the enduring value of home. The place where memories are made, traditions are carried forward, and futures are built.
Celebrating Kids & Pets
Happy August, friends!
Our Kids & Pets issue is one of my favorites. As a mom to both the two- and four-legged variety of children, I love the opportunity to shine a light on these incredible beings.
I recently read a quote that said, “A dog will teach you unconditional love.” Our children teach us that, too. Our pets love us with a purity that’s almost impossible to describe. No matter what kind of day we’ve had — regardless of our shortcomings or failures — our dogs greet us with unwavering enthusiasm. And in loving our children, we discover what unconditional love feels like from the other side. It’s a beautiful thing. Almost divine.
I can think of no better issue than this one to celebrate the children and pets who make our world a better place.
Speaking of beautiful creatures, I’m especially excited that my Wiley, the unofficial mascot of Little Rock City Lifestyle, is gracing this month’s cover! A heartfelt thank you to the incredibly talented Amy Eichler for creating this stunning portrait of our best boy. Be sure to read Color, Movement and Connection to learn more about Amy’s work and the inspiration and technique behind it.
And for all of you feline fans, don’t worry — we didn’t forget about you. Meet Tyson Allen and his award-winning Persians in The Cat’s Meow.
We also turn our attention to the kiddos in our lives. Because every parent wants to give their child the best possible future, Amanda Leija of Equitable Advisors shares practical advice for planning ahead in Investing in Their Future.
From investing in education to investing in dreams, you’ll also meet two people helping young Arkansans reach their full potential. Guitar teacher David Dunavant founded Guitar Wars, a high-energy, low-pressure competition that encourages aspiring musicians while supporting a nonprofit dedicated to expanding music access for underserved children. Then, in Training Young Athletes to WorkHarder, Michael Troxler of WorkHarder Athletics shares how his thoughtful training programs are preparing the next generation of athletes to succeed both physically and mentally.
You’ll also meet the inspiring team at Project Zero, where helping foster children find loving, forever families is at the heart of everything they do.
Finally, we’re shining a spotlight on our friend and Little Rock City Lifestyle contributing photographer, Sarah Bussey, who is now offering beautiful custom pet portraits.
These articles and more are waiting for you in this issue. Enjoy! And have a wonderful back-to-school season!
STEPHANIE HASBROUCK,
PUBLISHER @LITTLEROCKCITYLIFESTYLE
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Stephanie Hasbrouck stephanie.hasbrouck@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Anna Yanosick | anna.yanosick@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Katie Giddens | katie.giddens@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION MANAGER
Valerie Merrick | valerie.merrick@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Anna Yanosick, Stephanie Hasbrouck, Kali Kasprzyk, Amanda Leija, Kristen Hafner
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sarah Bussey Photography, Hailey Faria Photography, Miles Witt Boyer, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Stanley is central Arkansas’ most trusted name in jewelry, and Laura Stanley is proud to continue the family tradition. A 3rd generation jeweler, she specializes in custom design, personal shopping for just the right piece, estate jewelry, or re-designing those pieces that just aren’t working for you anymore. Working by appointment is a private and personal experience, and once you visit her salon, you’ll feel the difference! Laura’s passion for fine jewelry comes through with every project. Custom created Tahitian and South Sea Golden pearls with 18 karat gold.
Artist Amy Eichler painted Publisher Stephanie Hasbrouck’s dog Wiley
portraits, Amy says, “I
Art by: Amy Eichler
city scene
1 – 4: Art Group Gallery hosted ‘Special Art for a Special Camp,’ featuring original works inspired by the beautiful contributions of Pfeifer Kiwanis Camp. 5 – 6: Boswell Mourot Fine Art celebrated the opening of Katie Adkins’ Queen Exhibition. 7 – 12: The Promenade at Chenal hosted its first-ever Neighborhood Block Party, welcoming approximately 600 guests for a lively, family-friendly community event.
8 – 12: Little Rock City Lifestyle enjoyed participating in The Promenade’s Neighborhood Block Party. 13 – 14: The Baptist Health Foundation welcomed NICU babies and their families to the 2026 NICU Reunion. From the petting zoo to the photo booth, the circus-themed event was packed with big smiles from Baptist Health’s biggest miracles.
Local Lime Expands Flagship Location at The Promenade at Chenal
Local Lime is adding the final details to its newly expanded flagship location at The Promenade at Chenal and is preparing for its highly anticipated opening. Known for its bold, delicious Mexican flavors, the new space will feature an elevated atmosphere and a more vibrant dining experience — perfect for gathering with friends and family while enjoying fan-favorite dishes. This expansion brings a fresh energy to the Promenade and offers an even better place to dine, connect and celebrate.
Ye Olde Chimney Sweepe Technicians Attend Gas Fireplace Training
Ye Olde Chimney Sweepe recently sent four technicians to the Chimney Safety Institute of America in Plainfield, Indiana, to attend the National Fireplace Institute Gas Training and hands-on classes. During the week-long class, they learned how to service and install gas fireplaces and gas log sets.
Scan to read more
Hillcrest Family Music Makes Music a Family Experience
Hillcrest Family Music believes every family deserves the opportunity to experience the joy of making music together. Led by Crystal Graves, the studio offers private lessons tailored to each student, songwriting classes for teens and adults and Music Together, an interactive program that combines singing, movement, instruments and play to create joyful musical experiences for children from birth to age 5. Learn more at hillcrestfamilymusic.com.
FRIDAY NIGHT
Music Series
Every Friday in September, 6-8pm
Join us at the Promenade Courtyard for live local music, delicious food samples, and refreshing drinks.
SPONSORED BY:
SCAN FOR DETAILS
Color, Movement and Connection
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MILES WITT BOYER, CONTRIBUTED
Amy Eichler’s Fast-Paced, Intuitive Approach Transforms Movement and Emotion into Vivid Works of Art
From the canvas to the stage, Amy Eichler has always been drawn to the arts. She grew up painting with her mother and taking dance lessons, developing a love for both visual and performing arts at an early age.
“I’m thankful to have been able to turn both my passions into careers,” she says. When she’s not painting, Amy is choreographing for school dance teams across the United States. But it’s her compositions on canvas that have earned a devoted following, with her work appearing in homes and collections across the country and beyond.
“The process of painting is like a dance to me. I love the technique, energy and emotion that comes out in the performance,” Amy says. “While I mostly paint alone in my studio, I thrive in social painting sessions with other artists or live painting sessions in the community.”
Unlike her work in dance, which is contemplative and orchestrated, Amy’s paintings are created through the swift alla prima process. Also known as “weton-wet” or “direct painting,” alla prima painting requires completing a piece in a single session before the layers dry.
“I love painting fast – faster than my mind can judge my work,” she says, adding that she mostly uses three primary colors and white, which are mixed on the canvas through color layering. “This creates so many interesting new colors and could not be achieved if I painted slowly and let layers dry.”
Amy is perhaps best known for her paintings of animals and pets. “I love highlighting the beauty in the animal. I’m drawn to their eyes, their patterns, their expressions. My favorite composition is the front-facing portrait, placing the animal’s eyes in the direct gaze of the viewer,” she says.
“I always hope my work makes people smile, reminds them of something or someone special and brings a little extra color into their spaces.”
To view more of Amy’s works, visit amyeichlerart.com CONTINUED >
“The process of painting is like a dance to me. I love the technique, energy and emotion that comes out in the performance.”
YOUR TRUSTED LOCAL SPRINKLER SERVICE EXPERTS
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Investing in Their Future
Amanda Leija of Equitable Advisors Shares Four Strategies to Help Families Prepare for Education Costs
As a financial advisor, I’m proud to help families build financial strategies that support what matters most — including education. Before entering the financial services industry, I spent years working in education, where I saw firsthand how access to resources and preparation can shape a student’s future opportunities. That experience continues to guide my work today.
Education planning is about more than saving for tuition—it’s about creating choice, flexibility and confidence for both parents and students. When families have a plan in place, they can focus on supporting their child’s goals without the added stress of financial uncertainty. It empowers students to pursue their aspirations while helping families avoid unnecessary debt or last-minute challenges.
I believe education planning is one of the most meaningful ways to align your financial strategy with your values. It’s not just about numbers — it’s about building a legacy of opportunity. Whether your child’s path leads to college, trade school or another type of training, proactive planning can make all the difference.
Here are four practical strategies to help your family get started.
Amanda Leija offers securities through Equitable Advisors, LLC (NY, NY 212-314-4600), member FINRA/ SIPC (Equitable Financial Advisors in MI & TN). Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC. Equitable Advisors and its associates do not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax and legal advisors regarding your particular circumstances. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as an offer or investment advice. PPG-8985492.1 (6/26)(Exp. 6/30)
ARTICLE BY AMANDA
Start Early — Even Small Steps Matter
“I believe education planning is one of the most meaningful ways to align your financial strategy with your values. It’s not just about numbers — it’s about building a legacy of opportunity.”
The earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow through compounding. Small, consistent contributions can build meaningful savings over time. Beginning early reduces future financial pressure and helps avoid large, last-minute contributions. It also gives your family flexibility to adjust as goals, timelines and financial circumstances change along the way.
Leverage TaxAdvantaged Strategies
Education savings tools like 529 plans offer tax advantages that can boost long-term results. Earnings grow tax-deferred, and qualified withdrawals are typically tax-free. Using these accounts strategically can help your savings grow more efficiently, allowing you to keep more of what you invest while better preparing for future education expenses.
Set a clear savings goal to make education planning more manageable and focused. Estimate costs, align them with your financial situation and build a strategy that fits your priorities. Stay flexible — your child’s goals and your finances may evolve. Regularly reviewing your plan allows you to adjust contributions and stay on track.
Education planning can feel overwhelming without the right support. Every family’s situation is different, and strategies should reflect individual goals and resources. A trusted financial advisor can help you evaluate options, avoid common mistakes and design a personalized plan to make future education expenses more manageable and aligned with your long-term financial picture.
High-Energy Guitar Competition Creates Confident Performers and Future Musicians
GUITAR WARS
ARTICLE BY ANNA YANOSICK | PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED
Guitar teacher David Dunavant believes no obstacle should stand in the way of a kid who dreams of becoming the next guitar hero. So, he founded Little Rock’s Guitar Wars, a high-energy, low-pressure competition that encourages rookies to let loose while supporting a nonprofit dedicated to underserved children.
“The core mission is to bridge the massive gap in music access by getting real instruments, professional resources and performance opportunities directly into the hands of people who need them,” David says.
Now in its fourth year, Guitar Wars hosts its free all-day event at the CALS Ron Robinson Theater in Little Rock. The competition is open to all ages, with youth and
adult divisions split into beginner, intermediate and advanced brackets. A total of 18 winners are named each year after a blind judging, earning prizes like music gear, recording studio time, cash and gift cards.
Inside the venue, T-shirts fly through the air, drums thud and guitars shred. Star Wars characters march around and snap photos with kids as participants score fresh popcorn, cold drinks and event concessions.
“It’s theater at this point,” David says.
Behind the electric environment lies a deeper goal: to help what David calls “the forgotten class,” or working parents and their kids held back by the high cost of lessons. Alongside a year-round instrument donation drive with Boys & Girls Clubs, Guitar Wars offers scholarships across multiple counties, including a free guitar and four months of lessons.
“The Guitar Wars competition is really the support beams holding up those kids and the scholarships,” he says. “It’s what makes that possible.”
One of the Little Rock scholarship winners said that learning guitar “helped her believe in herself and realize she’s capable of more than she thought.”
THE FORCE BEHIND GUITAR WARS
Born and raised in Little Rock, David has been a passionate guitarist since age 13. He holds a bachelor’s degree in music from UALR and a master’s degree in jazz guitar from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. Today, he teaches at Little Rock Music Academy through his business, Guitar Lessons with David Dunavant, bringing 27 years of experience to the role.
“I’m just happy if I’m teaching,” he says. “I love watching people progress, I love seeing someone happy when they get the result they want, and I love the relationship aspect of it.”
The concept for Guitar Wars was actually inspired by one of David’s students. Blown away by the boy’s piano skills, David asked about his background and learned that he had competed as young as 10.
Though the student initially dreaded practicing, the experience of trying and succeeding shifted his perspective. This story struck a chord with David, sharpening his vision to give musicians of all ages and skill levels the chance they deserve.
For more information or to register, visit guitarwarsinc.com
“The core mission is to bridge the massive gap in music access by getting real instruments, professional resources and performance opportunities directly into the hands of people who need them.”
THE CAT’S MEOW
Tyson Allen and His Award-Winning Persian Cats Have Earned Recognition on the National Show Circuit
ARTICLE BY ANNA YANOSICK PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED
Soft purrs, round eyes and big prizes are merely a glimpse into the fluffy, fabulous world of cat fancier Tyson Allen. As the man behind the 2B ROYAL cattery, Tyson specializes in Persians, selecting one standout kitten each year to represent his passion on the competitive cat show stage.
“They’re just very loving. They’re not a hyper cat. They are really more of a slower cat — their movements, their personalities. They’re just love bugs.”
When they are not lounging at home, Tyson and his cats travel for the Cat Fanciers Association.
Founded in 1906, the CFA hosts hundreds of shows worldwide each year. At these events, often described as feline pageants, judges evaluate both pedigreed and household cats against specific breed standards for health and beauty.
“I’ve had a great experience with CFA — very organized,” Tyson says. “The organization is built for the people, and they want to make sure that everybody has a hobby that brings joy.”
Tyson says the Persian’s gorgeousness struck him first, and he praises them for their sweet disposition.
“They’re just very loving. They’re not a hyper cat,” he says. “They are really more of a slower cat — their movements, their personalities. They’re just love bugs.”
His adoration for the breed shines in the results. His white Persian, Star, was named the 25th-best kitten in the country in 2025. More recently, Love Shaq, son of the highly decorated Hootie, was awarded the title of regional grand champion at his last show in June this year.
For Tyson, the relaxed nature of cat shows makes the community accessible to people of all ages and lifestyles.
“It’s really meant for anybody at any point in life,” he says. “Anybody looking to make new friends, it would be great for them. They keep a lot of these people going every single day and keep them young.”
For more information, visit 2b-royal.com.
Christian Brothers Automotive is located in West Little Rock on Chenal Parkway across from Splash Car Wash. Our most important mission is “To glorify God by serving our team, guests, and communities with excellence.” We are proud to be a member of our community. We offer full Automotive Repairs on most makes, (including but not limited to); Audi, BMW, Land Rover, Jaguar, Ford, GM, Toyota, Lexus, Subaru, Chrysler, Dodge, and VW. At Christian Brothers West Little Rock we have the same diagnostic equipment as the manufacturer(s). We perform everything from Oil changes to engine replacements, including tire replacement, batteries, and routine maintenance.
Training Young Athletes to WorkHarder
ARTICLE BY ANNA YANOSICK
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
HAILEY FARIA PHOTOGRAPHY
WorkHarder Athletics proves that the difference between a great young athlete and an even better version of themselves is just the right environment. The Little Rock gym’s intensive yet thoughtful training programs equip the next generation of athletes with the tools they need to succeed physically and mentally.
“WorkHarder Athletics was built on the belief that every athlete possesses far more potential than they realize,” says Michael Troxler, a WorkHarder trainer and former college quarterback who works alongside his brother Christian. “Our mission is to help young athletes discover that potential through discipline, effort and
“WHEN A YOUNG ATHLETE SEES THEMSELVES RUN FASTER, JUMP HIGHER OR ACCOMPLISH SOMETHING THEY ONCE THOUGHT IMPOSSIBLE, THEY BEGIN TO BELIEVE IN THEMSELVES IN OTHER AREAS OF LIFE.”
consistent action. We believe talent may open a door, but work ethic determines how far someone walks through it.”
The training takes place in a 3,200-square-foot indoor turf facility separate from the main gym. Here, WorkHarder Athletics provides highly tailored, sports-specific training using state-of-the-art equipment.
A prime example is the All-In Athlete Summer Program, which runs from June to mid-August and takes a holistic approach to athletic development, focusing on speed, strength and agility while teaching athletes to tackle any challenge with grace. Classes meet three times per week and include skill assessments and professional headshots.
Beyond the summer program, Michael works year-round with local student-athletes, from elementary school through college. He shapes every training plan according to the athlete’s age, sport and goals.
“Physically, athletes become faster, stronger, more explosive,” he says. “Mentally, they begin to understand that effort produces results.”
Among the many athletes Michael has coached, one who has stood out since his first session is high school running back Jasir Lockridge.
“What separates him is not size or athletic ability, but his work ethic and resilience,” Michael says. “He truly embodies the standard.”
WorkHarder pushes young athletes to unlock their true strength, both on and off the field.
“When a young athlete sees themselves run faster, jump higher or accomplish something they once thought impossible, they begin to believe in themselves in other areas of life,” he says. “We believe confidence is built through small victories repeated consistently. The goal is not to prove where an athlete is today, but to discover where they can go tomorrow.”
For more information, visit workhardergym.com
finding forever families
Project Zero Connects Arkansas’ Waiting Children with Loving Families
Project Zero is an Arkansas nonprofit dedicated to connecting waiting children in foster care with forever families. Kandace Gerber, director of marketing and development, recenetly shared more about the organization’s life-changing mission and the resilient youth it serves.
PROJECT ZERO FOCUSES ON “WAITING CHILDREN.” HOW DO YOU DEFINE THIS SPECIFIC GROUP WITHIN THE FOSTER CARE SYSTEM?
A “waiting” child/teen/sibling group is innocent children who are in foster care through no fault of their own. Their parental rights have been terminated by the court system, and they are wards of the state … They will never return home to their biological family because of circumstances outside of their control. These precious and unique children deserve the forever love of a family.
CAN YOU SHARE A SUCCESS STORY THAT CAPTURES THE HEART OF PROJECT ZERO?
Both precious teen boys, José and Cozy, were our longest-waiting kids. José had been in foster care since he was about 18 months old and was adopted at 17. Cozy waited over 15 years for his family. Both boys are non-verbal and have severe disabilities, but the most heart-melting smiles and so much love to give. Now they are precious, beloved sons with parents who advocate for the best care for their needs. Both of these special guys prove our favorite anonymous quote: “There are no unwanted children, just unfound families.”
ARTICLE BY ANNA YANOSICK PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED
WHAT IS A COMMON MISCONCEPTION ABOUT THE FOSTER CARE SYSTEM THAT YOU WISH MORE PEOPLE UNDERSTOOD?
These children and teens are not ‘bad’ kids. They are in foster care through no fault of their own. Yes, they may have endured trauma, neglect and abuse, but that is not their fault. They just need a patient and loving family to hold their hands through healing.
HOW CAN EVERYDAY ARKANSANS GET INVOLVED IF THEY ARE NOT IN A POSITION TO ADOPT?
We recognize that not everyone is called to adopt, but there are many things you can do. Give to our mission to help support the connection and hope-building events we host. You can share our social posts. I can’t tell you how many times a social media reel or photo of one of our waiting kids has stirred hearts and homes to open to adopt.
For more information, visit theprojectzero.org.
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TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
ARTICLE BY KRISTEN HAFNER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Beating the Dog Days of Summer with a Canine Treat
PUP -SICLE
As we all try to stay cool during the scorching dog days of summer, our furry friends need a break from the heat too. Pamper your pup with a refreshing “pup-sicle.” These dog-friendly frozen treats are sure to make your canine companion’s tail wag!
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt (or dogsafe yogurt alternative)
• 1/2 cup of unsweetened, plain applesauce
• 1/4 cup of water or low-sodium chicken broth
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Mix the yogurt, applesauce, and water or chicken broth in a bowl until well combined.
2. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds.
3. Freeze for several hours or until solid.
4. Serve the frozen treats to your dog to help them cool off! Connect with your customers – from page to pixel.
Your business deserves more than a passing glance. Print builds trust, credibility and connection. Digital extends the conversation, reinforces your brand and keeps your business top-of-mind.
events
AUGUST 1ST
Back-to-School Bash & Tax Free Weekend
Promenade at Chenal | 11:00 AM
Kick off the school year at the Back-to-School Bash held in The Promenade at Chenal courtyard! Enjoy a live DJ, meet Miss Arkansas, grab food and drinks and join the fun with giveaways, photo ops and a DIY patch station. Plus, shop tax-free and support young entrepreneurs with Kids Market as they showcase their mini-businesses during the event. For details, visit Tanger.com/Chenal.
AUGUST 12TH – 16TH
Filmland 2026
Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts | Various Times
Arkansas Cinema Society’s Filmland celebrates the art of cinema while nurturing the state’s own filmmaking talent through screenings, workshops and panel discussions featuring local and international voices. It is a vibrant, inspiring gathering for anyone passionate about storytelling on the big screen. Visit ArkansasCinemaSociety.org for the full schedule of events.
AUGUST 14TH – 27TH
The Remarkable Resignation of Dr. Joycelyn Elders
Arkansas Repertory Theatre | Various Times
The Rep presents a stirring world premiere following Dr. Joycelyn Elders’ extraordinary journey from sharecropper’s daughter to U.S. Surgeon General. Written and directed by Broadway’s Steve H. Broadnax III, this play with music is an immersive, shared theatrical experience honoring resilience, conviction and a woman who refused to be defined by anyone but herself. Get your tickets at TheRep.org.
AUGUST 15TH
Hello Kitty Cafe Truck
Promenade at Chenal | 10:00 AM
The Hello Kitty Café Truck is coming to The Promenade! The iconic all-pink Hello Kitty Café Truck rolls in for one day only. Shop exclusive merch, grab sweet treats, snap pics and soak up all the hello-cute vibes with friends. Don’t miss this adorable pop-up — it’s as fun as it is fabulous. For details, visit Tanger.com/Chenal
DENNIS McCANN ~ MARY LOUISE PORTER ~ GAYLE BATSON ~ WINSTON TAYLOR
DENNIS McCANN At the Pool
MARY LOUISE PORTER Early Morning GAYLE BATSON Ceramic Vessel WINSTON TAYLOR Ceramic and Wood Vessel
featured?
AUGUST 15TH & 16TH
Central Arkansas Women’s Expo 2026
Arkansas State Fair Complex | Various Times
The Women’s Expo brings together 175 diverse exhibits, runway fashion shows, beauty makeovers and expert insight spanning health, beauty, finance and home, all under one roof. It is a true lifestyle experience designed to inform, pamper and delight. Tickets are available at the Box Office on Expo days. Learn more at WomensLivingExpo.com/Central-Arkansas-Womens-Expo.
AUGUST 29TH
Great Southern Stone Skipping Championships
Murray Park Boat Launch | 9:00 AM
This annual event returns, bringing friendly competition and scenic Natural State views together for a cause that matters, with all proceeds benefiting local food pantries. Adult and youth flights compete for prize money and bragging rights alike. It is a uniquely fun way to give back. Get all of the details at StoneSkipping.org.
Your New Ritual
STEPHANIE
MORE THAN A Portrait
How did you get started in pet portrait photography?
I’ve always been an animal lover. Before photography became my career, I actually thought I wanted to be a veterinarian. Over the years, I realized what I loved most was capturing the connection people have with the animals they love. Pets are family, and being able to photograph those relationships is something I never take for granted. Every pet has a unique personality. How do you bring that out in your photographs?
I spend a little time getting to know them before I ever start shooting. I let them be themselves and work around their personality. That’s usually when the best moments happen. What do you hope families feel when they see their finished portraits?
Pets are such a big part of our lives, and our time with them never feels long enough. If a photograph can bring back memories, make someone smile or remind them of how loved their pet was, then I’ve done my job.
For more information, visit sarahbusseyphoto.com and follow @modernmuttsphotos on Instagram.
ARTICLE BY
HASBROUCK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH BUSSEY PHOTOGRAPHY
SARAH BUSSEY PHOTOGRAPHY CAPTURES THE UNIQUE SPIRIT OF PETS
Quincy Rhodes Jr. Razorback Football
THE BEST TIME TO CALL YOUR REAL ESTATE ADVISOR ISN’T WHEN YOU’RE READY TO SELL.
IT’S LONG BEFORE.
I partner with homeowners from the very beginnning, helping you see what buyers will see, prepare on your timeline, and arrive on the market with confidence. Repairs, staging, decluttering, landscaping, marketing, every detail, completely handled.
