This year, resolve to celebrate, connect, and live life to the fullest!
This is the year you say goodbye to stress and hello to the retirement you’ve been wanting! Enjoy the benefits of 24/7 service, chef-prepared dining, weekly housekeeping, and more for only one monthly price. Get your new year started off right with a retirement lifestyle that’s right for you!
I’m Sydney Johnson, one of the proud contributing writers for Rogers City Lifestyle. Originally from Austin, Texas, I made the big move in 2020 to start my freshman year at the University of Arkansas. I remember stepping into this city as an 18-year-old, homesick and unsure of what to expect—but now, as a post-grad, I’m thrilled to call Arkansas home. The charm of NWA slowly won me over, and I’ve traded in my Texas roots for the unique energy of this wonderful place. One of the things I love most about Rogers is the endless variety of things to do. In my downtime, I’m a self-proclaimed food and coffee critic, an aspiring world traveler, and a book lover—always on the hunt for something new to discover!
During my time in the honors college, I took on a creative thesis project that turned into something truly special: The College Girl’s Guide to Fayetteville, AR . I wrote it with my younger self in mind—the scared, homesick 18-year-old who had just arrived in this new city. It’s a roadmap for college women navigating a place that can sometimes feel overwhelming, with everything from a curated coffee crawl to the best workout spots and photo ops. After completing the book, I was approached to join the City Lifestyle team, and I had no idea what an incredible journey lay ahead. I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to shine a light on the hidden gems I’ve grown to love so much.
Our team’s mission is simple: to weave the untold stories of Rogers into a vibrant tapestry that reflects the heart and soul of this community. Through interviews with locals, I’ve had the privilege of getting a behind-the-scenes look at the incredible individuals who make this city what it is. I can’t put into words what an honor it is to be part of a mission that’s so much bigger than myself! I hope that as you read these stories, you feel inspired, uplifted, and encouraged. My wish is that no matter how long you’ve called Rogers home, you’ll begin to see the city in a whole new light.
Blessings,
SYDNEY JOHNSON, CONTRIBUTING WRITER @ROGERSCITYLIFESTYLE
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Macye Reynolds | macye.reynolds@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Brock Reynolds | brock.reynolds@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Julie Craig | julie.craig@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sydney Johnson, Don Seaman, Emily O’Brien
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Isabella Aldrete, Eb Combs, Justin Palmer, Hailey Faria
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
@SNAPFITNESSNWA
1: Honoring his dedication, Ben Whitten receives the inaugural Whitten Volunteer Award at Rogers Activity Center! 2: McLarty Daniel Tirekickers kick up health with team bonding and fitness beyond the dealership lot! 3: An upgraded Snap Fitness! Fresh look, same 24/7 access! Get inspired and crush your goals. 4: Burn calories with 50-minute HIIT sessions with lights, music, and energy at Matrix. 5: Try a yoga class at ELXR Yoga Lounge and discover strength, flexibility, and calm. 6: The beem® Light Sauna team celebrating the grand opening in Rogers. 7: Comfort in a cup! Elevate Nutrition offers rotating soups that are dairy-free, gluten-free, and high-protein.
We provide customized plans and treatments for sustainable weight loss, including our compounded GLP-1 medications, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide.
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A ONE TIME $100 DOCTOR VISIT IS YOUR FIRST STEP TO A HEALTHIER YOU. PAIR THAT WITH OUR SEMAGLUTIDE OR OZEMPIC MEDICATION, WHICH IS $200 A MONTH REGARDLESS OF THE DOSE YOU ARE ON.
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479.526.0445 | VB
Did you know? Ozark Mountain Bagel Co. now has a fifth location at the 100 Block of S. 2nd Street, right next to The Victory Theater! The bagels are handcrafted from scratch, water-boiled, and baked fresh each day. Their motto is “Spreading joy, love, and cream cheese,” because they not only want to provide delicious bagels to the community but also strive to build personal relationships with customers.
Elevate Nutrition NWA is a health-focused business in Rogers, offering a variety of high-protein smoothies, energy teas, lattes, and nutritious snacks. Committed to promoting wellness, they use carefully sourced ingredients from over 15 supplement providers. Their offerings also include nutrition coaching and catering options to inspire a balanced lifestyle. Elevate Nutrition integrates faith and community, providing cozy apparel and resources to support overall well-being.
Discover holistic wellness with beem® Light Sauna, where advanced light therapies promote health from within. Offering infrared, red light, and chromotherapy treatments, beem® supports detoxification, stress relief, and skin rejuvenation, while improving circulation and immunity. In a serene, spa-like environment, each session blends comfort and cutting-edge technology to enhance metabolism, alleviate pain, and energize. Tailored for modern lifestyles, this non-invasive, effective experience renews both your body and mind.
LearningRx offers personalized brain training programs designed to enhance cognitive skills for individuals of all ages, including students with learning differences and adults seeking memory improvement. Accessible from anywhere, their engaging exercises—like the attention arrow challenge—promote focus and mental sharpness. The Springdale center, led by Dr. Janissa Jackson, invites the community to explore brain training, schedule assessments, and even tackle their famed U.S. Presidents Wall of Fame challenge!
True health and wellness involves nurturing all aspects of your well-being— body, mind, and spirit. At Jade Path, you can experience personalized therapies designed to support overall health and vitality. Services offered include acupuncture, cupping, Reiki, tuning forks, sound bowls, and aromatherapy. Each session is customized to meet your unique needs and help you feel your best.
K9 Resorts of Rogers prioritizes your pup’s health, happiness, and wellness with exceptional care and facilities. Staff trained in dog behavior, CPR, and first aid ensure a safe, fun-filled experience. State-of-the-art UV air-filtration systems sanitize the air, while soundproof rooms, premium Blue Buffalo meals, and gourmet treats redefine pet hospitality. Your furry friend deserves the best!
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY JOHNSON
BY ISABELLA ALDRETE
How LearningRx Transforms Lives in NWA with Personalized Brain Training
Did you know there’s a “brain training” program in our backyard? LearningRx, a national franchise, has made its way to Northwest Arkansas through Dr. Janissa Jackson, a psychologist passionate about the importance of lifelong learning and fighting areas of weakness in the brain. Brain training begins as young as five and has no maximum age limit, and it differs from tutoring by enhancing the ability to retain information rather than relying on repetition.
With 19 years of experience in comprehensive testing and treatment, Dr. Jackson became disheartened by the lack of solutions for lasting change in the brain. When approached by LearningRx, she was intrigued. With the franchise backed by 17 peer-reviewed studies supporting clear cognitive improvements from their clients, Dr. Jackson was confident in opening a franchise. “I didn’t need another job, but when I saw the need, I couldn’t say no,” she says.
LearningRx offers personalized, one-on-one cognitive training to target brain efficiency, processing speed, memory retention, and more. The program is beneficial for all, including those with ADHD, dyslexia, traumatic brain injuries, and age-related cognitive decline.
When students first visit, their memory, processing speed, and reasoning skills are assessed, followed by an hour-long consultation with Dr. Jackson. The program is customized to each individual’s specific needs, and results are measured against goals they set at the start, like improving focus or memory. A year after program completion, participants return to re-assess their cognitive skills, with results showing a 97 percent retention of their gains.
Anyone can benefit from LearningRx—Dr. Jackson herself plans to become a student! “As a clinical psychologist, I’ve spent my career delivering tough diagnoses, but at LearningRx, I get to share positive news and life-changing results,” Dr. Jackson says. One local mother whose child has been diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia shared that LearningRx has “changed her daughter’s life” as she has made immense cognitive gains. Visit LearningRx today to learn faster, think better, and perform at your best.
disclosures.mach1fg.com
Discover the Power of Light Therapy
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISABELLA ALDRETE
There’s no better way to unwind and reset than by stepping into the serene, spa-like atmosphere of beem® Light Sauna. After a long, stressful day, this invigorating escape offers the perfect opportunity to relax, recover, and recharge. Whether you’re looking to relieve tension, rejuvenate your body, or
“It’s the best place to start your self-care routine—perfect for anyone who’s ever wished to relax and unwind alone.”
even burn 400-600 extra calories, beem® Light Sauna provides a soothing, restorative experience that helps you feel your best, from the inside out.
Before your first session, the friendly staff will work with you to create a personalized plan, making sure you get the most out of your light therapy experience. For maximum comfort, keep clothing simple—loose, breathable fabrics are perfect for letting your skin breathe and sweat it out. Choose from a 40-minute infrared sauna, or a 15-minute red light therapy session, or enjoy both for a complete rejuvenating experience. Each sauna includes surround sound entertainment, complimentary mint towels infused with essential oils, and your choice of chromotherapy colors to set the mood. If you want to
bring a friend or a partner, there is even a social sauna with two seats available! Afterward, leave your towels and treat yourself to a refreshing post-session shower complete with complimentary beauty amenities.
This serene environment is your retreat, offering the perfect space to unwind and recharge. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, rejuvenation, or a moment of pure relaxation, beem® Light Sauna serves as a sanctuary for self-care. With benefits like stress reduction, detoxification, pain relief, improved circulation, enhanced mood, mental clarity, and more, it’s not just a treat. It’s a dedication to feeling your best, glowing from the inside out, and embracing a healthier, more balanced lifestyle every day. And who wouldn’t want that?
ARTICLE BY AMANDA WILSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY HAILEY FARIA
Fuel your body with Amanda Wilson’s high-protein, fiberpacked Burger Bowl—flavorful, easy and nourishing!
Amanda Wilson is a certified Integrative Nutrition Coach and a Registered Nurse in Northwest Arkansas with a focus on helping people change their lifestyles on a bio-individual level to improve their quality of life through a holistic approach. “I believe we were each made to be durable in life and fight frailty while finding joy and freedom in stewarding our mind and body well,” she says. Find Amanda on Instagram at @awilsonwellness , and visit AmandaWilsonWellness.com .
Her client favorite, the Burger Bowl (Don’t forget the sauce!), is an easy meal to throw together that brings all the flavor with high protein and fiber, “the best first steps to sustainable nutrition,” she says.
DIRECTIONS:
Layer lettuce, beef, onion, pickles and tomatoes in a bowl. Shake up the sauce, pour and toss well. Prep multiple servings for an easy lunch or dinner for the week.
INGREDIENTS:
• Grass-fed lean ground beef
• Chopped romaine lettuce
• Pickled red onion
• Chopped pickles
• Chopped grape tomatoes
• Other options: Roasted sweet potatoes, Pickled jalapeños, Shredded cheese
SAUCE:
• 2 Tbsp Plain Greek Yogurt
• 1 Tbsp Mayo
• 1 Tbsp Pickle Juice
• 1-2 Tbsp Ketchup, to taste
• 1⁄4 Tsp Onion Powder
• 1⁄8 Tsp Garlic Powder
ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN
There’s probably no more quintessential symbol of winter than a snowman. We’ve all seen Frosty and are probably pretty familiar with Olaf. But if you want to install one into your own yard, you’ll have to put a little elbow grease into creating one without the help of world-class animators. Here are some tips to help give your yard a well-dressed frozen sentry sure to turn your neighbors’ heads.
NOT ALL SNOW IS SNOWMAN SNOW.
It takes more than a flurry to build a snowman. Heavy, slushy snow won’t work, and if it’s too powdery dry it won’t pack together. If you can pack a good snowball, you can build a snowman.
Bonus tip: Dry snow can be modified to workable snowman snow with a quick spritz of water from a spray bottle, or a light mist from that garden hose you really should have already put away for the winter.
ROLL TOWARDS YOUR GOAL — THE LONG WAY.
Decide where to position your snowman and make that your finish line. Start with a
well-packed snowball and get rolling, but don’t just go in one direction. Roll the ball to start accumulating snow, then roll back, then roll in a different direction. Pack and begin to shape your snowball as you go. Reinforce as necessary. Look to use a 3-2-1 ratio for the sections.
Tip 3:
EVEN SNOWMEN CRAVE STABILITY.
Once you get your base section in place, shore up the bottom with snow. Then at the top, create a bowl-shaped indentation to allow the next section to sit securely. Ensure each section is well-packed with added snow around the “joint” between the sections.
4:
SNOW IS HEAVY. ENLIST A BUDDY.
A willing helper can help lift that heavy next stage into place. You can even roll it onto a tarp and lift from either side to get it up there. A third set of hands can help move it into place. Otherwise, use plywood as a ramp to roll it up yourself (braced well against the bottom with plenty of support underneath, so as to not damage the base). You might need an extra bowl of Wheaties to roll it up there alone.
PILOT HOLES ARE YOUR FRIEND.
Simply jamming details into your snowman can mess with its integrity. Use a sharp stick to gently create some pilot holes for your features before you set them into place.
GIVE HIM SOME PERSONALITY.
There’s always that classic snowman uniform of a scarf, hat, a carrot nose and coal (sure, we all have that lying around these days — river rocks might be easier to get your hands on). Or you could be a bit more creative, maybe with an old oversized Hawaiian shirt, a jazzy vest, or go all-out and channel your inner Martha Stewart, breaking out your Dremel to make something custom for your wintery lawn guest. You might need to use your imagination — not many of us have corncob pipes or top hats anymore, either.
Pro tip: if you’re dressing your snowman, put any body clothing you might use on before adding the arms.
Just remember. If you mess it up, it’s ok because he’ll be back again some day.
VOXY AESTHETICS KEEPS ROGERS COMMUNITY THRIVING WITH HOLISTIC WELLNESS
ARTICLE BY JULIE CRAIG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUSTIN PALMER
VOXY Aesthetics is making waves in Rogers, offering a holistic approach to wellness that goes beyond aesthetics. Founded by Adrienne Easterling, PA-C, the practice has evolved from a beauty clinic into a full-fledged wellness center. Their services include hormone therapy, medical weight loss, thyroid optimization and health coaching. Their VOXYFit program incorporates medical weight loss management, coaching, and personalized workout plans.
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Magan Ake, RN, is a NASM-certified personal trainer and nutrition coach with extensive training in nutrition and functional health. She provides a personalized approach, particularly for women managing conditions like PCOS or perimenopause. “I take a root cause approach, addressing gut health, inflammation and stress to help people achieve sustainable weight loss,” she shares.
Ake emphasizes a coaching approach focused on gradual changes that lead to lasting success. “I meet people where they’re at,” she explains, tailoring plans to fit even the busiest lifestyles. Her mission is to empower individuals to feel their best, both mentally and physically, by guiding clients on weight training and helping them balance their nutrition.
With virtual coaching, personalized plans, and ongoing support, VOXY Aesthetics is helping the Rogers community not just look better but feel better too.
VOXY has an entire team helping patients “feel better, look better, and live better.” Kat Hutchison, PA-C, is a wellness provider passionate about helping patients achieve their best health. “As a PA, I’ve been passionate about wellness for years,” she explains. After nearly a decade in the ER, she saw the critical need for preventative care.
Hutchison specializes in nutraceuticals, offering targeted vitamins to support optimal health. What sets VOXY apart is the time they dedicate to patients, providing a concierge-level experience tailored to each individual’s needs. “It’s about long-term health, not just quick fixes,” Hutchison adds.
VOXY Aesthetics is deeply committed to community engagement, hosting collaborative events with local businesses and wellness organizations. “We often partner with fitness centers and host quarterly or even monthly events that promote health and well-being,” Hutchison says.
“Women are starting to be heard, and starting to pay attention to perimenopause and menopause.”
Now full time with VOXY, Hutchison is eager to lead more initiatives and continue her mission of helping patients regain energy and happiness. “Balancing hormones and optimizing wellness are life-changing,” she explains. With a holistic approach, small, actionable steps, and an unwavering commitment to patient care, VOXY Aesthetics is helping people invest in their health for brighter, healthier futures.
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HOW A LOCAL NUTRITION SPOT FUELS COMMUNITY GROWTH AND WELLNESS
Elevate Nutrition is more than a local business; it’s a hub for health, wellness and connection in Rogers. Founded by Kelly Socia, a longtime resident, the store emerged from her desire to leave a corporate career and create something meaningful. Its mission is clear: to help people fuel their bodies better while fostering an uplifting community.
“Our goal for next year is to focus on ‘fuel better to feel better,’” Socia shares. “It’s more important than ever to know what we’re putting into our bodies.”
The shop’s menu features thoughtfully crafted superfood smoothies, meal replacements and wellness shots made with balanced macros. Their Superfood Smoothie, for example, surprises customers with its mango-forward flavor and nutritional punch.
Beyond food, Elevate embraces holistic wellness with its Elevate Faith line, offering devotional books and faith-based home décor. “We’ve had so many people say, ‘You’re like a healthy bar where I can share so much,’” Socia notes. “People need encouragement, and we want to provide that.”
Elevate Nutrition also builds community through events and collaborations with local fitness studios. Upcoming plans include savory-inspired smoothies and grab-and-go options. “I don’t want to just be known as your nutrition place,” Socia explains. “I want to be the place that fills your cup—physically, emotionally and spiritually.” At its core, Elevate Nutrition is about more than food—it’s about nourishing lives and uplifting spirits, one smoothie at a time.
The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
Danger ahead: this snack is amazing. It’s the easiest of the bunch and also satisfies a sweet tooth craving. This can be whipped together in just 5 minutes and makes just a small amount. Feel free to take creative liberty here with your amounts, but if you make it to this recipe, they are around 90 calories per bite.
1. Cut a banana into 8-10 small slices, around 1/2 inch each.
2. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter (or your choice of nut butter) on each banana slice.
3. Drizzle a small amount of melted chocolate chips or caramel over each bite.
4. Freeze for 15-20 minutes and enjoy!
Pro tip: A dash of sea salt flakes on top of these can be *chef’s kiss.*
These are great to keep on hand in the freezer all weeklong. Once they set, add them to a closed container to keep the bananas from browning.
Late night snack cravings are real! When finding yourself rooting through the cabinets for a sweet fix, these protein cookie dough bites are a great way to curb temptation. This recipe yields around 20 small bites, which can be cut into small squares or rolled into dough balls. Each bite is around 105 calories. If you find the dough is a little too dry, add a dash of milk as needed.
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (or alternate nut or sunflower butter)
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Chocolate chips as desired
Pro tip: Use mini chocolate chips and for a dash of savory add sea salt flakes on top. Once combined, store the bites in the refrigerator in a covered container to keep them moist.
JANUARY 5TH
Blacktop Sunday
4204 S Pinnacle Hills Parkway, Rogers | 8:00 AM
Blacktop Sunday, hosted by Blacktop Promotions, is a must-attend event for automotive enthusiasts in Northwest Arkansas. Featuring classic cars, motorcycles, supercars, and more, it’s a family-friendly celebration of all things automotive. Enjoy free donuts, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere while connecting with fellow gearheads. Register to stay updated!
JANUARY 6TH
Books & Brews Book Club
Ozark Beer Company, 109 North Arkansas Street, Rogers | 5:30 PM
Join the Books & Brews book club to discuss Hidden Valley Road: Inside the Mind of an American Family by Robert Kolker. Connect with fellow book lovers in a laid-back setting. Participation in the Facebook group is optional!
JANUARY 9TH
Ozark Blues Jam
206 W Walnut Street, Rogers | 6:30 PM
Come listen to the top blues artists in Northwest Arkansas! This jam is also open to all musicians who play the blues. Free admission. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., and the event lasts from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Bring your sax, horn, harp, or sticks to play some blues! Sponsored by The Music Depot.
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JANUARY 11TH & 12TH
Rogers Convention Center, 3303 S Pinnacle Hills Parkway, Rogers | 10:00 AM
Northwest Arkansas Comic Con will take place on January 11th and 12th, 2025, at the Rogers Convention Center in Rogers, Arkansas. This fan-favorite event is the ultimate celebration of all things pop culture, comics, movies, gaming, and more! Meet celebrity guests, explore unique vendors, and connect with fellow fans.
JANUARY 25TH
The Strike Zone Training Academy, 1300 W Hudson Road, Rogers | 8:30 AM
This one-day event offers softball players top-notch training led by experienced college coaches. It focuses on enhancing key skills, including hitting, pitching, fielding, and more. Open to players of all skill levels, it’s a great opportunity to showcase talent and receive expert feedback. For more details and registration, visit FastPitchMasters.com.
JANUARY 26TH
Rogers Convention Center, 3303 S Pinnacle Hills Parkway, Rogers
A premier one-day cheer and dance competition featuring divisions for elite, prep, novice, recreational, and dance teams. It offers an exciting showcase of talent that’s perfect for fans of spirited performances and athletic artistry. For more info, visit BravoSpiritEvents.com.
