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publisher/owner
Michele Towne mtowne@invitingarkansas.com
editor
Kim Meyer-Webb kimw@invitingarkansas.com
art director
Heather Buckley hbuckley@invitingarkansas.com
production associate
Rebel Flynn Wilson rwilson@invitingarkansas.com
contributors
Sarah Oden
Sarah Reeves
Dero Sanford
Lori Sparkman Photography
Hans Stiritz website design Matmon Internet, Inc.
“There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called yesterday and the other is called tomorrow. So today is the right day to love, believe, do and mostly live.” – Dalai
LamaConsidered the leader of Tibetan Buddhism, Dalai Lama represents enlightenment through clarity of mind and heart. This seemingly simple philosophy encourages a presence in each moment to make the most of each day. The hustle and bustle of the world can be a distraction, but we keep finding folks who are taking the time to create meaningful change; they are DOing this and improving the welfare of fellow Arkansans.
Kim Fowler remembers the procedure that saved her husband’s life and notes his new perspective to “live life to the fullest” – which includes the easy vibes of Key West where the couple currently resides. It has also inspired their family’s support of the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Kim and Chris will welcome guests to Gala for Life for a Key West Soiree.
As the Finest Gala returns for an evening under the stars, Chairman Cat Sims reiterates the purpose of this fun + festive gathering. “The ultimate goal of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is for CF to stand for Cure Found.” Finest Honorees, like Andrew Crone, generate critical funding for continued research. Like many, Andrew’s family has been affected by the disease and he believes in bringing people together with a shared vision: Cure Found.
Rice farmers in the Natural State are committed to protecting and preserving the land through innovative practices that yield delicious results. In the land of opportunity, there is an undeniable optimism for the unlimited possibilities of agriculture. Rice is finding its way into niche business, we’re celebrating the power of community with these constituents and hope you’ll join the fun.
Today is the day to love + live …
Kim Meyer-Webb, Editor
#MakingPhilanthropyFun
Inviting Arkansas is a registered trademark of Arkamedia, LLC. Copyright © 2023 Arkamedia, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission of Arkamedia, LLC is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of the staff or publisher thereof. Arkamedia, LLC makes no implied or expressed guarantee of the accuracy of the information within this publication. an arkamedia publication
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Photography by MEREDITH MELODY
Hair by AMY HESTER with RED BEAUTY LOUNGE
Makeup by BRIDGET BALTIMORE with BARBARA JEAN
Wardrobe from BARBARA JEAN
This annual event is always a summer favorite, offering a night of Bingo and a catfish supper with all the fixins from Adams Catfish. Hosted by Danna and Andrew Kurrus along with the young professionals auxiliary, ACCESS in Action, guests gathered at The Hall for friendly competition + lots of fellowship including the Split the Pot Golden Bingo Card sponsored by Entegrity. Proceeds of more than $88,000 support the mission fulfillment work and services of ACCESS – expanding individual potential through innovative instruction by providing evaluation services, full-time education, therapy, training and activities for individuals with special needs. ACCESS in Action solicits sponsors as well as donations for fun Bingo and raffle prizes and coordinates the logistics for the bash.
The Arkansas Game & Fish Commission welcomed outdoor enthusiasts and friends to the Wyndham Riverfront North Little Rock for the annual Natural State Landowners Conservation Awards Banquet. The agency recognized private landowners that participate in Arkansas Game & Fish Commission sanctioned programs and improve the wildlife habitat on the property. Greenway Equipment serves as the cultivation partner.
Located at 4300 Markham Street across from the Little Rock campus of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Home for Healing offers free lodging to parents of NICU infants, cancer patients + their caregivers, and caregivers of ICU patients. Now, Home for Healing welcomes adult cancer patients from UAMS, Baptist Health, CHI ST Vincent, Arkansas Urology and teenagers from Arkansas Children’s. Since its inception in 2003, the peaceful + restorative environment makes it a beacon of hope during a journey back to wellness. Dr. Richard “Whit” Hall was instrumental in the inception of Home for Healing – he shares his insight and perspective.
Expected to follow in his family’s engineering business, Hall Tank Company, Dr. Richard “Whit” Hall redirected and pursued a career in medicine. “I trained in Arkansas, becoming a general pediatrician from 1976 to 1990. However, neonatology, my favorite part of pediatrics, pulled me back into training to specialize in caring for babies. I have been at UAMS and Arkansas Children’s Hospital since finishing my fellowship in 1993.”
Dr. Hall’s devotion to the neonatal unit is unwavering, even after 30 years of service. He remembers a family with a critically ill baby facing many challenges, including difficulties in arranging transportation to and from Little Rock. “Tragically, the baby passed away before the family could make it back,” he shares. “After that, I vowed to do whatever was necessary to help families be with their infants.” This became a top priority to Dr. Hall, in tandem with the unparalleled medical treatments babies receive.
When the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute Auxiliary suggested the idea of a cancer support center for patients and families, Dr. Hall’s own experience brought him into the circle of leadership that
would establish The Family Home. Today, Home for Healing provides a most critical resource for families – proximity to treatment centers. “Those of us on the front lines of caring for these small premature infants understand the importance. Studies show, and we see, that having families present lessens the pain after procedures. These small premature infants, some as small as a pound, know their parents are with them.” Additionally, Home for Healing offers optimal nutrition for breastfeeding mothers, which contributes to better brain development and infection prevention.
Dr. Hall recognizes Home for Healing as a safe haven for families during a most stressful time. The conditions of neonatal unit babies can change rapidly, causing emotional and mental strain on parents. He remembers the personal turmoil when his grandson was in the NICU.” My day was dictated by how my grandchild was doing: if they were doing well, I would be on cloud nine; if they were doing poorly, nothing could lighten the load. Being able to talk with others experiencing the same saved my sanity.”
“If I think of what philanthropy in Little Rock should look like, I don’t have to look any further than my father, Dr. Whit Hall. The work I have seen him do to help others, with nowhere else to turn, is almost immeasurable. Like Home for Healing, it is done with a passion that is unparalleled in our community.”
– Jesse Hall
4300 Club at Home for Healing, Founder
Linda Harris Barnes
Deeper Connections
Pulaski Heights UMC
Betty & Richard Hanson and Becky & Jerry Kossover
Arita &Tom Jewart
Kathleen Kennally & Mark Holder
Karon & Bill Mann
Jenny & Jeremy Teeter
Melanie & Matt Buchanan Libby & Aaron Caldwell Jan Green Barbara House Mary & Clef Vaughan
KIM FOWLER REMEMBERS the procedure that saved her husband’s life. “Thanks to Dr. Suen and his amazing team – Chris not only survived stage 4 cancer, he is thriving with a compelling drive to live life to the fullest.” As a result of this experience, the Fowlers are ardent ambassadors for the Winthrop P Rockefeller Cancer Institute. “We have been truly blessed and know the importance of giving back.” Kim and Chris will welcome guests to Gala for Life for an evening of tropical delights.
An Arkansas native, Kim enjoyed an idealistic childhood in Lepanto with “people who helped mold me into the person I am today.” Kim and Chris live in Key West, but keep a family home in Jonesboro. Philanthropy is a priority and the couple supports Arkansas Children’s, the University of Arkansas, the University of Central Arkansas and many more. “It has become second nature for us to contribute where we feel it will have the most impact,” she notes. “Thus, the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute is one of those places.” Cancer Institute Director Michael Birrer - M.D., Ph.D., adds, “The Fowlers exemplify the vision of UAMS – creating a better state of health for all Arkansans. We are grateful for their unwavering support of the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute and their dedication to ensuring that Arkansas’ cancer patients are able to receive the best care here at home.”
This small town girl has big plans – transforming Gala for Life into an elegant evening under the palm trees of the Florida Keys. “We just fell in love with the easy, laid-back vibe and small town feel of Key West. We want guests to experience that, as if they are at one of the many music venues scattered throughout Key West.” Proceeds from the evening will support the National Cancer Institute Designation. The National Cancer Program is one of the pillars of the nation’s cancer research initiative. Designated cancer centers are recognized for exceptional scientific leadership,
resources and research. Funding opportunities become available with this designation that allow for additional scientific collaborations and partnerships. Under the leadership of Chancellor Patterson, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is comprised of a worldclass team of experts that inspire patients to believe in its potential as the premier center for healthcare.
With a steadfast commitment to the health o all Arkansans, Kim and Chris believe the physicians and treatment programs at the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences are unparalleled and will only continue to transform lives. “Our roots go deep and our hearts will always be in the Natural State. The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute saved my husband’s life and words cannot express our appreciation and thankfulness.”
“The Fowlers exemplify the vision of UAMS – creating a better state of health for all Arkansans. We are grateful for their unwavering support of the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute and their dedication to ensuring that Arkansas’ cancer patients are able to receive the best care here at home.”
– Director Michael Birrer
Kristen Safa, Brianne Bush, Gina Pharis, Brooke Womack
CELEBRATING MORE THAN THREE DECADES of success, Holiday House heralds the holiday season and offers the best selection of unique gifts. Junior League of Little Rock will welcome shoppers to the Statehouse Convention Center again this year for the shopping extravaganza. It boasts merchants from across the country, gifts to give and get as well as special events throughout the weekend.
KRISTEN SAFFA
2012 Holiday House Chair
WHY HOLIDAY HOUSE
There is nothing else really like it in the city. There are other shopping experiences that have mirrored Holiday House, but not to the scale that JLLR has been able to build over the years.
MOST MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCE
It’s the culmination of everything I learned from my time as a JLLR member. I learned how to stay organized, communicate with all types of personalities and work well as a team to get the job done. These experiences have led to many more leadership opportunities that I don’t believe would have been made possible without my experience as a JLLR member.
WHY JOIN JLLR
I truly believe I wouldn’t be the person I am today without the skills developed from JLLR. All the women I worked with saw more in me than I ever saw in myself which led to leadership positions that I don’t think I would have been confident to do prior to my JLLR experience.
GINA PHARIS
1995 Holiday House Chair
WHY HOLIDAY HOUSE
The committee memories and relationships are wonderful, the money we raised for the league is significant and mostly the shopping experience we offer to the community is exceptional. It is a social event.
MOST MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCE
Everyone had to test recipes for the Apron Strings cookbook and we had to cut up a chicken. No one had ever done this except me, and I was a novice. Our chicken was mutilated.
WHY JOIN JLLR
Join because you want to learn, grow and meet new friends who all want to serve in our community.
Proceeds support the organization’s mission fulfillment work: improving the lives of women and children in Central Arkansas. This legacy of leadership and community service spans generations and represents a rich history of effective + meaningful volunteerism. Each of these women share memories + insight from Holiday House throughout the years.
BROOKE WOMACK
2015 Holiday House Chair
WHY HOLIDAY HOUSE
Having had an opportunity to chair this event and work with an incredible group of women was an experience I will never forget. While it serves as the primary fundraiser for JLLR charitable endeavors, it is also the perfect time for shoppers to get a head start on their holiday shopping and to celebrate the season.
MOST MEANING EXPERIENCE
One of my favorite experiences through the years with JLLR was playing Bingo with the residents at Cumberland Tower in Downtown Little Rock. Both the residents and our members enjoyed spending time together.
JLLR MEMBERSHIP
As a life-long resident of LR who moved back home after college, I wanted a way to reconnect by with people my age and get involved in the community. I had always admired the charitable work that the JLLR provides and wanted to be a part of it.
BRIANNE BUSH
1993 Holiday House Chairman
WHY HOLIDAY HOUSE
It has become a holiday tradition in Little Rock that everyone looks forward to attending and is considered the kick-off to the holiday season!
MOST MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCE
It is definitely the friendships and relationships that I formed during those years. Many of the women I often still see.
WHY JOIN JLLR
It is a wonderful training program for women who would like to get involved in our community and also a great way to meet other women and form relationships with women who are difference-makers.
Friends, fans and fashion enthusiasts gathered at Esse Purse Museum for this 10th anniversary celebration. The evening recognized the museum’s achievements as well the continued efforts to promote women’s history. Guests enjoyed a preview of the current exhibit SoMany Changes – highlighting the history of the SoMa neighborhood through the feminine lens. For more than a decade, Esse Purse Museum has welcomed visitors from around the world and offered a unique perspective to the cultural significance of purses as a symbol of fashion, society and empowerment. Esse Purse Museum is the only purse museum in the United States.
Junior League of Little Rock President Sarah Beth Leader and the 2023 – 2024 Board of Directors welcomed new members to the JLLR Building for this special reception. Guests enjoyed tours of the facility which, in addition to JLLR administrative offices, serves as an impressive event venue as well as the Nonprofit Center. Junior League of Little Rock – celebrating a century of service - is an organization of women committed to improving the lives of women and children in Central Arkansas.
AS THE FINEST GALA returns for a magical evening under the stars, Chairman Cat Sims reminds constituents the purpose of this fun + festive gathering. “The ultimate goal of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is for CF to stand for Cure Found. I truly believe that it will happen in our lifetime.” Guests will gather at the Argenta Plaza for a dinner + program that highlights this mission. “It’s so special to see so many of the CF families come together with tears of joy and excitement. We’re all cheering for honorees who spent a year raising money for the cause.” Andrew Crone received the Todd Miles Award for his fundraising efforts and will be recognized later this month for his contributions to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and life-saving research.
Andrew was initially introduced to the health risks of cystic fibrosis through a family member. “She was diagnosed with CF and we wanted to support her and others in the CF community.” He has served on the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Board of Directors as well as a Finest Honoree. Andrew realizes that community service is a civic responsibility and can be exemplary – something he learned through his time with Boy Scouts of America. “Raising funds and community awareness for the disease will get others involved to find a cure.”
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that predominantly affects the lungs, pancreas and digestive system causing serious infections and complications. Established in 1955, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation supports
innovative research and medical developments that treat the disease. As a result, the life expectancy of patients has increased dramatically. “When the foundation started its work, children with cystic fibrosis only lived to be about 5 years old,” Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Senior Development Director Bethany Howell elaborates.
“Today, cystic fibrosis patients are living as adults – getting married and having families of their own. Continued support through young professionals, like Andrew, will ensure we have the resources to continue our fight for a cure.”
At the heart of the Finest Gala is a love for family and fellowship. Christine Millner Gay will be recognized with the Breath of Life Award. Her tenure of nearly a decade with the foundation reflects not only her commitment to funding a cure for cystic fibrosis, but also a deep devotion to community.
“We’re all in this world together and we must help lift others up during times of despair.” This powerful perspective resonates.
“The difference we make through the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is undeniable; we’re changing the outcomes of so many lives.”
Family is a source of inspiration for Andrew, “My mother for her relentless work ethic and my father for his selflessness.” It’s a critical component of his civic leadership. “Our family has been profoundly impacted by this disease. This event brings people together for the common goal of eradicating CF.”
The "Finest Gala" combines the Breath of Life Gala and Taste of the Finest into one event It will truly be the best of both worldsan evening of elegance under the stars This black-tie optional event will feature libations by Tito's Handmade Vodka, an elegant, seated dinner by Chef Serge Krikorian with Vibrant Occasions Catering This night of celebration will honor over 20 of central Arkansas's finest young professionals and the CF Foundation's top honor, the Breath of Life award will be awarded to Christine Millner Gay The evening will conclude with live entertainment.
Event Chair
Catherine Sims
Breath of Life Award
Christine Millner Gay
2023 Finest Honorees
Brent Ashcraft | Northwind Holdings, LLC
Krystal Bradford | Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield
Phillip Bridges | The Property Group
Hallie Dennis | Pixel Properties
Rebecca Duty | Dillard's
Britney Harcourt | Thryv
Sara Hurst | Bella's Kitchen and Wellness
Cori Keller | The Miss Arkansas Organization
Brayden Mallet | Arvest
Mary Nell McBryde | Mary Nell McBryde Consulting
Andrew Norris | Red Dog Investment Group
Lindsey Peck | Core Creations
Ramon Luis Ramirez | RamonLuis Consulting
Kendall Sandifer | Fringe Clothing
Camden Shaw | Mutual of America
Taylor Stokes | Stōko
Christina Stone | Charlotte Potts State Farm
Caroline Webre | Ben E Keith
Joanna White | Bailey & Company Real Estate
The Finest Gala honorees enjoyed an evening of fellowship and fun with a tropical flair at the beautiful home of Cat and John Sims. As one of Little Rock’s premier young professional events, the Finest Gala celebrates the best and the brightest for their civic leadership + commitment to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. This year’s class will be honored on September 23. Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease that creates mucus in the lungs and causes persistent lung infections. It is the No. 1 genetic killer of children in the United States.
Owner Taylor Stokes welcomed friends and colleagues to Stokos for a reception to celebrate the first anniversary of the business. Guests enjoyed lively libations + light bites. The evening also served as a FUN fundraiser for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Finest Gala, Taylor is a 2023 honoree at the September 23 gala. Located in the Little Rock River Market, Stoko is a creative co-working space and so much more.
Stōko is a coworking space located in the heart of Downtown Little Rock that provides the resources and support to make your dreams a reality. Open to all business types, creatives, nonprofits and entrepreneurs alike, Stōko offers flexible plans and memberships that work with all budgets and needs making showing up to work on Mondays all the better
Working with businesses and nonprofits to provide a professional and creative space where their organizations may grow and further benefit their cause is so special to me
We are grateful to be celebrating one year of the community that has been created!
- Taylor Stokes, founder of Stokō & Cystic Fibrosis Finest Honoree
www.stoko.work | 501.300.9675 | 610 President Clinton Ave
SOME PERKS TO BE STŌKED ABOUT:
Private Offices, Dedicated Desks & Day Pass Memberships
Conference & Podcast Rooms
Bottomless Coffee from Fidel & Co
Phone Booths
Printing & Shredding Services
Onsite Mailboxes
THE THOMPSON FAMILY has deep roots in Southwest Little Rock. Born in 1942, Don Thompson lived in the same zip code for his entire life and enjoyed life in Mabelvale, graduating from Mabelvale High School and attending Little Rock University - now the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. It’s where he started a family with three children and established his company, Thompson Electric. Don pronounced himself the humorous title mayor of Mabelvale with an easy and welcoming smile.
“Dad graduated in 1960 from Mabelvale High School, met our mom there and decided to redo his family home where Tracy, Keith and I grew up,” recalls Terri Thompson, president of Thompson Electric. “He lived just a mile or so away from our office. Our family is very appreciative and excited to be this year’s SpectacuaLR honorees, and we have a long history with the university beginning with my dad. The university adds so much to our community with the programs it offers. Keith and I as well as our sister, Tracy, obtained our degrees from UA Little Rock; we are thankful to be able to support current Trojan studentathletes and are very proud of their athletic and academic achievements.”
Keith Thompson, co-owner of Thompson Electric played baseball for Coach Gary Hogan, who has since retired. He remembers Coach Hogan was all things to Trojan baseball: coach, fundraiser, mentor, and sometimes groundskeeper. “Dad went by Curran-Conway Park one afternoon, and Coach Hogan and some baseball players were leveling dirt and putting in sod,” Terri explains. “Coach referred to where they were practicing and playing as a ‘rock pit and dust bowl.’ Dad knew then he was a good fellow.”
Coach Hogan approached Don to help him make the park as well as the Trojan baseball program a success. The Thompson family established scholarship funds at UA Little Rock, the first of which is the Don Thompson Endowed Baseball Scholarship. For this and many generous contributions, the family will be honored at the 15th SpectacuaLR event. “There would not be UALR baseball if it wasn’t for Don Thompson,” says Gary. “Not only did Don provide services at no charge for electrical and lighting, when I went to build the first lockerroom, he got companies to help me. When I went to put turf in, he got the company to do the groundwork. When we then needed asphalt, he went to get a company to do that. He was so giving and so kind, and it breaks my heart that he passed away.”
“We are very excited to have the Thompson family as this year’s SpectacuaLR honorees,” Director of Athletics George Lee elaborates. “They have meant so much to not only our department, but our university.” To date, SpectacuaLR has generated nearly $3.3 million since its inaugural event in 2009. These generous donations are used to help fund the 15 Trojan athletic programs, annually benefiting more than 270 student-athletes who represent Little Rock Athletics and Little Rock’s Team. Baseball Coach Chris Curry adds, “Without the Thompson family and Mr. Don, there simply would not be a UA-Little Rock baseball program. From helping Coach Hogan transform the facility to a D1 stadium, to maintaining the lights and electricity, to starting a scholarship fund, to giving towards a new scoreboard, no one has done more than the Thompsons.”
SPECTACULAR
Tuesday, October 3 | Jack Stephens Center LRTrojans.com/SpectacuaLR
Chairmen Judith Goodson and her husband Dr. Tim Goodson welcomed friends and patrons of Arkansas Urology Foundation to their home for this gathering. The evening celebrated accomplishments as well as the organization’s vision for the future and recognized the October 14 event - The AU-some Event: A Night in Vegas. The foundation supports the mission fulfillment work of Arkansas Urology: making wellness and preventive healthcare more accessible to all Arkansans.
At the age of 18, I received an opportunity from my uncle to study at UA Little Rock and relocate to Arkansas. I moved to Little Rock from my homeland of Amman, Jordan, and have stayed here ever since.
Now as an alum, I have proudly served for multiple years on the UA Little Rock Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Leadership Council as a board member advising on the state of technology in the construction industry.
UA Little Rock played a pivotal role in shaping my professional journey. Through a blend of academic studies and practical experience via internships, the location of the school and its cooperative education program made this transition seamless.
It was from this foundation that my professional career took ight. I started my career in information technology in 2005 at VCC, moving steadily up to my current position of chief technology o cer. As such, I am responsible for the overall technology vision for the company and implementing strategies, systems and collaborations to position VCC as a technology-driven company. The company today uses world-class processes and techniques to manage the information systems that support the operation of a large, national construction rm.
Arkansas accounts for more than 40% of rice production in the United States. These farmers are committed to protecting + preserving the land through innovative practices and the working rice fields that provide critical wildlife habitats. Renowned for its versatility, rice is finding its way into niche business and cultivating unexpected partnerships. We’re celebrating the power of community with constituents that combine resources for phenomenal results we can all enjoy.
BEN E. KEITH FOODS | ISBELL FARMS | LOST FORTY BREWERY ORIGAMI SAKE | RALSTON FAMILY FARMS | RICELAND
With a lineage of ten generations, the Ralston family considers farming more than just a job; it’s a calling. The land is situated in the beautiful Arkansas River Valley –offering unique varieties of single-batch artisanal rice and guaranteeing unparalleled quality. The vertical operations ensure complete traceability, accounting for every step of the farm-to-table journey.
With a commitment to sustainable and regenerative farming practices, Ralston Family Farms makes improving the soil conditions and addressing climate change a priority. This translates into healthier land and stronger communities. Today, there are three generations of the Ralston family working with this shared vision. Through Robin and Tim’s careful oversight and commitment to excellence, this legacy continues.
The farm recently received recognition as a Regenified Tier 1 Verified farm – one of few farms in the United States – with plans to incorporate a 20-acre solar farm to harness the power of sunshine and provide a sustainable energy source for the state-ofthe-art rice milling facility, computerized grain storage and electric pumps in the field.
nd Rodeo is a premium light beer brewed with just a few simple ingredients including pure + clean Arkansas water and Arkansas rice for a light, crisp brew that’s low in alcohol and refreshing anytime, anyplace. Like the Lost Forty Brewery, history and fun facts – it’s completely Arkansas.
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Isbell Farms is a multi-generational family rice farm in Humnoke, Arkansas. The vision to “simply do the right thing and do it well” is an integral part of the culture and future of business. Today, it’s often referred to as sustainability –as a steward of the land, Isbell Farms considers this a civic responsibility. Simply stated, the focus of Isbell Farms is Family, Innovation, and Sustainability.
Isbell Farms grows many rice varieties, including long, medium, and short grains. With more than 70 years of experience, Isbell Farms shifted focus to cultivating more unique varieties like sake rice. Recognized as the first to produce sake rice in the Western Hemisphere, Isbell Farms grows century-old varieties such as the king of sake rice, Yamada Nishiki, as well as Omachi, Watari Bune, and Gohyakumangoku. Isbell Farms finds itself situated at almost the identical latitude of Japan’s premiere sake-growing region, the Hyogo prefecture, making it the perfect location to grow these premium sake varieties.
Isbell Farms proudly provides rice to Origami Sake and celebrates the first “field to glass” Arkansas sake.
Ben Bell recalls the moment that brought Origami Sake to life. It was a chance encounter with a unique sake bottle that he tried and thought, “Since Arkansas is the ‘rice state’ –why not bring sake production here?” He spent two years in Hanamaki, Japan working as a sake brewer and returned with the skills + knowledge to make this vision a reality. In partnership with Matt Bell, Isbell Farms and Ouachita Mountains water – Origami Sake introduces this 100% Arkansas made product and a rediscovery of sake in America.
Photography By SARA REEVES
The world’s largest miller and marketer of rice calls Arkansas home. This farmerowned cooperative stores, processes and transports more than 2.5 million metric tons of grain each year and serves 5,500 farms in Arkansas and Missouri. Generations of farmers that have planted, cultivated and harvested rice reflect the quality promise of Riceland rice. That tradition continues today. The company exports under the Riceland label, private labels, as ingredients and in bulk. These products are consumed across the nation and in more than 75 foreign destinations.
find this recipe at invitingarkansas.com
A proud provider of premier products to restaurants, Ben E. Keith Foods believes service is culture. For more than a century, the company has supplied food and beverage items to Arkansas businesses coupled with a civic responsibility to support + partner with local communities. The team engages in activities coordinated by Ben E. Keith Foods as well as events organized for countless nonprofit organizations. As a result, partnerships throughout Central Arkansas are building a brighter future for all Arkansans.
Raduno will host a happy hour on Wednesday, September 13, for Finest Honoree Caroline – proceeds support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Caroline’s personal contribution of time, energy and resources. The evening will feature Luxe Lotus, crafted with Origami Sake, in special recognition of National Rice Month.
Friends and colleagues enjoyed an extraordinary evening of dining and camaraderie in celebration of the North Little Rock hospitality and tourism industry. Hosted by Ben E, Keith Foods and North Little Rock Tourism, chefs Shane Henderson and Gilbert Alaquinez presented a threecourse meal with perfect pairings. As part of the “Setting the Table” Culinary Initiative, proceeds from the festivities support future developments in North Little Rock and help optimize the local food ecosystem.
Friends and sake enthusiasts gathered at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts for this extraordinary sake experience. Guests enjoyed both Origami Sake varieties – A Thousand Cranes and White Lotus – as well as light bites and music mixed by DJ Mike Poe. Origami Sake is the first and only sake brewery in Arkansas. Utilizing Arkansas rice and Ouachita Mountain spring water, this Hot Springs venture brings new excitement to a time-honored tradition.
LUNCH Monday - Friday: 11am - 2pm
Friends and families of Alzheimer’s Arkansas gathered at Chenal Country Club to celebrate this year’s Champions of the Year. Honorees included the Shell family and caregivers, Quinn Grovey, Second Presbyterian Church and Job’s Journey. Guests enjoyed dinner with live entertainment by Kris Allen as well as a live and silent auction. Proceeds support initiatives such as respite grants to caregivers and the organization’s 24-hour hotline for support services. Alzheimer’s Arkansas provides educational and financial assistance to caregivers of fellow Arkansans with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Nestled on the edge of West Little Rock along Cobblestone Way, this home offers serenity + seclusion with the convenience of city amenities. The Ranch boasts rolling hills and large lots with breathtaking views of Pinnacle Mountain and Arkansas wildlife.
Mike Kirby and Ron Carter are the proprietors of Made in the Shade of Little Rock. The couple shares a wealth of experience in home construction and interior design. Mike provides practical installation advice and Ron offers expert design perspective.
Considered “an oversized pool house,” Ron hopes it feels comfortable and clean with attention to detail that beckons gracious hospitality. The interior features exposed beams and cool hardwood floors that complement the neutral palette – creating a relaxed atmosphere ideal for entertaining. The open floor plan has defined spaces that reflect old-world character with contemporary sophistication.
“Love this room because it’s so open and easy to see everyone.”
– Ron
Nature blends seamlessly into the couple’s lifestyle with poolside outdoor living that celebrates the landscape. A bounty of windows provides an abundance of natural light bringing the outdoors inside, another key consideration in the design of the home. Rustic-inspired décor adorns the linear architecture.
“Our favorite space is inside the pool.”
– Ron
It was indeed a pleasure to work with Mike Kirby and Ron Carter on designing and installing beautiful new window treatments for our home. We also utilized their services for some home decorating. Everything turned out great and we found them both to be very professional, easy to work with and got great results at a reasonable cost.
Fellow Arkansans – neighbors, colleagues and friends - are sharing a light of peace, kindness and generosity that makes The Natural State a little brighter. Inviting Arkansas and Methodist Family Health celebrate individuals who illuminate our community with goodness. Nominate someone today for a future feature that SHINES.
Emily Shields and Nicholas Rucker share their personal perspective of the compelling service and resouces Methodist Family Health provides. It’s this narrative of hope and transformation that improves lives, made possible by individuals like Emily and Nicholas.
Emily joined Methodist Family Health when she and her husband relocated to Arkansas from Ohio to serve as teaching parents at a therapeutic group home in Lexa. She transitioned into the role of program consultant and celebrated her 15th anniversary with the organization. With admiration Emily shares, “The mission of Methodist Family Health is to give the best possible care to those who need our help.
I am so proud to be part of an agency that serves children and families in times of great need - offering light in hard, dark spaces.” Nicholas started a career with Methodist Family Health at the Benton Day Treatment Program in 2014. After several years, he shifted to the Qualified Residential Treatment Program in Little Rock. Together, Emily and Nicholas are an unwavering pillar of strength for the clients of Methodist Family Health. Nicholas emphasizes, “Our programs offer the highest standard of care to address the complex needs of children and families throughout the state.”
This dynamic duo provide structured care and quality treatment as well as teaching valuable social skills and independent living to some of the state’s most vulnerable residents. Emily expounds, “It is a unique niche; we work solely with youth experiencing placement
in foster care for a set amount of time so that they can achieve their goals and gain traction to move on to the next step.” That next step might be reunification with family, foster care, adoption, independence, applying for college or entering the workforce.
This reflects the heart of the the Methodist Family Health mission – offering a complete continuum of care for Arkansas children who are abandoned, abused, neglected and struggling with psychiatric, behavioral, emotional and spiritual issues.
Initiatives like the Qualified Residential Treatment Program cultivate an environment where children not only receive care but the necessary skills for a brighter future. Emily beams, “Every time a light comes on for one of our kids - whether it’s behavioral progress such as adopting a new positive habit or discovering a new passion like music or cooking; or maybe it’s a significant milestone like high school graduation or achieving the rank of an Eagle Scout - all these breakthrough moments inspire me to keep moving.”
Both Emily and Nicholas have daily reminders of the remarkable resilience demonstrated by children, especially those who have experienced trauma. Emily believes in helping these individuals recognize their potential and guiding them to “use their powers for good.” This philosophy allows ample opportunity for personal growth. Nicholas concludes, “Our children are my inspiration. Each time someone meets a goal, even a small one, it reminds me of the importance of this work.”
Friends and supporters of Methodist Family Health gathered at White Water Tavern for this SHINE-ola concert. The evening featured Arkansas singer-songwriter Jason Lee Hale & The Personal Space Invaders for an evening of live entertainment and festive fare. Proceeds support the services of Methodist Family Health Foundation for families and children struggling with behavioral, emotional and psychiatric health issues.
Rotary District 6150 President Steven Reynolds welcomed members to Chenal Country Club for this Rotary Club of Little Rock Afterhours event. A highlight of the evening included the induction of Sydney O’Qinn Gilbert as incoming president as well as the club’s plan to support Arkansas Imagination Library with an innovative ambassador program. The Imagination Library, established by Dolly Parton in 1995, provides free books children in participating communities throughout the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and the Republic of Ireland. Fostering a love for reading, the program mails books to more than 54,000 each month.
Mason Oglesby Jr, Evelyn & David Menz
Matt Buie & Jennifer Owens Buie
Erin & Brent Skrodenis
Luke & Sydney Gillbert
Haley & Steven Reynolds
Janie & Mike Kelley
Nancy Leonhardt, James Arbuckle
Kyle & Brooke Bridges, Shawn Johnson
The #teamcorrie Cancer Foundation, Susan G. Komen and the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute have been named as the nonprofit partners for the 2023 Murphy USA El Dorado Shootout tournament, set to take place from Sept. 22-24 at Mystic Creek Golf Club.
Don’t miss your chance to see the top rising stars in women’s golf compete for $225,000 at the only Epson Tour stop in the four-state region. Players will compete at the #37 ranked golf course in the nation – Mystic Creek. This event is free and fun for the entire family with activities and volunteer opportunities.
the grant amount from $1,500 to $2,000 per applicant in 2023.
Susan G. Komen is the world’s largest organization addressing breast cancer on multiple fronts, working on research and public policy initiatives along with community health and global outreach.
ElDoradoShootout.com
“Partnering with nonprofit organizations has been at the heart of the El Dorado Shootout since the first tournament was held in 2015,” tournament Director Courtney Crotty Kelley said. “We’re honored to be able to support these three organizations this year, and we look forward to seeing their continued impact on the fight against breast cancer in communities across Arkansas.”
The #teamcorrie Cancer Foundation was established to provide one-time grants to cancer patients living in Union County to help patients with medical expenses incurred during their cancer treatment. Because of its continued partnership with the El Dorado Shootout and community support, the foundation was able to raise
UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute is the state’s leading cancer research and treatment center. The institute’s Breast Center has provided breast cancer screenings to more than 20,000 women in underserved and rural areas of Arkansas through its MammoVan mobile unit, which is sometimes the only source for breast cancer screenings in rural parts of the state.
The organizations will be presented with donations during the tournament’s closing ceremony on Sept. 24. Since 2015, the tournament has donated more than $200,000 to the various nonprofit organizations it has partnered with. Learn more about this year’s nonprofit partners at eldoradoshootout.com/about/ charity.
Don’t miss your chance to see the top rising stars in women’s golf compete for $225,000 at the only Epson Tour stop in the four-state region. Players will compete at the #37 ranked golf course in the nation – Mystic Creek. This event is free and fun for the entire family with activities and volunteer opportunities.
By KELLI MARKS
There’s something magical about creating something new and unique and putting it out into the world. For me, the most impressive thing you can create is a book. And to find out that the Central Arkansas Library System has a whole week of events centered around books and the creative forces behind them, color me excited. The Six Bridges Book Festival is a week-long event that brings award-winning authors to Little Rock and drops them in beside locally loved authors through a series of intimate events.
From September 25 to October 1, you can expect to see locals like Quinn Connor, Eli Cranor, Monica Potts, Kevin Brockmeier, and Regina Black interspersed with nationally acclaimed authors like Andrew Sean Greer, Justin Torres, Jermaine Fowler, Harrison Scott Key, and Ben McGrath.
David Grann will be discussing The Wager, but many might
recognize his name as the author of Killers of the Flower Moon, which is coming to the big screen this fall, with Martin Scorsese, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Robert De Niro.
Christian Cooper, the avid birdwatcher turned author, will discuss his book that includes the now-famous Central Park viral video event. And Maureen Corrigan will close the festival with a talk about banned books.
If the way to your “book loving” heart is through your stomach, then pull up a chair for the likes of Stacey Mei Yan Fong, Susan Gravely, and Sandra A. Gutierrez. These chef authors will have cooking demonstrations as well as book discussions.
Favorite events like the pie contest at The Root Café, Pub or Perish, and Little Readers Rock all return to add to the excitement. Full details on the authors and their events can be found at sixbridgesbookfestival.org.
Kim and Chris Fowler are beloved and well-known for their success in business and philanthropic support of many causes in Arkansas. While expanding the multi-state second-generation family business, Chris was diagnosed with throat cancer. He sought treatment from James Suen, M.D., a world-renowned head and neck cancer surgeon at the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, and is now cancer-free. In honor of Dr. Suen, the Fowlers made a $1 million donation to UAMS in 2021; funds that are helping the Cancer Institute become the state’s only cancer center designated by the National Cancer Institute.
On Sept. 22, the Fowlers will chair the UAMS Gala for Life hoping to raise another million for the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute. For ticket information, visit cancer.uams.edu/gala
“A lot of people say they owe their life to someone, but I can truly say it, not only to Dr. Suen but the entire team at UAMS.”
Kim and Chris Fowler, Co-Chairs, 26th Annual UAMS Gala for Life