2022 Conway+ Community Profile & Resource Guide

CONWAY Community Profile & Resource Guide

A

Connected Conway

“Pollinator Mural” Art by Jessica Jones

2022

Letter from the Editor

A CONNECTED CONWAY To paraphrase author and researcher Dr. Brené Brown, humans are hardwired for connection. The past couple of years has made this abundantly clear. We have found ways to be together when we’re apart – from scribbling encouraging messages on sidewalks and store windows at the start of the pandemic to using alternative (and sometimes awkward) greetings to put a little more distance between us. We also found ways to connect with ourselves and the world around us.

Connection is woven throughout many of the stories you’ll read in the 2022 edition of Conway+.

The team at Conway Publications Inc. had the privilege of sharing stories from our friends and neighbors who have found ways to connect with themselves, each other, and the environment. These stories not only explore art, food, language, and nature as a connector of people but also examine how art, food, language, and nature connect us to the place we call home.

Author, theologian, and civil rights leader Howard Thurman once said, “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” The subjects of these stories have found that thing that makes them come alive, whether they pursue it as a vocation or as a hobby. One of the most rewarding parts about putting this publication together is having the opportunity to connect with people in our community and seeing their faces light up as they share their passion and purpose with us. We’re excited to share their incredible stories with you.

What makes you come alive? When do you feel most connected to yourself, others, or your community?

Whatever it is, go do it. We’ll all be better for it.

Adena J. White Editor, Conway Publications

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CONTENTS

CONWAY

CONWAY AND THE NORTH METRO 6 About Conway: Who We Are, What Sets Us Apart

EDITOR | Adena J. White GRAPHIC DESIGNER | Kara Darling

8 Road Trips from Conway 10 Conway2035 paints “ambitious, smart” future for city’s “People & Places”

12 Kim Williams: The Queen of Downtown

19 Finding a Home in Conway

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS | Lee Hogan

RESEARCH AND STATISTICS

CREATING MASTERPIECES 30 Lucas Strack: Turning a Childhood Passion into a Career

32 Felix Maull: Finding Beauty in

ASK THE EXPERT 14 Jessica Crum, Silverlake Design Studio and Creative Institute of Central Arkansas

the Mistakes

34 Ronnie Williams: A Long, Difficult 36 Andrea Lennon: Sharing Truth Through Writing

38 Jessica Jones: Transforming

EDUCATION IN CONWAY

BACKYARD CONWAY

20 Meet Conway Public Schools

46 Rabbit Ridge Farms: Creating

Community Through Art

Community through Food and Agriculture

Superintendent Jeff Collum learners builds confidence, community and skills

ADVERTISING SALES CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER | Lindsay Henderson DIRECTOR OF SALES & MEMBER ENGAGEMENT | Leo Cummings III

Road to Truth

16 Chris Crain, Chris Crain Enterprises 18 Johnny Adams, First Security Bank

22 UACCM’s ESL program for adult

VICE PRESIDENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | Corey Parks

50 The Couple that Hikes Together:

Jenny and Houston Davis explore the Natural State

ADMINISTRATION CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER | Laura Grimes SENIOR ACCOUNTANT | Jennifer Hiegel-Shelden

CONWAY PUBLICATIONS EDITORIAL BOARD Johnny Adams Bill Adkisson Lori Melton Lori Ross Jeff Standridge

54 The Wild Life: Cole and Jay Harken share their wildlife adventures with the world

56 The Flow Trail at Pompe Park 57 Osmar Garcia on Cycling in Conway and Central Arkansas

58 Explore the Great Outdoors 60 Jordan Case on Fishing in Conway and Central Arkansas

CONWAY CONSUMER GUIDE 67 Spotlight on Conway Businesses

PRESIDENT & CEO | Brad Lacy EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT | Jamie Gates

900 OAK STREET CONWAY, ARKANSAS 72032 501-327-7788 GetSmart@ConwayArkansas.org

+ THE GUIDE 72 74 75 76

Education Health Care Utilities & Public Services City of Conway Parks

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.

ON THE COVER Painted by mural artist Jessica Jones, the “Pollinator Mural” is located on the corner of North and Front Streets in downtown Conway. Read more about Jessica in this edition of Conway+.

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CONWAY: WHO WE AR E GROWING COMMUNITY

YOUNG COMMUNITY

C O N WAY ’S P O P UL AT IO N GR O W T H

40 35

64,134

38.8 36.7

30

58,908

43,167

38.1

29.9

25

28,767

20 15

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020 10 5

Conway: 64,134 Faulkner County: 123,498 Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway Metro Area: 748,031

AN EDUCATED WORKFORCE Known as the “City of Colleges,” Conway is home to three higher education institutions, all of which have been in the city since the late 1800s and produce graduates who stay in the area and enter the workforce. Nearly 40% of adults 25 and older have a bachelor’s degree or higher.

39.7% 25 or older possess a bachelor’s degree or higher (National Average: 33%)

94.0% high school graduation rate (National Average: 84%)

0

National

Arkansas

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Conway

DIVERSE COMMUNITY

Asian

2.3%

h ispan ic or lat in o

4.3%

t w o or m ore races

3.0%

am erican in dian & alaska n at ive

0.2%

whit e black or african Am erican

74.5%

17.3%

White Black or African American American Indian and Alaska Native

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Little Rock

Asian Hispanic or Latino Two or more races

A ND WHAT S ETS US APART A GROWING & DIVERSE ECONOMY The central Arkansas economy is one of the most diverse in the United States. In Conway, three “tentpoles” – health care, technology, and education – stabilize and stimulate economic growth. Gainwell Technologies, Acxiom, Insight Enterprises, Snap-on Equipment, Molex, International Paper, and WestRock are a few of the major employers.

AFFORDABILITY Conway consistently ranks among the nation’s most inexpensive places to live offering a low cost of living but a high quality of life.

30% cheaper

electricity and water rates compared to other cities in Arkansas

L A RG EST EM P L OY ERS Employer

Industry

Number of Employees

Conway Regional Health System

Health Care

1,650

Acxiom

Information Technology

1,450

University of Central Arkansas

Education

1,500

Nabholz Construction Corporation

Construction

1,200

Conway Public School District

Education

1,150

Conway Human Development Center

Institutional Care

834

Walmart

Department and Grocery Store

825

Gainwell Technologies

Information Technology

600

City of Conway

Government

544

Virco Manufacturing

School, Office and Institutional Furniture

540

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS NEW LOCATION

EXPANSION

$160 million

$18.3 million

CAPITAL INVESTMENT

CAPITAL INVESTMENT

250 NEW JOBS

33 NEW JOBS

$28 AVERAGE HOURLY WAGE

NEW LOCATION

20 NEW JOBS $38 AVERAGE HOURLY WAGE

$23.94 AVERAGE HOURLY WAGE

$825

average cost of rent

$1,284

median mortgage

CENTRAL LOCATION

$171,600

Conway is positioned in Metro Little Rock, in the heart of Arkansas, with easy connectivity to the state and region.

value of housing units

Kan sas cit y

Memp his

Great er St. L ou is

nashv il l e

6 hours

5.5 hours

2.5 hours 6 hours

$47,221

median household income

G r e ater H oust on

7 hours

G r e ater Aust in

t ulsa

8.5 hours

3.5 hours

Da lla s-Fort W ort h

oklah om a Cit y

5 hours

4.5 hours

n ew Orlean sM etairie-Ke nner

Fayet t ev iller oger s- sp r ingdal e

At lan ta

Gr eat er b ir mingham

7 hours 8 hours

2.5 hours 6 hours

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Out on the Open Road

With its central location in The Natural State, Conway is just a short drive from some of the region’s most popular tourist towns, giving you the perfect excuse for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Roland, OK

Memphis, TN

Drive Time: 2 hours Don’t Miss: Cherokee Casino & Hotel Roland

Drive Time: 2 hours 26 min.

Don’t Miss: Beale Street

Fayetteville/NW Arkansas

Oklahoma City, OK

Drive Time: 2 hours 28 min.

Don’t Miss: Dickson Street Crystal Bridges Museum

Drive Time: 4 hours 37 min.

Don’t Miss: Bricktown

Dallas, TX Nashville, TN Drive Time: 5 hours 38 min.

Don’t Miss: Live Music

Drive Time: 5 hours 3 min.

Don’t Miss: Professional Sports Theme Parks

New Orleans, LA Drive Time: 7 hours 26 min.

Don’t Miss: French Quarter

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HOMES SOLD IN CONWAY

2021 831 2020 901

AVERAGE PRICE IN CONWAY

2021 $246,010 2020 $223,424

HOME PERMITS ISSUED

2021 408 2020 348

Pulse

of Conway

Economy at a Glance

$

A&P Tax collections have grown by more than

$1.5 Million since 2012 Collections rebounded in 2021 to

Restaurant sales tax collections made up the majority of the A&P collections in 2021, totaling more than

$4.7 Million

$5.1 Million

Since 2012, restaurant sales tax collections have grown more than

after falling to $4.06 million in 2020

$1.6 Million

+ about conway

CONWAY2035 paints “ambitious, smart” future for city’s “People & Places” NOW HIRING

In July 2020, the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce convened a Institute’s mission is to “use former governor Winthrop Rockefeller’s 13-person steering committee tasked with overseeing the creation of collaborative approach to create transformational change.” a new strategic plan for the Conway community. The effort had In April, 50 Conway business, government, nonprofit, and civic originally been scheduled to begin in March, but COVID-19 had put leaders convened at the Institute on Petit Jean Mountain to refine the everything on hold. The only item on the agenda for this meeting was finished version of the plan. Winthrop Rockefeller Institute CEO Marta to decide whether or not it was possible to facilitate a strategic plan Lloyd said the process was a perfect fit for the organization’s mission. during a pandemic.

“The Institute brings people with a diverse set of opinions together “At the time, I was really conflicted,” Jamie Gates, executive vice to engage in respectful dialogue and collaborative problem solving that president of the chamber, said. “I didn’t know if it was an appropriate results in transformational change,” she said. “We’re inspired by the time to move forward. I was worried about participation.PAnd I didn’t allWAY involved and are confident the city and the Chamber will take E O P L E & P L A C E S work O F Cof ON want the result to be a plan that focused on the trauma and uncertainty seriously the goals their citizens have set for the next 15 years.” we were surrounded by. Thankfully, we already had an Conway Mayor Bart Castleberry said the plan is a “promise incredible steering committee in place for big decisions like to the next generation of Conway residents.” this.”

“During the retreat at Petit Jean, one of the fears The steering committee unanimously agreed that people kept bringing up was the threat of losing our the effort should move forward. Not only in spite of kids and grandkids to other parts of the country,” the pandemic but, in some ways, because of it.

Castleberry said. “But keeping them and bringing PEOPLE & PLACES OF CONWAY “It was an important moment when we heard them back was also one of our brightest hopes. I think committee members say that people needed an this plan describes a place that people will love opportunity to imagine a better future and that the plan for generations.” could bring the community together during a time of isolation,” The finished plan, Conway2035, includes 141 goals divided Gates said. among the 14 sectors.

During the fall of 2020, over 1,800 residents submitted surveys “We are extremely proud of the process and final plan,” said Brad outlining what topics they thought should be included in a strategic Lacy, CEO of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce. “These goals plan. This was a 30% increase from a similar survey effort in 2010. The are every bit as ambitious, smart, and diverse as the people who set them. finished results were a ranking of more than 40 topics to consider for The planning – and doing – that comes from efforts like Conway2035 is further planning. The steering committee ultimately reduced that list to what will determine the future of a place.”

14 topics – seven topics each addressing the city’s “people” and “places.”

Over the next several months, approximately 300 residents To view the complete plan, visit www.Conway2035.com participated in 60 goal-setting meetings via Zoom. The meetings were facilitated by the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute. The Rockefeller

conway2035

conway 2035

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+ about conway

the

QUEEN

of downtown

D

rive through downtown Conway, and you’re likely to see Kim Williams talking with shopkeepers, meeting with property owners, watering plants, or cleaning up a sidewalk – anything to keep downtown Conway prosperous and looking top-notch for patrons, businesses, and residents.

“It’s the heart of the city,” Williams, executive director of the Conway Downtown Partnership, said. “If your downtown is not strong, it’s not pumping anything out to the rest of the city.”

Williams’ central belief is a thriving downtown gives residents and visitors a sense of place and belonging, and in turn, makes the entire city better and stronger.

“You can connect to downtown in a way you can’t connect to other parts of a city, and Conway is no different,” she said.

Williams’ view on what a downtown can provide a city was implanted at a young age, spending much of her childhood with relatives who lived just two blocks from the downtown district of her hometown in Berryville.

“I would go with my grandma and great aunt and walk downtown, go to the shops, and go to the downtown grocer,” she said. “It feels good to get to try to recreate that experience for others through my job now.”

The Conway Downtown Partnership was established in 2001 with the backing of property owners in the district.

“The Conway Downtown Partnership was formed because the

“We set the table for people to come, and everyone chooses something different. Some come for the restaurants, some want to shop, and others come for the nightlife. It becomes something for everyone, but we have to make sure we have those options available.”

–Kim Williams, Executive Director, Conway Downtown Partnership

business community saw the need for a dedicated, privately funded organization whose sole focus would be on the redevelopment of the downtown core,” Brad Lacy, president and CEO of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce and Conway Development Corporation, said. “We were clear in our belief that the mission should go beyond marketing and promotion and focus on redevelopment of the streetscape, existing buildings, and vacant lots.”

Since 2001, the Conway Downtown Partnership has fostered millions of dollars in private and public investments in downtown; welcomed new businesses, restaurants, and shops to the area; and overseen a massive list of renovations.

Today, downtown Conway is home to nearly 300 businesses and 2,800 employees.

Lacy said Williams has been key to the area’s growth since her coming aboard in 2009, calling her the “heart and soul” of downtown Conway.

“She knows everyone by name, and she is familiar with every building, who owns it, how large it is, and whether it is a contributing structure,” Lacy said. “She is a servant leader to our downtown community. You routinely see her picking up litter, pulling weeds, or assisting business owners with whatever is needed.”

Not only that, Lacy said Williams is an outstanding teammate to the rest of the organizations at 900 Oak St. “Whether it’s a chamber, Conway Development Corporation, or Convention and Visitors Bureau event, Kim is always present, helpful, and engaged,” he said.

When a resident or out-of-towner comes to downtown, Williams said she wants them to see a vibrant downtown with plenty of options.

“We set the table for people to come, and everyone chooses something different,” she said. “Some come for the restaurants, some want to shop, and others come for the nightlife. It becomes something for everyone, but we have to make sure we have those options available.”

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ASK THE EXPERT

Silverlake design studio & Creative Institute Attracting and retaining young creative talent Jessica Crum founder and creative director, Silverlake Design Studio executive director, Creative Institute

Jessica Crum is the founder and creative director of Silverlake Design Studio and executive director of the Creative Institute of Central Arkansas, a gap-year program designed for young adults, ages 18 to 24, to explore careers in marketing, photography, videography, copywriting and design.

As a business owner, Jessica wants to be able to attract young, creative talent to Conway and has seen many leave for larger cities in recent years.

“We are always looking for local creative talent, but it’s difficult to find people who still live in Arkansas,” she said. “They feel like they won’t be able to land a job here after college, so after they graduate, they move to larger cities. I want them to stay in Conway, to live full lives here, raise a family, and make a living doing something they love.”

Jessica said setting a focus on growing the city’s cultural diversity and inclusivity would play an important role in attracting and retaining talent. This need drove Jessica to be a part of Conway2035 as a member of the Public Art sector. The group of community members identified as its vision statement that by 2035, Conway public art will be “integral to the city’s reputation as an educational and cultural destination in Arkansas” and identified nine goals that will help Conway achieve that vision.

We asked Jessica about her involvement on the Public Art sector, what goals were set and what it could mean for the future of Conway.

What was your decision to take part in strategic planning for Conway? Why did you want to be a part of it?

JESSICA: I know I’m not alone in wanting Conway to grow in its cultural diversity and inclusivity. Art has a lot to do with that, so I decided to make that my main focus when I joined the 2035 planning effort. If you think about where we visit – Memphis, Nashville, Bentonville, Dallas – those are all places that invest in art and culture, and I want Conway to be on that list. I want Conway to be known for how inclusive and diverse and creative we are, but that can only happen if there’s a plan.

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What were the goals you all set and what was the process?

JESSICA: We put all the ideas on the table and just brainstormed.

We talked about what the experience would look like and feel like if we had more activities and events surrounding art and culture.

We were all on the same page when we looked at the big picture and we are excited to invest more resources into this effort. We all want Conway to feel a certain way, now we just have to bring that vision to life!

What goal excites you the most?

JESSICA: One of the most exciting goals we discussed was an ongoing event to promote arts and culture. I’m spearheading that through a nonprofit I started called The Creative Institute, a gapyear program in Arkansas that leads students into creative careers through hands-on learning, immersive experiences, and guidance from industry experts. We started the Conway Art Walk last October and we are thrilled to be a part of bringing that goal to life and pulling folks alongside us as we do. Our hope is to unify those who care about arts and culture in Conway and show creative people they have a place here.

ASK THE EXPERT

investing in downtown Why a thriving downtown district is important to the entire city

Chris Crain, owner Chris Crain Enterprises

Chris Crain thinks Conway has the chance to have one of the premier downtowns in the mid-south. As a business owner, he’s called Conway home for 25 years and has seen the progress made and what could lie ahead. It’s the reason he started investing in downtown Conway as a property owner. We asked Chris what he wants to accomplish downtown and why a thriving downtown district is important to the entire city.

What’s your favorite thing about downtown Conway?

CHRIS: My favorite thing about Conway is the hustle and bustle.

There is an energy that has been created through public and private investments. To me, it’s some of the little things that make the difference. The signage at the entrance to Historic Downtown Conway along with the improved lighting, flowers, and beautiful landscaping of Rogers Plaza really set the tone. I love all of the murals painted by local artists on many of the buildings as well.

It’s very welcoming and attractive to people that want to open a business or simply walk the streets and enjoy the day.

As a property owner, what do you see as one or two things most important to the future of the area in the next 5 years?

CHRIS: I have recently purchased several properties that will house office space, retail space and an event center. We are excited about the addition of the Markham Square Park that is located in close proximity to our new accessory shop, retail space, and event center. With this beautiful development, there is a play area for the kids, outdoor games, picnic area, performance space and water discovery area surrounded by stone benches and landscaping. We think this Markham District area will extend and enhance downtown Conway for business owners and visitors.

The Conway Downtown Partnership collaborates with partner businesses, private developers, downtown residents, and city government to bring about positive and permanent change in downtown Conway. Learn more at downtownconway.org.

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What’s an amenity or feature that could take downtown Conway to the next level?

CHRIS: I believe that this beautiful Markham Square Park area will really spur a new area of development. There are plans within the Markham Street District that include new urban living spaces, coupled with office space and exciting retail venues. I believe other private developers will start to see this area and its potential soon. I have faith in the people creating the vision for downtown Conway, and I can’t wait to see the next area of opportunities.

What is the benefit to the entire city when downtown is thriving?

CHRIS: Everyone wants to be a part of a community that enhances our daily lives and proudly preserves its history.

When there are unique and interesting retail stores, restaurants that people rave about, and beautiful spaces, excited people are pouring into our economy and moving to our expanding neighborhoods. A thriving downtown Conway sends a message that this city is different and is something you want to be a part of.

What are some projects you are working on and when can we expect to see them?

CHRIS: We are completely remodeling the properties that we have purchased at the intersection of Markham and Spencer. These two buildings total 8,000 square feet and will house our Motorsports Authority accessory business that we are expanding and relocating.

Local architect Brandon Ruhl has designed the space beautifully to capture the look and feel of the Historical District and future direction of Markham Square Park. Our target open date for this business is April of 2022.

We are open and booking events now at Conway’s Perfect Place.

This event venue has a capacity of 200 and is an affordable option for a shower, wedding, reception, or corporate event. We continue to make improvements and have more plans for the future.

I have contracted to purchase another approximately 15,000-square-foot office building in downtown Conway that I intend to consolidate as my central office for all of my ventures through Chris Crain Enterprises. I hope we will be able to announce those details this year.

ASK THE EXPERT

first security bank Bank Better all across Arkansas.

Johnny Adams, President and CEO, Conway Market

Based in Searcy, Arkansas, First Security Bancorp has the most complete and diverse product offering of any Arkansas-based financial services holding company. Conway+ spoke with Johnny Adams, president and CEO of First Security Bank’s Conway market, about how community banks have navigated the COVID-19 pandemic and trends in the local housing market. First Security Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. How has First Security Bank fared as a result of the pandemic?

What have been the biggest struggles?

JOHNNY: The bank, which is a part of First Security Bank across Arkansas, remained strong financially, which is important to our customer base and local economies. We opened in our Conway market close to 3,500 checking accounts and saw deposits grow locally to a record $851 million – up $120 million over 2020.

We also booked more loans than ever before at $294 million in production. The bank in our local market reached a milestone of $1 billion in total assets. In the midst of struggles brought on by the pandemic, supply chain issues, and employee recruitment challenges, we were blessed with a good year from this great team of bankers here in Conway.

In what ways has the pandemic changed your customers’ needs? How has First Security adapted to meet those needs?

JOHNNY: While we saw a rapid increase in the adoption of digital banking, it is unclear that if after the pandemic we will not see a return to our physical locations. As a community bank, we welcome customer visits to our locations and can combine that with the convenience of digital banking. We are always here locally to provide a personalized touch from someone you may already know and who understands you and your needs in helping with all services – new and old.

With advances in technology allowing for mobile banking and an increasingly remote workforce, what do you see for the future of community banks?

JOHNNY: Advances in technology can’t totally replace the ability to pick up the phone and call your local banker. First Security saw that first hand in delivering the financial assistance of the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) during the pandemic.

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Our customers benefited from a local team dedicated to helping Conway business owners who had been adversely financially impacted due to COVID-19. We delivered millions of dollars in record speed to smooth the brunt of the pandemic on our local economy.

As a banking executive, what trends have you noticed in the Conway housing market, and what should buyers and sellers expect in 2022?

JOHNNY: The housing market in the Conway area has definitely heated up in the past couple of years. Price appreciation has benefited existing homeowners with equity as they have sought to move up or to refinance. Also, continued low mortgage interest rates have often made owning a home more affordable than renting.

New home construction has been somewhat of a minefield with rising costs and delays caused by supply chain issues. It’s hard to say if prices will ever come back down, so even with the difficulties, locking in a home you want at a payment you can afford has proven to be sound financial advice for most families.

Conway has many great neighborhoods, and I’m also enjoying trends that reinvest in these homes with updates and renovations, bringing back families and vibrancy to the core of the community.

Investing in Conway real estate has been a good bet for building equity and net worth.

What buyers and sellers could expect in 2022 is more of this great market! However, inflation concerns may bring interest rates up later in the year, making housing more expensive. Start planning now if you’re in the market for a home. It may take some time to find exactly what you are looking for, and you don’t want to miss this opportunity.

Supported by the strength of $1.5 billion in total capital and $8.1 billion in assets, First Security Bancorp can meet any financing need – right here in Arkansas. To learn more about First Security and its products, visit fsbank.com.

Conway’s booming housing market offers homes in a variety of architectural styles and price points. Here’s a primer on residential real estate in Conway.

FINDING A HOME IN CONWAY 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 mid-century. 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.

Look south for a convenient commute Conway’s fifth interstate exit opened just south of the city back 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 take advantage of a three-mile “head start” on their morning drive.

SINGLE FAMILY HOME SALES

Year to Date (December 2021)

Home Permits

Homes Sold

Home Sales

Average Home Price

Conway

Conway

Conway

Conway

2021 408

2021 831

2021 $204,434,692

2021 $246,010

2020 348

2020 901

2020 $201,305,216

2020 $223,424

17.24% change

-7.77% change

Faulkner County

1.55% change

10.11% change

Faulkner County

Faulkner County

2021 1743

2021 $409,642,302

2021 $235,021

2020 1864

2020 $399,012,933

2020 $214,063

-6.49% change

2.66% change

9.79% change

Data provided by Pulse of Conway, the premier source for business news in the Conway area. Through a printed monthly publication, monthly email newsletter, and pulseofconway.com, Pulse of Conway readers are the most informed professionals in the market. View more economic data and sign up for monthly updates at pulseofconway.com.

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+ education

THE POWER OF TEAMWORK A former basketball coach turned school administrator, Conway Superintendent Jeff Collum said a culture of collaboration has guided his 25year career in education, both on and off the court.

MEET SUPERINTENDENT

JEFF COLLUM The Texas native reflects on 25 years in education PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDY STRAIN-DAYER

Conway Public Schools superintendent Jeff Collum knows a thing or two about teamwork. The former basketball coach turned school administrator said a culture of collaboration has guided his 25-year career in education, both on and off the court.

Superintendent Collum began his career in education as a teacher and a coach in southeast Texas. Although his father also was a coach and later a principal, Collum did not pursue education as a career initially. He studied physical therapy and sports medicine in college so he could one day become a professional trainer for an NFL team.

Collum was on the path to making his dream a reality, landing a yearlong internship with the Washington Commanders, known at the time as the Washington Redskins. It was the encouragement of former coaches that ultimately led him to change his major and pursue a career in education, first as a basketball coach and teacher and eventually as a school administrator.

“Coaching wasn’t what I was interested in, but on my coach’s suggestion, I met with school leaders at a junior high one January about an open part-time position and decided to give it a shot, thinking I’d finish out the spring semester and move on,” he said. “I coached the team through the season and absolutely loved it.”

Collum loved the experience so much that he called his father and told him he planned to change his major to become a coach and a teacher.

“There was a long pause on the other end of the phone, and I thought I had messed up,” Collum said. “But my dad started crying and said he couldn’t be more proud. I knew right then I was making the right decision.”

Collum said he still wants to be like his father, who died 13 years ago. As a high school principal, his father was intentional about building relationships with students and teachers.

“Dad was one of the best at making people feel important just by being sincere and genuine,” he said. “He’s probably the reason that I’m in education. Outside of my joy for coaching basketball, I wanted to be like my dad.”

Collum taught and coached for about 10 years and then began to work his way into administration, first as an assistant principal at a junior high and then as a high school principal. He eventually became a central office administrator at Tyler Independent School District in Tyler, Texas, which had 31,000 students across 31 campuses. It was this experience that shaped Collum’s commitment to school safety.

“As a superintendent, you can only do so much by yourself.

The better you can build a team, and the more you can help empower them to do their jobs and to do them well, the more successful the district will be. I’ve been a benefactor of having some good teams, and Conway has been no different.”

–Jeff Collum, Superintendent Conway Public Schools

During his time at Tyler ISD, a teacher was stabbed and killed at school.

Collum said the tragedy underscored the importance of having protocols in place to ensure the safety of educators and students.

“It was a very traumatic situation for our employees and for the community as a whole,” Collum recalled. “I’d always thought about school from a safety perspective, as in what we can do to keep kids safe in general, but until that event occurred, I never completely understood the impact of having good safety response mechanisms in place.”

Collum began working with individual campuses in Tyler ISD to rewrite safety policies. He eventually began working with other school districts within Texas, which

led to speaking engagements at national events and assisting schools across the U.S. Over the past decade, Collum has become well known throughout the nation for his work and insight on school safety initiatives.

When interacting with school districts about school safety, Collum has noticed that while communication is the first thing educators and school leaders need during a traumatic event, it is often the last thing that’s considered when drafting safety protocols.

“It’s important to have a communication plan and a training plan that outlines how people communicate with each other during a crisis,” he said. “It should address simple questions such as ‘Do we have enough walkie-talkies? Do our phone systems work? Do we know how to contact police? What’s our mitigation plan for when information about the event is texted to parents and shared on social media? How do we follow up with parents?’

“In the heat of the moment, these simple questions are going to be the last thing you’re going to think of, but it’s really the first thing you need.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented new challenges when it comes to school safety. Collum said the biggest challenge school leaders have faced is reliability of information and trying to be consistent during an inconsistent situation.

“There has been a lot of uncertainty from reliable resources,” he said. “You can get different messaging and different bits of information on a daily basis, and then you have to process and disseminate that information.”

Collum said that while it is the superintendent who ultimately makes the hard decisions, he values collaboration and listening to others’ perspectives.

“As superintendent, you can only do so much by yourself,” he said. “The better you can build a team, and the more you can help empower them to do their jobs and to do them well, the more successful the district will be. I’ve been a benefactor of having some good teams, and Conway has been no different.”

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ESL program for adult learners builds confidence, community, and skills UACCM’s Adult Education Center helps students across the globe learn English If you asked most Conway residents to name a local educational institution that attracts students from approximately 15 countries every year, many would guess the University of Central Arkansas.

If you gave them a hint and said “name one that is in downtown Conway,” they might say Hendrix College. And while those institutions do serve many international students, there is another organization discretely located on Markham Street helping people from around the world learn English.

The Faulkner County Adult Education Center is operated by the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton. In early 2021, they moved into their new home at 1070 Markham Street.

The education center’s mission is to prepare students to the take the General Education Diploma (GED®) test, to train people who need to develop their basic skills for the workplace, and to teach basic skillrefresher courses for students about to enter college.

Each of those foundational efforts has an added layer of complexity when the student’s native language isn’t English. That’s why the Adult Education Center offers an English as a second language program. But the ESL program does more than simply prepare people for a job or an exam – a lot more.

“I can’t drive. That limits my boundaries,” said Saemi Shim, a native of Seoul, Korea.

Shim came to Conway about five years ago when her husband got a job at Acxiom. She said that the Adult Education Center gives her a comfortable place to improve her English.

“I want to work here. Language is a problem. This is a safe place to practice.”

When ESL teacher Christy Koeth hears this description of her program, her eyes light up.

“My main goal is to help people build their confidence and gain skills.”

After graduating from Hendrix College with a degree in Spanish, Koeth has taught around the state at the high school, college, and adult levels. For the last three years, she has been the ESL teacher at the Faulkner County Adult Education Center.

“This is a welcoming place for students, a community, a place to find a friend,” Koeth said.

Koeth said that, on average, there are 50 or more students from around the world participating in the ESL program.

“This morning I had 10 people from nine different countries speaking six different languages. Our students are as young as 19, and my oldest is 65.”

Koeth said that the variety and diversity within each classroom is an advantage when teaching English.

“It’s actually better when everyone is speaking a different language,” she said. “English is the only option; it’s their only common language.

The more languages in the room, the better it is.

“It’s beautiful. I love it.”

The diversity doesn’t stop with country of origin and age. Keoth said that the ESL program has students with widely disparate education levels and reasons for attending.

“We have students who have never had access to a formal education next to people with master’s degrees. Slightly more than half are here to improve conversation and grammar skills. Others are here to gain the skills they need to get a job or get a better job.”

While many ESL students decide to pursue workplace certifications, a GED, or college admission, the ESL program is not a prescribed curriculum with a timeline attached. Many students come for years and continue to grow in their English proficiency. Keoth said that the material is based on current student needs.

“We can learn English while studying for the U.S. citizenship test.

Sometimes I use the driver’s education test book. That’s a great place to learn a word like ‘skid’ that may not come up in normal conversation.

“I love it here. Where else would you get to see a lady from Pakistan teaching English to a woman from Ghana using the Arkansas driver’s manual?”

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CREATING MASTERPIECES Get to know the stories behind two published authors, two woodworkers, and one mural artist who are creating masterpieces right here in Conway.

“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.”

- DR. MAYA A NGELO U

+ creating masterpieces

LUCAS STRACK

Turning a Childhood Passion into a Career

When searching for one’s passion or purpose, a common piece of advice is to remember what you loved to do as a child. Lucas Strack – an architectural designer, draftsman, craftsman, furniture maker, and woodworker – has designed a career and a life he loves by embracing the activities that brought him joy when he was a kid.

From an early age, Strack has had in interest in buildings, handson projects, and art. He would spend time drawing and sketching and wanted to be either a cartoonist, an architect, or an artist when he grew up. Around the age of 14, Strack learned the basics of woodworking in his father’s woodshop, building bird boxes and Adirondack chairs alongside his dad.

He later attended architecture school, where he spent time in the college’s woodworking space. There he designed and built his first coffee table, which gave him practice in joinery and working in mixed media using different types of wood. Coffee tables are still his favorite pieces to design.

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“Coffee tables are so manageable, and the design possibilities are endless,” Strack said. “All my sketchbooks are filled with a gazillion sketches of coffee tables.”

Strack realized when studying architecture that he enjoyed designing furniture to fit a space as much as he enjoyed designing a building to fit a landscape. He was inspired by renowned architects such as Alvar Aalto, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and Frank Lloyd Wright who designed both buildings and furniture.

“I loved architecture, I loved furniture, so I wanted to do both things,” he said. “I like to build things, and I like to design and build things that fit the space they’re going in.”

Strack has had full-time roles with architecture firms where he designed and built custom pieces for commercial clients. He also owns his own business, Strack Studio Furniture, which he started about seven years ago.

Through Strack Studio Furniture, Lucas has had the opportunity to design and build woodworking projects that are custom made for his clients’ spaces. In some cases, the piece has sentimental value because it was crafted from a tree that meant something to the client.

Strack once designed and built a table for a client using wood from a pecan tree that was on the playground at St. Joseph School. After the tree was removed to construct a new building on campus, Strack – who attended school at St. Joseph as child – sawed and dried the wood.

“I have memories of playing around the tree and picking up pecans that fell from it,” Strack recalled. “This person went there, too, and wanted a table with some of the pecan wood in it. So, I inlaid the pecan wood in the center and then surrounded it with walnut. It means a lot to them.”

Custom Furniture with Strack Studio Furniture Interested in custom furniture for your home or workspace? Here’s what to expect when working with Strack Studio Furniture:

1 Measure the space.

2 Strack also has milled lumber from pine trees that a cousin planted 40 years ago. When that cousin passed away, Strack made his casket out of the pine. For another project, Strack built a mantle made from a tree that the client’s grandfather planted.

Projects like this take patience and planning. After the tree is cut down and milled, the wood must dry. A rule of thumb, Strack said, is that it takes one year per inch of thickness for wood to air dry.

Kiln drying lumber can cut the time in half, but it still takes several months.

“If you have a 2-inch piece of wood, you should expect to let it air dry for two years before you use it,” he said. “You definitely have to plan ahead.”

Woodworking has fulfilled Strack’s childhood desires to design, build, and be an artist.

“Woodworking is an art that’s very sculptural, but it has its function as well as form,” he said. “Woodworking is not always flannel shirts, hats, and beard oil, like you see on YouTube. It can be a good passion if you want to work with your hands. Just have patience and start small.

“When I’m out here in the shop, I’m in my element. I feel comfortable out here, I do my best thinking out here, and I just like being out here – listening to music and doing woodworking.”

Consider what style and color scheme would best fit your space.

3 Select a wood that has a natural color that complements the color scheme of your room. This will prevent the need to stain. If you want dark brown furniture, get walnut. If you want a light or white piece, use maple. If you want red, opt for cherry or cedar.

4 It’s design time! Choose from the designs Lucas has sketched based on your consultation.

+ creating masterpieces

FELIX MAULL

Finding Beauty in the Mistakes Each piece of wood has a story. There are the years of growth shown through its rings, but a closer look might detail a broken limb or branch, or a split.

“That’s what the wood shows,” Felix Maull said. “Its life.”

For Maull, the true love of his craft boils down to taking a raw, unfinished piece of wood and transforming it into something far beyond it.

“To some people, it’s a stick, but once you put all those sticks together, it turns into something else,” Maull says pointing to a finished box in his workshop at home. “This box right here was a couple of sticks, and you put them together in the right combination and it becomes something the mind just can’t imagine.”

Maull is a math teacher by day at the Conway Junior High School but spends many nights and weekends tinkering in the shop next to his home on a bevy of woodworking projects.

The shop’s conventional brick exterior gives way to an interior with walls barren to the frame. The back wall is covered with dozens of pieces of lumber of all shapes and sizes waiting to be crafted into a piece that only resides inside Maull’s mind.

But what outstrips the untouched lumber and half-finished projects are the finished pieces Maull calls his mistakes.

“Every piece I’ve ever built, there are mistakes in them, and I know what the mistakes are,” he said. “I know what I went through to try to fix the mistakes, and I reach a point to where it’s okay to have mistakes there.”

His favorite example is an ambitious project. He tried to incorporate things and processes he’d never done before. There were fancy half lap joints and inlay strips to name a few. Halfway through the project, Maull realized he was clueless as to how to tie the project together.

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He grew frustrated and threw the piece down on his shop floor, smashing it into dozens of pieces.

“I remember looking at those pieces on the floor, and this voice in my mind was saying, ‘This is not how you do things. You don’t give up,’” Maull said.

He picked the pieces off the floor and ultimately made a box that was given to a friend.

“And the box actually came out nicer than I thought it would,” he said.

Keeping those failures around reminds Maull he always has room to grow. It ties back to the biggest lesson Maull says he has learned from woodworking — nothing is ever perfect.

“There’s beauty in mistakes,” he said. “When you can see a mistake, you can appreciate the mistake you made and you can learn from it and grow, that’s a beautiful thing.”

Not only does Maull have a multitude of mistakes pieces, he also has several stress pieces. These are the ones he completes on nights he comes out to his shop to escape frustrations and headaches.

“I’ll come out here, I’ll put music on and I just build something,” he said. “I just completely forget about everything that’s bothering me while I’m building, because I get so locked into how do I want this to look.”

His shop is a place of solitude.

“It’s where I can get away from the cares of the world, the stresses,” he said. “I can come out, spend time with God, not think about the things that have bothered me, and just take those stresses, that anger or whatever it may be, and sit and build something.”

For such a sacred pastime and place, Maull has worked to find the right balance to keep his love for woodworking from turning into work.

“You have to have balance and you have to know your limitations,” he said. “You have to know what you can do and can’t do and be okay with that. Finding that balance is finding something you love to do. If you make it something you have to do, it becomes work.”

He has plenty of ideas for future pieces, too, including dining room tables, headboards and more.

“If you have a passion for something, get out there and try and see how it turns out,” he said. “If you make a mistake, don’t let that one mistake keep you from trying.”

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+ creating masterpieces

RONNIE WILLIAMS A Long, Difficult Road to Truth

As snow fell outside his Menifee home in the early hours of Feb. 15, 2015, Ronnie Williams sat in his study, poring over documents he’d looked at hundreds of times before.

It was the coroner’s inquest transcript that detailed his brother’s tragic, untimely death while in police custody some 55 years prior.

But this morning, for some reason, Williams noticed things he’d never noticed before.

“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve read that transcript, many times,” he said. “But on that particular morning, I started to read the transcript again, just thumbing through pages, and there were nuggets of information that just started to flow.”

Williams grabbed a nearby pad and began to write. Over the next five and a half years, Williams filled three journals with the story of his brother, Marvin Leonard Williams, and his tragic death at the age of 20.

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Marvin died May 6, 1960, in a third-floor jail cell of the Faulkner County Jail, now the former Faulkner County Courthouse, in Conway. The cause of death was officially ruled a brain hemorrhage, deemed the result of Marvin slipping on the courthouse steps and hitting his head after being taken into custody, police said at the time.

That ruling would be called into question nearly a quarter century later when the Williams family received a letter from a fellow inmate.

Charles Hackney wrote the Williams family in 1984, stating he witnessed and heard Marvin be beaten to death by police from a nearby cell. Hackney’s letter ultimately led to the reopening of Marvin’s case and a murder trial for two officers involved in 1985.

The officers were acquitted in a jury trial.

The result was a tough pill to swallow for a family seeking justice for their brother, son, husband and father.

Following the trial and a subsequent civil case that closed in 1988, Williams tried to move on from his brother’s case and largely did until that February morning in 2015 when Williams said he was “called” to dig deeper into the coroner’s inquest transcript.

“I’m a person of faith,” Williams said. “I believe things don’t just happen by themselves, there’s a higher power operating our lives. I was moved to dig deeper into that transcript.”

The culmination of his work will soon be released in his book, Markham Street: The Haunting Truth Behind the Murder of My Brother, Marvin Leonard Williams.

Markham Street chronicles Marvin’s childhood and upbringing, his military service, his death and its aftermath.

“I’m glad I didn’t do it sooner,” Williams said. “I don’t think I was emotionally and psychologically ready to write the book.”

The passage of time helped, Williams said. Although it was a long, arduous and often emotional process, Williams said it was a journey he had to make for his brother.

“Doing this particular piece in handwritten format was good for me,” Williams said. “As I wrote, it was therapeutic – spiritually, psychologically and emotionally. It was good for me.”

That doesn’t mean there were not difficult times, as painful memories resurfaced after years of being repressed.

“I had my moments where I had to leave it and walk away,” Williams said. “I had my moments where I was angry, where I would shed tears thinking about my brother’s life being frozen in time just because of the hue of his skin.”

Williams said he wants readers to understand that racism still exists and to finally see his brother for the man he was, not the person he was portrayed as after his death.

“It’s not that we have to prove Marvin was a decent man, we know that,” Williams said. “But it’s important to see his life beyond what someone might have heard or read in 1985. That is not the sum total of his life.

“I want the public to know Marvin,” Williams said. “I want them to know his goals, his aspirations, how he grew up, everything about him.”

THE STORY OF MARVIN LEONARD WILLIAMS Ronnie Williams’ book, Markham Street, chronicles his brother Marvin’s childhood and upbringing, his military service, his death and its aftermath.

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+ creating masterpieces

ANDREA LENNON Sharing Truth Through Writing

Writing a book was the furthest thing from Andrea Lennon’s mind.

She had established a successful ministry through speaking. She even had a tagline that guided her instruction: know the truth, live the truth, and share the truth.

But women at her events still had a similar refrain: We love your guidance and instruction. Where can we find this material outside the event?

“I would tell them, ‘Well, I’m not really sure,’” Lennon recalled.

“This was stuff that I had written based on my personal quiet times with the Lord.”

It was a friend who initially encouraged Lennon to pursue a book.

But she needed more persuading.

“I just prayed about it, and said ‘Lord, if you want me to write a book, then I need your help,’” Lennon said. “So, I sat down and wrote the table of contents for my first book, and that was the beginning of my writing ministry.”

That table of contents provided a roadmap to her first book – on Romans 12:2 – and before she knew it, she had the beginnings of a book.

“I always say to people now, just start,” Lennon said. “If you’re waiting for it to be crystal clear, it’s going to be really hard, but if you’ll just start with your main thought and develop it slowly, then, before too long, you will see that the book is actually helping you to discover the process.”

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Since that first book, Reflecting His Glory: From Conformity to Transformation, Lennon has penned three other books – On the Road with Ruth, Free to Thrive, and God in the Window.

The impact on her, personally, and other parts of her ministry has been unmistakable, Lennon said. When she’s speaking at an event, she can see what is connecting with the audience; she can see their reactions and expressions, see when they lean in or take notes.

“The writing develops the depth of the content, because it forces me to slow down and really think through what I’m trying to communicate and what is the best way to do so,” she said. “The speaking side brings the relational aspects, so it marries the two together. The final outcome is so much better because these two sides of the ministry work so well together.”

Writing has been a journey of exploring life, faith, belief, and struggles. None more so than God in the Window, which shares Lennon’s personal experience of adoption, loneliness, and friendship struggles. On the other side of the book, Lennon says writing your personal story should be something everyone does.

“As you sit down and process your life, you’re going to see some patterns of struggle, you’re going to see some strengths, you’re going to see different tendencies and you’re going to see things that God used along the way that maybe you forgot about,” she said. “It was a way for me to process what has happened in my life and deal with those things so I could make improvements and connect with God on a deeper level.”

Another topic discussed in God in the Window is Lennon’s personal fight with dyslexia.

“If you had told my third-grade teacher that I would write and publish books, or even stand in front of a group and read scripture, I am sure she would have thought that was a far stretch,” Lennon said.

“But God, he gives us strength in our weakness.”

No matter which of her books a reader picks up, Lennon wants them to connect with God and learn something new.

“I want them to see something that maybe they have never thought of before and then also apply that truth to their life,” she said.

For more information on Lennon and her ministry, including her books, visit andrealennonministry.org.

MINISTERING THROUGH WRITING

Although becoming an author was the furthest thing from Andrea Lennon’s mind, writing books has had an unmistakable impact on her and her eponymous ministry.

Q&A with Andrea Lennon How do you get in the right mindset for writing?

How do you handle writer’s block?

My books are faith-based, so the most important thing for me to do is pray and spend time in my Bible and ask the Lord to teach me or reveal a truth to me. As writers, it needs to be authentic; something that you’re passionate about; something that is true to you; and is applicable, vulnerable, and a place of transparency.

For me, that’s always thinking about what I need to learn or what lesson would help me, or what struggle am I going through and then speaking truth into that particular area of my life.

The best thing I can do usually is close my computer, go for a walk, and give it some space. Whenever you’ve got some space, clear your head, and let go of the stress of that moment, usually, the writing begins to flow after that.

Another thing that helps me is a deadline. If I put a deadline on a project or someone else has, then I’m going to figure out a way to get that completed.

Where do you feel you get the best writing done? Is there a place or setting?

Each of them has their own strengths and qualities or things I enjoy about them, but there was something special about writing my story, writing God in the Window. It allowed me to go back and retrace the steps of my life and see the faithfulness of God in the ordinary and the mundane, in the small areas or aspects of life as well as the big ones.

That book goes over my adoption and just God’s sovereignty to place us in the right place at the right time with the right people. It was through the writing of that book that those truths were solidified in my heart. I knew those truths in my mind, and I could teach them and share them with you, but there was something about writing it and seeing God’s hand in my story that really solidified that truth in my heart, so that was very special for me.

The best writing for me is when I can go on a little retreat. I have friends across Arkansas who have a cabin or a mother-in-law quarter or something like that, so a couple of times a year, I try to get away for an extended period of writing.

For my daily writing, I go to my kitchen table. If I’m on the couch, I won’t stay focused, but if I go to my table and spread everything out, I tend to stay more focused and disciplined.

Have you had a favorite book?

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+ creating masterpieces

JESSICA JONES Mural artist Jessica Jones transforms community through art The last five years have been a little brighter and more interesting for the people of Conway thanks to a leap of faith from a local artist.

“I think for a long time it was conveyed to me that art wasn’t a realistic career to approach,” said mural artist Jessica Jones. “Although it was something I was passionate about from the time I was a child, I never viewed it as something I should pursue with intention. So, it kind of happened organically.”

Intentional or not, it did happen. This full-time artist with an unconventional career path has made her mark by creating beautiful art in unconventional places: electrical boxes, trails, tunnels, and large indoor and outdoor walls.

“Every wall has challenges in different ways, and a key part of doing this is being flexible because every wall is different – drywall is different than corrugated metal,” Jones said.

Working in those mediums has its own set of challenges, but Jones says public art is a special cause close to her heart.

“I always use the example that if you look at developing countries that have very little, they may not have running water, but they have art and music,” she said. “That speaks to how important it is to have expression.”

Life can be hard, so Jones said having something vibrant to uplift your spirit can be encouraging.

“Murals are accessible to everyone. A member of the homeless community may not feel comfortable walking into a gallery, but anyone walking down the side of the street can appreciate a mural and feel like it’s theirs. And that’s my jam.”

Jones describes her journey to becoming a full-time artist as “organic.” That idea is prevalent in her art as well.

“As far as my personal art goes, I prefer to work with organic creatures, flowers, and animals. It’s really awesome living in The Natural State because if you slow down, there’s so much beauty and little things that really inspire me.”

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Jones’ approach has obviously led to professional, not just artistic, success. She is still early in her career but has enough experience to offer aspiring artists candid advice about how to take a more intentional approach.

“Charge for your work. A misnomer that I’m constantly fighting against is that if you do what you love, you shouldn’t charge for it,” Jones said. “But if you don’t charge for it, then you can’t do what you love for a living.”

Jones’ commitment to Conway’s art community goes beyond giving advice. Recently, she organized several artists to participate in a project decorating the walls and tunnels along the Tucker Creek Trail.

“I really like Conway. There’s a community mindset. There’s a growing momentum of wanting to better this area and not just stay stagnant. As a creative, it’s definitely something that I want to be a part of.”

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Connect with us!

ConwayARChamber @ConwayArkansas @Conway_Chamber Search “Conway Chamber” /company/ConwayChamber

YOUR AD HERE Call the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce to reserve your spot in the 2023 guide.

501-327-7788

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Teach Your Kids to Fish.

Share a Hobby for Life.

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Get the family hooked on a new tradition. The Family and Community Fishing Program regularly stocks ponds, including many in central Arkansas.

Find one near you, and let the quality time begin.

BackyARd Conway The Natural State is a big draw for outdoor enthusiasts both outside the state and within its borders. Arkansas is a destination for cycling, hunting, fishing, boating, hiking, and other forms of outdoor recreation. Conway’s central location makes it easy for nature-loving Arkansans to enjoy their next staycation or weekend getaway, right in their own backyard.

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+ backyARd Conway

RABBIT RIDGE FARMS Creating Community through Food and Agriculture

Through Rabbit Ridge Farms, owners Alan and Angela Mahan have set out to create community through food and agriculture. Their passions for being good stewards of the land, consuming locally sourced animal protein, and building relationships have converged to create a farm-totable experience like no other.

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Spanning more than 200 acres in Rabbit Ridge, Arkansas, Rabbit Ridge Farms is a family farm that encourages visitors, something Alan admits is unconventional for most farmers.

“Traditionally, we farmers don’t like people on our place. It usually leads to a gate being left open and cows getting out, trash, that sort of thing,” he said. “But we knew that if we didn’t do that, people would never know about us, how we live, how we raise our animals, and the radical transparency that we provide with our farm.”

THE VISION Rabbit Ridge has always been Alan’s home. Located in Van Buren County, Rabbit Ridge is centrally positioned between three communities in three counties: Bee Branch in Van Buren County; Damascus in Van Buren and Faulkner counties; and Center Ridge in Conway County.

Alan grew up on his father’s dairy farm and ultimately acquired a commercial cattle operation of his own. He worked as a general contractor for 28 years but no longer enjoyed the work and knew it was time to do something different.

“I had grown tired of doing what I was doing,” Alan said. “It was a grind that I was ready to get away from. I enjoyed what I did for a long time, but I was ready to do what my heart wanted to do.”

What his heart wanted to do was farm.

“I had a partner that believed in me enough and was supportive enough that we decided to do this together.”

Alan’s wife, Angela, taught at a community college and also has a background in commercial farming, growing up in the flat lands of northeast Arkansas on a row-crop farm that produced cotton, rice, and soybeans.

The couple shared the same values when it came to eating locally sourced meat and committed to feeding their family only meat produced on the farm. They were already

“In order for us to be able to create community through food, we want to provide not only a physical environment at the farm that promotes radical transparency and trust but also an online community that educates people and lets them know that our products are ones they can trust.”

–Angela Mahan, Owner, Rabbit Ridge Farms

raising cows, so they began with beef and later acquired pigs to incorporate locally sourced pork. The Mahans soon realized that other people they knew also were interested in consuming locally sourced meat, so they began selling half and whole cuts of beef and pork to friends and family.

“Eventually you run out of friends and family to sell halves and wholes to,” Alan said.

They also were running out of space. Alan and Angela had seven large, commercial chest freezers located in barns and trailers behind their house. They had to figure out a way to get their products to more people.

“That’s when we had a real heart-to-heart conversation about what do you want to do and what will make you happy,” Angela said.

“And the answer was making a living here on the farm.”

Rabbit Ridge Farms was officially established in 2014. The Mahans added chickens to their operation and began selling retail cuts the following year. They drove an enclosed trailer across the state and sold meat from the driveways of friends’ homes. Festivals were another opportunity to sell their products, but conditions could be less than optimal.

“We had a booth at a festival during August – in Arkansas – and it was so hot,” Angela said. “To top things off, our booth was not in an ideal location. We were positioned between kids’ karaoke and the dog park. We have four children and three dogs, so we love both, but you can only hear Miley Cyrus and barking dogs so much. We knew we had a good product, but we couldn’t beg people to take the meat.”

After the festival, the couple went to an area restaurant and brainstormed what they could do differently to not only sell more meat but also to get the message out about the importance of knowing where your food comes from.

“We knew the best way to share that message was to actually bring people to Rabbit Ridge,” Angela said.

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+ backyARd Conway THE VENUE Using Alan’s background in construction, Angela and Alan designed and built The Venue at Rabbit Ridge Farms. The twostory, 15,000-square-foot facility was once a school’s gymnasium. It was rebuilt using reclaimed and natural materials and features four spacious suites for overnight guests; a commercial kitchen to allow for catering; a spacious first floor that can seat up to 400 people for weddings, corporate events, and private events; a smaller conference room for meetings, trainings, and seminars; and a farm store.

“The coolest thing about what we do is meeting different people from all walks of life,” Alan said. “We love that the farm has given us opportunities to build relationships with people through food.”

The Mahans said the farm is an extension of their home. They regularly host breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the farm. During the events, the overhead doors remain open, allowing for fresh air and views of the beautiful countryside.

“Initially, people may find it uncomfortable to see a cow roaming across the field, and then you have a steak in front of you,” Angela said.

“But what that shows you is the connection between the food, the agriculture, and your plate.

“We do think there is a disconnect between where people get their food from and their plate. We felt like bringing them out here would provide a connection between those two things again.”

These gatherings not only connect people with where their food comes from but also connect them with each other. The Mahans describe meals at the farm as “a unique dining

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and social experience” where you can “bring old friends and make new ones.” Rabbit Ridge Farms is not a restaurant with set hours; dates are announced as they are available.

Angela said the events are akin to having 150250 of your closest friends over for dinner.

“When we host an event, it’s a combination of family members, friends, friends of friends, people that we have met, and somehow, magically, it comes together,” she said. “We’re able to host and serve people that come out here to the farm in a way that I think is really special and unique.”

On March 13, 2020, Alan and Angela realized their lives were about to change.

COVID-19 had been declared a nationwide emergency, and the U.S. was shutting down.

They knew they would have to adapt their business model, which relied heavily on bringing people together and selling meats wholesale to restaurants. The Mahans embraced e-commerce and transformed their venue into a distribution center. Since that time, Rabbit Ridge Farms has fulfilled orders in more than two-thirds of the 48 contiguous states they ship to.

“In order for us to be able to create community through food, we want to provide not only a physical environment at the farm that promotes radical transparency and trust but also an online community that educates people and lets them know that our products are ones they can trust,” Angela said.

THE VALUES The Mahans have found that people connect with Rabbit Ridge Farms for different reasons. Some customers want meat sourced only from animals they know have been treated humanely. Others choose Rabbit Ridge Farms’ products because they want to support local farmers and establish a relationship with the people who are producing their food. No matter the reason, it all comes down to trust and transparency.

“I think our personal involvement provides that trust and transparency that people are looking for,” Angela said.

The Mahans are regenerative farmers, which means they use livestock to improve the land without the use of herbicides, pesticides, or commercial fertilizer.

“We’re producing meat the same way my grandfather produced what he ate back in 1900,” Alan said. “It not only improves the land but it gives you a superior product to enjoy.”

Regenerative agriculture is an approach to land management that focuses on regenerating the health of the soil. For example, as the chickens at Rabbit Ridge Farms “scratch and peck,” they leave enough manure in one day to fertilize the soil for one year. This results in what Alan describes as a “constant disturbance of the seed bank,” allowing for new grasses

to prop up where the chickens had been, which spread across the farm. Alan likened it to having a variety of lettuce at a salad bar – arugula, spinach leaves, and spring mix, for example – versus simple iceberg lettuce.

“Instead of taking that dominant, nothingbut-Bermuda grass, now we’re mixing in the fescues, the Bahia grass, the Dallis grass, the clovers, the lespedeza, and we’re seeing all of that come together,” he explained.

Alan said the animals at Rabbit Ridge Farms are able to eat and move the way nature intended, which leads to a nutrient-dense meat product. Most of the cattle at Rabbit Ridge Farms are born on the farm and begin their life on grass, making them “grass fat, grass fed, and grass happy.” The hogs roam freely and munch on grass, hickory nuts, white oak acorns, and even poison ivy. The chickens relocate to a grass situation once they leave the brooder and begin to feather, adding crickets and grasshoppers to their diets.

“We’re not what we eat; we are what we eat eats,” Alan said.

Alan added that the quality of the meat not only comes from the way the animals are raised but also the way they are processed.

Rabbit Ridge Farms works with small-scale processors certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture: Cypress Valley Meat Company

“We are passionate about teaching children and adults alike about where their food comes from, not only the food that we raise, but also letting them know generally that there are a lot of different players in food production.”

–Alan Mahan, Owner, Rabbit Ridge Farms

in Pottsville and Natural State Poultry Processing in Clinton. Both operations are committed to humane harvesting techniques that ensure the highest standards for animal welfare and food safety. Furthermore, they package meat in a way that allows it to be frozen for longer periods of time without additional preparation.

“I like to say that our animals have just one bad day,” Alan said. “We’re fortunate to have professional, local people who are packaging and processing our animals and making beautiful cuts of meat.”

Rabbit Ridge Farms sells their proteins wholesale to local restaurants and stores, including Bell Urban Farm in Conway.

“If you haven’t been to Bell Urban Farm, you need to go,” Alan said. “Kim and Zack McCannon do such a good job highlighting so many different people that are doing a fantastic job growing animals and raising crops. We’re proud to be a part of it.”

The Mahans want people to gain a better understanding about where their food comes from. In addition to hosting tours at the farm, they reach online audiences by creating fun and educational videos for social media – from Alan demonstrating how they catch chickens for harvest to Angela preparing recipes using meat from Rabbit Ridge Farms.

“We’re passionate about teaching children and adults alike about where their food comes from, not only the food that we raise, but also letting them know generally that there are a lot of different players in food production,” Alan said.

More information about Rabbit Ridge Farms, including online ordering and links to their social media profiles, is available at RabbitRidgeFarm.com.

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THE COUPLE THAT

HIKES

TOGETHER

Jenny and Houston Davis explore the Natural State What happens when transplants to the Natural State are faced with a pandemic that confines them to their newly empty nest?

They get out of the house, lace up their hiking boots, and explore the many trails Arkansas has to offer.

Houston and Jenny Davis moved to Conway in 2017 when Houston accepted the top position at the University of Central Arkansas. The university president is a native of Tennessee; Jenny’s from Mississippi. The Davis family also has called Oklahoma and Georgia home during their 26-year marriage, so moving to another state in the mid-South was a smooth transition.

“When we first got married, we lived in Tennessee, a state like Arkansas that is filled with natural beauty,” Jenny said. “We would hike up to waterfalls, we’d hike and camp with friends, and then graduate school and three children kind of took over our lives.”

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One of the ways Jenny and Houston make themselves at home when moving to a new place is to act like a tourist. Hiking, they said, has been a fun and effective way to get to know their new home and fill their time now that their children are adults.

“There’s a bounty of natural beauty in this state,” Jenny said. “We would recommend everyone – no matter how long you’ve lived here – look up the trails and get to know the state and how wonderful it is.”

Shortly after moving to Arkansas, the outdoor enthusiasts knew they wanted to take advantage of the canoeing, kayaking, and hiking trails the state has to offer. During a trip to the Buffalo National River, they purchased a copy of Tim Ernst’s 1994 book, Arkansas Hiking Trails: A Guide to 78 Selected Trails in “The Natural State.” The Davises

use the book as a guide, which includes a checklist as well as detailed information about each trail – from turn-by-turn directions, to how difficult it is to get your vehicle to the trailhead, to prompts to look for a specific S.S.S., or “super scenic spot.”

The book has helped the couple become more familiar with each region of the state. It also has allowed them to pick trails strategically based on the time they have, their energy levels, and what they want to see.

While the Davises had already begun working their way through the Arkansas Hiking Trails book prior to 2020, the

Houston & Jenny’s

Favorite Trails Orange MTB & Hiking Trail Cadron Settlement Park 6200 Highway 319 W. Conway, AR 72034 Distance: 2-mile loop Difficulty: Easy Huckleberry Trail Woolly Hollow State Park 82 Woolly Hollow Road Greenbrier, AR 72058 Distance: 3.1-mile loop Difficulty: Moderate Seven Hollows Trail Petit Jean State Park 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Road Morrilton, AR 72110 Distance: 5-mile loop Difficulty: Moderate

pandemic accelerated their pace of completing the trails. Like most people, they now had additional time on their hands and took seriously public health experts’ admonitions to take care of their physical and mental health.

“At the beginning of the pandemic, one of the things public health experts really made clear was that everybody needed to try to be their best self,” Houston said. “They emphasized the importance of getting fresh air and exercising, and I took that to heart – literally. When you get out on some of these trails, the cardio will kick in. Arkansas is a beautiful state and a great place to stay fit.”

During the first 18 months of the pandemic, Houston and Jenny completed between 20 and 25 trails (approximately 125 miles total).

Their average hike is between 3 to 5 miles, the longest being a 15-mile trail in Hot Springs.

“We hiked a lot partially because it was good for us and because it was one of the few things available to anyone at that time,” Jenny said.

“The trails were packed.”

In addition to the physical health benefits of hiking, the Davises said being active is a

great way to relieve stress, especially the stress brought about by a global health crisis.

“Everyone has had to juggle things professionally and personally,” Houston said.

“Hiking, getting outdoors, bike riding for me, and running and practicing yoga for Jenny have all been part of our stress relief. That sort of activity is fantastic for being able to help your body cleanse itself.”

Jenny added that being in nature brings perspective and helps relieve some of the heightened stress that people have experienced collectively over the past two years.

“There has been a lot of negativity during the pandemic and a lot of fear,” she said. “It’s difficult to be afraid. Being in nature reminds us that we’re part of a big, beautiful, complex system where we all depend on each other. It helped calm us down.”

The Davises said they are fortunate to live in a community that has an abundance of natural beauty both within and just outside the city. In Conway, you may find them walking along the Tucker Creek Trail or around the Jewel Moore Nature Reserve on the campus of UCA.

West Summit Trail Pinnacle Mountain State Park 11901 Pinnacle Valley Road Little Rock, AR 72223 Distance: 1.5 miles out and back (up and down) Difficulty: Strenuous Rim Trail Mount Nebo State Park 16728 West State Highway 155 Dardanelle, AR 72834 Distance: 3.5-mile loop Difficulty: Moderate North Rim, Mossback Ridge, and Greenfield Trails Loop Mount Magazine State Park 16878 AR-309 Paris, AR 72855 Distance: 4.4-mile loop Difficulty: Moderate, Strenuous Kings Bluff and Pedestal Rocks Trails Ozark National Forest Pelsor, AR 72856 Distance: 4.6-mile loop Difficulty: Moderate Indian Rock House Cave & Trail Buffalo National River Highway 286 Yellville, AR 72687 Distance: 3.3-mile loop Difficulty: Easy

+ backyARd Conway “When you’re walking through the Jewel Moore Nature Reserve, it’s easy to forget that you’re in the center of a town with 65,000 people,” Jenny said.

The UCA campus also became a place for community members to retreat to during the pandemic. Houston described it as “Conway’s Central Park.”

“The campus of UCA is almost like a hub-and-spoke system to all sorts of trails and neighborhoods and opportunities in Conway,” he said. “We found a lot of people

coming to enjoy the campus. You could tell it was a place of meeting, it was the crossroads of their walking or running, and it was a place for children to ride their bikes – it’s been wonderful.

“I hope people continue to see the campus that way because it’s nice to have those hubs within your community where people know that they can get out, get some fresh air, and be with family and friends. The UCA campus should be that for Conwegians.”

Just as UCA is a hub-and-spoke for walking trails and bike paths within the city of Conway, the Davises said that Conway itself is a hub-and-spoke for popular natural attractions, including the Arkansas River Valley Tri-Peaks Region, which references Petit Jean Mountain, Mount Nebo, and Mount Magazine. They were surprised by Conway’s proximity to the world-class trails available in the area.

“We’ve lived in places that have a lot of beauty – Georgia and Tennessee are both close to Appalachia – but those world-class trails are really spread out, and it takes you a long time to get to them,” Jenny said. “Here in Conway, you may drive 30 minutes to an hour, and you’re in world-class beauty equal to or surpassing what’s in other states. And then you drive 45 minutes beyond that, and you have a national river.

“It’s easy to take for granted how accessible all of this natural beauty is.”

Both Houston and Jenny named trails within the Tri-Peaks area as their most memorable. For Houston, it’s the North Rim Trail at Mount Magazine State Park. With a difficultly level of moderate to strenuous, the scenic 2.2-mile trail follows the north rim of the mountain, leading through “hardwood forests, scrub oaks and cedar glades across several tumbling creeks” and overlooking a “rugged hollow, the Arkansas River Valley, and the Ozark Plateau,” according to the Arkansas State Parks’ website. The North Rim Trail connects with the western end of the Mossback Ridge Trail, creating a 4.4mile loop back to the visitor center. It takes approximately 3 hours to complete.

“It is spectacular. I cannot recommend that one enough: a lot of natural beauty, great vistas – that’s probably my favorite so far.”

Jenny said she enjoys seeing the differences in vegetation, rock formations, and even bugs when hiking her favorite trails – from the creeks that wind their way down Mount Nebo to the Seven Hollows Trail at Petit Jean State Park.

“I love Seven Hollows. That one is radically different every season,” she said. “You see it in an entirely new way in autumn and winter because you can see all the rock formations.

“We have a beautiful world, and it’s good to be out in it.”

Q&A

Houston and Jenny Davis What are some spoken or unspoken ground rules you have about your hikes? For example, how do you pick what’s next?

JENNY: He likes high difficulty and maximum pain. And I don’t consider myself a weakling. I’m tough, and I will tolerate high difficulty if it’s accompanied by beautiful vistas and sights. One example is the waterfall at Triple Falls (Twin Falls) at Camp Orr Boy Scout Camp in north Arkansas. The way down is really easy. The way up via the Hemmed-In-Hollow Trail is really hard. But the beauty makes it worth it. So, I’m only going to do high difficulty if I get maximum reward. I have to be distracted from my pain and suffering.

HOUSTON: It’s like a Super Mario game for me when it comes to choosing our next hike. I’m looking to get as many coins as possible for elevation change and miles in as little time as possible. Sometimes I forget that I’d better find some super scenic spots along the way to take care of those qualities as well.

What is your hiking partner like? Is there a lot of talking on the trail? Do you take your time or power through?

JENNY: I’m stronger at the end. He gets us started, and I get us finished. I don’t have any natural gifts but endurance, so at the end, I’m stronger and probably faster than I am at the beginning – no matter the length of the hike. And I would say insofar as talking, we’re pretty much in sync. There are times where it’s OK to be quiet and just enjoy being. Because part of the sensory experience is hearing nature around you.

HOUSTON: Most of the time when we’re out on the trails, it’s almost an excuse to be able to visit. Sometimes you’ve got to get away from the hustle and bustle, and sometimes in my role, you’ve got to get away from the campus to just be able to be with each other. But I agree with Jenny: there are times where we’ll walk along and neither of us needs to say anything because what’s in front of us is just gorgeous. And we just take it in. We’ve been married 26 years; we kind of know where the quiet spots are and where the chatter spots are in life.

JENNY: I will also say that he loves to prepare. Part of what he loves about hiking is planning and packing for the hike: ‘Do we need a meal? Do we need snacks? How many snacks? How much water?’ The ‘getting ready’ is part of the joy of hiking to him, so I’m lucky in that regard – that he enjoys the work of preparation.

HOUSTON: Yes, mapping out the itinerary is a part of the joy. The “during” part – that’s just the icing on the cake.

Fill in the blank: I don’t leave home without my ______________.

HOUSTON: Phone. We have several trails apps where you can download trail maps. You can access them without a cell signal, and you just need a little bit of a GPS signal. Also, I’d recommend a good walking stick. That gives you three points rather than two on the ground. It helps with weight distribution, balance, and when crossing streams.

JENNY: Bear spray. We saw a bear moving beneath us when we were hiking Mount Magazine one time. When we saw the ‘Beware of Bears’ sign, we joked that as president of the UCA Bears, Houston could work toward diplomacy, but we didn’t think we’d actually see one. The bear was kind enough, and I could see that it was moving away from us. I was not spooked, but I was made aware that this was its home and not mine.

I also recommend you invest in comfortable socks and good hiking boots that are water resistant. They offer support and make the hike so much easier.

What Natural State adventures await in 2022?

HOUSTON: We have got many more trails up in the Buffalo River area that we need to do, especially in the Upper Buffalo. There are some trails up at Devil’s Den that we’ve not done yet. We’ve got a lot of trails to hit in northern and northwest Arkansas.

We also want to revisit some of our favorite trails in different seasons. We want to see Seven Hollows at the peak of the fall leaves.

JENNY: Yes, I would like to return to Pedestal Rocks in the winter when the leaves have dropped and see all those views. It’s one of the most stunning trails we’ve been on.

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THE WILD LIFE Want to learn about fishing? Have an urge to learn more about wildlife? Do you love snake videos on YouTube? There’s a local couple who might be just right for you.

Cole and Jay Harken started uploading videos of their wildlife adventures to their personal social media accounts for fun a few years ago. They never would have dreamed they would now have nearly 200,000 followers on YouTube and be working as full-time wildlife content creators, but here they are.

The video that hit things off was no different than the rest, but for some reason, this one went viral. It was a video of Jay handling a Nerodia rhombifer, more commonly known as a diamondback water snake.

“She had posted hundreds of this type of videos before, but this one took off and got millions and millions of views,” Cole said.

The newfound attention came at a time when Cole and Jay had finished college — him with a degree in wildlife management and hers in environmental studies — but were unsure what they wanted to do next.

“I knew from an early age I wanted a different career path,” Cole said. “When I worked normal jobs or retail jobs in school, I wasn’t happy. I was always trying to get back outside and follow my dreams.”

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Jay’s video popularity came as a lot of other YouTubers were finding success posting fishing and wildlife videos, so Cole and Jay decided to give it a shot.

“We made a YouTube channel and started posting,” Cole said. “We didn’t expect anything from it, but we got traction and got to where our channel was monetized.”

The duo’s first upload netted nearly 10,000 views and by their fifth video, they’d reached more than 870,000 views.

Some of their more popular uploads — including fishing for bullfrogs and snake encounters — have eclipsed a million views.

The couple’s most popular upload to-date is a 13-minute video where they gave one of the butterflies they’d raised a new wing.

“We want to entertain folks and get them excited about going outside and learning about wildlife,” Cole said.

When the YouTube venture started, Cole made a deal that he’d quit his part-time retail

job if they reached 100,000 followers.

The couple now have nearly 200,000 subscribers and average tens of thousands of views on their uploads, which sees the couple exploring the Natural State and its beauty.

A search of their channel will show a bevy of fishing outings, peppered with snake catching, cooking and storage tips, and family outings with their son, Cypress. The couple tries to upload three to five videos each week of their outings. “It takes a lot to make a living on YouTube,” Cole said.

“But it’s nice to work for ourselves, do what we enjoy and work at our own pace.”

While they may not be using their education in the traditional sense, Cole and Jay are using their love of the outdoors to inspire and encourage others to get out and enjoy the beauty around them.

“Being outside boosts your physical and mental health,” Cole said. “You have time to focus on yourself and what’s around you.”

“We want to entertain folks and get them excited about going outside and learning about wildlife.”

- Cole Harken

Q&A with Cole and Jay How did you two meet and how did your outdoor exploring begin?

We met at Arkansas State University. We found we had a mutual interest in outdoors, so our first several dates were just fishing trips. I (Cole) was into herping (searching for and catching amphibians and reptiles) so I took Jay to catch snakes and turtles and she got into it so that’s all we did after that, along with fishing.

What are the opportunities to get outdoors around Conway?

The epicenter of Conway outdoors is Lake Conway and the surrounding areas. Not everyone has a boat or kayak, but if you do, you can get into one of the creeks of the lake and see some amazing wildlife and some great scenery.

Another area is Beaverfork Lake. You have fishing and water recreation, but also disc golf and large fields to go throw a frisbee or a baseball and just have fun. You can also go walk one of the many trails in Conway. We spend a lot of time at Kinley Trail at Tucker Creek and as you may have seen in our videos, there’s a lot of wildlife to be seen in the creek.

What is a hidden gem in Conway?

We just discovered this place a few years ago, but the Camp Robinson Wildlife Management Area. There’s an auto tour you can drive and the area is a savannah-type with oak trees. From May to July, it’s loaded with wildflowers and birds and butterflies. It is breathtaking.

Many times, we over plan when we decide to go outdoors. Your videos seem to show a lot of planning doesn’t have to go into a successful time outdoors.

We are guilty of overplanning, too. We’ve found when we do a lot of planning for our videos, we tend to fail miserably. When we just say, “we’re going to drive to this spot and go,” the trips are more fun, we don’t have any expectations and it just plays itself out.

Conway has a lot of public access fishing areas, trails and parks, so there are plenty of opportunities to just go and do.

What advice do you share with people about snake encounters in the wild?

Whenever you see a snake in the wild, you’ve entered into its safe place and domain. Snakes are generally aware of you before you’re aware of them. A snake isn’t going to chase you down and try to bite you; that’s a myth. There can be times when you’re in a boat and snake will slide down the bank and may cruise next to your boat or kayak, but it’s doing that because it doesn’t see you as a threat, so you shouldn’t see it as a threat, either.

When people get bit, it’s usually from handling improperly or harassing the snake. Arkansas only has six venomous snakes. Most of the snakes we encounter around the state and Conway are non-venomous.

We encourage people to familiarize yourself with the markings of the venomous snakes; they are easy to learn.

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Conway has more than 60 miles of bike lanes, shared paths and trails of all kinds, but recently added something that was even unique for its cycling repertoire: Pompe Park.

The park, located at the corner of Prince Street and Morningside Drive, offers a 1-mile flow trail with berms, jumps and drops for riders. The trail was completed last year, thanks to grant funding from the Walton Family Foundation.

“Pompe was just a vacant piece of city land that we were able to repurpose to create a flow trail,” said Terry Coddington, bike and pedestrian coordinator for the City of Conway. “There’s a little bit of something for everyone at the park.”

The flow trail is designed for mountain bikes and features a tilt-and-lift course — an elevated, winding track with few straight stretches — and a pea gravel finish, which makes it conducive for riding after rain.

Best of all, its features cater to riders of all experience levels.

“The trail is designed so beginners can complete it, but as they get better, they can take advantage of other features, such as they rhythm section or jumps and drops,” Coddington said. “As an advanced rider, I can come out here and challenge myself, but still have the opportunity to bring my kids out here and ride along with them as they progress and learn.”

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POMPE TRAIL Young or inexperienced riders have the chance to navigate drops, banked turns, rocks, roots and other features they would see on a traditional mountain biking trail but master them in a controlled environment at Pompe Park, instead of being dropped in the middle of a mountain bike trail that generally requires experience.

“If you took a kid or an inexperienced rider to Cadron, which is an intermediate to advanced trail, their first memory of mountain biking is not going to be a good one,” Coddington said. “They can come out here and have a great time and learn.”

The flow trail is designed for mountain bikes and features a tilt-and-lift course—an elevated, winding track with few straight stretches—and a pea gravel finish, which makes it conducive for riding after rain.

Best of all, its features cater to riders of all experience levels.

Since its opening last year, Coddington said the park has been a popular spot for families.

“As a parent, you can come out and ride with your kids, or bring a lawn chair and watch your kids and know they aren’t going to get too far out of sight,” he said. “The added benefit of that is if you can get a kid riding a bike, you typically get a family riding.”

Pompe’s location in a busy part of town does a lot to help attract visitors, Coddington said.

“It gets a lot of attention because of its location near businesses and restaurants, which helps create awareness,” he said. “Being located along Kinley Trail and Tucker Creek also lends itself to opportunity and access.”

Coddington said the city has learned residents are more likely to take advantage of trails when they are centrally located and accessible by bike and not just by car.

Local residents aren’t the only ones taking advantage of Pompe Park and the flow trail, Coddington said, as he’s seen folks from nearby towns and communities come to enjoy the track.

“This trail is unique for not just Conway, but central Arkansas,” he said. “There’s not another trail like this until you get into northwest Arkansas.”

The required equipment to come enjoy Pompe Park are minimal, Coddington said.

“You just need a helmet and a properly maintained bike,” he said. “That’s about it.”

OSMAR GARCIA

on Cycling in Conway and Central Arkansas

Osmar Garcia, co-founder & CEO Northwestern Mutual-Garcia Wealth Management

Osmar Garcia is co-founder and CEO of Northwestern MutualGarcia Wealth Management in Conway. He started cycling in 2013 and quickly realized he’d found a new hobby, especially road riding, that gave him a good workout with a fun group and a chance to enjoy a good stretch of scenery riding through Conway and central Arkansas.

“It’s nice going out for a ride with a group of people, enjoying the views and having great conversation while riding,” he said.

We asked him a few questions about the cycling scene in Conway for those interested in hitting the road.

What is something you get out of cycling that you didn’t expect?

OSMAR: Meeting people of similar and diverse backgrounds who enjoy the sport. Cycling is a community of its own that I very much enjoy!

Are there any misconceptions you hear about cycling that you’ve learned aren’t true?

OSMAR: Some may think you have to be in marathon-ready condition, but that is not the case. They say 3 miles on a bike is equal to 1 mile of running, and I would say that’s mainly true — subject to the hills, of course. I’ve learned you simply have to get out there and ride at a pace and distance that is comfortable.

Endurance will come.

If someone is interested in cycling, what would you suggest as a couple first steps to get started?

OSMAR: I would recommend borrowing a bike from a friend before making the purchase. After riding a few times, you have a better understanding of the type of bike you may need. Also, consult with a professional to get “fitted” once you decide to make a purchase. The Ride here in town is a great place.

What are your favorite spots to hit around Conway and central Arkansas?

OSMAR: My favorite is the “Airport Loop” around here. It’s a nice route with a few challenging hills (at least for me), but great scenery. As for central Arkansas, I enjoy the Little Rock riverfront route – again, beautiful scenery.

Pictured are Osmar Garcia, Houston Davis, and Melvin Gonzalez.

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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 Nebo State Park Drive Time: 1 hour 9 minutes

A certified Trail of Tears National Historic Trail Site. Offers 14 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails and panoramic views of the Arkansas River from the Rim Trail.

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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FISHING ON THE FLY

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Come to recharge.

Discover retail therapy.

Located in the heart of The Natural State, Conway is the perfect place for an outdoor adventure.

No matter what brings you to Conway, Arkansas, you’re bound to discover something else that makes you want to stay. With three colleges, the city of 66,000 is not your ordinary small town.

Conway is a growing city – rooted in education – with a thriving downtown, a flourishing arts scene, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Its visible sense of community will make you feel right at home. Its hidden gems will leave you wanting to explore.

Conway. Full of possibilities.

ConwayArk.com

866.7CONWAY

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Be the best version of you.

Conway Women’s Health Center, PA, cares about the overall health and well-being of women. Our doctors and nurse practitioners provide excellent healthcare with compassion and respect. Our areas of expertise are: • Pregnancy • Women’s Health • Infertility

• Menopause • Ultrasounds • Weight Management

• Med Spa • Botox and Fillers • Permanent Cosmetics

2519 College Avenue • Conway, Arkansas 72034 • 501.450.3920 ConwayWomen.com • Conwaywomensmedspa.com

OUR PROVIDERS

Dr. Debra Lawrence

Dr. Amy Johnson

Dr. Brandie Martin

Theresa J. “TJ” Moix

Dr. Josh Ward

Heather A. White

Dr. Debra Lawrence Dr. Amy Johnson Dr. Brandie Martin Theresa J. “TJ” Moix, APRN Dr. Josh Ward Heather A. White, APN

Conway+ Spotlight on Local Businesses Shopping local is easy in Conway! In this year’s edition of Conway+, we’re highlighting three out of more than 1,500 member businesses in the Conway area. No matter what products or services you’re looking for, we encourage you to shop Conway first! Search the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce’s membership directory at conwaychamber.org/directory for a full list of businesses across dozens of categories.

St. Joseph Preschool

Conway Women’s Health Center, PA

818 4th Street Conway, Arkansas 72032 501-336-8149 stjosephconway.org

2519 College Avenue Conway, Arkansas 72034 501-450-3920 ConwayWomen.com

In a safe, developmentally appropriate, structured, Christian environment, the St. Joseph School Preschool program strives to help children express ideas and feelings freely, acquire reasonable patterns of behavior, learn to cooperate with other children in socially acceptable ways, become familiar with their Catholic faith, and build important foundations for future learning skills in all academic areas.

Conway Women’s Health Center is a partnership of Obstetric and Gynecological Physicians welcoming patients from the central Arkansas area. Conway Women’s Health Center offers a full range of women’s health services as well as cosmetic services in its med spa, Conway Women’s Med Spa. Contact CWHC to schedule an appointment in Conway or at its satellite office in Clinton.

Dr. Debra Lawrence

Dr. Amy Johnson

Dr. Brandie Martin

Theresa J. “TJ” Moix

Dr. Josh Ward

Heather A. White

SHADE 740 South Salem #108 Conway, Arkansas 72034 501-513-3400 www.theSHADEspa.com SHADE is Arkansas’s premiere sunless tanning and skincare studio. With two locations in Conway and Little Rock, SHADE offers UV tanning, sunless tanning, esthetic services, teeth whitening, sugaring, lash extensions, facials, lash lift and tint, and more.

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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.

EXIT 125: Conway Towne Centre 180,000-square-foot shopping center anchored by a Cinemark movie theater EXIT 127: Downtown Home to more than 60 retail businesses and restaurants EXIT 127: Conway Commons Regional shopping hub featuring big-name brands such as T.J. Maxx/ HomeGoods, Target, and Old Navy EXIT 129: Lewis Crossing Offers more than a dozen nationally known restaurants and stores, including Sam’s Club, Academy Sports + Outdoors, and Ulta Beauty

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CONWAY

GUIDE Get the 411 on Conway’s educational institutions, hospitals, parks, and utilities and public services. For the latest on the businesses, nonprofits, houses of worship, and other organizations that make up the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce, browse the online directory of member businesses at ConwayChamber.org.

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Baptist Health–Conway 1555 Exchange Avenue 501-585-2000 baptisthealthconway.com

Health Care

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–Conway, is a faith-based, state-of-the-art facility offering an integrated healing environment for the care and comfort of patients and families.

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Located on the west side of Interstate 40, the 260,000-squarefoot facility features 111 beds and eight operating rooms.

Baptist Health–Conway offers a full spectrum of comprehensive services, including inpatient and outpatient surgical care, orthopedic care, heart services, women’s health, and MRI and CAT scan services.

Since it opened in Conway in September 2016, Baptist Health has worked with various educational institutions and nonprofits to promote health and wellness in Faulkner County and the surrounding communities.

Conway Behavioral Health Hospital

Conway Regional Health System

Conway Behavioral Health Hospital treats adults and adolescents with a variety of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and co-occurring addiction. The 80-bed, 65,000-square-foot mental health treatment center provides acute inpatient care in a secure setting for adults and adolescents.

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.

Conway Behavioral Health is part of the Acadia network, a provider of inpatient behavioral health care services. Acadia operates a network of 593 behavioral health care facilities with approximately 18,100 beds in 40 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, specialty treatment facilities, residential treatment centers, and outpatient clinics.

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.

2255 Strugis Road 866-868-2716 conwaybh.com

2302 College Avenue 800-245-3314 conwayregional.org

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.

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Utilities & Public Services

AT&T Arkansas

101 N. 13th, Room 316 (Fort Smith) 479-785-6610 att.com AT&T offers wireless, internet, and TV services in Conway and the surrounding area.

Conway Corporation 650 Locust Street 501-450-6000 conwaycorp.com

Conway Corp operates the cityowned utility system and provides electric, water, wastewater, video, internet, voice and security services for the Conway community.

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, yard-waste 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.

Entergy Arkansas

112 Oak Street 800-368-37492 entergy-arkansas.com Entergy Arkansas provides electricity to residences outside of Conway’s city limits.

Arkansas 811

811 or 800-482-8998 arkonecall.com Arkansas 811 is the statewide “call before you dig” center. It allows excavators of all types to notify multiple utilities of their intent to excavate with a single phone call or online submission.

City of Conway Parks | conwayparks.com

Basketball

Baseball/ Softball

Pavilion/ Picnic Area

Playground

Airport Park 425 6th Street

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Bainbridge Park 80 Kensington Drive

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Facilities

Beaverfork Lake Park 20 Kinley Drive

Restrooms

Tennis/ Racquetball

Volleyball

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Cadron Settlement Park 6200 Highway 319

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Conway Expo Center & Fairgrounds 2505 East Oak Street

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Centennial Soccer Park 5200 John W. Allison Road

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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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Tucker Creek Walking/ Bike Trail 275 Salem Road

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Simon Park 805 Front Street

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Conway Station Park 1501 Robins Street

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Water Sports/ Splash Pads

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City of Colleges Park 1025 East Siebenmoregen Road

Soccer/ Football

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Loan Production Office

1055 Steel Ave, #110, Conway, AR 72032 501-932-6216 MyPartners.Bank

Michael A. Bynum mbynum@partnersbnk.com

Dawn Johnson djohnson@partnersbnk.com

Executive Vice President Central Arkansas Regional President

Vice President Loan Officer

#BetterTogether

2425 Dave Ward Drive • Suite 501 • Conway, AR 72034 (501) 336-8888 • (800) 336-8884

Mitchell L. Collins, DDS, MD Board-Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

EXPERTS IN WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL DENTAL IMPLANTS JAW SURGERY AND MORE!

Visit us on social media!

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WE KEEP EVERYTHING GOING.

Just like you.

You’re committed to being there for the people you care about, no matter what.

We know the feeling. At Conway Corp, our team works tirelessly to make sure things are running smoothly – the big stuff, and all the little stuff – for everyone who calls Conway home. It’s simple, really: if our families need it, we’ve got it covered. Period.

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Powering Conway since 1929.

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Life is better in

Conway.

Proud to serve Arkansas’ most progressive community!

Life in Conway just keeps getting better. Families thrive here – and so do businesses – while city leaders continually support industry, beautification, parks, education and other community-first initiatives. First Security is proud to grow here, too, and provide the experiences that help our friends and neighbors bank better. Call or click today!

2020

Member FDIC | 81

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Conway Regional has been the community’s hospital for 100 years, providing high-quality, compassionate care. As our community continues to grow, we are growing alongside you to ensure all of your healthcare needs are met right here in Conway. When your family needs medical care, you can trust our award-winning team to provide the award-winning comprehensive care you deserve.

Best Place to Have a Baby Best Hospital Best Overall Company