levels and abilities can participate in a number of races in Conway that benefit charitable organizations. Whether your goal is to crush your PR (personal record) or simply cross the finish line, your entry fee to these races helps support charitable causes in the area while keeping you active.

Here are seven local races to put on your calendar for 2018.

FEBRUARY 3, 2018 Freezin’ for a Reason Benefits Arkansas Children’s Hospital Distance: 10K, 5K, Lap for Life freezin4areason.org

APRIL 7, 2018 Heroes for Hope Race Benefits Children’s Advocacy Alliance Distance: 1K, 5K, 10K hopeandjustice.org

MAY 5, 2018 Tour de Toad Benefits Literacy Action of Central Arkansas Distance: 50 miles, 25 miles, or family 10 mile-ride (cycling) facebook.com/tourdetoad Toad Suck Daze 10K/5K Run Benefits local nonprofits in Faulkner County Distance: 10K, 5K, Tadpole Trot toadsuckrun.com

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MAY 12, 2018 Women Can Run/Walk 5K Benefits the Children’s Tumor Foundation and the Women Run Arkansas Running Club Distance: 5K womenrunarkansas.net

OCTOBER 20, 2018 Soaring Wings Half-Marathon and 10K Benefits Soaring Wings Ranch Distance: Half Marathon, 10K, Kids Run for Kids swmarathon.com

NOVEMBER 22, 2018 (Thanksgiving Morning)

Turkey Trot Benefits United Way of Central Arkansas Distance: 5K uwcark.org/turkey-trot

Indoor Fu N

Whether it’s the weather keeping you inside or if you’re simply looking for some family fun, here are three places to go to release some energy and get a little exercise, rain or shine.

Conway Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

215 Skyline Drive, Suite 63 | 501-504-2315 | urbanairconway.com Conway Urban Air is a 30,000-square-foot entertainment center featuring wallto-wall trampoline areas, dodgeball courts, slam-dunk tracks, climbing walls, a ropes course, a trampoline runway, and an area for children under age 7. It’s also a great destination for kids’ birthday parties.

Open Jump Hours: Monday – Thursday 3-8 p.m. | Friday: Noon – 11 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. | Sunday: 1-8 p.m.

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Capital Campaign A vision for what Conway can be

Trails Everywhere An interconnected, citywide trail system can keep cyclists and pedestrians safe. The new overpass at Central Landing is the first interstate overpass in Conway designed to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists.

Conway Family Bowling Center

1010 East Oak Street 501-329-2638 conwayfamilybowl.com This family-friendly center has been part of the Conway community for more than 50 years.

The 24-lane bowling alley features automated scoring and bumper systems. There is also an on-site kitchen where food is prepared fresh to order. Party packages are available.

Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Wednesday: 10 a.m. – Midnight Friday: 10 a.m. – 1 a.m.

Saturday: Noon – 1 a.m.

Sunday: 12:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Jack’s Ultra Sports

655 Equity Avenue 501-932-6677 jacksultrasports.com

Jack’s Ultra Sports offers lowimpact indoor paintball, laser tag, and an escape room. Walk-ins are welcome, as are private groups for birthday parties and team-building activities.

Hours: Friday: 5-10 p.m.

Saturday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Sunday: 1-7 p.m.

A dedicated greenway through Central Landing connecting to proposed trails east of Conway Commons will extend the reach of our trails system. Pedestrian overpasses at Oak Street and Harkrider modeled after the recently announced Dave Ward Drive pedestrian overpass will safely connect trail users to new sections of trails that can extend north and east to Lower Ridge Road.

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Explore the Great

oUTDOORs With its location in the heart of The Natural State, Conway is a great place for an outdoor adventure. Possibilities for fishing, boating, swimming, or other water sports are just a short drive away, as are hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping grounds.

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Fairfield Bay

Greers Ferry Lake

Drive Time: 45 minutes

Drive Time: 1 hour 8 minutes

Nestled on Greers Ferry Lake, this community offers swimming, fishing, golf, hiking, tennis, and more. Annual events attract visitors year-round.

40,000-acre lake with camping sites, cliff diving, and public beaches.

Buffalo River Drive Time: 2 hours 16 minutes

America’s first “National River.”

500-foot cliffs line this 150-mile waterway that sees tens of thousands of visitors each year.

Pinnacle Mountain State Park Drive Time: 40 minutes

Minutes from Little Rock. Scenic hikes with sweeping views of central Arkansas.

Woolly Hollow State Park Drive Time: 36 minutes

Only 12 miles north of Conway, this park has a 40-acre lake, campsites, and miles of hiking and mountain bike trails.

Petit Jean Mountain State Park Drive Time: 53 minutes

One of Arkansas’s premier state parks. Tons of trails, waterfalls, camping, and lodging options.

Cadron Settlement Park Drive Time: 19 minutes

Scenic overlook of the Arkansas River Valley. Mountain bike trails, pavilions, and historic markers minutes from campus.

Little Red River Drive Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Home to world-record brown trout, full-service resorts, and easily accessible fishing.

Mount Magazine State Park Drive Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

The highest point in Arkansas and one of the highest in the central United States. Resort-quality lodge, hiking trails, and climbing.

Hiking

Climbing

Mountain Biking

Fishing

Sightseeing

Swimming

Boating

Canoeing

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Capital Campaign A vision for what Conway can be

CONWAY BIKE SHARE

Conway launches the state’s first public bike share program

Roundabout Art Public art in Conway’s signature, circular intersections can make large-scale works highly visible and accessible to everyone. By raising private funds and partnering with the city of Conway on long-term maintenance, Conway’s roundabouts can become a unique setting for public art of all kinds.

Arts organizations, museums, artists, and donors can team up to turn Conway’s roundabouts into a regional destination.

Conway is the first city to launch an on-demand public bike share program in Arkansas. This program extends the benefits of bike sharing — long considered exclusively a big-city amenity — to Conway.

The City of Conway unveiled the new bike-share program in May 2017, providing residents and visitors with a convenient, affordable, and healthy way to get around town. Baptist Health has made a three-year commitment to be the presenting sponsor of the program.

The initial phase of the program offers 20 cruiser bikes available at five stations across the city to use for on-demand, local trips.

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Bikes can be found via the free Zagster Mobile App — available for iPhone and Android — or online at zagster. com/conway. Riders can rent a bicycle for $2 an hour. Monthly and annual memberships are also available, including special rates for students. Each bike has a unique number that riders enter into the app to obtain a single-use code to open the lockbox on the back of the bike.

Zagster, Inc., the provider of the bike share system, is the leading provider of private and public-private bike-sharing systems in the United States.

BI K E S TATI O N S Kinley Trail at Tyler Street Kinley Trail at Salem Road Rogers Plaza in Downtown Conway Simon Park Conway Station Park

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Capital Campaign A vision for what Conway can be

[ CONWAY+LEISURE ]

PARKS & RECREATION

Splash Pads Interactive splash pads are a cost-effective way to provide spring and summer fun to Conway residents and visitors.

By locating them in existing city parks, we can make sure residents in every part of Conway have a family-friendly activity nearby. The existing parks budget is adequate to install splash pads, over time, at city parks throughout Conway. Installation, maintenance, and personnel costs associated with splash pads are significantly lower than with many other recreational amenities. The community will work with city government to identify locations that maximize budget and access.

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With well-maintained parks scattered throughout the city, two indoor sports centers on the east and west sides of town, and an expo center and fairgrounds, Conway’s Parks and Recreation Department has something for everyone. No matter where you find yourself in the city, you’re never too far from an opportunity to explore the great outdoors, be active, or simply sit and enjoy nature.

City of Conway Parks | conwayparks.com Basketball

Baseball/ Softball

Airport Park 425 6th Street

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Bainbridge Park 80 Kensington Drive

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Beaverfork Lake Park 20 Kinley Drive

Pavilion/ Picnic Playground Area

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Restrooms

Tennis/ Racquetball

Volleyball

Cadron Settlement Park 6200 Highway 319

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Centennial Soccer Park 5200 John W. Allison Road

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Conway Expo Center & Fairgrounds 2505 East Oak Street

Water Sports

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Walking/ Jogging/ Biking

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City of Colleges Park 1025 East Siebenmoregen Road

Soccer/ Football

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Conway Station Park 1501 Robins Street

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Curtis Walker Park 1700 Museum Road

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Don Owen Sports Complex (Indoor) 10 Lower Ridge Road

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Fifth Avenue Park 600 5th Avenue

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Gatlin Park 2325 Tyler Street

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Laurel Park Robinson Avenue & Prince Street

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McGee Center (Indoor) 3800 College Avenue

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Pine Street Park 690 Pine Street

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Pompe Park 2550 Prince Street

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Simon Park 805 Front Street

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Tucker Creek Walking/ Bike Trail 275 Salem Road

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*under construction

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NAME(S): Dustin Botsford, Marcus Bobbitt TITLE(S): Owners BUSINESS: Kings Live Music (established 2011)

Q+A

What changes have you seen in the live entertainment scene since you’ve lived in Conway?

I moved to Conway in 2003 for school, and at that time, the only music scene I was aware of was in Little Rock. For your average person to enjoy live music on a consistent basis, you had to drive 30 minutes away. Conway had a wealth of talent and the population to draw good bands, but it needed an outlet for live music – a place for all the existing ingredients to coalesce.

When Kings made the change to live music, everything just exploded. It became a place for people to feel good playing and listening to live music. Six years ago, area residents drove to Little Rock for entertainment. Now Conway attracts live music lovers from all over the state.

What do you wish more people knew about live music in Conway?

That it exists and we are just getting started.

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Conway’s Live Music Scene Where do you see live music in Conway 5 or 10 years from now?

Exploding and being a regional draw for entertainment with downtown being the epicenter.

Our goal from day one that has remained our goal is to turn Front Street into Conway’s version of a Beale, Bourbon, or 6th Street. I believe this all is attainable within 10 years. We are in the beginning of what I like to call the “entertainment era” of Conway’s evolution.

That evolution will spread to all other facets of business and life here in Conway.

What’s been the biggest surprise during your time at KLM?

The number of talented bands and musicians that Conway and the rest of Arkansas has to offer.

Our folks can play with the best of them, anywhere.

I have – on numerous occasions – chosen to go watch a local band over a nationally touring act.

I have yet to regret that decision.

Team

Sports Think your days playing organized team sports are over? Think again. The City of Conway Parks and Recreation Department offers programs in a variety of sports for both youth and adults. Visit conwayparks.com for details on each program, schedules, and standings.

ADULT PROGRAMS Adult Winter Basketball Season: January – February 10-game season plus singleelimination tournament Adult Summer Softball Season: April – June 14-game season plus singleelimination tournament Adult Summer Basketball Season: July – August 6-game season plus doubleelimination tournament Adult Kickball Season: July – August 8-game season plus singleelimination tournament Fall Adult Softball Season: August – September 8-game season Volleyball Season: October – December 14-game season plus singleelimination tournament

YOUTH PROGRAMS Youth Summer Baseball Season: April – June 12-game season plus singleelimination tournament Youth Summer Softball Season: April – June 12-game season plus singleelimination tournament Coach Pitch/T-Ball Season: April – May 6-game season Braves Baseball Season: April – May 5-game season Youth Flag Football Season: July – August 8-game season plus Super Bowl Youth Fall Baseball Season: September – October 8-game season Youth Fall Softball Season: September – October 8-game season

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SAMUEL RAMIREZ Las Delicias Try This: mangonada

(fruit drink with mango, chamoy, lime, and chilie powder)

FRANCISCO YANEZ Las Delicias Try This: paletas (popsicles)

Photo by Mike Kemp

JEFF VAN OHLEN Fat Daddy’s Bar-B-Que Try This: rack of sweetglazed, baby back ribs

MIKE COATS Mike’s Place Try This: salmon cooked over live oak

Making

MERRY Conway offers visitors and residents more than 200 places to eat, drink, and be merry. Conway has the national chains you would expect in a city of its size and some fun, local options you might not.

Whether you’re looking for a table for two or 20, a family-friendly atmosphere or fine dining, you won’t have any trouble finding a place to treat yourself – no matter where you are in Conway.

After finally deciding where to eat, choosing what to order can be a challenge. (“Everything looks so good!”) We asked some of our local restaurant personalities what foods are must-haves at their establishments.

PATTI STOBAUGH PattiCakes Bakery & Stoby’s Try This: cranberry walnut white chocolate cookie and cheese dip

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[ CONWAY+HEALTH ]

CARING for a COMMUNITY With two full-service hospitals and a new behavioral health facility, Conway is a destination for health care in the North Metro region.

Residents of Conway and the surrounding area are able to choose among numerous family doctors, dentists, behavioral health specialists, chiropractors, physical therapists, and other health care professionals for their family’s medical needs. In addition, a number of health care organizations in the area provide low-cost medical care to the underinsured.

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HEALTH CARE FACILITIES

B E H AV I O R A L H E A LT H

CONWAY REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM

BAPTIST HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER – CONWAY

CONWAY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH HOSPITAL

2302 College Avenue 501-329-3831 conwayregional.org

1555 Exchange Avenue 501-585-2000 baptisthealthconway.com

2255 Strugis Road 501-858-3048 | conwaybh.com

Conway Regional Health System provides inpatient and outpatient health care services to Faulkner County and the surrounding area. As a not-for-profit health system, Conway Regional is committed to reinvesting in health care services that benefit the communities it serves.

The health system works with numerous philanthropic organizations throughout the community to provide programs that benefit people of all ages and income levels. Conway Regional also offers support programs to help families and patients through difficult situations, such as cancer treatment, diabetes management, and the tragic loss of an infant.

In addition to its 150-bed, acute care medical center, Conway Regional Health System features an all-digital outpatient imaging center, an outpatient surgery center, a freestanding rehabilitation hospital, several primary care clinics, and one of the largest hospital-owned fitness centers in the nation.

As the largest, not-for-profit health care organization in the state, Baptist Health has delivered quality health care to Arkansans for more than 90 years. Its ninth and newest hospital location, Baptist Health Medical Center – Conway, opened in September 2016.

Located on the west side of Interstate 40, the 260,000square-foot facility features 111 beds and eight operating rooms. Baptist Health Medical Center – Conway offers a full spectrum of comprehensive services, including labor and delivery, surgical care, cardiac care, orthopedic care, imaging services (MRI, PET, and CAT), respiratory care, physical therapy, and emergency services.

Although it is new to the area, Baptist Health has worked with various educational institutions and nonprofits to promote health and wellness in Faulkner County and the surrounding communities.

In December 2017, Conway Behavioral Health held an open house at its new facility. The 80-bed, 65,000-square-foot behavioral health hospital will employ approximately 150 and will open in early 2018.

The mental health treatment center will include an inpatient acute treatment program for adults upon opening. Other programs will be added in phases, including an inpatient substance abuse program for adults, an inpatient acute program for adolescents, and a Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) program.

Conway Behavioral Health is part of the Acadia network, a provider of inpatient behavioral healthcare services. Acadia operates a network of 591 behavioral healthcare facilities with approximately 17,800 beds in 39 states, the United Kingdom, and Puerto Rico. Acadia provides behavioral health and addiction services to its patients in a variety of settings, including inpatient psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, outpatient clinics, and therapeutic school-based programs.

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NAME: Matt Troup TITLE: CEO, Conway Regional Health System FAMILY: Melissa (wife), Bucky (20, student at Hendrix), Barrett (17), Duncan (15), Gabriel (10)

Q+A

You came to central Arkansas after working in other states/markets. What have been some pleasant surprises either personally or professionally?

People here are genuine and caring.

There is a commitment to family and relationships here that is special and not found just anywhere. Our community is large enough to have a lot of the things you’d find in a larger town without the impersonal culture. Professionally, I’ve never worked with such an engaged and collaborative group of physicians and team members in my career.

They are truly a great group of men and women who love caring for their community. Staff and physicians here have incredible integration of personal and professional values. This is not a place where Sunday values are dropped on Monday morning.

Where do you see this facility in five years? How will it have changed?

I don’t see a facility; I see people and a culture. A facility doesn’t care for people, cure disease, comfort, or anything significant other than

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A Culture of Compassionate Care look appealing to the eye. In five years, our team will be caring for a growing community in new and innovative ways in partnership with an exceptional group of physician partners. We will be differentiated on service and culture. We will have a culture that attracts highperforming professionals with excellent training and who have the patient at the center of their best efforts and training.

Our community will continue to trust us with their care in ever increasing scope of services provided down the hallway – not the highway.

What has been the biggest change in health care during your career?

We’re in the midst of it now – population health and physician integration and alignment. When I first entered health care over 20 years ago, health systems and physicians aligned in order to reduce costs, expand their reach, and improve negotiating power with insurance groups.

Today, integration is being driven by a recognition that we must work together – health systems and physicians – in order to reduce the overall cost of care.

Electronic medical records and the sheer volume of data are now making managing population health a reality unrealized in prior attempts to reduce the total cost of care. The Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) has fueled much of this innovation and change. If it ever gets repealed, then my answer to this question would change!

What do you wish more people knew about CRHS? The depth of caring and compassion our staff has for this community, the commitment to doing the right thing, and our quality. We are not a boastful or attention-seeking group by nature. Our 90+ year history in this community has almost made us invisible to many of those we’ve faithfully served. If you’ve not been to Conway Regional lately, I’d like to invite you for a visit and tour. I trust you will find a culture that stands proud and bold – not because they seek attention but because they believe in what they do. We don’t need flashing lights to tell you that. You can feel it when you visit.

YOUR AD HERE Call the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce to reserve your spot in the 2019 guide.

501-327-7788

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NAME: Tim Bowen

[ CONWAY+HEALTH ]

Q+A

TITLE: Administrator, Baptist Health Conway

UCA Grad Returns to Conway to Lead Baptist Health

You went to college in Conway. Tell us how the city has changed since your time here as a student. Or what were some of the new things you most noticed after your return.

I loved my time at UCA. In fact, it was so positive my wife and I both said we wanted to end up back in central Arkansas to raise our kids.

The growth is what I’ve noticed most since we were here. There are so many more restaurants, shopping, and activities than when I was at UCA. We are having a great time eating at the places we remember but also trying all the new ones. Conway really has everything to offer!

What advice would you give someone moving to Conway?

Get involved in the community and take advantage of all it has to offer.

This is one of the most progressive communities in the country. I would tell them how strong the local schools are, from public to faith-based. I would also tell them they are going to love Conway Corporation! Only getting one bill for all your utilities is pretty sweet!

What are your most immediate goals in your role at Baptist Health?

My immediate goals are to build relationships with the staff, nurses, providers, and volunteers. I’ve spent a lot of my first 60 days interacting with local and regional providers to understand how we can better serve their patients or better support their practices. I also look forward to getting more involved in the community.​

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What has been the biggest change in health care during your career?

Seeing the advancements in technology and how that has changed the way care is delivered is one of the biggest changes I’ve seen. For example, Baptist Health Medical Center – Conway was the first hospital in the state to have the complete da Vinci Xi robotic system, and we have physicians traveling here from across the state – as well as local providers – to utilize our facility because of the level of care we provide. To give you a comparison, a hysterectomy with traditional surgery used to mean a hospital stay of at least three to four nights. With the da Vinci Xi, most women are going home the same day. When you put the latest technology in the hands of skilled clinicians, it truly improves outcomes for patients.

FAMILY: Natalie (wife), Brody (7), Bella Kate (newborn)

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Did You Know

Healthy communities are prepared communities.

Faulkner County residents and businesses can be notified about an emergency situation in the area by signing up for CodeRED. This system sends alerts through a cell phone call or text, a landline, or an email. These alerts are automatically generated when the National Weather Service issues a warning for your location.

Here’s to Good

HEALTH Healthy Eating

In recent years, individuals and organizations across the country have embraced the local food movement to counteract American society’s reliance on fast and processed foods. “Locavores” advocate eating locally produced foods as a way to make healthier food choices, conserve energy, and support local farmers, among other reasons.

To sign up for the free service, visit oem911.net/code-red.

CONWAY LOCALLY GROWN

Established in 2008, Conway Locally Grown is an online farmers market that coordinates with local farmers to provide Conway with fresh, high-quality produce, eggs, meat, and dairy throughout the year.

All products sold at Conway Locally Grown are produced within 150 miles and many are organic. Customers can place orders from 6 p.m. on Sundays to 10 p.m. on Tuesdays. Orders are delivered to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church every Friday. For more information, visit Conway.LocallyGrown.net.

FARMERS MARKETS

Conway also has two outdoor farmers markets. The Conway, Arkansas Farmers Market is open biweekly at 150 Amity Road and features more than 20 vendors, including local farmers, artisans, and live music.

The market opens the second week of May and runs through October.

The Downtown Conway Farmers and Crafts Market is located at 1132 Front Street and offers a variety of vegetables, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Its season also runs from May through October.

ACTIVE LIVING

Those looking to get in shape or maintain their active lifestyle can choose from several gyms and fitness centers that fit a variety of schedules, activity levels, and budgets. Conway also has a strong walking and running community.

The volunteer-based Conway Running Club is a member of the Road Runners Club of America and is dedicated to promoting running, walking, and other fitness-related activities in the Conway area. Runners of all paces and skill levels meet at regular times during the week for group runs. The cost of membership is $15 per year and covers the entire family.

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[ CONWAY+LIFEST YLE ]

Photo by United Way of Central Arkansas

FINDING YOUR PLACE IN CONWAY

What connects you to your community?

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Maybe it’s fellowshipping with members of your church during worship services or small-group gatherings. Or it could be your involvement with a local nonprofit that supports a cause dear to your heart.

Perhaps your family has lived in Conway for generations, and you couldn’t imagine calling anywhere else home.

No matter what you’re involved in or how long you’ve lived here, the one thing that connects us to Conway is the people – the friends and neighbors we interact with in the grocery store, at your kids’ school, at work, and at play.

In this section, you’ll find a list of outreach organizations, nonprofits, and houses of worship you can become a part of or support as a way to deepen your connection to the Conway area.

OUTREACH AND NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS 1120 Oak Street | 501-327-5087 | uwcark.org

United Way of Central Arkansas serves as an umbrella fundraising agency for partner agencies in Faulkner and Perry Counties. United Way works to advance the common good by focusing on education, income, and health. It conducts major fundraising events each year, including Jeans & Bling and the Turkey Trot 5K, to raise money for numerous services in these areas.

The organizations listed below are members of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce and/or are financially supported by United Way of Central Arkansas.

DISASTER RELIEF American Red Cross of Greater Arkansas 813 Parkway Avenue 501-329-3571 redcross.org/arkansas

SHELTERS & HOUSING ASSISTANCE Bethlehem House 1115 Parkway Avenue 501-329-4862 bethlehemhouse.net Habitat for Humanity of Faulkner County 825 Parkway Avenue, Suite A 501-513-3244 habitatfaulknerco.wordpress.com HAVEN House

(Help for Abuse Victims in Emergency Need)

501-327-1701 caiinc.org/faulkner.htm Soaring Wings Ranch 501-849-2253 swranch.org Women’s Shelter of Central Arkansas 501-329-7405 conwaywomensshelter.com

PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN & YOUTH Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arkansas 1105 Deer Street, Suite 14 501-336-9505 bbbsca.org

Boy Scouts of America – Quapaw Area Council 3220 Cantrell Road (Little Rock) 501-664-4780 quapawbsa.org Boys & Girls Club of Faulkner County 1405 Robins Street 501-329-8849 bgcfaulkner.org Child Care Aware of Northcentral Arkansas ccana.org Children’s Advocacy Alliance of North Central Arkansas 574 Locust Street 501-328-3347 hopeandjustice.org Choosing to Excel 1200 Bob Courtway Drive 501-730-0205 choosingtoexcel.org Community Connections 2740 College Avenue 501-733-1627 communityconnectionsar.org

Deliver Hope 1403 Robinson Avenue 501-358-6306 deliver-hope.org Faulkner County Juvenile Court 501 South German Lane 501-328-5922 faulknercounty.org Girl Scouts Diamonds of Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas – Faulkner County Chapter 501-758-1020 girlscoutsdiamonds.org KLIFE of Conway 1800 Hillman Street 501-329-4929 conway.klife.com Shine Xpress 2415 Donaghey Avenue 501-327-7742

PROGRAMS FOR SENIORS Faulkner County Council on Aging (Conway Senior Wellness & Activity Center)

705 East Siebenmorgen Road 501-327-2895 fcseniors.com

Community Service Inc. 818 North Creek Drive 501-327-9788 csiyouth.com

American Cancer Society cancer.org

Conway Cradle Care 2400 Prince Street 501-730-0017 cradlecare.org

Arkansas Hospice 1105 Deer Street 501-328-5400 arkansashospice.org

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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OUTREACH AND NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

CHI St. Vincent Interfaith Clinic 830 North Creek Drive 501-932-0559 Life Choices Inc. 609 Locust Street, 2nd Floor 501-329-5944 lifechoicesinc.org Hope and Compassion Ministries 501-514-1625 hopeandcompassion.org Renewal Ranch 501-269-4306 therenewalranch.org

EDUCATION AETN 350 S. Donaghey 501-682-2386 aetn.org Arkansas Preschool Plus 501-472-6395 arpreschoolplus.org Blackbird Academy of Arts 1058 Front Street, Suite 102 501-336-8200 blackbirdacademy.org Single Parent Scholarship Fund of Faulkner County 501-420-4638 aspsf.org Conway EcoFest 422 Conway Boulevard 501-328-3915 conwayecofest.com Faulkner County Museum Locust Street 501-329-5918 faulknercountymuseum.org Literacy Action of Central Arkansas 1900 Tyler Street 501-372-7323 literacyactionar.org St. Joseph School Endowment & Charitable Trust 1315 College Avenue 501-329-1818 sjse.org

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PHYSICAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES Birch Tree Communities Inc. 132 Lower Ridge Road 501-315-3344 birchtree.org Compass Academy 1215 Sturgis Road 501-581-1070 compassacademyconway.org

Conway Human Development Center 150 East Siebenmorgen Road 501-329-6851 Disabled American Veterans – John H. Dunn Chapter #10 dav.org Faulkner County Council on Developmental Disabilities 1301 North Museum Road 501-327-3037

OUTREACH AND NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS Independent Living Services 615 East Robins Street 501-327-5234 indliving.org

City of Hope Outreach 608 East Robins Street 501-205-1614 cityhopeoutreach.com

Milestones Services Inc. 1700 South Boulevard 501-329-2164

Community Action Program for Central Arkansas 707 Robins Street, Suite 118 501-329-0977 capcainc.org

COMMUNITY OUTREACH Arkansas Community Foundation of Faulkner County 1315 College Avenue 501-932-0390 arcf.org

Downline Conway 501-499-9758 conway.downlineministries.com

Junior Auxiliary of Conway 501-472-4068 jaconway.org Ozark Conference Center 102 Ozark Mountain Road (Solgohachia) 501-254-3959 ozarkconferencecenter.org Student Mobilization 888-467-8866 stumo.org

POVERTY AND HUNGER ALLEVIATION Chicks for Children Foundation Inc. 501-472-5452 chicksforchildren.org Humane Society of Faulkner County Companions Thrift Store 2219 Washington Avenue 501-932-4444 fixingfaulknercounty.com The Salvation Army Family Store 2125 Harkrider, Suite 12 501-329-1712 salvationarmyaok.org/conway The Louise & Anne Thrift & Flea Market at St. Joseph School 1313 College Avenue 501-513-6899 stjosephconway.org The Ministry Center

766 Harkrider Street 501-358-6098 ministrycenter.org Water for Christ

240 Skyline Drive #204 501-329-1400 waterforchrist.com

ARTS & CULTURE Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre

501-852-0702 arkshakes.com Conway Symphony Orchestra

conwaysymphony.org

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HOUSES OF WORSHIP Conway is home to numerous churches offering traditional and contemporary worship styles in different denominations.

This list includes local houses of worship that are members of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce.

Antioch Baptist Church 150 Amity Road 501-329-5153 antiochconway.com

Rock Solid Church 550 Central Landing Boulevard 501-329-2152 therocksolidchurch.com

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church 925 Mitchell Street 501-329-8174 stpetersconway.org

Calvary Church 1832 Robinson Avenue 501-329-5125 calvarychurchofconway.com

Second Baptist Church 2600 Dave Ward Drive 501-327-6565 2bc.tv

The Summit Church 1905 Dave Ward Drive 501-205-2920 thesummitchurch.org

Central Baptist Church 3333 Dave Ward Drive 501-329-9283 conwaycentralchurch.org

St. Joseph Catholic Church 1115 College Avenue 501-327-6568 sjparish.org

True Holiness Saints Center 198 Highway 286 East 501-327-8770 trueholiness.net

City Church 766 Harkrider Street 501-313-0802 citychurch.tv Conway Cowboy Church 501-327-4033 Conway’s First Baptist Church 1719 Robinson Avenue 501-329-5648 conwayfbc.com First United Methodist Church 1610 Prince Street 501-329-3801 conwayfumc.org Four Winds Church 2005 Dave Ward Drive 501-329-FOUR fwcconway.org Grace United Methodist Church 1075 Hogan Lane 501-329-6056 graceconway.org New Hope Baptist Church 1232 Watkins Street 501-358-5054 newhopefamily.org New Life Church 633 South Country Club Road 501-328-5433 newlifechurch.tv OneChurch 1073 Front Street onechurchconway.com Peace Lutheran Church 800 South Donaghey Avenue 501-329-3854 peaceconway.org

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Jay & Molly Bernard Connecting to the Community

When did you move to Conway?

We moved to Conway 17 years ago in October of 2000. At the time, we had three small children, ages 2, 4, and 7, so finding a safe community with an excellent school system were two of our top priorities.

What advice would you give someone moving to Conway?

First, I would say to them that moving to Conway is a great decision! Next, I would encourage them to get involved.

Whether they are single or have a family, this city has so much to offer in the way of volunteer organizations, youth sports, continuing education, arts and theater, and everything inbetween. Take time to look at all that

Conway has to offer and find something they are passionate about and jump in and be a part of it. Although our city is growing at a rapid pace, there is still that “little community” feel and a sense of belonging.

How have you, your family, or your business been involved with giving back to the community?

From the very beginning, my wife, Molly, and I have been involved in the community. We served as PTO co-presidents for one of the elementary schools soon after arriving in Conway.

Our involvement with youth-related organizations and events has continued through the Noon Optimist Club’s Conway Youth Football League, where I served as commissioner for six years and currently announce youth play-by-play football for the league. Molly has served on the H.A.V.E.N. Board, and we are actively supporting their “Every Child Deserves A Home” campaign.

For many years we served as members of the Conway High School Band Boosters. Currently, and for the last several years, I have taught an insurance module in the Greenbrier High School Entrepreneurial class. In addition, I have been a committee member for the Optimist Angel Tree, president of

the Noon Optimist Club, Chairman for the Faulkner Co. American Cancer Relay, past president of the Historic District Committee, past president of NAIFA (National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors), member of the UCA Purple Circle, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Conway Development Corporation.

We have also encouraged our children to give back to the community. As a family, we volunteered in the tornado relief effort for Vilonia, participated in gifts for Angel Tree, distributed meals for the Community Thanksgiving Dinner, and two of our children participated in the FCYLI (Faulkner County Youth Leadership Institute). As a business owner, I constantly strive to find volunteer opportunities where my staff can serve in some capacity, too. Most recently we have collected items for CAPCA, raked leaves for Faulkner County Day School, distributed meals and food for Soul Food Café, and assisted Tacos 4 Life by assembling rice packs for their Meal 4 Meal program.

What “pleasant surprises” do you think people discover when they spend time in Conway?

I think people are pleasantly surprised to find out what a vibrant city we have, without sacrificing the quaintness of our downtown area. (And in the summer months, they can find a pleasant surprise in the Box 10 parking lot where the Pineapple Whip stand sits!)

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NEW TO CONWAY? These tips can help your home search.

East to West = Old to New

If you start on Locust Street at the edge of town and head west, as a rule, the homes get newer.

Old Conway is bound by Locust Street on the east and Donaghey Avenue on the west. It includes a variety of architectural styles representing the 1910s to the midcentury. It’s adjacent to downtown and close to all three colleges. It’s also conveniently close to all of the shopping and dining options along Interstate 40.

Midtown is approximately bound by Donaghey Avenue on the east and Country Club on the west. The Bainbridge, Oak Forest, Tucker Creek, Parkwood, and Smoking Oaks subdivisions all offer traditional home styles from the 1970s and 80s. Other subdivisions like Windcrest, Pippinpost, Scherman Heights, and Adamsbrooke are mingled in and were developed in the 1990s. The commercial development along Prince Street and Salem Road offers instant access to everyday conveniences.

West Conway has dozens of subdivisions with homes ranging in price from the mid-100s to over one million dollars.

Subdivisions like Centennial Valley, Sunderlin Park, Westin Park, St. John’s, Chapel Creek, and many more are all in west Conway. West Conway is the most purely residential part of town, but there are some commercial options along Hogan Road.

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Look south for a convenient commute Conway’s fifth interstate exit opened just south of the city in 2017, giving residents who travel back and forth into Little Rock an easier commute. The Cresthaven, Richland Hills, Southwind, Catherine Place, and other subdivisions south of Dave Ward Drive can now take advantage of a three-mile “head start” on their morning drive.

Don’t shop elementary schools If you’ve got school-aged children, where they go to school is a big deal. But in Conway, it’s almost impossible to pick an elementary school you won’t be happy with. Over the past decade, six out of our nine elementary schools have spent time at the top of our academic rankings. Benchmark exams, state-assigned letter grades, Blue Ribbon achievement awards – the recognition has been spread around. Changing district lines and overall district health make picking the “best” elementary school a fool’s errand. Pick the house you love and know there is a great school just around the corner.

These tips hopefully will let you start orienting yourself to the Conway house hunt. There are so many other great places to live beyond what’s mentioned here. Go to ConwayChamber.org and find a real estate agent to help you make a home in Conway.

UTILITIES AND PUBLIC SERVICES Conway Corporation

650 Locust Street | 501-450-6000 conwaycorp.com Conway Corporation provides electric, water, wastewater, cable, internet, telephone, and security services to Conway homes and businesses within the city limits.

City of Conway Department of Sanitation

4550 Highway 64 West | 501-450-6155 conwaysanitation.org The City of Conway’s Department of Sanitation provides trash pickup, yardwaste collection, and free recycling service to Conway homes and businesses

CenterPoint Energy 817 North Creek Drive | 800-992-7552 centerpointenergy.com CenterPoint Energy provides natural gas services to residential and business customers in Conway.

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Capital Campaign A vision for what Conway can be

Entergy Arkansas 112 Oak Street | 800-368-3749 entergy-arkansas.com Entergy Arkansas provides electricity to residences outside of Conway’s city limits.

Wayfinding Signage Every year, tens of thousands of visitors come to Conway for tournaments, cultural events, conferences, and more. A consistent and attractive system of “wayfinding” signs will not only help visitors find their planned destination, it will also help them discover new things along the way.

The Conway Convention and Visitors Bureau partnered with Merje Design to prepare a “Wayfinding Signage” plan that identifies key locations and useful content to help visitors move around and learn about Conway.

CONWAY125.COM

Making a wise

MOVE

RICK GREEN Coldwell Banker RPM Conway

We assembled five of the best minds in residential real estate and asked them what the secret is to a successful search for a new place to call home.

PAM McDOWELL: The key to success in real estate is patience. Real estate is the most valuable asset for most of us and is a very emotional decision for a family.

Sellers typically will have specific reasons for selling and helping them through the process requires patience since they are being emotionally impacted also.

RICK GREEN: Work with a licensed Realtor.

A Realtor can help you with every step of this process.

Get pre-approval from a local lender. Finally, make sure your expectations for the home you want are also for the home you can afford.

MATT GRISSOM: When I have the privilege of working with home buyers or sellers, I pride myself on my ability to negotiate. I want my clients to get the best possible deal out there, whether they’re buying or selling.

PAM McDOWELL ERA Team Real Estate

LANCE JOHNSTON: Realistic expectations are important. It always takes longer and costs more to get what you really want.

SPENCER HAWKS: Treat purchasing a home as if it’s one of the largest purchases you’ll ever make because it probably is. Use a professional.

Photo by Mike Kemp

LANCE JOHNSTON Reform Design+Build

MATT GRISSOM The Grissom Team

SPENCER HAWKS Arkansas Property Brokers: Hawks Family Team

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Making a

NOLEN HUGHES College Hunks Hauling Junk

HOME Making your house a home is easier with a team. Whether you’re looking for something new or considering remodeling, these professionals will help you get the most out of your home.

BEFORE THE MOVE It’s always best to junk/donate items that you won’t be moving weeks in advance to make room for packing boxes. Our company offers free in-home consultations and can help with the planning, staging, de-cluttering and relocation. – College Hunks Hauling Junk SIMPLIFY WITH A ONE-STOP-SHOP Since we live in a digital world, our team understands the importance of being connected. We are focused on providing electric, water, cable, internet, telephone, and security services that are state-of-the-art and reliable. It’s connection for you, powered by us. – Conway Corporation EVERYONE SEES THE FRONT YARD For newly seeded lawns, take special care when mowing.

Make sure the blade is set almost as high as the grass so as not to uproot the seedling. The first trim should come when the new grass is three inches high. Be sure your mower blades are sharp.

Dull blades rip and shred the grass instead of cutting it, leaving your lawn susceptible to disease. – Triple C Mowing A SMART HOME (that looks and sounds great) Custom technology takes a house and makes it your home.

From controlling your home audio/video system to controlling your lighting and HVAC system, we make home technology easier to use. Consider the system’s quality and ease of use along with your home’s décor when building your home audio and video experience. – Deboard Electronics

Photo by Mike Kemp

CHIP DEBOARD Deboard Electronics

KEVIN BAILE Triple C Mowing

SEAN MAXFIELD Conway Corporation

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Capital Campaign A vision for what Conway can be

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CONWAY SHOPPING DISTRICTS

Conway has four distinct shopping districts, each of which is close to Interstate 40. If you have more than one stop in mind, another district is only moments away. Here’s a breakdown of what’s in store when you shop Conway.

Interstate Beautification Over the course of a year, millions of people drive though Conway on the interstate. For many, that is the only impression they have of our city. A well-designed, properly maintained landscaping plan along our interstate corridor and exits – coupled with new, decorative bridges – will help Conway stand out on our nation’s thirdlongest interstate. The Conway Chamber will raise private funds to implement landscaping master plans for Exits 127 and 129.

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Downtown: Exit 127 From antique stores selling treasures from days gone by to high-fashion boutiques offering the latest trends, Conway’s downtown shopping scene is a perfect mix of old and new. Approximately 40 retail businesses and restaurants call downtown Conway home.

Conway Towne Center: Exit 125 The Conway Towne Centre is an 180,000-square-foot shopping center located off U.S. Highway 65. Anchored by a Cinemark movie theatre, Urban Air Trampoline Park, JCPenney, and Office Depot, the Conway Towne Centre is also home to several other restaurants and retail stores.

Lewis Crossing: Exit 129 Conway’s newest shopping destination is Lewis Crossing. Located just off Dave Ward Drive east of Interstate 40, Lewis Crossing offers more than a dozen nationally known restaurants and stores, including Sam’s Club, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Ulta Beauty, Michaels, On The Border, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Petco.

Conway Commons: Exit 127 Located off East Oak Street, Conway Commons is a regional shopping hub featuring 43 stories spanning more than 654,000 square feet, including big name brands such as T.J. Maxx and HomeGoods, Belk, Target, Old Navy, Kohl’s, and DICK’S Sporting Goods.

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Bell & Sward Erik Sward, Co-Owner What does a customer get from shopping at your store that they can’t get shopping online?

The most valuable asset we have over online is customer service. We know the ins and outs of all of our products, so we are able to quickly guide you to the size and fit you need.

You can’t get that online. I would argue that the ability to touch and feel the merchandise and try it on is invaluable as well.

What role does e-commerce play in your business?

We do not use e-commerce.

We choose to keep our focus on our personal relationships.

How has retail changed during your career?

Most people would argue that it would be the rise of online shopping. However, I feel that the biggest change is the downfall of the big box stores.

Where do your customers come from? How are they finding you?

Our customers come from about a 45- to 60-mile radius. Social media is our biggest ally when it comes to getting the word out, but other avenues of advertising have worked.

What changes do you imagine for your business five years from now?

Hopefully we will see Bell & Sward grow bigger and bigger.

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Conway’s Neighbors Conway is surrounded by growing communities in Faulkner, Conway, and Pulaski counties. Greenbrier, Maumelle, Mayflower, Morrilton, and Vilonia are just a short drive from Conway and offer great schools and affordable living.

Morrilton

6,746 COUNTY Conway

POPULATION

MEDIAN HOME PRICE

$93,100

Greenbrier

5,164 COUNTY Faulkner

POPULATION

MEDIAN HOME PRICE

$135,800

Vilonia

4,298 COUNTY Faulkner

POPULATION

MEDIAN HOME PRICE

$152,700

Maumelle

17,795 COUNTY Pulaski

POPULATION

MEDIAN HOME PRICE

$218,700

Mayflower

1,885 COUNTY Faulkner

POPULATION

MEDIAN HOME PRICE

$122,900

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2012-2016 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates

[ CONWAY+COMMUNITIES ]

Beebe

7,952 COUNTY White

POPULATION

The North Metro

DISTANCE FROM CONWAY:

36 miles east

Cabot

25,407 COUNTY Lonoke

POPULATION

DISTANCE FROM CONWAY:

30 miles east

Searcy

23,969 COUNTY White

POPULATION

DISTANCE FROM CONWAY:

50 miles east

Heber Springs

7,169 Cleburne

POPULATION COUNTY

MEDIAN HOME PRICE

40 miles north

Russellville

29,136 COUNTY Pope

POPULATION

DISTANCE FROM CONWAY:

45 miles west

Maumelle

17,795 COUNTY Pulaski

POPULATION

DISTANCE FROM CONWAY:

20 miles south

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2012-2016 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates

As Conway has added people and amenities over the last 25 years, its regional influence has also grown. The city is the regional epicenter for labor, retail, and health care for the “North Metro,” a trade area encompassing the cities of Beebe, Cabot, Searcy, Heber Springs, Russellville, and Maumelle.

#HeyConway

Scavenger

Become a tourist in your own town and explore 10 of Conway’s well-known landmarks and a few hidden gems. Show us your selfie from each location by using the #HeyConway hashtag!

hynt 1

Go Fish At 6,700 acres, Lake Conway is the largest man-made game and fish commission lake in the United States.

It is known as an excellent fishing lake and is stocked with bass, catfish, bream, and crappie. The main access to Lake Conway is from Interstate 40 via exit 135 at Mayflower.

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PUblic works of art As you walk or drive around downtown Conway, you’ll notice bronze sculptures of children reading, enjoying nature, and simply being kids. There’s even a sculpture of a toad reading to smaller toads in Rogers Plaza. These statues are intended to convey images of Toad Suck Daze and its mission, which is education.

3

Lights & Sounds underground A pedestrian tunnel on the Hendrix College campus is more than a safe underpass for students crossing Harkrider Street. Commonly referred to as the Hendrix Tunnel, the Harmonic Fugue is an interactive light and sound installation. Try to solve the riddle for a delightful experience!

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4

ringing of the bells

The Ratliff Bell Tower is a centerpiece on the campus of Central Baptist College. The structure appeals not only to the eyes but also the ears; it plays more than 500 different hymns from its programmed sound system and chimes on the hour.

5

Big bear A life-sized, wood carving of a black bear stands proudly on the UCA campus. The University of Central Arkansas commissioned chainsaw carver and sculptor Gary Keenan to transform a tree stump into the bear.

The tree was originally planted in memory of UCA alumni who served in World War II.

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9

Wall art Over the past decade, Conway has been committed to making art more available to the public. A collaborative mural project between the University of Central Arkansas and the City of Conway is painted on city hall facing Simon Park. Designed and executed by Arkansas-native Morton Brown, “Aurora Rising” captures Conway’s history and present.

10

History lessons in a natural setting Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Cadron Settlement Park was a port on the Arkansas River and has roots as a French trading post. The 150-acre park includes a reconstructed blockhouse, interpretative signs, and hiking trails.

Choo-Choo A caboose from the Missouri Pacific Railroad is a key feature of Simon Park in downtown Conway. The bright red railcar sits directly in front of what is now the Union Pacific Railroad.

7

On the square The intersection of Oak and Front Streets in downtown Conway is appropriately named Toad Suck Square. The streets are painted with a large emblem of Toad Suck Daze, and a colorful street marker also designates the square.

8

On the trail As you roll or stroll down the Tucker Creek Walking and Bike Trail, you will likely see ducks, turtles, squirrels, and other wildlife along the path.

The paved and lighted trail has access points at various locations.

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS The following businesses and organizations supported the 2018 edition of Conway+ through advertising.

Special thanks to photographer Mike Kemp for capturing the photos featuring Conway-area industry experts.

Affordable Dentures & Implants........................................................................................................................................................ 27 ARcare............................................................................................................................................................................................... 67 Arkansas Eye Care Group................................................................................................................................................................... 67 Arkansas Federal Credit Union........................................................................................................................................................... 72 Arkansas Property Brokers, Hawks Family Team................................................................................................................................ 39 Arvest Bank........................................................................................................................................................................................26 Austin Brothers Tire & Service........................................................................................................................................................... 67 Bank of the Ozarks............................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Baptist Health Medical Center–Conway.............................................................................................................................................. 7 Beebe’s Hamburgers & Hot Dogs....................................................................................................................................................... 67 Bell & Sward–Gentlemen’s Clothier................................................................................................................................................... 87 Centennial Bank................................................................................................................................................................................ 20 Central Baptist Church...................................................................................................................................................................... 78 Cherokee Casino & Hotel–Roland................................................................................................................................................48-49 Coldwell Banker RPM Group............................................................................................................................................................ 93 College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving............................................................................................................................................ 23 Collins Oral & Facial Surgery............................................................................................................................................................ 72 Conway Convention & Visitors Bureau............................................................................................................................................. 94 Conway Corporation...........................................................................................................................................................................4 Conway Obstetrics and Gynecology................................................................................................................................................... 73 Conway Regional Health System............................................................................................................................................back cover Conway Symphony Orchestra............................................................................................................................................................ 67 Corco Construction........................................................................................................................................................................... 88 Country Inn & Suites........................................................................................................................................................................ 63 Covington Companies.......................................................................................................................................................................22 Crain Buick GMC / Crain Kia............................................................................................................................................................. 5 Custom Landscape & Nursery........................................................................................................................................................... 91 DeBoard Electronics / C2 Powersports............................................................................................................................................... 90 Delta Dental......................................................................................................................................................................................70 Edafio Technology Partners................................................................................................................................................................ 21 ERA Team Real Estate.......................................................................................................................................................................... 3

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Fat Daddy’s Bar-B-Que.................................................... 62 First Security Bank........................................................... 95 First Service Bank............................................................... 2 Grissom Team at RE/MAX Elite...................................... 19 H+N Architects................................................................ 76 Hawkins & Garrett, CPAs, PLLC.................................... 15 Kings Live Music.............................................................. 62 Las Delicias / FYI Taxes & Insurance................................ 24 Lindsey Management....................................................... 50 Magie Smith Charton Eye Clinic..................................... 70 Malvern National Bank.................................................... 33 Mike’s Place...................................................................... 60 Moix RV.......................................................................... 51 Museum of Discovery...................................................... 21 Pain Treatment Centers of America.................................. 71 Palmer Music Company................................................... 45 Park Hill Home................................................................ 25 Petit Jean Meats................................................................ 63 PST Tax Inc./H&R Block.................................................. 9 Reform Design+Build...................................................... 81 Reynolds Performance Hall.............................................. 44 S&S Security Alarms........................................................ 89 Salter Construction / Salter Properties.............................. 22 Second Baptist Church..................................................... 18 Simmons Bank................................................................. 18 Smith Ford....................................................................... 19 State Farm Insurance Agent–Jay Bernard.......................... 57 Stoby’s Restaurant / PattiCakes Bakery............................. 61 Strain Photography.......................................................... 26 The Kitchen Store and More............................................ 38 The Ride.......................................................................... 53 Trinity Development Inc.................................................. 23 Triple C Outdoor Power Equipment.................................. 9 United Way...................................................................... 77 University of Central Arkansas Athletics........................... 33 University of Central Arkansas Division of....................... 35 Outreach & Community Engagement Urban Air Trampoline Park.............................................. 27 Visioncare Arkansas.......................................................... 69 For advertising information, call the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce at 501-327-7788.

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We are health care in Conway Nearly

45,000

Patients Treated

Over

1,800

(in our primary care network)

Babies Delivered

More than

225

Physicians on our Medical Staff

Over

40,000 ER Visits

More than

1,300

Employees

Conway Regional is the largest provider of health care in the area. We’re continually adding services and people as we continue to grow right along with the community. We look forward to continuing to keep Conway healthy for many years to come. *based on data collected in 2016

ConwayRegional.org