AY About You May 2021 by AY Magazine

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WHAT’S INSIDE

Publisher’s Letter Connect Top Events Murder Mystery Arkansas Backstories

10 12 14 182 184

HOME&GARDEN

WOW Factor Out of the Gutter

16 24

FOOD&DRINK

Bonkers for Burritos Burrito Recipes Grazing in the Rock High Tea for Mom Face Behind the Place: Heather Baber-Roe 52 ‘Tequila!’ 26 32 36 42 48

TRAVEL ARKANSAS

ACallrkadelphia: A Great Place to Home 124 Best Fishing Spots in Arkansas by Species 118

ARTS&CULTURE 140 Mad World 144 Courage, Dear Hart 150 Her Runway 156 Silo Parenting 158 The People Behind Your News: Mallory Brooks

Burritos and Enchiladas Bucket List Pg. 31

Photo by Jamison Mosley

MENTAL HEALTH 166 A Mother’s Influence

HEALTH

172 Cause & Effect: Teen Pregnancy

ABOUT YOU

58 AY’s Best of 2021 134 Whether the Weather 179 Sublimity

ON THE COVER We are excited to announce AY’s Best of 2021, voted on by you — our readers. Special thanks to our friends at Yellow Rocket Concepts for the help designing this month’s cover. Photo by Jamison Mosley.

CELEBRATE THE BEST OF THE OZARKS DINING, ATTRACTIONS, GOLF AND Unbelievable VIEWS

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PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

Heather Baker hbaker@aymag.com EDITOR

Dustin Jayroe djayroe@aymag.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Mark Carter mcarter@aymag.com

ONLINE EDITOR

Tyler Hale thale@aymag.com

EDITOR-AT-LARGE

Lisa Fischer lfischer@aymag.com

FOOD EDITOR

Kevin Shalin kshalin@aymag.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Katie Zakrzewski katie@aymag.com

STAFF WRITER

Emily Beirne ebeirne@aymag.com

ART DIRECTOR

Jamison Mosley jmosley@aymag.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Dwain Hebda is president of Ya!Mule Wordsmiths in Little Rock. A writer, editor and journalist of some 30 years, his work appears in more than 30 publications in four states. Nebraskan by birth, Southern by the grace of God, he and his wife, Darlene, have four grown children and two lovely dogs.

Janie Jones began her journalism career by writing features for the River Valley & Ozark Edition. After finding her niche as a true crime writer for AY About You, she acted as a consultant for Investigation Discovery. With her husband, she coauthored two books: Hiking Arkansas and Arkansas Curiosities.

Julie Craig began her magazine career while living in New York City as an intern at Seventeen. With fashion and home design as her forte for the past 15 years, Julie is a blogger, writer and editor who has reported stories for Us Weekly and written about and photographed New York Fashion Week.

Andrea Patrick has spent most of her childhood and adulthood in Little Rock. She loves the local food scene and believes that we all eat with our eyes first. This led her to a passion for experimenting with recipes, designing and plating at home. Find her on Instagram, @DishedbyDrea.

Angela Forsyth lives in Northwest Arkansas. Her articles have been published in AY About You, Arkansas Money and Politics, Food & Drink, Modern Home Builder, Manufacturing Today, Inside Healthcare, Retail Merchandiser and many more magazines. She’s a happy wife and mom to four kids and a dog.

Jason Pederson spent 20 years as KATV’s “Seven On Your Side” reporter. He now heads up the Office of the Ombudsman for the Arkansas Department of Human Services. Jason and his wife, Mary Carol, have two biological children and one bonus son, all now adults. They are long-time members of Fellowship Bible Church in Little Rock.

Rebecca Robertson rrobertson@aymag.com

DIGITAL MEDIA DIRECTOR

Kellie McAnulty kmcanulty@aymag.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Lora Puls lpuls@aymag.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Stephanie Wallace swallace@aymag.com Linda Burlingame lindaaymag@aol.com Tonya Higginbotham thigginbotham@aymag.com Mary Funderburg mary@aymag.com Tonya Mead tmead@aymag.com Shasta Ballard sballard@aymag.com

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

Jacob Carpenter ads@aymag.com

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Ginger Roell groell@aymag.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Kaitlin Barger, Casey Crocker, John Kelly, Jordan Knight, Meredith Mashburn, Tony Milligan, Sarah Russell, Philip Thomas

ADMINISTRATION Casandra Moore admin@aymag.com Vicki Vowell, CEO

TO ADVERTISE:

501-244-9700 or hbaker@aymag.com

TO SUBSCRIBE:

501-244-9700 or aymag.com

Nic Williams, an Arkansas native, is a practicing lawyer and contributor to AY About You. He has developed original recipes for more than half a decade and considers Ina Garten as his inspiration. Most importantly, he’s a proud doggy dad and is grateful for his supportive friends and family.

AY Magazine is published monthly, Volume XXXIII, Issue 12 AY Magazine (ISSN 2162-7754) is published monthly by AY Media Group, 910 W. 2nd St., Suite 200, Little Rock, AR 72201. Periodicals postage paid at Little Rock, AR and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to AY Magazine, 910 W. 2nd St., Suite 200, Little Rock, AR 72201. Subscription Inquiries: Subscription rate is $20 for one year (12 issues). Single issues are available upon request for $5. For subscriptions, inquiries or address changes, call 501-244-9700. The contents of AY are copyrighted ©2020, and material contained herein may not be copied or reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. Articles in AY should not be considered specific advice, as individual circumstances vary. Products and services advertised in the magazine are not necessarily endorsed by AY. Please recycle this magazine.

publisher's letter

Our Best,

For You

It’s been said that difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations. I believe it was the late Zig Ziglar who wrote that, and the phrase has been in constant revolution around my mind as of late. This past year has presented many of us with more than enough strife; we are long overdue for a “beautiful destination.” If you can block out the cacophonies of the world around us, you can probably make out the rays of hope peeking through the clouds. It’s shaping up to be the best sunset we’ve ever seen. And beautiful places are aplenty in our wonderful state. The man who knows the most about all of them, Joe David Rice, takes us on a journey to one this month: Arkadelphia. Or, as the legend himself Rex Nelson shared with us, the “cosmopolitan Mayberry.” Of course, no early summer chatter about making the rounds through Arkansas would be complete without a little talk about time on the water. To fill that boat, we got with our friends at the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission to bring you some of the best locations in the state to fish by species — from the Red River to Bull Shoals. I suppose if people also say that “the best is yet to come,” then, technically, AY’s version of fulfilling that aphorism is here once again. We call it “AY’s Best,” and this issue prominently features AY’s Best of 2021, decided by the many thousands of votes cast by you. We hope you enjoy looking through the list of all your favorite places that our state has to offer — from health to food to wedding venues. Oh, and we’ll also feature the overall winners for each category in the June issue. But if you don’t want to wait that long to find out, you can watch me and 103.7 the Buzz’s David Bazzel unveil them in a virtual ceremony on May 6. Speaking of Mayberry and local stars (don’t tell Bazzel I called him that), our staff writer, Emily Beirne, wrote a fantastic feature on Arkansas’ own Hart Denton in this issue. If you don’t recognize his name, you should — or your kids might. He’s starred in wildly popular dramas such as 13 Reasons Why and Riverdale, and he’s slated for a role in the upcoming film American Cherry. Beirne also wrote a profile of Jamileh Kamran, the mastermind behind the Arkansas Fashion School. She’s dressed many of the state’s first ladies — and even the one who lived in the White House — and rubbed elbows with many other distinguished folks, but the story of how she found such success is even more impressive and inspiring. As a mom and a daughter myself, I’d be remiss not to acknowledge the many ways we’ve written around the topic of Mother’s Day for this May issue. Firstly, many of the profiles and stories throughout these pages purposefully utilize those who are mothers, like Kevin Shalin’s latest “Face Behind the Place” of the local food scene, Heather Baber-Roe, the “mom” of Baja Grill and of her household; or the next installment in our “People Behind Your News” series on Mallory Brooks, who would have probably spent more time talking about her kiddos than her career as an anchor at KARK-Channel 4 if we’d let her. Then there’s the High Tea set up for an outside-the-box idea for your Mother’s Day, designed by the beautiful mind of Andrea Patrick, aka DishedbyDrea. Contributor Dwain Hebda wrote about the mental health importance of having a mother or mother figure in one’s life at an early age. And while technically not a mother, parent Jason Pederson wrote about his proposed replacement for helicopter parenting: “silo parenting.” It’s definitely an issue of AY to bring home to Mom. See you next month!

Heather Baker, President & Publisher hbaker@aymag.com

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Come On Down for The Price is Right Live in Little Rock Top 10 Weekend Events in Arkansas: April 16-18 Made in Arkansas Jeanetta Darley Wow Factor: EyeCatching Exteriors Recipe: Lemon Blueberry Bundt Cake Hidden Gem in Fair Oaks: Pippa’s Bin Owner Opens Antique Shop in Grain Bins

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READER FEEDBACK MARGARET ELLIBEE MEETS NEW CHALLENGES WITH A SMILE “Congratulations, Dr. Ellibee!” Debbie Desjardin FAYETTEVILLE’S MADISON WATKINS TO COMPETE IN AMERICAN IDOL TOP 12 “Love this picture. Your singing is amazing! Don’t give up! Your time will come soon! You faced many challenges! You made it to places only people can dream about! You Go ! You definitely made Arkansas stand out and put up again on the map!” Arlene Jones LOWER ARKANSAS: HOTBED FOR FILMS? “Things are rolling down for Main Street El Dorado. Fantastic film news.” Main Street Arkansas CELEBRATING HER STRENGTH: DORIS LAWRENCE HEADS UP DELTA PEST CONTROL So, so proud of you, Doris Lawrence! Congratulations on this recognition of your talents and leadership!” Randy Allison

INSTAGRAM

CONTESTS

Arkansas native Madison Watkins competed in American Idol this month.

The old Mexico Chiquito location has been preparing for the new Tacos 4 Life for what seems like 4 (taco) ever!

Take a look at The Venue at Oakdale, a new event venue on the Sherwood/ North Little Rock city boundary.

Contest deadline is May 14! Go to aymag.com and click on the “Contests” tab.

1. TIPTON & HURST

Looking for that perfect gift for a loved one? You’re guaranteed to find it at Tipton & Hurst, which has been providing expert florist services since 1886. Whether you need a beautiful bouquet of flowers or a unique gift basket, this Arkansas mainstay will have it. Drop in to find what your heart desires – it’s on us! CODE: TIPTON

2. LOBLOLLY

There’s nothing like a scoop of delicious ice cream, no matter the season. When it comes to ice cream, you can’t beat Loblolly Creamery. This Little Rock favorite serves up mouthwatering small-batch ice cream, using fresh ingredients and unique flavors. Come and get your favorite flavor, on us. CODE: LOBLOLLY

3. TURPENTINE CREEK

Take a walk on the wild side at Turpentine Creek. This Eureka Springs refuge provides a home for abandoned and neglected big cats, from tigers to lions to leopards. Win two tickets to tour the refuge and see all the amazing animals! CODE: CATS

Things are starting to explode at Me and McGee Market.

April WINNERS Tipton & Hurst: SELETA YEARIAN Loblolly: JANET GRANDERSON Turpentine Creek: CARRIE CRAWFORD

THANK YOU FOR NAMING DR. YEE AS ONE OF AY’S BEST

Congratulations to our talented leader Dr. Suzanne Yee for being the first in central Arkansas to offer two new treatments: QWO® and EMSCULPT NEO. QWO® is the first and only FDA-approved injectable for moderate to severe cellulite in the buttocks of adult women. When QWO® is injected, the fibrous bands are broken. This releases the dimples and smooths the surface of the skin. Emsuclpt Neo is a non-invasive treatment for abs, butt, arms, legs that simultaneously burns fat and builds muscle. Can treat up to a 35 BMI.

12600 Cantrell Rd. Ste 100 Little Rock, AR 72223 DrSuzanneYee.com (501) 224-1044

F O L L O W

U S :

agenda

Top

you just can't miss! DRIVE-IN THEATER TOUR May 16

112 Drive-In — Fayetteville Fayetteville is hosting a special drive-in concert featuring some of the most popular faith-based artists of the modern-day: Skillet, Jordan Feliz and Colton Dixon. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the shows will start at dusk.

RHEA LANA’S May 16-22

Rogers Convention Center — Rogers One of the nation’s largest names in children’s consignment has an event in Northwest Arkansas this month, the perfect opportunity for the mother in your life — or yourself. Visit rhealana.com/events for more details.

69TH ANNUAL HBA-GLR HOME SHOW May 22, 23

Statehouse Convention Center — Little Rock New look, new spot, same great event. The Home Builder’s Association of Greater Little Rock is putting on the home event of the year in Little Rock this month, stationed at the Statehouse Convention Center for the first time and featuring a new layout. The association is confident it will be the best show yet.

NORTHSHORE BALLOONFEST MAY 28-31

Northshore Golf Range — North Little Rock North Little Rock is taking Memorial Day weekend to new heights with the Northshore BalloonFest. Expect live music, delicious food, cold drinks, lots of family fun like chainsaw carving and, of course, plenty of balloons — like hot air balloon rides for you and yours — and more.

ODDITIES AND CURIOSITIES EXPO May 29

Statehouse Convention Center — Little Rock One of the more unique events you’ll ever find will also occupy space at the Statehouse Convention Center this month. Vendors, small businesses, artists and dealers from all over will be showcased, with only one prerequisite — weirdness. Read more on page 140.

events

May 9

Top 3 events to do at home Editor’s Note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the events and information listed are subject to change. For the events you do attend this month, please remember to be safe and abide by the most current guidelines set forth by Gov. Asa Hutchinson and the Arkansas Department of Health.

ETA AQUARIDS METEOR SHOWER May 6, 7

FINDING FAMILY FACTS (VIRTUAL) May 10; 3:30 p.m. www.cals.org

AGFC VIRTUAL NATURE CENTER www.agfcnaturecenter.com

aymag.com

More than a century old, statewide building company Acme Brick Tile & Stone ensures homebuilders create the living space of their dreams to last a lifetime.

wow factor By JULIE CRAIG

aymag.com

Walkthrough shower for two with a seating bench and natural light from the room adjacent.

Color contrasts of dark and light tones accentuate this open styled kitchen and bartop.

The wine bar encapsulated in glass mixed with the color palette of dark wood creates a warm, inviting and open aesthetic in the dining room.

The masterful curb appeal of the home at Pinnacle Country Club, which was featured in the 2015 Northwest Arkansas Parade of Homes.

irst impressions really count, so when it comes to building a new home, the exterior is of utmost importance. An extraordinary facade creates that wow factor where, in the home design world, we like to call it: curb appeal. An exterior with a magnificent aesthetic and quality build truly sets the stage for what’s inside the home when the front door opens but also lays that solid foundation for homeowners to enjoy for years. The end product is one that will leave the outside world wondering, “what’s on the inside of that gorgeous home?” Acme Brick Tile & Stone is a true game-changer when it comes to what’s on the outside (and inside!) of a home. It’s much more than just the essentials to homebuyers, builders and architects alike. Acme Brick is a building materials company that’s more than a century old and trusted by homeowners with the most beautiful homes across the state — and it’s not entirely brick. Built on a foundation of brick manufacturing, Acme Brick also offers custom iron doors, flooring, countertops, outdoor living products and a vast selection of natural and manufactured stone as well as designer tile. With a budget in mind, it can sometimes be tempting to skip over many important aspects to save a few dollars, specifically exterior details, but quality materials are an essential part of the process. “The materials dictate the quality and the style of the home, and brick is hands down the best thing to have around your house,” says Jefferson Baldwin, residential field sales representative in the Northwest Arkansas sales

office. “It is durable, affordable, environmentally friendly and very versatile.” The benefits of brick are beyond astounding, including natural insulation, reduction in maintenance costs, a higher resale value, lower insurance rates and fire protection. And what were those two words again? Oh yes, curb appeal. Built in 2014 and located in Northwest Arkansas within the Pinnacle subdivision at Pinnacle Country Club, Lance Johnson Building Company worked alongside Acme Brick to make one particular brick home truly unique by “shaking things up” a bit, moving from a slightly traditional facade to a more modern version. Featured in the 2015 Northwest Arkansas Parade of Homes, it was one of the first homes in the area to use white brick with white masonry with an all-brick exterior. “For many years, the trend had been to use a mixture of brick and stone on the exterior of the house, and white had not been very popular,” Baldwin says. “I am so proud of this project because as a company, Acme has always been on the front lines of product development, and we happen to make the most beautiful white brick in the industry. I love it when it all comes together with the right builder and project!” Baldwin, of course, believes brick can be the most important part of the building process, but that it is really important to have the perfect combination of materials. “The right brick, right mortar color to complement the brick and the right roof and fascia colors can bring it all together,” he says. “If you get those things right, you are well on your way to a beautiful home.” In addition to Northwest aymag.com

THE END PRODUCT IS ONE THAT WILL LEAVE THE OUTSIDE WORLD WONDERING, “WHAT’S ON THE INSIDE OF THAT GORGEOUS HOME?”

Arkansas, Acme Brick also plays a huge role in the building of a vast array of breathtaking homes of various sizes and budgets throughout Central Arkansas. Between the heart of Little Rock and Lake Maumelle in the hills of Woodland Park subdivision sits a craftsmanstyle gem, completed by Arbor Construction in October 2018. The choice of Silvercreek brick gives a mostly monochromatic look with hints of neutral tones in amazing contrast to the dark roof and windows. The eye is drawn to the cedar accents and French doors of the front porch, creating a spacious and welcoming entry to the home. And because Acme Brick backs itself with a 100-year guarantee, rest assured, this Central Arkansas stunner is not only easy on the eyes but built to last a lifetime with real efficiency and quality. “All Acme Brick is backed by our 100-year guarantee, ensuring the exterior of the home to be not only

aligned with the customer’s tastes but also efficient and longstanding. Nothing gives us more satisfaction than having homeowners happy to agree that Acme Brick is the best thing to have around your house,” says David Messersmith, an outside sales representative in Central Arkansas. “At Acme, we pride ourselves on providing the highest quality materials, combining sustainability and style, used to help each homeowner’s vision come true,” Messersmith says. “Our wide range of blends, variations, and textures allows each individual the opportunity to make a selection that will be unique and beautiful.” With homes across the state that truly showcase the high-quality Acme brand and the craftsmanship it represents for, it’s no doubt everyone who plays a part in the home building process comes together to make this magic happen on a daily basis with a true

feeling of pride when it’s all said and done. “I get so excited when I see Acme Brick going up on a project,” Baldwin says. “I love checking on the progress of the job at the different stages. When it’s complete and all aspects of the building process have come together and they complement each other, it’s a good feeling,” he says. “Acme Brick gives the homeowner the opportunity to achieve [almost] any look and style they desire with a product that will last for generations to come and that’s something I am very proud to be a part of,” Baldwin says. “No doubt, the homeowners feel the same way when they see the Acme name stamped at the end of the bricks. To know that I’ve played a role in something that will last many generations because my customer chose to use Acme Brick brings me a tremendous amount of satisfaction.”

Discover a complete decorative resource in North Little Rock: • porcelain and ceramic tile; • natural stone tile, mosaics, and countertops – as well as economical manufactured stone; • hardwood and laminate flooring; • sturdy cladding from MAC Metal Architectural; • products for gracious outdoor living, such as fireplaces, fire pits, and kitchen equipment; and • decorative iron doors that make a strong first impression. Acme Brick Tile & Stone is Central Arkansas’ best resource not only for brick but also for quality and service. Ready to think outside the brick? Come see us.

10921 Maumelle Blvd. • North Little Rock, AR • 501-812-5574 Mon-Wed-Fri 8:00-5:00, Tue-Thu 8:00-7:00 • brick.com/littlerock

Woven for life.

Family Owned and Operated Since 1920 19650 I-30, Benton • congofp.com • 501.316.4328

We are a skilled nursing facility with a state-of-the-art rehab center offering personcentered care in a quiet and serene setting.

Awarded Bronze National Quality Award by the American Health We are a skilled nursi Association.

center offering person-c Awarded Bronze National

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1092 West Stultz Road, Springdale 479.750.3800 ShilohHR.com 23

We are a skilled nursing facility with a state-of-the-art rehab

aymag.com

Out of the Gutter By Lauren McLemore

s the weather warms up, many Arkansans are spending more time outside. Those with green thumbs are harvesting what they planted earlier in the year and likely finishing the prep work for whatever is planned for the upcoming months. Whether your seeds are already in the ground or you haven’t quite started yet, one thing that every gardener needs for their May flowers is a system for managing the precursing showers. The solution? Gutters — good ones. While many are familiar with the necessity of gutters to protect homes from water damage, they’re also imperative to keeping gardens looking healthy and functioning properly. The first step is identifying the current standing of your yard. LeafGuard of Arkansas president, Brad Wright, says that it’s at this time of year when homeowners will start to notice the problems that can arise from not having a gutter system. LeafGuard is the distributor for a patented one-piece aluminum gutter system that uses the principle of liquid adhesion to allow water to flow perfectly into your gutter while shielding off leaves overhead. “We have our rainy season here in the spring. So, this is a time of year where you really notice how much water

This is a time of year where you really notice how much water can come off of your roof and how much water can collect around your house.

can come off of your roof and how much water can collect around your house, because more than likely, it’s going to rain,” Wright says. Coming out of your post-snowmageddon hibernation to walk around outside might be the first time you even notice where damage might already be done. “We’re all just coming out, and we start to work in our flowerbeds or work on our house,” he says. “This is the time of year when you kind of look up, and you may notice things that have happened when we had that major snowstorm. The weight of the snow on the roof and gutters and around your plants has caused some issues that may not have been there prior.” Once you’ve evaluated your situation, it’s time to pursue installation, which means that if you are an avid gardener, you’ll want to consider your plants.

Those that just enjoy planting minimal flowers and shrubs right next to the house are still at risk, because, without gutters, soil erosion can occur and cause the garden to wash away. Even if erosion is minimal, puddles of water can form in your garden bed and drown your plants. “Collecting water and moving it away from your house keeps the ground stable there around your home, but it also helps move it out and away from your house so it’s not just running off your house into your flowerbeds, pooling in different areas, and washing away your ground and vegetation on that front,” Wright says. LeafGuard does the heavy lifting when it comes to installing the gutters but knowing your yard — even just the placement of your trees — helps to provide them with a great starting point to make a recommendation for the best type of gutter. “We do an open-top system, we do a rain pro system, and we do a leaf guard system,” Wright says. “All three gutters’ core function is to collect water and move it away from the house. The difference is about the maintenance and what you have around your house. If you have a lot of trees and different things around your house, then obviously we know the trees this time of year are dropping a lot of pollen.” To talk with Wright or another representative of LeafGuard about a guaranteed clog-free gutter for your yard. Central Arkansas: 501-508-6434 Northwest Arkansas: 479-226-8829 info@leafguardandmore.com

aymag.com

for Bonkers Burritos No matter what we look like on the outside, it’s what’s inside that matters most. By KEVIN SHALIN

Baja Grill. Photo by Jamison Mosley

My profound love for all things Mexican food means I have long been a fan of the burrito. I mean, it is literally a rolled-up package of food, a gift from the culinary gods. But as you will soon find out, some of the best burritos in Central Arkansas can’t be pigeon-holed into one cuisine. We’ve got some great options, and this list only scratches the surface of what is out there. Cuban Burrito, Baja Grill How does slow-smoked, shredded pork with chipotle aioli, a sour orange-red cabbage, jicama slaw, fresco cheese and avocado sound? Oh, and I almost forgot about the copious amount of queso that drenches the entire concoction. Baja Grill’s Cuban Burrito is as beautiful as it is tasty, and if this flavor combination is not your thing, just know that the restaurant has plenty of other burrito options, like the Blackened Shrimp, Baja Beef, Caribbean Jerk, and Pig Sooie. They will even serve it sans tortilla, but is that really even a burrito? I say no. Either way, one thing is for certain: You will never leave Baja Grill hungry.

Sushiritto, Kemuri Speaking of burritos that blow by traditional boundaries, Kemuri offers up three varieties of its sushiritto, including the Tokyo Chicken with grilled chicken, crab stick, lettuce, spicy guacamole, crispy shallots, goma shiro (sesame seed paste), rice and honey miso; the Seaside with raw tuna and salmon, as well as crabstick, lettuce, mayonnaise, avocado and

Dutchman Burrito, At the Corner The morning hours are a perfect time to enjoy burritos, and inside Little Rock, it does not get any better than the Dutchman at At the Corner. The popular downtown eatery has a morning menu filled with several fantastic options, but you would be hard-pressed to top this burrito packed with scrambled eggs, sausage, cheddar, peppers and onions. It is an irresistible blending of ingredients, something the kitchen has become known for over the past few years. If you are with a tablemate and get a hankering for something else (like the house-baked cinnamon rolls), just know that the Dutchman is an ideal item to split.

seasoned rice; and the Firecracker with tempura shrimp, spicy crab, cucumber, avocado and lettuce. The latter two will certainly satiate your sushi cravings, all in a handheld format and available during the lunch and brunch services at Kemuri.

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Burrito California, La Pasadita If you love gut-busting burritos, then head over to La Pasadita for the Burrito California, but just make sure to ask for it covered with a thin layer of queso. (Hey, I am a firm believer that liquid cheese makes everything better.) The restaurant stuffs each flour tortilla with what seems like a particularly large amount of rice and a protein of choice. Opt for the pastor (pork) or asada (steak), and this burrito also includes refried beans, cheese, sour cream, lettuce, cilantro and onion. I have yet to finish this one by myself, so if you are anything like me, just know that the Burrito California makes for great leftovers.

Breakfast Burrito, Stoby’s Restaurant Stoby’s is a veteran in the industry, long known for its straightforward approach to the classics, all served in a casual atmosphere with downhome service. The breakfast burrito is an example of a dish done right; it is loaded with what I imagine is a meat lover’s paradise, including bacon, diced ham and country sausage. The large, garlic-herbed flour tortilla also includes a heavy hand of scrambled eggs and hash browns. And because we are talking about Stoby’s, you know this burrito will come with a side of the wildly popular spicy white cheese dip. Picante sauce also makes an appearance, but — let’s be real — all your focus should be on the cheese dip.

Burrito al Pastor, El Torito If you do not know about El Torito, the hidden gem of a taqueria and food store located at 303 South Bowman Road in Little Rock, consider this as a formal alert. The grilled steak and shrimp fajitas are some of the best in town, as are the churros. But so too is the Burrito al Pastor. It comes in two sizes (regular and special), and while it includes marinated pieces of pork, avocado, cheese, tomato, sour cream and lettuce, the real magic resides in the bits of sweet pineapple that pair well with the saltiness of the meat. Make sure to leave a little stomach space for an order of tacos as well.

Super Burrito, Elia’s Mexican Grill Elia’s appropriately named Super Burrito is the size of a small throw pillow, which makes sense, seeing as if you can somehow finish this monstrosity, a long nap or extended food coma will immediately follow. A 12-inch flour tortilla is packed with a substantial list of ingredients, including steak, grilled chicken, chorizo, pork, bell pepper, onion, tomato, lettuce, jalapeno, sour cream, rice and refried beans. Everything is smothered in white cheese sauce because this is Arkansas, and we take our melted cheese about as seriously as anything. Yes, the burrito is enormous and by far the biggest option on this list, but it is also quite delicious, making a trip to the Morrilton restaurant a must-do in the near future.

Shrimp Burrito, El Palenque Out of all the wonderful burritos mentioned in this article, the shrimp offering at Taqueria El Palenque is without question the one I have eaten the most, probably a minimum of 50 times in the past decade. Two things separate this burrito from most of the competition: a plentiful amount of plump shrimp and the inclusion of caramelized grilled onion. A thin layer of refried beans helps meld the flavors, and, along with rice and a small dollop of sour cream, make for a burrito like none other in Little Rock. Newbies need to keep an eye out for the restaurant, as it’s tucked back in the corner of a strip center off Rodney Parham Road.

Burrito al Pastor, Las Delicias The Burrito al Pastor at Las Delicias in Levy is sneaky good. The presentation is modest, but what it lacks in eye-popping visual appeal it makes up for in the taste department. Think of it as a burrito’s burrito — just a simple, adequately sized tortilla filled with marinated pork, refried beans, rice, cheese, lettuce and tomato, all for just $4.99. This area of Levy is filled with fantastic taquerias all within a half-mile radius of each other, but I think you will find that Las Delicias, which also doubles as a small grocery store, is hard to beat.

Breakfast Burrito, Blue House Bakery and Cafe Blue House Bakery and Café in Bryant, much like Las Delicias, does not make waves with a huge burrito, rather one that is meant to feed a human with a normal appetite. The breakfast burrito is a simple one, including scrambled eggs, chunks of sausage and American cheese in a flour tortilla. But it is the melding of these ingredients that sets things apart. The steam from the hot, perfectly cooked eggs that reside inside the tortilla melts the cheese, making for this gooey combination that is sure to get you going in the morning hours and pairs well with coffee.

“... it is literally a rolled-up package of food, a gift from the culinary gods.”

Jalisco Burrito, El Porton Pick your protein and El Porton, with two locations in Little Rock, probably has a burrito showcasing it. The menu features a whopping eight choices, including: Verdes, Seafood, Deluxe, Rojo, California, Toluca, Cheese Steak and Jalisco. Over the years, I have probably tried them all, but it is the Jalisco, which is stuffed with pork along with cooked tomatoes, onions and bell peppers, that keeps calling my name. El Porton then tops it with cheese sauce, along with lettuce, tomatoes, and guacamole. This burrito proves once again that just about everything is better with cheese sauce.

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Photo by Jamison Mosley

Yellow Rocket Concepts

s a d a l i h c n Kn ows E When it comes to enchiladas, Local Lime and Heights Taco & Tamale Co. have mastered the concept.

Ark-Mex Enchiladas at Heights Taco & Tamale Co. If you enjoy a little heat, make sure to order the Ark-Mex enchiladas on your next visit to Heights Taco & Tamale Co. Go with the braised ground beef as your filling of choice for the two corn tortillas which are then drenched in a spicy red chile sauce and gooey cheese. The dish is served in a cast-iron skillet, a move that ensures the cheese will still be bubbling after it hits the table. The presentation is gorgeous, and the taste is even better. You have a choice of two sides. I recommend the green chile tomato rice and refried smokey bacon pinto beans. Like every dish at Heights Taco & Tamale Co., the Ark-Mex Enchiladas pairs well with one of the restaurant’s signature frozen mojitos.

Spinach Enchiladas at Local Lime Don’t let the mild flavors of Local Lime Spinach Enchiladas fool you. There is a lot going on under the queso fresco-soaked flour tortillas, including a filling that blends pieces of spinach and artichokes with Manchego and Jack cheese, sour cream sauce and New Mexican red chili sauce. A huge wedge of perfectly ripe avocado rests on top, which I am a firm believer heightens just about any dish in the Mexican cuisine. The enchiladas are served with sides of black beans and cilantro lime rice in a dish that is sure to appeal to taste buds across the board. For an additional cost, proteins like chicken, salmon, grilled shrimp and carnitas can be added to these enchiladas. And if you opt not to order a margarita on the rocks with your meal, then consider it a huge mistake.

l Antigua’s Grill El Dorado, Magnolia l At the Corner Little Rock

l Azul Tequila

AY’s ARKANSAS

s a d a l i h c n E d n a s o t i r r u B Bucket List

l Mexico Viejo Fayetteville

Bentonville, Springdale

aja Grill l B

Benton, Little Rock

lue House Bakery & Cafe l B

Bryant

l Cantina Cinco De Mayo Little Rock

armelita’s Mexican Food l C

Benton

asa Maya l C

Jonesboro

otija’s Mexican Grill l C

Little Rock

l Don Jose Mexican Restaurant Jonesboro

l El Matador Mexican Bar & Grill Fayetteville, Siloam Springs

l Parian Mexican Restaurant l E

Arkadelphia

l El Porton

Little Rock

l El Rancho Mexican Restaurant Vilonia

l El Sol Mexican Restaurant Pine Bluff

l El Torito

Little Rock

l Elia’s Mexican Grill Morrilton

Presented by:

l Jose’s Mexican Grill & Cantina Hot Springs

l Kemuri

Little Rock

i Pueblo l M

West Memphis

i Ranchito l M

Bryant

l Mr. Taco Loco

Fayetteville, Springdale

l La Chiquita

ancho’s l P

l La Hacienda

apitos Mexican Grill l P

l La Huerta

l Rolando’s Restaurante

l La Pasadita

ubis Mexican Food l R

l La Villa Mexican Restaurant

alsa’s Grill l S

l Las Delicias

toby’s Restaurant l S

l Las Margaritas

aco Mama l T

l Local Lime

aqueria El Cunado l T

l L os 3 Potrillos

l Taqueria El Palenque

l L os Agaves

l Taqueria El Rancho

l Los Arcos Mexican

l The Fold

Russellville

Various Locations Russellville Little Rock

Mena

North Little Rock Springdale

Little Rock, Rogers

Conway

Arkadelphia, Glenwood, Nashville

Cuisine Jonesboro

West Memphis Jacksonville

Conway Conway

Mountain Home Conway, Russellville Hot Springs Hot Springs Little Rock

Siloam Springs Little Rock

l Faby’s Restaurant

l Maggy & Lucy’s

l Trejo’s Mexican Restaurant

El Dorado

Hot Springs

l Heights Taco and Tamale Co.

l Mariachi Grill

l Tula Restaurant

l Jose’s Bar and Grill

exico Chiquito l M

Conway

Little Rock

Springdale

Lonoke

Little Rock

Fayetteville

l Yeyo’s El Alma de Mexico Bentonville

3C heck off the Burritos/Enchiladas List as you visit a small sample of our favorite places. 31

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s t a E •

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S • R ECIPE

FLAVOR PROFILE A beachside food stand in San Diego sells the most amazing burritos I've ever had, which the owner affectionately describes as “caliente y fresco,” which is Spanish for “hot and cool.” Inspired, I developed similar flavors here — a spark of sweet heat followed by refreshing lime, cool Mexican crema, and a dash of cilantro.

SoCalBURRITOS By Nic Williams

INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef 4 teaspoons kosher salt 1 tablespoon chili powder 2 teaspoons chipotle powder 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 cup long-grain rice, such as basmati Juice and zest of 1 lime ½ cup finely chopped cilantro (optional) 6 large flour tortillas (8-10 inches in diameter) 16 ounces refried beans, homemade or store-bought 1 ½ cups soft, shredded cheese, such as Oaxaca or Monterey 4 ounces Mexican crema, or sour cream if crema is unavailable 16-ounce jar of roasted bell peppers, drained 8 ounces shredded lettuce INSTRUCTIONS 1. A dd vegetable oil, ground beef, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, chili powder, chipotle powder, garlic powder, onion powder and cayenne pepper to a large skillet and brown over medium heat until cooked through. Set aside to cool but don't discard the pan juice because it is full of flavor. 2. Meanwhile, bring the rice to a boil in 2 cups of water and cook 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Remove rice from heat, drain thoroughly, and add lime juice and zest, remaining 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and cilantro. Mix until combined. 3. Warm tortillas in the microwave for 10 seconds, as heat will help to prevent breakage. For each tortilla, spread 2 tablespoons of refried beans on the bottom half of the tortilla, making sure to stay about 2 inches away from the edge. The beans should resemble a half-circle. 4. L ayering on top of the refried beans, add ¼ cup beef, ¼ cup rice, ¼ cup cheese, 1 tablespoon Mexican crema, ¼ cup red peppers and ¼ cup lettuce. 5. F old the bottom part of the tortilla (the part closest to you) over the filling. Fold the tortilla's left and right sides over the filling, giving the tortilla the shape of an open envelope. Holding the two side flaps with your pinky and ring fingers, hook your middle and index fingers over the center of the burrito, and roll the burrito forward into a tight cylinder.

Shrimp BURRITOS By Kaitlin Barger

with cilantro rice and mango salsa

INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons butter 2 teaspoons garlic, chopped 10-ounce bag large shrimp, peeled, deveined and tails removed 8 large tortillas (10 inches in diameter) ¼ cup black beans ¼ cup red onion, diced ½ avocado, diced ¼ tomato, diced ¼ cup Monterey Jack cheese INSTRUCTIONS 1. Add butter and garlic to a saucepan and heat on low. 2. Add shrimp and cook until pink. Remove from pan and cut each one in half. 3. After heating tortillas in the microwave for 10 seconds, add shrimp, black beans, red onion, avocado, tomato and cheese on the bottom half of each tortilla in equal portions. 4. F old in the sides to make a vertical rectangle shape. Use your thumbs to fold the bottom of the tortilla up over the middle of the ingredients. 5. F old the top corners in while holding the bottom of the burrito with your thumbs and roll the rest of the way. You can always use a toothpick to keep everything in place until eating. 6. Top with mango salsa and serve alongside cilantro rice.

MANGO SALSA INGREDIENTS 1 mango ¼ red onion 2 tablespoons cilantro DIRECTIONS 1. P eel and dice mango. Peel and dice red onion. 2. Roughly chop cilantro and add all ingredients to a small bowl. 3. Place in fridge until ready to serve.

CILANTRO RICE INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons butter 1 teaspoon garlic, chopped 2 cups chicken broth Juice of ½ lime 5 ounces cilantro, chopped Dash of cumin Salt and pepper to taste DIRECTIONS 1. Rinse rice before cooking. 2. Heat butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add garlic. Sautee for about 30 seconds. 3. Cook rice in rice cooker with chicken broth, butter and garlic mixture. 4. W hen fully cooked, add lime juice, chopped cilantro, cumin, salt and pepper. Toss and serve.

WHAT'S IN THE TASTE? I love every kind of Mexican food you could possibly think of, but I usually like to leave it to the professionals. This shrimp burrito was easy to make and had so many different flavors. The biggest trick is not to overfill your tortilla. I recommend using flour instead of corn for burritos. This recipe makes about two burritos, so you can adjust accordingly. The cilantro rice and mango salsa really add a flavor pop to any dish. I used a rice cooker for this dish, but you can use any method you’d like I’d like to thank my sister, Tara, for showing me the easy, delicious salsa recipe and showing me the simplistic beauty of a rice cooker.

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Food

Grazing in the Rock By KEVIN SHALIN

Photos by JAMISON MOSLEY

Progressive dinners are as popular as ever, and Little Rock has the neighborhoods and restaurants to help pull off a fun-filled evening of eating. What happens when you combine walkable neighborhoods with can’t-miss restaurants and great weather? Answer: a progressive dinner. Never participated in one? No worries, I will guide you through the entire process. And while I will be focusing on three neighborhoods — Hillcrest, the Heights and SoMA — just know that a progressive dinner is ideal in just about any major area of town, and that includes Argenta, Park Hill, downtown and Chenal, just to name a few. First things first, a progressive dinner is when you choose a different restaurant or bar for each course, and once finished with one course, walk to the next place for another. Just park your car at the beginning of the evening and spend the rest of your time on foot. Saturday is the perfect time for one of these, and I’d encourage you to start in the late afternoon or early evening. Why? Because this ensures that most, if not all, of the restaurants will be open. Starting at 5 p.m., for example, also lets you begin the adventure when most places are just opening and are not full. Progressive dinners typically take between three to five hours (one hour at each stop) and are usually best with four to six participants. This allows folks to try a few items at each location but doesn’t overwhelm an establishment with larger groups. First-timers should consider beginning with a 3-course progressive dinner. For the more experienced eaters and drinkers, feel free to add as many stops as you’d like, but I find that most folks tire a bit after the third restaurant. Remember, the point of this crawl is to have fun, try out new dishes, and support local restaurants. If

you overdo things with massive amounts of food and drink at too many spots, the evening does begin to wear on you. With all that said, let’s get to it! When it comes to progressive dinners, the Hillcrest neighborhood certainly stands out with a plethora of fantastic options, especially along Kavanaugh Boulevard. “It is hard to explain, but the feel of Hillcrest makes it perfect for a night wandering and imbibing,” says co-owner of Leo’s Greek Cas-

“It is hard to explain, but the feel of Hillcrest makes it perfect for a night wandering and imbibing.”

tle, Frank Cox III. “We have cute shops, restaurants with tons of history and beautiful foliage and homes. It is a true walking neighborhood.” In fact, Cox’s restaurant is a perfect spot for stop No. 2. Just make sure to start off the night across the street at La Terraza Rum & Lounge with one of their signature mojitos, an order each of Yuca Frita and Carpaccio de Lomito, a thinly sliced beef carpaccio with sliced mushrooms, parmesan, and basil aioli. If the weather is right, spend an hour on the outdoor deck, sipping on cocktails and splitting those appetizers. Afterward, head over to Leo’s Greek Castle for some more patio dining, albeit a little more rustic in nature but still a spot ideal for a hungry group. “Nobody should attempt to eat a Leo

Hillcrest “It is a true walking neighborhood.”

Burger without the support of a loved one. Split one of those and a Gyro Platter, and you’ll find that your relationship has never been stronger,” Cox says. You won’t have to stroll very far for dessert. The Pantry Crest is less than a block away and home to one of the very best desserts in town, their ever-popular cheesecake. The brûlée top is what separates this cheesecake from the competition.

Need More Suggestions?

Leo’s Greek Castle. (Courtesy)

Stop #1: Wine and a large charcuterie plate at Ciao Baci Stop #2: Salpicão and Arroz con Feijão at Café Bossa Nova Stop #3: Cappuccino Jar at Kemuri

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Heights THE

“There are many local dives to dine and experience our foodie scene.”

Similar in layout and close in proximity to Hillcrest is the Heights. And like Hillcrest, most of my suggestions will even reside on Kavanaugh Boulevard, the road that winds its way through the heart of town and both neighborhoods. Jacob Chi, owner of three neighborhood establishments — Sushi Café, Lulu’s Seafood Kitchen and Prospect Bar and Grill — is obviously a big fan of the area. He explains, “The Heights is the perfect place in Little Rock to celebrate with friends and family in a progressive dinner. There are many local dives to dine and experience our foodie scene. Our family has always loved the Heights and have made considerable efforts to give customers in this part of Little Rock more options to sample.” I can’t think of a better place to start the evening than at Sushi Café. “Our sushi menu naturally lends itself for groups to sample a touch of different items,” Chi says. “A few of these we would recommend are the Heights Roll, Kavanaugh Roll and our best-seller, the Bomb Roll. Guests often share a Cafe Pad Thai or the Hogs Plate. These are very popular and would lend themselves to be the perfect dishes for a party of four or more to progressively dine.” Keep the seafood theme going by walking just around the corner to Lulu’s Seafood Kitchen. Chi says, “The new seasonal menu focuses on crawfish. Our Crawfish with Friends includes five pounds of fresh Louisiana crawfish and is served in our signature Lulu’s Sauce with a ‘Hot to Trot’ spice level. Our All-In Seafood Bucket is also the perfect dish for sharing and includes snow crab, one pound of Louisiana crawfish, lobster tail, a half-pound of Gulf shrimp, three pieces of corn and potatoes.” Satiate your sweet tooth with a short jaunt to Le Pops. Just think of a flavor and Le Pops probably makes an irresistibly good popsicle with its inclusion. I am particularly fond of the salted caramel, but if you’re in the mood for something fruity, the strawberry is always a hit.

XLe Pops. (Courtesy)

Sushi Cafe. (Courtesy)

Need More Suggestions? Stop #1: B eer, Baked Pimento Cheese, and Frites at Boulevard Bistro uban Nachos and Combination Fajitas at Stop #2: C Baja Grill elato at ZAZA Fine Salad & Wood Oven Stop #3: G Pizza Co.

The SoMa District is one of the hottest neighborhoods in town and home to several local bars, food shops and restaurants. For a progressive dinner, the options seem endless, but we’ll begin our suggested adventure at Esters, the pub that appeals to beer-drinkers and connoisseurs of good food with a menu that draws in herbivores and meat-eaters alike. “Esters is like a mullet — a traditional dining space with local art and a vegan deli in front, but it’s a party in the back with video games, pinball and pingpong,” says owner Evan Mathis. “We pride ourselves on being laidback and family-friendly, but there’s always a chance for a rowdy Friday night.” I suggest going with an order of Nugs, hand-battered then fried vegan chicken tenders with a choice of sauce or dry rub. The fluffy hushpuppies, with bits of onion, jalapeño and a house-made remoulade sauce for dipping, are also a good option, so consider getting an order for the table. Wash it all down with a local beer. Mathis says, “As far as beer pairings, I may have to lean towards the Lost Forty Brewing Second Rodeo for a light and clean palate cleanser to wash it all down. It would complement the spice of a Buffalo sauce or the tang of a remoulade.” Afterward, walk a short block to Raduno Brick Oven & Barroom for a pizza and chicken parm sandwich, two options that are excellent for sharing. For pizza, I recommend going with the Quattro, a four-cheese pie with Buffalo mozzarella, ricotta, provolone, and shaved parmesan, the latter of which will also reside on the mountain of a chicken sandwich you just ordered. Raduno pairs the panko-crusted fried chicken breast with pesto and house-made marinara, along with melted mozzarella on toasted Boulevard Bread Company focaccia. With stomach space now at a premium, head across the street to Loblolly Creamery for a scoop or two of the classic double vanilla ice cream or a flavor of your choice.

SoMa “... one of the hottest neighborhoods in town.”

Need More Suggestions? Stop #1: Axl Roll at Rock n Roll Sushi Stop #2: Beer and Nachos Rocas at Mockingbird Bar & Tacos Stop #3: Bread Pudding at The Root Café

Left: Raduno Brick Oven & Barroom. Above: Esters.

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Wrap your sandwiches in parchment and tie with twine to create an edible gift.

Pastries will woo the adults (and kids). Pick fun and chic options to round out the end of the meal.

An assortment of charcuterie and cheese is always a welcome addition.

Mother’s

Day Charcuterie By Andrea Patrick

It’s very true that the beginning of spring can be brutal. Rain. Pollen. More rain. (Very frustrating.) But the rain and pollen do dissipate eventually. We are then left with long days and the perfect temperatures. Mother’s Day fittingly kicks off patio and BBQ weather. Why not combine the best parts of the season with a celebration for mom? Give your mother a day out in the sun. Use these tips to create a stunning experience for your leading lady.

Enjoy!

I chose a neutral color palette to let the food and florals shine. Feel free to use your own favorites.

@dishedbydrea www.dishedbydrea.com

Use plush blankets, pillows and rugs for ultra comfort.

Don’t forget the basket! Buy, borrow or repurpose one you already own.

A mother’s love for her child is like nothing else in the world. It knows no law, no pity, it dates all things and crushes down remorselessly all that stands in its path. - Agatha Christie

Do use platters of fruits. A bonus: You can add fresh fruit to your beverages.

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Heather Baber Roe

Heather Baber-Roe.

Face Behind the Place: of

Baja Grill

By Kevin Shalin • Photos by Jamison Mosley

She has played a key role in helping take Baja Grill to the next level, all the while injecting a dose of fun and good times. What does Heather Baber-Roe have planned next? Heather Baber-Roe is no stranger to the restaurant business. She grew up in Caddo Gap, where her grandparents and parents both owned restaurants. At 21, she moved to Little Rock and worked for various Jerry Barakat establishments over the next 11 years, including helping launch Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse. After that long stretch, she transitioned into retail, owning a boutique clothing shop and enjoying life outside the food industry. Then she met Craig Roe, owner of Baja Grill, a popular restaurant specializing in California-style tacos and burritos. The restaurant originated in Benton as a food truck and moved into a brick-and-mortar with a prime location in the Heights neighborhood in 2014. Baber-Roe came on board with the restaurant in 2016. She explains, “I was trying to get out of the restaurant business, just because it really is your whole life, and I didn’t want to get back into it. I told Craig that I would help out for six months because I felt it was too good of a restaurant not to be super successful.” Turns out, she was also just as passionate about Craig, and “six months” became indefinitely. The two have been married for more than a year and a half, navigating the chal-

lenges of blending families and running successful restaurants, most of which has taken place during a global pandemic. And yes, if you happened to catch my previous plurality, Baja Grill now has a second location, returning to its Benton roots with new downtown digs. Five years later, I would say that BaberRoe is pretty invested in the business. It is both an exciting and nerve-racking time for the couple, two individuals who possess vastly different personalities, at least on the surface. Craig is calm, quiet and reserved, while Heather is more of the extrovert and never one to miss an opportunity to crack a joke. Together, they make a great team and have built two successful restaurants through a jack-of-all-trades approach. “I do not run the grill, but I do about everything else that is needed. That goes the same for Craig. We are both very hands-on,” she says. “There are sometimes we are so excited to be at the same restaurant at the same time, and 30 minutes later, I want to go to the other one (laughs). Working together as a married couple is good at times but it can also be hard, especially in an environment that high stress. When I am there and it is super

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“

... I thought the menu needed to reflect who we were.

stressful for everyone else, I tend to be the calm one. It’s almost like we switch.” The different personalities of Craig and Heather have proven to be complementary, but so too are their varying talents. For her, that includes a strong presence on the restaurants’ social media as well as continuing to make updates on Baja Grill’s rotating drink menu, interjecting her humor and overall fun voice with puns and plays-on-words with invented cocktail names and quirky descriptions. Today, the cocktail menu includes such gems as “Grow a Pair,” “Blame it on the Aperol,” “Resting Beach Face,” “Melon Degeneres,” and “My Neck, My Back.” She explains, “Yes, I remember when we took that direction in 2016. Our staff was so funny that I thought the menu needed to reflect who we were.” “We” is a big part of Baja Grill. Baber-Roe has been instrumental

in creating a real family work environment, valuing each member of her staff and leading by example, a management approach she learned from her years with Barakat. With the second location in Benton, BaberRoe’s work family has doubled in size, and her time is now divided between the two restaurants. And even though the pandemic continues to ravage the restaurant industry and the business it generates, there is light at the end of the tunnel with hope that the staff can grow even more. Overall, Baber-Roe is optimistic, not only for the Heights location but also for the restaurant’s return to Benton. She explains, “Because the food truck started in Benton, we knew we had a following. Ten percent of our customer base in Little Rock was Benton people who drove in to come eat there. It was such a good opportunity because they were going to build it out for us.” “They” are the city officials who played an integral role in bringing Baja Grill back to Benton, spearheading a complete build-out of what would be their current location. And what a return it has been. The restaurant shares the restored building with another popular eatery, Valhalla Restaurant & Axe Throwing, making for a dynamic duo of food and fun for the folks in the area. Between Baja Grill’s tacos, burritos, nachos and cocktails and Valhalla’s pizza and sandwiches, you would be hard-pressed to find better food in Benton. That is another thing about Baber-Roe. She is a big supporter of

Heather and Craig.

Qiuthick Bites w

other local restaurants, often sharing news and offering words of encouragement across various social media channels, not to mention going out to eat. It is an attitude that fosters a true community environment and one that holds great importance to Baja Grill’s coowner. “It stems from having family in small businesses,” she explains. There is also a level of empathy, in general, to the trials and tribulations of running a restaurant, and while she maintains a competitive nature, Baber-Roe also has the right outlook. “We do our job and do it the best we know how. There is enough business for everybody.” Speaking of business, Baber-Roe has no desire to return to the retail clothing game, mainly because she has her sights set on more expansion in the form of a third restaurant. She says, “I am the one who just wants to keep opening restaurants. Craig would say no, but we want to do another concept. “There are so many days that are stressful that I don’t know why I want to keep adding to it.” Currently, what that entails and how soon it will come about is anyone’s guess, but the couple has its options open and is keeping an eye out for different spaces in the Benton/Bryant area. Whatever the couple ends up doing, one thing is for certain: Baber-Roe will make sure to have fun time doing it.

Heather

1. W hat’s the craziest thing you and the staff have come up with at Baja Grill that isn’t available to the public? - Peanut butter stuffed pretzels dipped in queso. 2. B esides Baja Grill, what is your favorite place to get tacos in Little Rock? - The Fold. 3. W hat is your favorite place to go shopping? - I hate to go shopping, but I do love Don’s Supply for restaurant supplies. 4. W here do you go to unwind in relax? - The woods near the Caddo River or Richland Creek. 5. W hat was your first concert? - Pearl Jam. 51

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Photos by Jamison Mosley

The perfect companion for your south-of-the-border fare.

ves i g e n lif ab e h W , gr s e lim ila. u q you d te n a t sal

Big Orange Midtown

Who R U?

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Big Orange 207 N. University Ave. Suite 100, Little Rock

Heights Taco and Tamale Co. 5805 Kavanaugh Blvd. Little Rock

Local Lime 17809 Chenal Parkway Little Rock 2103 S. Promenade Blvd. Suite 10100, Rogers

Heights Taco & Tamale Co.

Clean and balanced. Inspired by the pristine waters of the Ozark Highlands, Boxley Vodka is exceptionally smooth and ready for a spirited adventure or a refined cocktail.

Available at liquor stores around the state.

Produced by Fox Trail Distillery | www.foxtraildistillery.com

Special Wedding Offer Receive one of these FREE dessert table items with your purchase of a wedding cake (valued at $400 or more)

FEARLESS BALANCE

• 3 Dozen Chocolate Strawberries • 50 Mini Cupcakes • 25 Mini Cheesecakes or Pies • 50 Wedding Cake Shooters

Scott Winter is good with numbers. As senior vice president and chief financial officer at Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, he is meticulous when it comes to keeping the company balance sheet in check. And he is also acutely aware of the number of Arkansans who go to sleep hungry every night. The volume of people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The number of people living on the street in need of a home and hope. That’s why you’ll often find him volunteering time – packing or serving meals, guiding people at vaccine clinics or tending to the homeless – for causes that help improve the “stats” of fellow Arkansans. It’s that balance of professional and personal investment that make him fearless for Arkansans and one of the Best CFOs in Arkansas. And why we are proud he’s part of Team Blue.

501-221-1989 MickeysSweets.com

ATTENTION

EARLY BIRDS & NIGHT-OWLS

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aymag.com

After more than 100,000 nominations and votes cast by our readers, the results are in for AY’s Best of 2021. The following pages are a listing of this year’s class in every category imaginable — from beauty and health to people and places to cars and boats. If Arkansas has it, we made a category for it, and you decided who was the “best.” For even more AY’s Best entertainment, watch our publisher and president, Heather Baker, and 103.7 the Buzz’s David Bazzel announce the overall winners for each category in a virtual ceremony on May 6. Congratulations to this year’s class! 58

Left to right: Jesse D. Abeler, D.O.; David M. Rhodes, M.D.; Samuel A. Moore, D.O.; William F. Hefley, Jr., M.D.; Jason G. Stewart, M.D.; W. Scott Bowen, M.D.; Jesse B. Burks, D.P.M.; Larry L. Nguyen, M.D.; Paul K. Edwards, M.D.

The Best Surgeons. The Best Treatment. All Focused On You. Our skilled physicians are committed to the care, improvement and quality of human life. We provide state-of-the-art, comprehensive musculoskeletal care in a compassionate manner — greatly improving quality of life for our patients. Our emphasis on patient education and rehabilitation helps motivate, encourage and support patients and their families before, during and after surgery.

Nominated one of AY ’s Best Of 2021 for: ORTHOPEDIC GROUP Bowen Hefley Orthopedics ORTHOPEDIST W. Scott Bowen, M.D. William F. Hefley, Jr., M.D. Paul K. Edwards, M.D. PHYSICAL THERAPIST Steve Longinotti, MSPT Matt Thornton, MSPT PODIATRIST Jesse B. Burks, D.P.M. SPORTS MEDICINE CLINIC Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

SURGEON (LOWER EXTREMITY) We’re also pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Paul Edwards and Dr. Jesse Abeler. Dr. Edwards is a Fellowship Trained Hip & Knee Joint Replacement surgeon and Dr. Larry L. Nguyen, M.D. Abeler is Fellowship Trained in Orthopedic Hand Surgery. Dr. Edwards is joining us in SURGEON (UPPER EXTREMITY) July and Dr. Abeler in August. David M. Rhodes, M.D.

Call 800-336-2412 To Schedule An Appointment

bowenhefleyortho.com

Proud to be voted one of the

BEST COSMETIC

SURGEONS - Dr. Michael Devlin

Best of

2018

10801 Executive Center Dr, Ste 101 | Little Rock | drdevlin.com | 501.227.8811 60

aymag.com

Thank you! BEST ONCOLOGIST Daniel S. Bradford, MD Dr. Bradford is a practicing oncologist, serving NW Arkansas for over 32 years! He graduated from UAMS in 1983, and then completed a residency in internal medicine, followed by a fellowship in hematology-oncology. He was a founding physician of Highlands Oncology, as well as the Center for Chest Care, the first community based, multispecialty chest cancer center in the United States. HIGHLANDS MISSION Highlands Oncology is dedicated to providing the highest quality of innovative care delivered with precision and compassion. Springdale | Fayetteville | Rogers www.highlandsoncology.com

Just because your body doesn’t hurt doesn’t mean it can’t feel better.

1040 South Amity Rd, Suite K Conway (501) 557-3684 | massageenvy.com

EXPERIENCE THAT COUNTS Our Team Has Treated Over 50,000 Patients In Our Surgery Center Alone. It’s Our Doctors’ Experience And Our Outstanding Patient Service We Provide That Keep Our Patients Coming Back.

THANK YOU For voting BoozmanHof Regional Eye Center one of AY ’s Best Ophthalmology Clinics in the state of Arkansas!

3737 W Walnut St. • Rogers / 25 Cunningham Court • Bella Vista

(479) 246-1700 • boozmanhof.com

HEALTH & BEAUTY

ALLERGY CLINIC • Arkansas Allergy & Asthma Clinic • Arkansas Otolaryngology Center • Little Rock Allergy & Asthma Clinic ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY • Briarwood Nursing & Rehabilitation • Good Shepherd Nursing and Rehabilitation • Presbyterian Village CHIROPRACTOR • Blackmon Chiropractic Clinic • Bledsoe Chiropractic • Pain Care Associates AUDIOLOGY • Ear, Nose & Throat Center of the Ozarks • Little Rock Audiology Clinic • Miracle-Ear

GUEST 40% OFF + $80 IN PASSES THE JOINING FEE Limit of two trials per calendar year, local residents only. Offer expires on May 31, 2021. Can’t be combined with other offers/discounts.

COSMETIC DENTIST • Dr. DJ Dailey, Smile Dailey • Dr. Tina Nichols, Arkansas Family Dental • Dr. Lee Wyant, Smile Arkansas COSMETIC SURGEON Dr. Suzanne Yee, Cosmetic & Laser Surgery Center Dr. Michael Devlin, Devlin Cosmetic Surgery Dr. Jared Spencer, Ozark Facial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics

DENTIST • Dr. DJ Dailey, Smile Dailey • Dr. Jeff Wisener, Wisener, Cooper & Fergus • Dr. Lee Wyant, Smile Arkansas

MEDICAL SPA/NONSURGICAL COSMETIC CLINIC • Lasercare Skin Clinic • Rejuvenation Clinic & Day Spa • Sei Bella Med Spa

DERMATOLOGY CLINIC • Arkansas Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center • Little Rock Dermatology Clinic • Premier Dermatology

MEMORY CARE FACILITY • Chenal Family Therapy • Elmcroft • Woodland Heights

DOCTOR OWNED HOSPITAL/ FACILITY • Arkansas Surgical Hospital • Arkansas Urology • OrthoArkansas FAMILY DENTIST • Dr. DJ Dailey, Smile Dailey • Dr. Montgomery “Monty” Heathman, Heathman Family Dental • Dr. Randy Machen, Little Rock Family Dental FAMILY PHYSICIAN • Bryant Medical Clinic • Little Rock Family Practice • Tilley Family Medicine GASTROENTEROLOGY CLINIC • Conway Regional Gastroenterology Center • GastroArkansas • Premier Gastroenterology

NURSE PRACTITIONER • Rhonda Dixon, Conway Regional Medical Clinic • Stephanie Farmer, Bryant Medical Clinic • Ebonye Green, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

MENTAL HEALTH FACILITY • Pinnacle Pointe Hospital • Renew Mental Health & Wellness • The BridgeWay NEUROLOGIST • Dr. Sarah Cobb, Arkansas Children’s • Dr. Tim Freyaldenhoven, Conway Regional Neuroscience Center • Dr. Keith Schluterman, Conway Regional Neuroscience Center NEUROSURGEON • Dr. Regan Gallaher, Conway Regional Neuroscience Center • Dr. Ali Krisht, CHI St. Vincent Arkansas Neuroscience Institute • Dr. Brad Thomas, Little Rock Neurosurgery

NURSING HOME • Briarwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center • Greenbrier Nursing & Rehabilitation Center • Superior Health & Rehab OB/GYN • Central Arkansas Women’s Group • Conway OB/GYN Clinic • Cornerstone Clinic for Women ONCOLOGIST • Dr. Daniel S. Bradford, Highlands Oncology Group • Dr. Rhonda Gentry, CARTI • Dr. Rachana Yendala, Conway Regional Health System OPHTHALMOLOGY CLINIC • BoozmanHof • Little Rock Eye Clinic • McFarland Eye Care

HAIR SALON • OOH La La Salon • Red Beauty Lounge • Wild Roots Salon CARDIOLOGY CLINIC • Arkansas Cardiology • Arkansas Heart Hospital • CHI St. Vincent Heart Clinic HOSPITAL • Arkansas Children’s Hospital • Conway Regional Health System • University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences IN-HOME CARE • CareLink • Conway Regional Home Care • Elder Independence Home Care MASSAGE THERAPIST • Massage Arkansas • Massage Envy • Rejuvenation Clinic & Day Spa

501-821-3700 65

LegacyLR.com | Chenal Parkway, Little Rock

aymag.com

Congratulations

Dr. Lewis Porter

For being voted one of AY’s Best of 2021! AT CONWAY OB-GYN WE OFFER WORLD CLASS MEDICAL TREATMENT. # 5 MEDICAL PARK DRIVE BENTON

THANK YOU FOR NAMING US ONE OF AY’S BEST!

(501) 778-4862 salinesurgical.org

2180 Ada Ave., Suite 300, Conway 501-327-9497 | conwayobgyn.com

Improving

THANK YOU

YOUR HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY

FOR VOTING US ONE OF AY ’S BEST!

At Sei Bella Med Spa, Little Rock’s premier medical spa, we offer some of the least invasive services proven to provide lasting results. Call us today to schedule your appointment for better health, wellness and beauty.

ResurFX For True Fractional Non-Ablative Skin Resurfacing

501.228.6237 • seibellamedspa.net

- Anne R. Trussell, M.D. Owner, Sei Bella Med Spa

10310 West Markham, Suite 202 • Little Rock

We’re “Hear” To Help We’re “Hear” To

Thank you for your votes! Help BLACKMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

e’re To Help e’re “Hear” “Hear” To Help owner at Little Rock Audiology Clinic Dr. Tracy Van Es, Audiologist and owner at Little Rock Audiology Clinic hasDr. been meeting the Es, hearing needs Tracy Van Audiologist and Dr. TracyforVan Audiologist and of Arkansans over Es, 15 years.

500 S University, Suite 405 owner at Little Rock Audiology Clinic Doctors Building Callhas todaybeen to schedule your meetingthe thehearing hearingneeds needsLittle Rock, AR 72205 has been meeting appointment with Dr. Tracy Van Es of Arkansans for over 16 years. Arkansans 15 years. andof help someone youfor loveover discover 500 S University, Suite 405 WWW.LITTLEROCKAUDIOLOGY.COM better hearing. Don’t forget to vote Doctors Building for Call us intoday the AYto Magazine Bestyour of schedule Call today to schedule your 2020 Awards! Little Rock, AR 72205

(501) 664-5511

appointment with appointment with Dr. Dr. Tracy TracyVan VanEsEs

Es, Audiologist and and help help someone you love discover Audiologist and eEs, Rock Audiologyand Clinic someone you love discover WWW.LITTLEROCKAUDIOLOGY.COM better e RocktheAudiology Clinic hearing. hearing. Don’t forget to vote eting hearingbetter needs for us in the AY Magazine Best of eting the 15 hearing needs for over years. for over 15 years. 2020 Awards! 500 S University, Suite 405 500 SDoctors University, Suite 405 Building schedule your Doctors Building Little Rock, AR 72205 schedule your Van Es with Dr. Tracy Little Rock, AR 72205 with Dr. Tracy Van Es eone you love discover www.blackmonchiropractic.com WWW.LITTLEROCKAUDIOLOGY.COM youforget love discover g.eone Don’t to vote 501-663-4101 • 7000 Cantrell • Little Rock, AR 72207 WWW.LITTLEROCKAUDIOLOGY.COM g.AY Don’t forget Best to vote Magazine of s!AY Magazine Best of s!

(501) 664-5511

(501) (501) 664-5511 664-5511

THANK YOU

for voting Miracle-Ear among AY’s Best Audiology services. Designed to hear. Not to be seen.

miracle-ear.com | 501-227-4327

Shelly C. York,BC-HIS

aymag.com

Thank You for voting Dr. Montgomery Heathman one of AY’s top family dentists in Arkansas!

At Montgomery Heathman and Associates, our team is 100% focused on your oral health. We offer our patients the very best that dentistry has to offer through advanced technologies and procedures.

501-223-3838 heathmanfamilydentistry.com 12501 Cantrell Rd., Little Rock HeathmanFamilyDental

Thank You

for naming CareLink one of AY’s Best for in-home care!

We are overwhelmed with gratitude by the trust families have put in us to care for their older loved ones for more than 40 years. Central Arkansas’s Area Agency on Aging has been caring for families together since 1979. If you or someone you know could use a little help aging safely at home, contact us today. 501 372 5300 | 800 482 6359 | CareLink.org

OPTOMETRIST • Dr. Thomas Chwe, McFarland Eye Care • Dr. Julie Dolven, James Eyecare • Dr. Celina Watson, C Klear Vision Optique ORTHODONTIST • Daniel Orthodontics • Phelan Orthodontics • Wardlaw Orthodontics

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US AMONG

THE BEST OF 2021

ORTHOPEDIC GROUP • Bowen Hefley Orthopedics • Conway Regional Health System • OrthoArkansas ORTHOPEDIST • Dr. W. Scott Bowen, Bowen Hefley Orthopedics • Dr. Paul K. Edwards, Bowen Hefley Orthopedics • Dr. William F. Hefley Jr., Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

Doctor Owned Facility/Hospital

Dr. Brad Thomas

Dr. Scott Bowen

Dr. William Hefley, Jr.

Neurosurgeon

Or thopedist

PAIN SPECIALIST • Arkansas Spine and Pain • Conway Regional Advanced Pain Management Center • Pain Treatment Centers of America PEDIATRIC DENTIST • Groovy Smiles Pediatric Dentistry • Kitchens’ Pediatric Dentistry • Small Bites Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Paul K. Edwards

Dr. Jesse Burks

Dr. Larry Nguyen

Dr. David Rhodes

Or thopedist

Podiatrist

Surgeon - Lower Extremit y

Surgeon - Upper Extremit y

Arkansas Surgical Hospital’s Best of 2021 Finalists

PEDIATRICIAN • All for Kids Pediatric Clinic • Arkansas Pediatric Clinic • Little Rock Pediatric Clinic PHYSICAL THERAPIST • Steve Longinotti, MSPT, Bowen Hefley Orthopedics • Cody Schaff, DPT, Lonoke Physical Therapy • Matt Thornton, MSPT, Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

For more than 15 years, Arkansas Surgical Hospital has been a trusted resource for patients and their families as they seek safe, high-quality treatments for orthopedic and spine issues.

PLACE TO HAVE A BABY • Conway Regional Health System • Saline Memorial Hospital • University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Thank you, Arkansas, for continually recognizing our hospital and its surgeons among the best of the best!

PLASTIC SURGEON • Dr Gene Sloan, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery • Dr. Michael Spann, Little Rock Plastic Surgery • Dr. Eric Wright, Wright Plastic Surgery

Make Arkansas Surgical Hospital your hospital by calling (866) 260-0542 to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.

PODIATRIST • Dr. Jesse B. Burks, Bowen Hefley Orthopedics • Dr. Alex Dellinger, Foot and Ankle Associates of Central Arkansas • Dr. Naval Patel, CHI St. Vincent Little Rock Diagnostic Clinic PROSTHETICS • Horton’s Orthotics & Prosthetics • New Hope Prosthetics & Orthotics • Snell Prosthetics & Orthotics

Physician Owned. Patient Focused. 866-260-0542 | w w w.ar ksurgicalhospital.com

Thank You

for nominating me among

AY’s Best of 2021!

MARKETING • STRATEGY • TRAINING / DEVELOPMENT Local & International Public Speaker / Emcee Helping Local Businesses Win Since 2008

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aymag.com

CARRYING ON THE TRADITION OF

EXCELLENCE Little Rock Allergy & Asthma Clinic, PA

Thank you for voting APC best of the best. Since we opened our doors in 1938, we continue to focus on the ultimate patient experience. We now have four clinic locations to bring the best pediatric care closer to you. We have a dedicated staff with over 200 years of combined experience to provide the highest quality medical care for your child. We invite you to visit APC to see for yourself why parents have trusted us as their child’s healthcare team.

www.arped.com Call to schedule an appointment.

(501) 664-4117 Scan the QR code to request an appointment online.

18 Corporate Hill Drive, Ste. 110 Little Rock, AR 72205 501-978-7113 Phone / 501-801-5561 Fax

WEST LR MIDTOWN MAUMELLE BRYANT 16115 St. Vincent Way 500 S. University 11749 Maumelle Blvd. 1412 Woodland Dr. Ste. 320 Ste. 317

A healthy smile makes the best first impression! Voted Northwest Arkansas’ Best Cosmetic Dentist

ALL PHASES OF DENTISTRY

GENERAL & FAMILY DENTAL

DENTAL IMPLANTS

Congratulations Dr. Jeff Wisener on being chosen as one of AY Magazine’s Best Dentists.

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

INVISALIGN

Wisener, Cooper & Fergus, DDS

479-636-7100 wisenercooperfergusdental.com

aymag.com

for naming us one of AY's Best Medical Spa/Non Surgical Cosmetic Clinic Massage Therapist Spa

Changing the Lives of More Arkansans. When the whole world stopped, they kept going. Working through extraordinary challenges and against countless odds to create a healthier tomorrow.

Congratulations to our Best of 2021 Finalists! Cardiology Clinic Heart Clinic Arkansas Neurosurgeon & Surgeon Dr. Ali Krisht Arkansas Neuroscience Institute

Podiatrist Dr. Navel Patel Little Rock Diagnostic Clinic

The Care You Deserve Our clinic is comprised of a team that is trained to form individualized treatment plans for every client.

(870) 243-0424

renewmentalhealthandwellness.com 2815 Longview Dr. Jonesboro

aymag.com

RADIOLOGIST • Dr. Keith Bell, Radiology Associates, PA • Dr. Daniel Clark, Conway Regional Medical Center • Dr. Bryan Jennings, Saline Memorial Hospital RETIREMENT COMMUNITY • Mt. Carmel Community • Superior Health and Rehab • Villas of Chenal SPA • Ava Bella Day Spa • Rejuvenation Clinic & Day Spa • Skin Fix Med Spa SPORTS MEDICINE CLINIC • Bowen Hefley Orthopedics • Conway Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center • OrthoArkansas SURGEON (LOWER EXTREMITY) • Dr. C. Lowry Barnes, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences • Dr. James/Jimmy Head, Conway Regional Surgical Associates • Dr. Larry Nguyen, Bowen Hefley Orthopedics SURGEON • Dr. Ali Krisht, CHI St. Vincent Arkansas Neuroscience Institute • Dr. Lewis Porter, Saline Surgical Associates • Dr. Michael Stanton, Conway Regional Surgical Associates SURGEON (UPPER EXTREMITY) • Dr. Jay Howell, Conway Regional Surgical Associates • Dr. Lewis Porter, Saline Surgical Associates • Dr. David M. Rhodes, Bowen Hefley Orthopedics UROLOGY • Arkansas Children’s • Arkansas Urology • Washington Regional Ozark Urology

Clothing LOCAL MEN’S CLOTHING • Baumans Fine Men’s Clothing • Gearhead Outfitters • Mr. Wicks

LOCAL WOMEN’S CLOTHING Barbara/Jean Box Turtle Dillard’s

Dining ASIAN FUSION • Kemuri • The Hybrid Kitchen • Three Fold Noodles + Dumpling Co. BAKERY • Blue Cake Honey Pies • Community Bakery • PattiCakes Bakery

CREOLE/CAJUN • C opper Mule Table & Tap •M addie’s Place • T he Faded Rose

BBQ • Count Porkula • McClard’s Bar-B-Q Restaurant • Whole Hog Cafe NLR

DESSERT • C harlotte’s Eats & Sweets • C heesecake on point! • J ulie’s Sweet Shoppe & Bakery

BREAKFAST • At The Corner • Delta Biscuit Co. • Stoby’s Restaurant

DINING FOR KIDS • A ll Aboard Restaurant & Grill • E at My Catfish • P urple Cow

BRUNCH • Lost Forty Brewing • Red Door • Roots Restaurant

FINE DINING • A rthur’s Prime Steakhouse • R oots Restaurant • S amantha’s Tap Room & Wood Grill

BURGER • Big Orange • David’s Burgers • North Bar

FOOD TRUCK • D elta Biscuit Co. • L a Casa De Mi Abuelita Mawmaw’s House • T acos Godoy

CATERER • Eat My Catfish • Trio’s Restaurant • YGFBFKitchen

ITALIAN • B runo’s Little Italy • P asta Grill • R istorante Capeo

CATFISH • Eat My Catfish • Flying Fish • Riverside Grocery & Catering

MEXICAN FOOD • H eights Taco & Tamale Co. • S enor Tequila • T acos 4 Life

CHEESE DIP • Heights Taco and Tamale Co. • Mexico Chiquito • Stoby’s Restaurant

PIZZA • D eluca’s Pizzeria •O ld Mill Pizza • S hotgun Dan’s

COCKTAILS • Copper Mule Table & Tap • Petit & Keet • Rock Town Distillery

RESTAURANT • C heers in the Heights • C ypress Social • R oots Restaurant 76

RESTAURANT (NEWLY OPENED) • Chicken Salad Chick • Copper Mule Table & Tap • Cypress Social SEAFOOD • Eat My Catfish • Flying Fish • Oceans at Arthur’s SPECIAL OCCASION • 501 Prime • Roots Restaurant • Table 28 STEAK • Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse • Bone’s Chophouse • River Grille Steakhouse SUSHI • Kemuri • Oceans at Arthur’s • Sushi Cafe

PUT A STOP TO PESKY PESTS!

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k you for your support!

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THANK YOU FOR VOTING

SMILE DAILEY

TOP THREE IN ALL CATEGORIES!

Cosmetic Dentist General Dentist Family Dentist

aymag.com

Celebrating Years of Home Care Serving Central Arkansas Thank you for nominating us one of AY’s Best of 2021!

In-home care for your aging or disabled loved one that includes assistance with:

• • • • •

Activities of Daily Living Light Housekeeping Medication Reminders Hospital Sitter Services Companionship

• • • • •

Respite Care Transportation Meal Preparation Dementia Care Hospice Support

No Minimum Number of Hours • 24/7 CARE Call Elder Independence at (501) 847-6102 today for a complimentary consultation. Kim Clatworthy, Owner | info@elderindependence.com Online at: ElderIndependence.com 78

As a board-certified plastic surgeon and Arkansas native, Dr. Eric Wright is dedicated to helping women and men look and feel their best with both reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery options.

DrWrightPlasticSurgery.com

Your Beauty, Our Expertise The WRIGHT plastic surgeon for a new you!

501-575-0088

1701 Center View Dr., Ste. 201 Little Rock, AR 72211

As a custom home building firm, we are focused on our client’s needs and desires. We work closely with our clients from the identification of a lot to the development and pricing of a plan to the building and creation of the vision.

501.954.8570 / parkinsonbuildinggroup.com

Your Plans. Your Progress. Our Priority. Thank you for naming us one of Ay’s Best! Our business is knowing your business. Your team of bankers work together with you to customize solutions to meet your unique needs, both short and long term. Our relationship-based approach to doing business empowers our associates to make decisions locally, close to our clients.

Two relationship-driven banks, both leaders in the industry, have officially joined forces. The combination of IBERIABANK and First Horizon creates a leading financial services company dedicated to enriching the lives of our clients, associates and communities. Together, we will deliver better technology, broader lending capabilities and an expanded financial network powered by a team you know and trust. Joel Jewell 479-695-3702 Joel.Jewell@iberiabank.com

Trish Thompson 479-878-6301 Trish.Thompson@iberiabank.com

Matt Kaczor 501-661-7321 Matt.Kaczor@iberiabank.com

Trent Armstrong 479- 878-6493 Trent.Armstrong@iberiabank.com

Ryann Thornton 479-878-6308 Ryann.Thornton@iberiabank.com

Marc Luker 501-661-7328 Marc.Luker@iberiabank.com

Conrad Eberhard 479-695-3709 Conrad.Eberhard@iberiabank.com

Lawana Backus 501- 661-7759 Lawana.Backus@iberiabank.com

Josh Taylor 501-537-8424 Josh.Taylor@iberiabank.com

Tyler Spoon 479-695-3704 Tyler.Spoon@iberiabank.com

Frank Hall 501-537-8415 Frank.Hall@iberiabank.com

Carol Parham 501-661-7364 Carol.Parham@iberiabank.com

& Leisure

Entertainment ART GALLERY • Arkansas Museum of Fine Art • Cantrell Gallery • Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art CASINO • Gold Strike Casino Resort • Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort • Saracen Casino Resort CONCERT VENUE • Simmons Bank Arena • Stickyz Rock ‘N’ Roll Chicken Shack • Walmart AMP EVENT VENUE • Marlsgate Plantation • Rusty Tractor Vineyards • Tontitown Winery FAMILY ATTRACTION • Little Rock Zoo • Museum of Discovery • Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

FESTIVAL/FAIR • Hillcrest Harvestfest • International Greek Food Festival • Wild Wines at Little Rock Zoo HOTEL • 21c Museum Hotel • The Burgundy Hotel • The Waters

PARK • B uffalo National River • G arvan Woodland Gardens • P etit Jean State Park RESORT • B ig Cedar Lodge • G aston’s White River Resort •M ountain Harbor Resort & Spa SEASONAL ATTRACTION • B uffalo River Outfitters • G arvan Woodland Gardens •O aklawn Racing Casino Resort

LIVE THEATER • Robinson Center • The Rep • Walton Arts Center

Home, Home Services & Finance

LOCAL TOURIST ATTRACTION • Buffalo National River • Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art • Garvan Woodland Gardens

ACCOUNTING FIRM • Frost PLLC • HoganTaylor • Todd & Associates CPAs

MUSEUM • Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art • Museum of Discovery • Scott Family Amazeum

ROLLER FUNERAL HOMES

CREDIT UNION • A lcoa Community FCU • A rkansas Federal Credit Union • T ruService Community FCU ELECTRICAL COMPANY • C onway Corporation • G ary Houston Electric Company • S taley Electric FABRICS AND DRAPERIES • C ynthia East Fabrics • L aura’s Draperies and Blinds •M ade in the Shade HOME ACCESSORIES • A rkansas Solar Power Inc. • C obblestone & Vine • HOWSE HOME BUILDER • P arkinson Building Group • R ichard Harp Homes • R iver Rock Builders

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED TRUST!

BANK • A rvest Bank • F irst Security Bank • S immons Bank

Fab Fabrics IN STOCK

Temporary Covid Hours 10:00-4:00 Mon-Sat • 1523 Rebsamen Park Rd Little Rock • 501-663-0460 • cynthiaeastfabrics.com 82

Back-To-Back Years Of Being One Of

AY’S Best! Thank you for voting The Promenade at Chenal in AY’s Best of 2021 chenalshopping.com 17711 Chenal PKWY, Little Rock, AR 72223 The Promenade at Chenal @chenalpromenade

aymag.com

THANK YOU

FOR VOTING OL’BART SOUTHERN EATS IN AY’S BEST OF 2021

CHEF BART

olbartsoutherneats.com Mobile Catering // Private Events // Hunting Lodges // Fishing Lodges 1220 Old Morrilton Hwy • Conway • AR • 72032

(870) 623-5181

THANK YOU

for voting The Janet Jones Company among AY ’s Best of 2021! Best Real Estate Company • Best Real Estate Agent – Casey Jones Best Chief Executive Officer – Janet Jones

A COLLEGE EXPERIENCE that invests in you

Unforgettable experience meets best return on investment. Even in a pandemic year, Ouachita Baptist University provided an exceptional college experience to its students, building capabilities to deliver in-person, residential learning throughout the 2020-2021 academic year. With faculty and staff members who invest personally in each student, you will be known and supported at Ouachita no matter what challenges lie ahead. It’s an investment you can count on.

OUACHITA STUDENTS RECEIVE MORE FOR THEIR MONEY: excellent education & career preparation 97% placement rate for graduates in jobs/grad school exceptional reputation #2 Regional College in the South (U.S. News & World Report) minimized debt Ouachita student debt is well below state & national levels community unlike any other top satisfaction rate in AR, TX & LA (CollegeConsensus.com)

EXPL O RE H O W O UACHI TA CAN I NVEST I N YOU. VIS IT OBU.EDU TO LE A RN MORE .

aymag.com

Thank You

for Voting Us One of AY’s

Best Florists for 23 Years

@tiptonhurst

tiptonhurst.com

THANK YOU! We are honored to be voted among AY’s Best of 2021! At Cowboy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, car shoppers can find rugged SUV and truck models like the Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Renegade and the Ram 1500.

2799 Highway 65 South, Clinton 501-214-0908

by Lost Forty Brewing

ARKANSAS HARD SELTZER

Variety packs available now!

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HOME CONTRACTOR/REPAIR/ REMODELING • Bret Franks Construction • Scott Lucas Construction & Custom Homes • Top Notch Home Services HOME SECURITY • ADT Security Services • Keep Out Services • Triple S Alarm Co.

KITCHEN STORE/ SUPPLY • E ggshells Kitchen Co. •M etro Appliances & More • T he Kitchen Store & More

Kids & Education

LAWN CARE • A rkansas Lawn Enforcement • F airway Lawns • T he Good Earth Garden Center

COMMUNITY COLLEGE • University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton • University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College • Arkansas State University MidSouth

MORTGAGE LENDER • A rvest Bank • C entennial Bank • I BERIABANK Mortgage/First Horizon

INSURANCE FIRM • Allstate - Brooke Brolo • Meadors, Adams & Lee • Farmers Insurance - Shannon Westbrook

PRIVATE COLLEGE • Harding University • Hendrix College • Ouachita Baptist University

REAL ESTATE AGENT • B randy Harp • C asey Jones •M itsy Tharp

INTERIOR DESIGNER • Debi Davis Interior Design • Garry Mertins Design • L West Jr. Designs

PRIVATE SCHOOL • Episcopal Collegiate School • Little Rock Christian Academy • Little Rock Montessori School

REAL ESTATE COMPANY • J on Underhill Real Estate • T he Janet Jones Company • T he Property Group

INVESTMENT FIRM/FINANCIAL ADVISOR • April Pollard, Edward Jones • Cassandra Rector, Edward Jones • Stephens Inc.

PUBLIC SCHOOL • Don R. Roberts Elementary School • Greenbrier Public Schools • Little Rock Central

SWIMMING POOLS • D iamond Pools of Arkansas • E lite Pools by Aloha • J eff Self Pools & Spas

We’re grateful that building good has put us among the best. At Stone Ward, we pride ourselves in being a creative force for good – building partnerships, people, ideas and community. That’s why we’re especially thankful that the community we love voted us among the best of the best in the categories of ad agency, web design and boss. It’s proof that our mission is truly making a difference.

ADVERTISING

DESIGN

VIDEO

MEDIA

SOCIAL

WEB

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Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

Thank you

for voting Russellville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center among AY’s Best of 2021!

d Reh a ilitati ationntb r r e e o t n n e e C C C e nter n C etn n t o e i r a li i b a h e

We’ve known for 28 years that

Bram Keahey

is one of the best architects in the state!

TAGGART/Architects │ 600 Main Street, Suite 300 │ North Little Rock www.taggarch.com

215 S Portland Ave. | Russellville, Arkansas 72801 | Phone: 479.968.5256 russellvillenr.com | Short-term Rehabilitation, Long Term Care and Respite Services

Bring Your Dreams

Friends. Family. Community.

To Light!

Thank you for voting me one of AY’s Best of 2021!

Thank you for voting Gary Houston Electric Company one of AY ’s Best of 2021! Shannon Westbrook

(501) 375-8330

GaryHoustonElectric.com 90

27 Rahling Circle • Little Rock (501) 406-2031

Thank You

CREATING BETTER AGRICULTURE

Congrats

for naming us one of AY’s Best of 2021!

CAROL JOHNSON

The mission of the Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho (AGR) is to drive the Purpose of the Fraternity by “Making Better Men” from the time of initiation to throughout a member’s personal and professional life. A not-forprofit corporation funded

by voluntary contributions and investment income, the Educational Foundation strives to provide leadership, educational, and networking opportunities to all AGR members with the goal to create a broader and better agriculture.

501-730-1962

Visit alphagammarho.org/donate to give now!

5501 Kavanaugh Blvd., Ste K Little Rock, Arkansas • 72207 • 501-664-6900 eggshellskitchencompany.com

Stephanie Parsley Photography

THE PERFECT SPACE FOR YOUR OCCASION We are so grateful for your support of our venue!

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10 Rusty Tractor Ln. | Little Rock | 501.916.2294

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A Natural State

FUNERAL SERVICE “Serving Arkansas with Dignity and Respect 2620 West Main Street • Jacksonville, AR 72076 • 501-982-3400 www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com

Extraordinary service. Exceptional prices. No exceptions.

Thank you for voting us among AY’s Best

501.982.3400 / anaturalstatefuneralservice.com / 2620 W. Main Street, Jacksonville Funeral, Cremation & Cemetery / 24-Hour Assistance / Monuments for being “Realtorsanaturalstatefuneralservice of /

Distinction!”

Thank You!

For voting me among AY’s Best Real Estate Agents.

THE KEY TO YOUR DREAM HOME! Allison Baker

Lee Smith

Jay Calhoun

2821 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501.379.8480

MITSY THARP

“

We are devoted to proving high quality care which celebrates the dignity and grace of every person who enters our home. Thank you for nominating us as one of AY’s Best of 2021!

NURSING & REHABILITATION CENTER at

GOOD SHEPHERD Bobby Lamb, Administrator 3001 Aldersgate Road, Little Rock AR 72205 • Phone 501-217-9774 • Fax 501-217-9781 www.goodshepherdnr.com

Kayla • business major from Murfreesboro, Tennessee She found community. opportunity. purpose. a future. With a Harding education, Kayla will be READY for the world. Are you ready?

harding.edu/meetkayla Thank you for voting for Harding University in AY’s Best of 2021. 93

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Thank you for nominating Capitol Glass one of AY’s Best of 2021! Established in 1950, Capitol Glass Company Inc is the oldest locally-owned and operated glass company in the Little Rock area.

501.374.6422

capitolglassinc.com

Thousands of Gowns Sizes 0-34

801 S Broadway, Little Rock

Special Plus Size Boutique A rea

Personal Consultant for Each Bride

A ppointment required. Please call 870.734.3244 and visit lowsbr idal.com . B R I N K L E Y, A R K A N S A S SEMI-ANNUAL 1/2 PRICE SUMMER SALE JUNE 8,2021- AUGUST 7,2021 WINTER SALE DECEMBER 1,2021 - FEBRUARY 5, 2022 SEMI-ANNUAL 1/2 PRICE SUMMER SALE JUNE 8, 2021-AUGUST 7, 2021 | WINTER SALE DECEMBER 1, 2021-FEBRUARY 5, 2022

Media

Services

ADVERTISING AGENCY • Dave Creek Media • MHP/Team SI • Stone Ward

ARCHITECT • Greg Archer, Garver • Bram Keahey, TAGGART/Architects • Charley Penix, Cromwell Architects Engineers

COLUMNIST OR REPORTER • Dwain Hebda • Rex Nelson • Donna Terrell MARKETING CONSULTANT • Mike Sells • Jeff Turnbow • Brooke Vines RADIO PERSONALITY • Justin Acri, 103.7 The Buzz • David Bazzel, 103.7 The Buzz • Heather Brown, Alice 107.7 TV PERSONALITY • Ashley King, KTHV • Craig O’Neill, KTHV • D.J. Williams, KARK WEATHER PERSON • Tom Brannon, KTHV • Melinda Mayo, KATV • Todd Yakoubian, KATV

AUCTION • Blackmon Auctions • Gaylen McGee • Wilson Auctioneers CUSTOMER SERVICE • Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse • Chick-fil-A • David’s Burgers DOGGY DAYCARE • Chenal Pet Palace • Hounds Lounge Pet Resort & Spa • Wags and Whiskers DRY CLEANER • Hangers Cleaners • Schickel’s Cleaners • Tide Cleaners

FUNERAL HOME • N atural State Funeral Service • R oller Funeral Homes • S mith Family Funeral Homes

PEST CONTROL • D elta Pest Control • L egacy Termite and Pest Control • T he Bug Man

HEATING & A/C SERVICE • B enet Maintenance • D ash Heating & Cooling • Freyaldenhoven Heating and Cooling

PHOTOGRAPHER • P aige Horras • S ydney Rasch • A mber Lane Roberts

HOUSEKEEPING • A ffordable Cleaning with Katie •M erry Maids •M olly Maid

SIDING/WINDOWS/ROOFING • C ornerstone Construction • R oyal Home Improvement •W ilson’s Home Improvement

LAW FIRM • F riday, Eldredge & Clark, LLP • Law Offices of Katherine E. Blackmon • T aylor King Law

VETERINARIAN • D oubletree Veterinary Clinic • H illcrest Animal Hospital • P leasant Valley Veterinary Clinic

NONPROFIT •M ini Taneja Purple Initiative • R onald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas •W omen’s Own Worth

VIDEO PRODUCTION • C raft SEO • C WP Productions • D ave Creek Media

PARTY PLANNING/PRODUCTS/ RENTALS • J ust Peachy • P arty City • T ipton & Hurst

WEB DESIGN • C raft SEO •M HP/Team SI • S tone Ward

Thank You

for voting for Fischer Honey Company One of AY ’s Best Arkansas Handmade Product

Eat Honey – Fischer Honey! 2001 N Poplar Street • North Little Rock, AR 72114 501-758-1123 • fischerhoney.com 95

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CONGRATULATIONS Briarwood Nursing & Rehabilitation. Voted One of AY’s Best!

“

Our caring staff are committed to building a supportive relationship that reinforces the dignity of every resident.

“

BRIARWOOD NURSING & REHABILITATION, INC 516 S. Rodney Parham Little Rock, AR 72205 501.224.9000 Fax: 501.224.9016

https://www.briarwoodnursingandrehab.com/

CUSTOM

home builders.

Green building

is fundamentally about living with clean air in a healthier environment, using sustainable materials, and lowering energy costs. We are a team of custom home builders, specializing in the design and construction of high-quality, high-performance homes.

501-416-8986 | RiverRockBuilders.net | Little Rock, Arkansas

one of ay’s best places to

WORSHIP 11500 West 36th Street, Little Rock, AR 72211 On-campus Sundays at 9:00 am & 10:45 am Online Sundays at 9 am (all week) churchatrockcreek.com

Senior Pastor, Mark Evans

VOTED ONE OF AY’S BEST

LOCAL MEN’S CLOTHING

Mr. Wicks Gentleman’s Shop 5924 R St, Little Rock, AR 72207

mrwicks.com 98

THANK YOU! We want to give a special thank you to all of the readers who voted for us in AY’s Best of 2021. As we celebrate our 25th Anniversary we are proud to be the premier urology practice the state of Arkansas!

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Shopping EYEWEAR Little Rock Eye Clinic McFarland Eye Care Simmons Eye Care ARKANSAS HANDMADE PRODUCTS Bathhouse Soapery Fischer’s Honey Willow+Wallflower Co CONSIGNMENT STORE Midtown Mall Rhea Lana’s Yours Truly Consignment, Inc. BRIDAL STORE Low’s Bridal The Bridal Cottage Unveiled Bridal Collection CBD STORE Green Cross Naturals Healing Hemp of Arkansas Heights Apothecary & Hemp Co.

FLOORING STORE Akels Carpet One Floor & Home Carpet Barn River City Flooring

HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE Fuller and Son Hardware Haynes Ace Hardware Whit Davis Lumber Plus

FLORIST All About Flowers Tanarah Luxe Floral Tipton & Hurst

JEWELRY STORE Jones & Son Diamond & Bridal Fine Jewelry Lauray’s The Diamond Center Sissy’s Log Cabin

FURNITURE Cobblestone & Vine Down South Hank’s Fine Furniture

OUTDOOR LIVING Antique Brick & Block Congo Fireplace & Patio Ken Rash’s Arkansas

GARDEN CENTER Hocott’s Garden Center The Good Earth Garden Center The Plant Outlet

SHOPPING CENTER Outlets of Little Rock Pleasant Ridge Town Center The Promenade at Chenal

GIFT STORE Box Turtle Painted Tree The Crown Shop

Spirits BREWPUB Flyway Brewing Superior Bathhouse Brewery Lost Forty Brewing

GROCERY STORE Kroger Me & McGee Market The Bramble Market

HAPPY HOUR Heights Taco & Tamale Co. Local Lime Petit & Keet LIQUOR STORE Lake Liquor Legacy Wine and Spirits O’Looney’s Wine & Liquor

Sports FITNESS CENTER/GYM Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center Full Out Barre The Athletic Clubs GOLF COURSE Pleasant Valley Country Club Rebsamen Park Golf Course The Greens at North Hills

THANK YOU for nominating us as one of AY’s Best of 2021!

625 Tommy Lewis Dr. Conway, AR 72034 501-585-6800 100

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ROOFING & SOLAR

OUR MISSION Guarantee the highest quality of work Provide the best customer experience Serve our community

OUR COMMUNITY IS HOME. OUR COMMUNITY IS FAMILY.

Serving Chicken Salad & Nourishing The Soul Now Open in Benton. Coming Soon to North Little Rock and Little Rock.

Call now for a FREE inspection!

877-787-3030 or visit our website @

www.ccteam.org

ChickenSaladChick.com

three floors of goods, games and

historic hillcrest gifts nestled in

Thank You for voting me one of AY’s Best!

Box Turtle 501-661-1167 • shopboxturtle.com

QUEN SPENCER, CCO 5400 Highland Dr. • Little Rock Office: 501-399-4070 • Cell: 501-940-7836 hardbody@quenspencer.com

Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 2616 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock

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Congratulations Patti Railey on being named one of AY’s Best!

Little Rock Montessori School 3704 North Rodney Parham & 12015 Hinson Rd.

501.225.2428 | LRMontessori.org

Little Rock Montessori School has been educating children for over 50 years. We are a private, nonprofit school offering education for ages 22 months through third grade. “The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child’s own natural desire to learn” - Maria Montessori

Now Enrolling For 2021-2022 School Year!

Mercedes-Benz

Voted among AY ’s best Private Schools.

501-223-2688 14309 Kanis Rd. Little Rock, AR 72223

of Little Rock

501-666-9457 | mercedesbenzoflittlerock.com

8 Colonel Glenn Plaza Dr. Little Rock 501.621.1264 mercedesbenzoflittlerock.com

Patti consistently has the best customer satisfaction reports and is the #1 NEW CAR SALESPERSON at MercedesBenz of Little Rock.

WILD ROOTS hair salon

www.chenalpetpalace.com

Thank you for naming us one of AY’s Best of 2021! YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIEND’S PLACE TO SPA, PLAY & STAY.

(501) 605-4729

9107 N Rodney Parham Rd. | Little Rock 103

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Brunch Restaurant

Fine Dining

Special Occasion Roots Restaurant • 303 S Main Street Jonesboro, AR 72401 • 870-336-1212 rootsrestaurant303.com

K I T C H E N C 104 U LT U R E C O M M U N I T Y

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A heartfelt “thank you” to my loyal clients and supporters. I am grateful and honored you voted me among AY’s Best of 2021. I will continue to provide zealous representation for clients navigating the emotional waters of a family law matter.

HELPING EMPOWER PEOPLE Katherine Blackmon Carroll has practiced family law for more than two decades and, with her team, provides a unique approach to representing clients. It takes a special kind of attorney to recognize how a divorce or custody matter impacts every area of a person’s life. Katherine knows that prevailing in court is important, but the entire journey must be considered. “We take a holistic approach. Practicing family law is about helping empower people. It’s helping guide a client through one of the most traumatic experiences of their lives and reassuring them that it will be ok.”

212 Center Street 11th Floor, Centre Place Little Rock, AR (501) 372-7636 facebook.com/KEBlackmon

PERSONAL TRAINER Mallory Lefler, Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center Stephanie Newcomb, Unleashed Health & Fitness Quen Spencer, REPS SPORTING GOODS STORE Fort Thompson Sporting Goods Gene Lockwood’s Ozark Outdoor Supply

Vehicles, Dealers & Services AUTO ACCESSORIES Parker Auto Accessories Goodsell Truck Accessories Pick-Up Truck Accessory Warehouse AUTO DEALERSHIP Parker Lexus Cowboy Dealerships Mercedes-Benz of Little Rock AUTO GLASS REPAIR Capitol Glass Company Inc. Discount Auto Glass Safelite AutoGlass

BOAT/MARINE DEALER Bradford Marine & ATV Futrell Marine Gregg Orr Marine Hot Springs

WINDOW TINT D & D Sun Control Parker Auto Accessories SunStop Window Tinting

PLACE TO HOST A WORK EVENT Heifer International Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort Petit & Keet

CAR SALESPERSON Michael Hopkins, Parker Cadillac Jason Koon, Mark McLarty Ford Patti Railey, Mercedes-Benz of Little Rock

Top Employers

People Places

BOSS Nicole Hurst, Superior Senior Care of Conway Angie Longing, Conway Regional Millie Ward, Stone Ward

FUNDRAISER Carol Johnson, Alpha Gamma Rho Mini Taneja Purple Initiative Ronald McDonald House Chocolate Fantasy Ball

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Janet Jones, The Janet Jones Company George Makris, Simmons First National Corporation Matt Troup, Conway Regional

PERSON OF THE YEAR Jim Keet Angie Longing Ryan Taneja

NEW CAR DEALERSHIP Parker Lexus Russell Chevrolet Subaru of Little Rock RV DEALER Kiko’s Kountry RV Moix RV Supercenter RV City TIRE CENTER All About Tire & Brake Tire Pros Austin Brothers Tire & Service Discount Tire

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Jon Dor, Museum of Discovery Phillip Jett, Encore Bank Scott Winter, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield

USED CAR DEALER Bale Chevrolet Bill Fitts Auto Sales Russell Chevrolet

OVERALL COMPANY Bowen Hefley Orthopedics Conway Regional Health System Superior Senior Care

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PLACE TO WORSHIP Fellowship Bible Church New Life Church The Church at Rock Creek WEDDING VENUE Cross Iron Cottage Garvan Woodland Gardens Rusty Tractor Vineyards

aymag.com

Thank you readers of AY Magazine for voting us one of AY’s Best of 2021!

501-952-8885

Full-Service Event Production Company www.cwpproductions.com

Home technology with you in mind. From security to entertainment to complete home control, Triple-S has the solution for you.

501-664-4599 2820 Cantrell Road, Little Rock triplesalarm.com 109

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VOTED

F AY’S BEST O E B

SUNSTOP WINDOW TINTING

Automotive Window Tinting Architectural Window Tinting Paint Protection Film Ceramic Coating

www.sunstopar.com 501.708.0903

SU NST OP

window tinting

CountPorkulaBBQ.com • 501-804-9561

110

Thank you

for voting Craft SEO one of AY’s Best in Arkansas for video production and web design.

We are a team of experienced web marketing professionals dedicated to helping small businesses thrive in today’s hyper-competitive online marketplace. >> Web Hosting >> Local SEO >> PPC Management >> Video Production >> Content Creation >> Reputation Management >> SEO Consultation

443.470.9115

C R A F T S E O .C O M 111

Josh Throne, CEO aymag.com

From @ The Corner, Thank You!

Photo credit: Saira Khan Photography

We love being one of Arkansas’ Best Brunch Spots! “When we began creating @ The Corner, Corner we wanted our diner to be like nothing we had ever seen before. We dreamed to create one that incorporates fresh, local ingredients into dynamic, innovative menus. From fresh farm eggs to farm-raised beef to local, organic vegetables, fruits, nuts & honey, our Modern Diner is everything we dreamed it would be and more.” From our family to yours, thank you for supporting us through this past year! Without you, we would not be here.

www.thecornerlr.com >> 501.400.8458 >>

Thank you for voting us among AY’s Best of 2021!

@thecornerlr

Family Physician, Bryant Family Clinic Nurse Practitioner, Stephanie Farmer Radiologist, Bryan Jennings Surgeon, Dr. Porter Surgeon(upper extremity), Dr. Porter Place to have a Baby

Since 1938, Better Auctions Have Always Been Blackmon Auctions.

Thank you to all of the readers of AY About You for voting Blackmon Auctions one of the Best in Arkansas for the last 11 years!

5423 Kavanaugh Blvd | Little Rock, AR | 501-664-4526 | blackmonauctions.com blackmonauctions blackmonauctions 112

The Hogs Play Here BUY ONE CATFISH DINNER OR BASKET, GET THE 2ND

1/2 OFF 1/2 price for the one of equal or less value. Dine in or carry out. Excludes food truck. Expires 6/30/2021.

THANK YOU

for voting us one of the best in AY’s Best of 2021!

The one stop for all your shopping needs! 113

Call us for any occasion:

501-794-0329

4444 AR-5 • Benton, Arkansas 72019

riversidegrocery.com aymag.com

One of AY’s Best in 21 Categories Conway Regional is honored to be one of AY’s Best in 21 categories for AY Magazine's Best of 2021 awards. At Conway Regional, we are one team with one promise: to be bold, to be exceptional, and to answer the call. Thank you to the thousands of readers who chose Conway Regional in a ﬁeld of worthy nominees.

Pictured, Left to Right: James Head, MD, Michael Stanton, MD, Keith Schluterman, MD, Rachana Yendala, MD, Tim Freyaldenhoven, MD, Rhonda Dixon, APRN, Regan Gallaher, MD, and Jay Howell, MD Not pictured: Daniel Clark, MD 114

Nurse Practitioner Rhonda Dixon, APRN Conway Regional Medical Clinic-Prince St Oncologist Rachana Yendala, MD Conway Regional Multispecialty Clinic Neurologist Keith Schluterman, MD Conway Regional Neuroscience Center Tim Freyaldenhoven, MD Conway Regional Neuroscience Center Neurosurgeon Regan Gallaher, MD Conway Regional Neuroscience Center

Radiologist Daniel Clark, MD Conway Regional Medical Center Surgeon, Lower Extremity James Head, MD Conway Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center Surgeon, Upper Extremity Jay Howell, MD Conway Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center Surgeon Michael Stanton, MD Conway Regional Surgical Associates

Congratulations to our team members who are being recognized as one of AY’s Best in their respective category. At Conway Regional, we are one team with one promise: to be bold, to be exceptional, and to answer the call.

ONE OF AY’S BEST CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

FINALIST FOR PERSON OF THE YEAR & ONE OF AY’S BEST BOSSES

Matt Troup President & CEO

Angie Longing Chief Nursing Ofﬁcer

One of AY’s Best Fitness Centers Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center ConwayRegionalHFC.org

ONE OF AY’S BEST

BEST PERSONAL TRAINERS, MALLORY LEFFLER

Thank you to the thousands of readers who nominated Conway Regional as one of AY’s Best in multiple categories: Best Hospital Best Overall Company Best Place to Have a Baby Best Orthopedic Group Our team is also one of AY’s Best in the following categories: In-Home Care - Conway Regional HomeCare Sports Medicine Clinic - Conway Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center Gastroenterology Clinic - Conway Regional Gastroenterology Center Pain Specialist - Conway Regional Advanced Pain Management Center Conway Regional is committed to bringing you innovative services, new clinics, more specialists, and expanded access to care. We’re not just growing—we’re growing together.

ARKADELPHIA: By Joe David Rice Photos by Casey Crocker

‘A Great

Place to Call Home’

T Clark County Courthouse.

119

his month we’ll visit Arkadelphia, the county seat of Clark County and the hometown of some 11,000 residents. Perched on a bluff overlooking the Ouachita River in southwestern Arkansas and originally known as Blakeleytown, the community was founded in 1808, becoming Arkadelphia in the late 1830s. As for the name itself, no one knows for sure where it came from, although there are a couple of theories. One has it that several of the local leaders wanted something sounding a bit more distinguished than Blakeleytown and selected Arcadelphia (from the Greek words meaning “an arc of brotherly love”), later changed to Arkadelphia. Another holds that many of the initial settlers hailed from northern Alabama and simply renamed the town after Arkadelphia, Alabama, a small community about 30 miles north of Birmingham. Efforts to incorporate the city began in 1846, a process that was finally completed on January 6, 1857. By the time of the 1860 census, Arkadelphia was Arkansas’ seventh largest municipality. Escaping most of the ravages of the Civil War, the town hit a growth spurt in 1873 following completion of the Cairo and Fulton railroad link connecting Arkadelphia with Little Rock. A network of short-line spurs soon worked its way into the vast pine forests, and load after load of lumber was cut and exported.

aymag.com

Henderson State University. (Courtesy)

Janet and I were “students at OBU

and lived in one side of a duplex not far from campus. We will always cherish our time first as married students living on campus and then as a married couple struggling to get through school. I worked 40 hours a week at the local radio station to pay for my education.

”

Gov. Mike Huckabee

But Arkadelphia became more than a prosperous economic hub, quickly evolving into one of Arkansas’ leading centers for learning. In fact, Arkadelphia has played an essential, though largely unrecognized role in the development of higher education in the state. Five colleges were established in the community during the 1885-1895 decade. Two of them — Henderson State University and Ouachita Baptist University — remain in operation while two others — Shorter College and Draughon’s Business College — eventually relocated to Pulaski County. Founded in 1890, Henderson State University was first called Arkadelphia Methodist University. In 1904 it was renamed to honor the financial support provided by Charles Christopher Henderson, a prominent business leader with ties to the livestock, lumber, railroad and banking industries. His former home, known as the Captain Henderson House, now serves as a handsome bed and breakfast. This ornate example of Neoclassical architecture features eight guest rooms, priced from $90 to $120 per night. With an enrollment of almost 4,000 students, Henderson can claim a number of prominent alumni, to include Bobby Bones, college football coach Gus Malzahn, actor Billy Bob Thornton, former Gov. Sid McMath, and Pulitzer Prizewinning historian C. Vann Woodward.

120

Following a period of financial difficulties, Henderson recently became a part of the Arkansas State University (ASU) organization. Dr. Charles Welch, president of the ASU system, feels good about this new affiliation. “Henderson University is back on stable footing, and while we still have much to do, we are excited about our collective futures and look forward to further developing Arkansas’ second-oldest public university,” Welch says. Dating from 1886 and nicely situated on 160 acres, Ouachita Baptist University (OBU) is literally across the street from Henderson. As one might expect, the two schools have developed a heated sports rivalry, particularly when it comes to football. Rex Nelson, senior editor and columnist for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and himself an OBU graduate (and longtime broadcast announcer), has attended this gridiron grudge match for years and offers his insights: “I’m biased, but I think the annual Battle of the Ravine football game between Ouachita and Henderson is Arkansas’ most notable annual event. Think about it. This is the only game in all of college football where the visiting team doesn’t fly or bus to a road game. The visitors walk across Highway 67 to play and then walk back to their own dressing room after the game.” Nelson points out that in 2018, Sports Illustrated published an eight-page spread

on this yearly conflict, “giving it the kind of national attention that it has long deserved.” OBU has nearly 2,000 undergraduates attending classes among its 64 degree programs in eight academic schools. Like Henderson, Ouachita has a long list of accomplished alumni to include Cliff Harris (pro football Hall of Fame), Travis Jackson (pro baseball Hall of Fame), and a slew of prominent political leaders, chief among them former Gov. Mike Huckabee. Huckabee fondly recalls his days as a collegian: “Janet and I were students at OBU and lived in one side of a duplex not far from campus. We will always cherish our time first as married students living on campus and then as a married couple struggling to get through school. I worked 40 hours a week at the local radio station to pay for my education.” Although he hasn’t lived there in years, Nelson remains a big fan of Arkadelphia. “I honestly cannot imagine a better place to grow up than Arkadelphia. It has always had the advantages of a small town with a lack of traffic, low crime rate and a low cost of living. But, because it’s a college town, there are amenities that normally one would get to take advantage of only by living in a much larger city. Growing up, I attended college sports events, concerts by well-known groups and lectures by famous speakers on a weekly basis. These are the kinds of things not normally associated with a town of 10,000 people.” Renowned educator and Arkadelphia native Dr. Fitz Hill is another strong advocate for the city. “I have so many fond memories of walking with my friends to athletic contests on the college campuses of Ouachita and Henderson and always feeling safe while waking home at night after the games,” he says. “Arkadelphia is known as ‘a great place to call home’ for valid reasons, and I am so proud that I can say that I was born and raised there.” Arkadelphia has a parks system above and beyond what might be expected in a community its size — and it’s getting better, thanks to a 1 cent sales tax increase approved by voters about a year and a half ago. Recreation facilities across the city

Left: Fish Net restaurant. Middle: The Arkadelphia Mural on Main Street. Bottom: Ouachita Baptist University.

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Right: Degray Lake Resort State Park. Bottom left: Kayaking on Degray Lake. Bottom right: Iron Mountain MTB Marathon.

have been upgraded, more than 20 new features will be added to the aquatic park, and programs have been expanded for youth basketball, volleyball and softball, youth cheerleading, and adult softball. Junior Rodemeyer, parks and recreation director, sums it up nicely: “Our department is entering a really exciting time. We are continually adding new programs and events, increasing participation, and providing a better-quality service to our community and patrons.” Not to be overlooked is DeGray Lake Resort State Park, just 8 miles north of town. This recreational oasis includes an 18-hole golf course, 96-room lodge and restaurant, marina, trails and campgrounds. Across the lake from the state park is one of Arkansas’ top-ranked mountain bike trails, the 16-mile-long Iron Mountain Trail. State Park superintendent Walt Reding provides an apt summary: “The availability of these many recreational activities within such close proximity to Arkadelphia both improves the quality of life for the community as well as stimulates the local economy by creating a prime tourism destination.” Arkadelphia’s historic downtown commercial district, added to the National Register of Historic places a decade ago, is getting more and more attention from tourists. Kris Gravett, owner of Hairapy

ages customers to visit a number of downtown shops which are open until 8 p.m. every Thursday evening. Gravett notes the success of several downtown eateries, to include Slim & Shorty’s, the 67 Grill, JavaPrimo Coffeehouse, and Samantha’s Sweets.

“Arkadelphia

is known as ‘a great place to call home’ for valid reasons, and I am so proud that I can say that I was born and raised there.” Dr. Fitz Hill hair salon, is president of the Arkadelphia Downtown Network and is proud of its involvement with the Main Street program. Recent beautification projects have included awnings, banners, plantings and murals. The “Late to 8” program encour-

But dining options in Arkadelphia aren’t limited to downtown. Others located outside the central business district include: Allen’s BBQ Company, Fat Boys Fine Food & Catering and Hamburger Barn. The Clark County Farmers’ Market

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opens this spring with vendors operating on Wednesdays and Saturdays (7 a.m. to noon). It can be found on North 10th Street, across from the Henderson State University campus. City Manager Gary Brinkley, now serving in his fourth year, says that visitors are often surprised to find that Arkadelphia occupies the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains. Coming from west Texas, Brinkley has developed a deep appreciation for the lushness of the local landscapes. “There’s so much water here,” he says, “and everything is so green.” When asked to provide a one-sentence summary of his town, he has a ready answer: “Great people in a beautiful location.” We’ll close with something Nelson shared: “One of my friends likes to describe Arkadelphia as a cosmopolitan Mayberry.” .

WINDOW ROCK

If you’re searching for adventure, you don’t have to look far. Just hop in the car and chances are you’ll find things to see, do and explore, just a few miles up the road. Get trip ideas at Arkansas.com arkansas.com

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Best g n i h s i fSpots IN ARKANSAS by Species By Dustin Jayroe

our line is spooled, rods all accounted for, and your tackle box restocked. Your bobbers, weights and lures are all organized to the color. There might have been some winter weather-induced boredom behind that Marie Kondo-esque tidiness to your tackle, and things may not look that neat by summer’s end, but either way — the time has come to put it all to good use. To cast your line and try to land a hook in what lurks beneath the water’s surface. But just as polarity and superstition can surround the bait and artificials of preference, so too can it encompass one of the most important decisions of all: where to fish. Here are a few of our favorites, broken down by species.

Walleye

Crappie

Like with trout, the Natural State is well known for its ample and sizable population of walleye. And also like trout, walleye are a cool water fish, commonly found in streams, rivers, clean lakes and tailwaters.

Many anglers consider the crappie as the hidden gems of the fishing world, so to speak. Not only is the species one of the best-tasting freshwater fish around, but they generally take a little more work to find. However, crappie typically congregate in schools, so once tracked down it’s bound to be a productive day on the water.

LAKES

RIVERS

Bull Shoals Lake Greers Ferry Lake Lake Catherine Lake Greeson Lake Hamilton Lake Ouachita Lake Norfork

Black River Current River Eleven Point River Kings River Spring River White River ate

R e co

r d

22 pounds, 11 ounces; Greers Ferry Lake (1982)*

LAKES

RIVERS

- Mississippi River - Spadra Creek - White River

Beaver Lake Bull Shoals Lake Cane Creek Lake Lake Conway Lake Dardanelle Lake Greeson Lake Overcup Nimrod Lake

cor d W

•M

ingo C

St at k

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2011

5 pounds

C ra p pi

*Also the 12-pound-line-class World Record.

i te

Trout The state is probably most renowned to visitors for its abundant trout fishing opportunities, thanks in large part to the fisheries developed over the past 50 years by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC).

cord Str

Arkansas also has a very good track record when it comes to bass fishing, especially largemouth bass. The species is very available practically anywhere in the state, but a few spots can churn out bigger splashes than others. And as the warmer weather turns the clock on the largemouth’s return to shallower waters, this time of year is perfect for anglers.

d B ass •

St at

Bass

64 pounds, 8 ounces 2000

1981

hite R

STATE RECORD • Cutthroat Trout: 10 pounds, 2 ounces; White River (2018) • Lake Trout: 11 pounds, 5 ounces; Greers Ferry Lake (1997)

19 pounds

r ve

St at

Little Missouri River Little Red River Spring River White River

•W

Norfork Lake Bull Shoals Beaver Lake Lake Ouachita Greers Ferry Lake

co r d R a

ow Trou

RIVERS

TAILWATERS (DAMS)

RIVERS

- Arkansas River -B uffalo National River (smallmouth) - Cossatot (smallmouth) - Little Red River (smallmouth) - White River

Beaver Lake Bull Shoals Lake DeGray Lake Greers Ferry Lake Lake Chicot Lake Conway Lake Dardanelle Lake Greeson Lake Millwood Lake Norfork Lake Ouachita Mallard Lake Table Rock Lake

STATE RECORD • L argemouth Bass: 16 pounds, 8 ounces; Mallard Lake (1976)

aver Lak

Catfish If crappie is among the most delicious fish to eat from Arkansas’ waters, then catfish have just as much a case to make on that front. (Which is best probably comes down mostly to personal preference.) Catfish are also one the largest game fish in the state and are among the most plentiful species as well. Arkansas River Little River Mississippi River St. Francis River White River

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80 pounds

1989

•B lue Catfish: 116 pounds, 12 ounces; Mississippi River (2001) • Channel Catfish: 38 pounds; Lake Ouachita (1989)

co r d Fl a t

rka ns a

STATE RECORD

ve r S t a t e

•A

Degray Lake Greers Ferry Lake Lake Atalanta Lake Conway Lake Greeson Lake Hinkle Lake Millwood Lake Ouachita Lake Wilhelmina MacArthur Park Lake White Oak Lake

a d C at f i s

RIVERS

TAILWATERS (DAMS)

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Xxxx xxxx xxxxx.

Heather and Craig.

Heather Baber Roe

Turnrow Books.

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By Heather Baker fancy myself a pretty well-tread traveler of the Natural State. Name a town and I’ve probably taken a stroll (or two) down its Main Street to see firsthand what all the fuss was about. Some of that comes from the nature of this business; as “Arkansas’ Lifestyle Magazine” we often have to put our boots on the ground of all four corners to stay up to speed on the comings and goings of the entire state. But I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that a lot of my travels also stem from stakes a little more personal; I love the sights and sounds of new adventures and enjoy going wherever the senses take me. That’s why when I heard of a quaint little destination not too far from home but just outside the state, Greenwood, Mississippi, I knew I’d have to pack my weekend bags and journey southeast on Highway 65 to check it out for myself. What I found blew me away — which is not an easy feat to accomplish. It hit me from the moment I arrived. As I pulled into town on a Friday afternoon, I felt an eerie sensation of leaving the “real world” for this hidden Southern oasis. We’re in the hustles and bustles of every day so much, but those are trivial pursuits that Greenwood doesn’t care too much about. The city itself — from the old bell tower to the courthouse to the landscaping to the way of life — has a very old-school vibe to it. But that is also met by an equally present pristineness. It’s neat, tidy, and dare I say immaculate. Those are just the first impressions. The rest are just as spectacular. My first stop was at Turnrow Books, which was unlike any book store I’ve ever visited. (It’s not a complete like-for-like comparison, but the romantic in me kind of felt like I was in the movie You’ve Got Mail.) Turnrow is a beautiful place with just as much exquisite decor as there are books on the shelves. An inviting array of floating lanterns and string lights bound

Top: Museum of the Mississippi Delta. Middle: Rusell’s Warehouse Antiques and Jewelry. Bottom: The many refreshments at the Giardina’s bar.

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Every adornment is timeless, vintage and elegant at Russell’s.

Power mode, activated (thanks to the delicious drinks at Giardina’s.)

between the double-sided banisters of the balcony. Upstairs, I found an art gallery that featured some iconic Mississippi history and a cafe. Already in love with the place, I knew I’d have to stick around to check out the cuisine. I tried portions of the pimento cheese, turkey pesto panini and the bacon melt. Oh, and I couldn’t leave without finishing it all off with a chocolate chip cookie. Perfectly balanced, as all things should be. Every bite was just as delicious as the first — and the second, and the third, and the last. To make matters even sweeter, a local farmer named Travis Clark hand delivers roses and honey to the store. Like I said, the romantic in me was well wooed, which probably explains even further why I was channeling my inner Meg Ryan. After my late lunch, I visited Mississippi Gift Company, which is just next door. The cute little shop features all the stuff to fill your tourist’s heart — from Delta-styled t-shirts to napkins and baskets, and Ole Miss Hot Toddy Crunch pecan popcorn to homemade chocolate treats. (Yes, I tried the snacks; yes, they were delicious.) The shop also has an upstairs with lots of local art, which is where I began to notice this as a trend throughout the town. From there, I ventured across the street to shop some more at Russell’s Warehouse Antiques

ld It shnoiu ely defi n tyour be oof travel slateplans.

The beautiful lobby at The Alluvian.

Greenwood...

& Jewelry, where a brother-sister duo run the show. Russell’s features a wide variety of antique jewelry and even antique cutlery. But the dazzling inventory of diamonds is the show stopper. In fact, when I was shopping at Turnrow, I asked Shelby, one of the amazing gals who work there, where she got her ring because it reminded me of something my late grandmother used to wear. When she told me at Russell’s, I knew I’d have to make it a point to visit. My grandma would have loved to shop there. By this point, it was time to check into my hotel for the weekend — a stunning venue called The Alluvian. But I didn’t immediately

The tamales from Honest Abe’s.

Above and right: Learning the culinary ropes at the Viking Cooking School.

venture upstairs after getting my room key, however. While taking in the incredible architecture of The Alluvian, I noticed a bar in the lobby called Giardina’s. What’s a tourist to do on vacation but try a little bit of everything, including the libations? The dashing Southern gentleman tending the bar recommended I try a cocktail called the Delta Gem. It was so good I doubled down for round two. This boutique-style hotel made a great first impression, just like the town, and the second impression — from my hotel room — was just as impressive. There are eight different room styles to choose from, and I couldn’t find a wrong choice among them. Even the base set rooms with either a king or queen bed offer more than enough space and artful functionality. Tack on the in-house bar, restaurant, spa and courtyard, and it’s easy to see why this is the place to stay in Greenwood. (Speaking of: I did have to spend some time in The Alluvian Spa during my trip. It was just the relaxing remedy this busy gal needed. I chose the CBD oil massage and spent some extra time R&Ring in the post-massage bath.) Dinner for Friday night took a twist, furthering the uniqueness of a trip to town. I ventured over to the Viking Cooking School, where you can act like you’re on the Food Network. Professional chefs head up bookable cooking classes for the masses, taking you through each step of preparing your meal for the evening — from the main course to the sides and spices. They even taught us how to properly whisk and chop with a chef ’s knife, skills I definitely needed some assistance with. There are lots of different classes to choose from, but I went with the “Elegant Spring Dinner Party” option, which had me making a mixed baby greens side, crisp potato ruffles, raspberry granita and lobster tail-stuffed beef tenderloin. I had no idea how I was going to get all that lobster stuffed into all that beef, but thanks to my new friends at the cooking school, the entire process was a breeze. The best part: Afterward, you get to devour the meal you created. It’ll probably be the besttasting plate you’ve ever made yourself, and you can bring that new knowledge back home with you to impress family and friends. After a busy day getting my feet wet in Greenwood, I headed back to The Alluvian to get a few more cocktails

I’ll be back.

The stunning and historic Leflore County Courthouse.

Visiting the house from the film The Help.

(with some friends I made at the Viking Cooking School) and called it a night. Saturday was filled with even more adventures. For breakfast, I went upstairs to the Terrace at the hotel to partake in the complimentary Southern breakfast. Included-amenity breakfasts can usually go one of two ways at hotels, so I was a little skeptical. But I was wrong to be so. It was just as delicious as a home-cooked meal. Then, I hopped in the car to check out even more of the city. I drove down the apparently iconic Grand Boulevard, which meanders through the heart of downtown, over the Yalobusha River and through to the other side of town. It was great for sightseeing, from simply the gorgeous trees to the stunning Southern homes. After crossing a second bridge over the Yalobusha, I arrived at what’s called Money Road, where the crop-filled flatlands come into view. I pulled off to visit the first house I came across, which was Skeeter’s home from the Academy Award-nominated movie The Help. Money Road then took me to the Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church, where the acclaimed musician Robert Johnson was buried. Lots of notable artists from both the past and present have visited his gravesite and left their mark on it, and locals and tourists alike will also stop by to leave bottles of whiskey and such to pay tribute to the blues icon’s legacy. (He was said to have sold his soul to the devil for his skills with a guitar, but either way, he ended up buried at a church.) Such excitement had my stomach rumbling again. I’d heard a lot of talk about a little hole in the wall called Honest Abe’s Donuts. People were telling me they had the best tamales either side of

the Mississippi. Seeing “donuts” in the company name and tamales as the headliner, I was curious enough to try it out. I was not disappointed to find — literally — some of the most delectable tamales I’ve ever had in my life. I’ll say again: literally. I got a kick out of some of the other signage out front of the joint. “Best butt you’ll ever eat,” said one. I didn’t try the butt, but I can imagine the pork is just as delicious as the tamales. I kept my tourism game up at 11 and made my next stop the Museum of the Mississippi Delta. I wasn’t sure what to expect other than the keywords “museum” and “Delta,” but I was pleasantly surprised at what I found. It lives up to both denominators, and then some. There’s the Greenwood Leflore Room, which features artifacts from the Malmaison, the home of the late Greenwood Leflore, for whom both the city and county are named. Another area pays tribute to the American Indians, the original settlers of the area. Then I stumbled upon fossils and other ancient relics, military history, and, of course, more collections of art. Dinner for my last night in Greenwood was back at the hotel at Giardina’s. I figured if the

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cocktails are that good, the food has to be a wise choice. I was right. From my private booth with drawn curtains to further seclude me from the rest of the dining room (as best I could tell, all the booths are equipped with this feature), I dined on a serving of shrimp and grits, crawfish dip, a perfectly cooked steak and chocolate cake. The rain wasn’t calling Sunday morning, but my three-hour drive back to Arkansas was. I couldn’t leave town without strolling through the downtown area one last time, breathing in all the wonderful sights, like the many historic sculptures, the old courthouse and the hand-painted murals. And you know I had to go back to Honest Abe’s for breakfast and some tamales to bring back with me to Little Rock. For the former, I chose a white-glazed donut, apple fritter and sausage roll. I’m not ashamed to share that I ate every last bite. It’s that good. (And I’ve already eaten all the tamales I brought home with me.) Greenwood, Mississippi, should definitely be on your slate of travel plans. There is so much to do in this unique and quaint place. I know I’ll be back soon to try to fit even more of the city into my next trip to town.

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WEATHER: An Amateur Guide to Storm Watching By Katie Zakrzewski • Photos by Tony Milligan

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T The tornado that touched down in Jonesboro last year. (National Weather Service)

he Natural State is in the midst of severe weather season. Since 2012, Arkansas has experienced the wrath of 265 tornadoes, causing a total of 22 fatalities and 308 injuries. Each year, the number and magnitude of severe weather incidents have been on the rise in the Natural State, and each year Arkansans are at greater risk of property damage, injury and death caused by hail, lightning, dangerous winds, flooding and, especially, tornadoes. Meteorologist Dennis Cavanaugh of the National Weather Service has noticed the increase in frequency and severity of tornado-producing storms in the Natural State. Last year was one of the worst in the last decade for tornado-producing weather. “In 2020, Arkansas had 45 official tornadoes, the strongest of which was an EF3 that left Jonesboro shaken in late March,” Cavanaugh says. So far this year (at press time), Arkansas has seen three tornadoes, but the state’s yearly average is 33. With May being the height of tornado season and with Arkansas settled in a tornado-prone region, this guide will help Arkansans better understand the elements at play in severe weather. A tornado is defined as a mobile vortex of violently rotating winds, usually in the shape of a funnel, and attached beneath a large storm system. Tornadoes include the entire debris field — not just the funnel. Individuals called storm spotters (who report from a single location they choose) and storm chasers (mobile individuals

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There are four major ingredients that give life and power to a storm: heat/humidity • lift instability • wind shear. who follow the storm and its path) are pivotal to helping the National Weather Service collect data and better formulate weather watches and warnings. Storm spotters and chasers can be meteorologists, “weather nerds,” or just concerned citizens. Additionally, storm spotters do not track tornadoes alone — they keep an eye on hail, flooding, mudslides, rain, thunder, lightning, fog and other forms of frozen precipitation. For the National Weather Service, Cavanaugh spends many weekends and evenings training citizens and equipping the public with the tools needed to be an informed storm spotter. He currently serves as the Warning Coordination Meteorologist in North Little Rock. He started his career as a forecaster in the Topeka, Kansas, weather forecast office in January 2005, and moved on to be a lead forecaster at the Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, office before joining the Little Rock forecast office in January 2016. With Cavanaugh’s help, AY About You has created this Amateur Guide to Storm Watching. In order to understand what you’re seeing in the sky, you have to understand the tools necessary, along with some commonly used terminology.

Radar

The Importance of Clouds

Radar is the most easily recognized tool to the general public when it comes to identifying meteorology tools. Radar scans the atmosphere and detects energy in the form of things falling from the sky. This isn’t just limited to precipitation — sometimes, birds, bugs and debris show up on radar as well. The radar creates an image of this energy and forms a picture of it. Clouds and tornadoes, however, are invisible to radar. While conventional radar detects the energy of precipitation and falling objects, doppler radar has the ability to detect wind motion, and can in turn determine how fast rain is moving toward or away from the radar. When a radar shows purple or white, there is heavy rain, or rain and hail, in those areas. However, radar cannot determine exactly what type of precipitation it is. The further away the storm is from the radar, the higher into the storm the radar sees. This means that the bottom part of the storm, in terms of size and location, is unknown. That is why storm spotters and chasers are so important — they fill in the gaps that charts and graphs can’t cover. The red boxes that you can occasionally see on the radar indicate that a warning has been issued.

Storm spotters and chasers apply the concepts mentioned above to the world around them. Cloud features often indicate the direction and location of weather. The most important thing that you can learn as a storm spotter is the difference between updrafts and downdrafts.

Storm Ingredients

Downdrafts

There are four major ingredients that give life and power to a storm: heat/humidity, lift, instability and wind shear. Heat/humidity serves as the main ingredient in a thunderstorm and fuels the storm. Lift is the general atmosphere surrounding the storm — more specifically, it is the front that causes air to rise. Instability allows heat and humidity to leave the ground. Warm air rises if there is cool air aloft for the hot and humid air to rise into. Wind shear is a change in the wind speed and direction with height in the atmosphere. This determines what type, or how strong, your storm will be. When wind shear is low, the storm is more likely to be normal. However, when wind shear is high, there’s likely to be tons of variety in the storm. Storms can be single cell, multicellular and supercell. Single-cell storms are weak with a brief updraft. Multicellular storms have a moderate updraft. When they are severe, they usually have wind and hail threats. Supercell storms are thunderstorms that rotate. They have intense updrafts and are almost always severe, with tornadoes possible.

Downdrafts indicate air that is moving toward the ground. This is the area where rain and hail fall and where straight-line winds come from. The air is sinking at the downdraft. Damage is possible from the downdraft, but not from a tornado. Downdrafts are characterized by low-level clouds that are ragged and choppy along the base and are generally “scary” looking. These dark clouds are usually found along the horizon. This line of dark, ragged clouds is often referred to as a shelf cloud. Wherever you see a bow or bend in the shelf cloud is usually where the strong winds occur.

Watches and Warning To have value, watches and warnings have to be received, understood and believed by the general public. While professionals have the widest reach in the dispersal of information, storm spotters can help these professionals with the accuracy of information and reports. Two such reports are watches and warnings. A watch means that all of the ingredients are in place for a bad storm, but that there may not be any bad storms just yet. However, it’s best to prepare as soon as a severe weather watch is issued. A warning means that all of the ingredients are confirmed to have come together — if you are receiving a warning, you’re in the path of a dangerous storm and must take action immediately.

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Updrafts Updrafts indicate air that is moving upward. These updrafts act like a vacuum cleaner for heat and humidity. While rain isn’t found here, if there is somewhere that tornadoes will occur, it is here. Updrafts account for 10 to 20 percent of a mature storm. Updraft clouds are described as bubbly and puffy. They tend to be a series of clouds towering from the cloud base. The clouds on the bottom of this base are smooth and flat, and rain-free. When a series of lowering clouds appears below these flat, smooth clouds, it is often a warning sign that the updraft is getting strong; this typically rectangular-shaped lower below the updraft clouds is referred to as a wall cloud.

Storm spotters and chasers can be meteorologists, “weather nerds,” or just concerned citizens.

Flooding of the Mississippi River.

********* Storm spotters also monitor other weather phenomena, such as hail, flooding and winter weather. These weather reports include the severity and location of weather events, just like severe storms. There are several features and criteria that can be reported to the National Weather Service during a storm, and the information reported helps determine the specifics of the storm. For example, a severe thunderstorm is determined to be any storm that can produce 1-inch sized hail and at least 60 mile-per-hour winds. If a storm spotter wanted to report this, they would (under safe conditions) pick the largest piece of hail and hold it next to a measuring device or a coin for size reference. When submitting a weather report, it’s important to include your name, contact information, the phenomenon occurring and the location of the phenomenon as specific as possible, and the time of the occurrence. Anyone can submit reports to the National Weather Service, provided that the information is detailed and helpful. You can submit a storm report at weather.gov/LZK, or you can tweet @ NWSLittleRock using #ARWX. Armed with this information, AY About You hopes that Arkansans will be better equipped to help professionals and their communities, and to “weather the weather” for storm seasons to come.

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By Kenneth Heard

Mad

WORLD Jackalopes l Butterflies, Mermaid Meets Monkey

e ‘ r ar z i B w o H ‘ — 140

Photos courtesy of the Oddities and Curiosities Expo.

In the bizarre world of the traveling oddities shows that feature twoheaded animal skeletons, dolls with fangs, lockets made out of human bones and’ hair and gothic artwork from the pages of a Goethe novel, ’ one man s crass is another man s pleasure.

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“Any two-headed animal is amazing to see,” she says. “It reminds me of the old creep shows and circus sideshows.” “It’s not everyone’s cup of tea,” says Michelle Cozzaglio, the developer of the Oddities and Curiosities Expo scheduled for Saturday, May 29, at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock. “Some people don’t like creepy or horror, but we’ve seen way more positive interactions with those who do come to the shows.” Cozzaglio, 30, and her husband, Tony, 33, created the oddities show in 2017 after expanding their massive collection of punk rock music into all things offbeat and weird. They held shows in their hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and in Denver, Colorado, that year, highlighting strange antiques, “dark art” and odd collectibles from scores of vendors. “It exploded from there,” she says. Last year, the couple scheduled 22 shows across the country. Because of the novel coronavirus pandemic, though, all but four shows were canceled. “It was a crappy year,” she says of 2020. This year, they hope for better success, scheduling 26 shows. It’s the first time the Oddities and Curiosities Expo will be held in Little Rock. The show begins at 10 a.m. in Halls I-III. Tickets are $10, and children 12 and under are

admitted for free. Visitors are required to wear masks. Cozzaglio says 130 vendors will have items on display. The expo will also offer a taxidermy class for 30 people who will learn how to stuff animals and actually mount a “jackalope,” a mythical rabbit with antlers. Before the pandemic, vendors also did tattooing and piercing but because of health concerns, those services are no longer available. Shows that featured sword swallowing and lifting people with straps attached to hooks embedded in their backs called “suspension” are also canceled. Still, Cozzaglio says, there’s “something for everyone.” Mixed in the bizarre and ghastly, there’s also beauty. Vendors will sell shadow boxes of colorful butterflies, jewelry made from bones and creative artwork. But there’s also the gross: shrunken heads, table lamps that jut out of decapitated heads and those creepy dolls. They also sell human skulls and freakish mishaps of nature — twoheaded snakes, multi-legged cats and more. Different states have varying regulations for displaying animal and human remains. California, for example, prohibits any displays that contain deer. Arkansas laws, Cozzaglio says, are “pretty lax” and vendors can show all types of “wet specimens,” from animals to brains preserved in jars of alcohol. “Any two-headed animal is amazing to see,” she says. “It reminds me of the old creep shows and circus sideshows.” The concept behind the odd expositions is not new. The Victorian culture of the late 1800s embraced human oddities on display. Known then as the “freak shows,” the events exhibited such characters as Kroa Fahini, a young girl with hypertrichosis, or excessive body hair, and proclaimed her as the missing link between apes and humans. Joseph Merrick, called the “Elephant Man” was another well-known character, as was Gen. Tom Thumb, a dwarf who grew to 3 feet, 4 inches tall. “People were fascinated with oddities and collections,”

From creepy skulls to ghoulish doll heads and eerie jars of preserved creatures, there’s not much that can’t be found at the expo.

says Ren Pepitone, an assistant professor of history at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. “Rather than just dismissing their fascination as morbid, people were looking at oddities as categorizing differences.” As transportation began developing in the late 1880s, it opened the world for everyday people to see things not seen before, she says. “They felt transported when they saw these things,” Pepitone says. “It was a show of knowledge. It was the mastery of the world at large.” Advances in science also aided in the popularity of the “freak shows.” While scientists placed emphasis on the classifications of species, developments in preservation techniques also occurred. The shows also empowered people. “What does it mean?” she says of people’s response to the exhibits. “It doesn’t fall into any category. By labeling it ‘oddities and freakishness,’ it reassured the ‘normal.’” Many of the old shows were bolstered by hyperbole and exaggeration and bogus stories to draw more customers. But as those advances in science came and people began understanding the impossibilities of seeing things like the “Fiji Mermaid,” a fishtail sewn onto a monkey head and torso, the shows became less popular in the 1900s. As a result, the “Cabinet of Curiosities,” the collection of

Showrunners Michelle and Tony Cozzaglio.

freakish souvenirs, became popular. That concept is mirrored by Cozzaglio’s shows now. And based on attendance figures, the interest is high. She expects 5,000 people will visit the Little Rock show. The expo held in San Diego earlier this year drew nearly 9,000. “We have all kinds of people who come to the shows,” she says. “Some are serious collectors of oddities. Others say they just come to see the weird.”

Courage, Dear Hart By Emily Beirne

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rom the high school stage to the small screen to the big screen, Hart Denton has starred in popular shows Riverdale and 13 Reasons Why and is about to make a big debut in the movie American Cherry, filmed in his home state of Arkansas. If you find this information a surprise, you’re probably not alone. He’s one of the most accomplished young actors to come through Arkansas in recent history, and most, unfortunately, have no idea of his fame or his roots. Nor, as his mom would proudly boast, his heart. Born in Little Rock and raised in Conway, Hart has fond memories of growing up. His parents, Chrissy and Craig Denton, in the midst of law school and their 20s, were the first of their friend group to have a kid. As Hart puts it with a laugh, “They didn’t let that stop them from living their lives.” Hart recalls going to concerts with his parents and their friends at Juanita’s in Little Rock, hanging out like he was another one of the adults despite being on the earth for only three to four years, and becoming fully immersed in the artistic culture that would stick with him to this day. “They loved the arts. They loved music. They loved movies. They were very involved in anything artistic.” The first major concert he attended, next to the Goo Goo Dolls, was a KISS concert in 1999. “There’s a video somewhere of me just dead asleep at this KISS concert in the fifth row,” Hart laughs. “There’s blasting pyrotechnics, gigantic flames that you can feel the heat of through the video, but I’m just dead asleep, could not care less.” His outfit and makeup for the KISS concert are one of many Chrissy creations. Halloween was an important time of year in the Denton household as costumes were designed, faces painted, and cameras were always on. “She would plan weeks ahead and make the costumes herself,” Hart says. “One year, I was the Tin Man and every inch of my skin was covered in silver paint. My dad had put the camera on a tripod and let it run for hours while I’m getting makeup done, sitting completely still next to a mirror. You can see in the video how thrilled I am with the whole process. At one point in the video my mom says, ‘You’re doing so good in the makeup chair, you may be a little actor someday,’ and I’m four or five at this point, so it’s ironic.” The mom, lawyer and costume designer herself laughs at this memory. “He was so unlike other kids his age,” Chrissy says fondly. “Any other child would be squirming or whining sitting in a chair that long, but no, he would look at himself in the mirror and say, ‘Wow, I look amazing,’ and just completely thrilled with all of it. One year, he was Lumiere from Beauty and the Beast. He held his arms up like a candelabra the entire night, never breaking character. This is how you know he’s meant to do what he’s doing. It’s always been in him.” As the Denton family grew, the art didn’t stop. Costumes became matched or themed to correspond with one another, and each child grew up with the support of pursuing their interests. Modeling for the Dentons began as child shoots with Dillard’s and some other companies, and Hart stuck with it up until he left for college. “I’m not a momager at all; I never wanted to make my kids do something they didn’t want to do,” Chrissy explains. “Haze, Hart’s younger brother, for instance, told me one day that he didn’t want to model anymore, and I said, ‘OK, that’s perfectly fine.’ Hart though, I would tell him there’s a job at this place or that, and he’d say, ‘Let’s go.’”

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Left: Hart Denton, child model. Below: Hart on the set of Riverdale.

High school can be a difficult time for students trying to figure out where they fit in and what they should be doing. Hart, having been raised in an artistic culture and genuinely interested in pursuing the arts, also found himself in the sports sector. Hart played a number of sports through the years from soccer to baseball to basketball — he enjoyed the competition. “I’m a competitive person, and sports allowed me to feed into that,” Hart says. “But when I was there playing sports for essentially myself, there were others who didn’t understand why I would want to be interested in other things, that I didn’t just want to do sports. That’s where I dealt with a bit of misunderstanding with me, and unfortunately, there weren’t many other kids who I could relate to. Nobody could understand why I would want to do sports and arts simultaneously, and I hope that culture changes.” Chrissy says that Hart took a break from the arts due to students not being able to understand his passion. “There’s a gap in his mid-years where he was pretty much just this ‘normal’ teenager living in a box. He still walked to the beat of his own drum, his fashion was always a step ahead of the other kids, but most of his art was done in private,” she says. Despite the pushback, there was always something different about him. His mother says that he had a focus and passion that other students didn’t have. Rather than staying out late and hanging out with friends, Hart was always writing music or doing something creative and productive. “I had a band in middle school and high school with some guys in Conway. We would play at small local places,” Hart says. Chrissy sets up a scene with Hart sitting on a stool with a guitar, singing in a coffee shop. “He was cooler than other kids his age. He was doing something. He’s always doing something,” Chrissy says. His first acting performance as a teenager was with Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre as Benjamin in Joseph and

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the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Chrissy recalls that a Benjamin had been cast, but something happened, and they called Hart to come audition. “This was the summer before his senior year of high school. He’d been in performances as a child, but it’d been a while since he’d been on a stage in this setting, as an actor, and he loved it,” Chrissy says. “AJ Spiridigliozzi, the high school drama teacher, was at the performance and saw something in Hart. He took a chance and reached out to Hart to audition for the high school musical. Hart auditioned and was cast as Link in Hairspray.” She refers to Hart as the local Hannah Montana as he tried to live a double life doing what everyone expected of him while at the same time doing what he wanted to do. “He set the tone in our house for the younger three kids. He always tells them to do what makes them happy and to not live by other people’s standards.” Hart chose to attend Belmont University in Nashville, which he believes was the perfect stepping stone for his ultimate move to Los Angeles. “Nashville was amazing, I love Nashville,” Hart says. “It’s a bigger city than any found in Arkansas, so I was able to adjust and understand what it’s like living in the city. At Belmont, he studied acting, finance and anything useful he could take with him to LA. “He really did plan it out perfectly for himself,” Chrissy laughs. “Looking at his transcript, it’s obvious he knew what he was doing and what his goal was.” The Denton family is close, so Hart’s departure was difficult and bittersweet. “The day after we dropped him off at Belmont, I had to take my youngest to her first day of Kindergarten. It felt like someone had punched me in the stomach,” Chrissy says with emotion still present in her voice after all these years. “When we got home from work and school that day, Hart texted and told us to look in the linen

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T h e re’s a v i d e o s o m ew h e re of m e j u st d e a d asleep at this KISS concert in t h e f i f t h row. Above: Hart and Chrissy ready for KISS.

Below: Baby Hart dressed as Elvis.

closet. I kid you not, this boy had written each member of the family a two-page letter and made CDs with songs that reminded him of each person. That’s just who Hart is — that’s how thoughtful he’s always been. People don’t believe me that this 27-year-old has never talked back to me or had an attitude. He’s so genuine.” In 2014, Hart decided to leave Nashville and make the big move to LA. His parents supported him fully, even if they didn’t want him so far away. “We always knew he’d go off and do big things, but we miss him,” Chrissy says, going on to add that his move was the hardest on his youngest sibling. “He and Gray are kindred spirits. They have the same drive, the same grit.” Hart also misses his family immensely, but he knows that the move was right for him. “I needed to see a bigger part of the world and find more opportunities. I call my family every day and FaceTime them. They mean everything to me,” Hart says. Going from Arkansas to Tennessee to California, Hart has experienced a lot of change, but one thing he always finds in open space. “As soon as I landed in LA and actually stepped out into the city, I was amazed by how open it was. It’s not like New York where you can’t see past any of the buildings, there’s a good blend of nature and city to feel

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Whether departing for or arriving from LA, Hart’s family is always there.

comfortable,” Hart explains. He didn’t have a lot of money when he first arrived in the city. He found a job to get him by, lived in an apartment he describes as the size of a closet and found auditions where he could. He was in a show called Lethal Weapon for a few episodes, found a few modeling jobs and delivered for Postmates. He says that he learned to eat smart on only a few dollars a day and he managed for a while. “You can go out and explore anywhere if you’re willing to live frugally. You may have to sacrifice in certain areas and not live so glamorously, but it’s doable.” Leading up to his big break, Hart found himself in a rut. “For two and a half years, I had been doing odd gigs here and there and picking up jobs where I could,” Hart says. “The year before I landed Riverdale, I was living out of my car. The day of the audition, it was a terrible day — weird things were happening and I just was not in a great mindset. I had gone to FedEx to print off the script, and my card declined. I had 50 cents in my account and couldn’t even print off a few pages. So I knew right then that I would have to memorize these pages verbatim. I went into the audition, blanked halfway through, started over and did it again. It just didn’t feel great at all. I went back to my car, delivered some Postmates for a while and felt like I was in a chaotic place. I needed to go home.” He flew back to Arkansas and regrouped for a few days. “I was at home deciding what I wanted to do, what wasn’t working, how to fix it, and then I got the call that I had the role. I flew back to LA that night, flew out to Vancouver the next day, and was there for the next eight or nine months.” Chrissy remembers the day that Hart flew home after his audition, and she especially remembers the hug they shared. “He felt so thin, and I asked him if he was doing okay,” she

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says. “Just like I knew he would, he said with a reassuring smile, ‘I’m fine, mama. I’m doing good.’ We didn’t know that he had been living out of his car. He never wants anyone to worry about him. I just think about his determination to make it and to make it on his own; the courage he had in moving there by himself, figuring out how to survive and doing it all on his own. His grit and strength of character are what got him through it. The word ‘courage’ keeps coming to my mind when I think about how scared he must have felt at times, but he kept going. I just wish he would have told us that he was living in his car.” She finishes the latter statement with a motherly huff but then laughs at her son’s determination. “He’s always wanted to make his own way, and he did.” Hart credits his upbringing for his ability to be on his own in an unfamiliar place. “My parents didn’t shelter me, I was pretty desensitized at an early age to what’s going on in the world,” Hart says. “They didn’t try to hide anything; if I had questions they would answer them. I can remember watching the news with them as a kid instead of watching cartoons. I’ve just always been aware.” Chrissy laughs when she hears that Hart used the word “desensitized.” “That’s the truest statement in the world. Craig and I didn’t want to keep anything from our kids or have them grow up not knowing a lot of things. This confuses a lot of people, but that’s what we thought was best for our kids. We wanted them to be strong in themselves, strong in their faith. We didn’t want them to live according to what other people said, but by what they knew.” Hart’s relationship with his parents and siblings is special. Chrissy says that Hart has the oldest child syndrome in that he’s driven, but he also drives his siblings to be the best. “He’s

always telling them to be themselves and be happy in what they’re doing. He’s a real motivator,” she laughs. Chrissy says that in turn, Hart also gets support from his siblings. “He’ll call our second oldest and say, ‘Hey, I need you,’ and she’ll drop everything to fly out to LA and be with him when he’s stressed. [The kids] each have their own passions, and he’s proud of all of them.” Hart recently got a tattoo in honor of his mother. When she was pregnant with him and raising him, she was working 50-plus hours and going to law school, so he had the lady justice figure tattooed over his heart for her. “I didn’t know he was going to do that, and it’s so special. He’s always surprising me,” Chrissy says. Hart’s two worlds collided when the movie American Cherry was filmed in Arkansas and he was cast as one of the leads. “The movie was originally set to be filmed in the Dominican Republic, but something changed, and we couldn’t film there anymore. Next thing I know, I’m being told that they found a place in Arkansas, of all places, to film the movie. I said to the director of the movie, who I was friends with, ‘Marcella, I’m from there. No one films movies in Arkansas.’ But we did. We were in Fayetteville shooting this movie, I lived in a loft above some train tracks for about a month and a half, and it was so surreal to be back in my home state and doing what I love.” Hart’s family was able to drive up and watch him act for the first time since his theater days. “I loved having my family there with me. They had never seen me like this before, so it was great to finally be able to share that part of my life with them,” Hart says. His mom has only good memories from this experience. “Everyone on the set was so nice. Any kind of sound can disrupt the recording, so while Hart was filming scenes in the woods where leaves can crunch, we got to watch him through a screen back at the set,” Chrissy says, and then laughs at a particular memory from that trip. “There are some shirtless scenes of Hart, and after the scene ended he would just walk around without his shirt on, which in Arkansas is completely normal — you see guys walking around without shirts all the time. But the other people on set not from Arkansas were like, ‘What are you doing? Put your shirt on!’ And he said, ‘Don’t worry about it, I’m from here, this is what we do.’” American Cherry has won a few awards already and a trailer has been released for the movie, which is still listed as being in post-production. The movie was filmed a couple of years ago, so the official release has been long-awaited. “I’m excited for everyone to see it. The cinematography in it is beautiful,” Hart says. Recently, Hart has channeled his early days of creating art and is now making music. He released a single titled “Inside Me” and released another song with best friend and Riverdale co-star KJ Apa called “Atmosphere.” “I’ve found a healthy balance in my career. I thoroughly enjoy where I’m at right now with acting and my music,”

“

I’ve found a healthy balance in my

career. I thoroughly enjoy where I’m at right now with acting and my music.

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Hart says. “I feel like I have the ability to do both, so I’m going to do both.” He and Apa are completing a full album together that has rock influences. Chrissy is thrilled that her son is happy where he is in life, as she says that’s all a mother can want. “I’m so excited for him and where he’s heading. I do, however, wish that Arkansas noticed him a bit more,” she says. Chrissy explains that through software, Hart can see demographics of where his listeners are from and which areas support him the most. “Florida is really high on the list of fans. We’ll be on vacation in Florida, and he’s always getting in and out of the pool to take pictures with fans. Arkansas, sadly, is pretty low. It’s just kind of sad that the state he’s from doesn’t really know him.” Hart moved to LA around seven years ago, and most of the coverage on his career has been outside of the state. Publications like Teen Vogue, Icon, and countless other celebrity-centered magazines have covered the LA version of Denton, but not many people know his whole story. “I love my state, I love the people in it, but we can start supporting a wider range of people that are skilled and from the state,” Chrissy urges. “We tend to be oblivious to what’s going on outside, but there’s so much more to celebrate.” Hart is supportive of anyone looking for opportunities to live out their passions. He used to be in that same position, writing music alone at his family home, performing in coffee shops and bowling alleys, and acting on a high school stage. He encourages anyone that wants to do something to just do it. “Find whatever it is that you think about every day, that you wake up thinking about and you go to sleep thinking about. Find what eats up your mind all day long and you love doing. Don’t half-ass whatever it is that you find yourself obsessed with; be all in with it,” Hart says. “When it consumes you and it’s all you can think about, and it’s all you’re working toward and practicing towards, and putting time, effort, and energy into, it removes the fear of going anywhere alone because you believe in yourself. There’s not a wall blocking you from going, just doubt in yourself. You can make it happen, you can go anywhere you want. Just know the reason behind what you’re doing, and go.”

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Her Runway By Emily Beirne • Photos by Jamison Mosley

Jamileh Kamran and the Arkansas Fashion School

ew York, Paris, London, Little Rock. What do all of these cities have in common? They’re all leaders in the fashion industry — well, Little Rock is on its way to becoming one, anyway, with the help of fashion designer and teacher Jamileh Kamran, founder and director of the Arkansas Fashion School. Her story begins along the Caspian Sea in the Gilan Province of Iran. A young Kamran sits inside her aunt’s shop as lines of customers wait with fabrics in hand, excited for the woman to transform their materials into something beautiful. The woman would listen to the customers’ design ideas and make measurements and cuts right before their eyes. Paying attention to each word exchanged between tailor and customer, each snip of the shears, each thread, Kamran was falling in love with the process. “My aunt would pile up the fabric next to her and sometimes put it in a room where it would be safe. One day, I stole a bundle of fabric that caught my eye and hid it underneath my clothes,” a much wiser Kamran says with a laugh today. “I went home, so proud of myself and excited to use the fabric for my doll.” However, her victory was shortlived when her aunt stopped by the house and caught Kamran with the fabric and scissors in hand.

Jamileh Kamran.

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“She told me that if I were to steal from her again she would cut my finger,” Kamran says between laughs. “I was so scared for when my father would find out what I did. I kept waiting and waiting for the punishment I would receive when he got home, but when he found out what I did, he said to my mother, ‘Why don’t you take her to a fabric store and buy her some fabric?’ I was shocked, to say the least.” She laughs again and shakes her head, “That’s how it all started.” Her father, Jalal Zamir, held a high position in the Ministry of Education in Iran. He always encouraged his children to learn skills that would take care of them later in life when no one else could. “He believed that if something were to happen to him and my mother, us kids needed to have something that could take care of us. He never wanted us to feel dependent. We could always find ways to make money,” explains Kamran. Her father enrolled Kamran in a small fashion school that she attended twice a week. “I took one or two courses there for a summer, and it was a small program. I realize today just how small it was and that maybe they didn’t know what they were doing,” she explains. The Kamran family moved every few years due to her father’s job. After her time at the fashion school, the family moved back and forth between the southern and northern regions of Iran. “Once we had moved back to [the north], I was busy with high school and preparing for college, and then I got married and had a baby,” she says. With the arrival of their daughter, her husband going to school and political unrest in Iran, she and her little family moved to America. “The original plan was to stay in America for four years so that my husband could finish his degree, and then we would move back to

Iran. So, we only brought enough money and belongings for the four years that we were staying,” Kamran says with a tired laugh. “This was in 1978, and the revolution in Iran began. We knew that we couldn’t go back home with everything that was going on, especially with our daughter who was around 3 at the time, so we stayed in America with very, very little to support us.” Kamran and her husband, Allen Afsordeh, attended Central Baptist College (CBC) in Conway. A couple of months into their studies, they noticed one day when they were walking around campus that other students would whisper and give disapproving looks. “One of our professors at the college called us into his office, and he told us that some Iranians took a couple of Americans hostage,” Kamran says solemnly. “He told us that if any of the students tried to bother us or if we felt threatened, we could stay at his house, and he would take care of us. I was so thankful in that moment for his support. It’s difficult coming to a new country and trying to make a life, but it’s more difficult when people don’t want you there.” During this time, Iranian students lost funding and scholarships from the American government to go to school, and Iranians were targets of hate crimes. “Iranian businesses were attacked, tires were slashed, it was a scary time. Much like what’s happening today with Asians living in America.” Kamran says that she has never had any trouble in Arkansas, for which she is grateful. “The people here have been kind to us; they’re good people.” Along the way, she found more people that helped her navigate life in the U.S. She had worked in a technology company in Iran prior to moving to America. At this job, she could type in Farsi, and it would translate to English simultaneously, allowing her to learn how to

Kamran says that she has never had any trouble in Arkansas, for which she is grateful. “The people here have been kind to us; they’re good people.”

Above: Kamran and her students pore over designs at the fashion school. Below: Kamran and Hillary Clinton. (Courtesy)

type in English as well. Not too long after she and her husband had been living in Arkansas, she applied for a job at a hospital. “As part of my interview, I had to type some sentences, and they were impressed by how fast I could type,” she says. “Thank goodness the lady interviewing me didn’t ask me to translate what I was typing.” She had taken some English classes at her job in Iran, but some terms and phrases were still a bit lost on her. “Dr. Eckert, who was the director of residency at the time, he liked me — he was a man who traveled a lot and had been to the Middle East, and he knew my situation. He took me under his wing and taught me English. I would type something, take it to his office, and he would correct me,” she says. She shares that other leaders in the hospital supported her along the way, and she’ll always be grateful for the help she received. Kamran worked at the hospital for around seven years. During that time, she was also designing in her family’s little apartment.

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By this point, she and her husband had two children: Nirvana, the daughter who moved with them from Iran, and Nader, their son that was born in the states. Kamran worked, took care of the two kids, did household work, and ended the night designing and making clothes. “I would work all day and then go home to design and sew late into the night in our tiny apartment. Then the cycle would repeat the next day, and the next. I worked, worked, worked,” she recalls. “I barely slept those years. I found myself depressed and in a dark place,” Kamran shifts in her chair, adjusting her coral suit jacket. “I took a look at my life, and I loved my husband, I loved my children, but I didn’t feel like I had anything to show for myself.” The aspiring fashion designer’s big break was soon to come. Her daughter Nirvana was a part of the Rockefeller Elementary School gifted math program that students from all over the state tested for, including then-Gov. Bill Clinton’s daughter, Chelsea Clinton. “I went to an awards ceremony with my daughter, and I saw Hillary Clinton. I thought, ‘I absolutely have to meet her and show my designs,’” Kamran says with wide eyes still full of determination. “I went up to her and told her I was a designer, and you know what she said?” Kamran pauses dramatically. “She said, ‘Send me some sketches, and I’ll look at them.’ I didn’t believe she would give a second thought to it, so I decided to send my sketches

with a sample of fabric I brought from the Middle East that matched her eyes.” Hillary later reached out to Kamran, and the two collaborated for many years when Hillary was the First Lady of Arkansas, as well as for the presidential inauguration in 1993. “I went to the first inauguration, excited that my name would be listed as one of Hillary’s designers. Unfortunately, all of the other designer’s names were there, but my name was not there,” she pauses and smooths out her tailored pants with a breath. “That really, really hurt me. It felt like a slap to the face, and I could have acted out of anger but I didn’t.” The Clintons made a trip back to Arkansas to visit his mother a little while later, and Kamran decided it was time to find out what happened. “I was confused because when I delivered the gowns to Hillary before the inauguration, I heard her tell her assistant that all of her designers needed recognition, but I deserved the most recognition because I had done the most for her,” Kamran says. “Hillary didn’t know that I hadn’t received recognition, so for a while, I was the only designer she wore. Whether it was pants, jackets, dresses — she only wore my designs as her way of apologizing.” Kamran laughs, and then shares that People magazine wrote an article about Hillary’s designers, and Kamran was the only one they wrote good things about. “I have that article framed right over there.” More politicians, judges and similar influential figures reached out to Kamran for designs. “Many of my clients flew on their own personal planes to see me,” she says. “They would stay in a hotel so we could design and do fittings and then they would fly back home where I could ship them the completed line.” Dr. Trudie Kibbe Reed, former president of Philander Smith College, was a client of Kamran’s and now serves on the Arkansas Fashion School’s advisory board. “When she moved to Florida to BethuneCookman College, she invited me to attend the college centennial celebration and dress her administration.” When the economy crashed between 2007 and 2008, most of Kamran’s clients were greatly affected. “I lost so many of my clients — I didn’t know what to do,” she says with a shrug. “I paused and took a look at my career until that point.” Flashback to the ’80s, Kamran recalls what she considers the highlight of her career. “At this time, there was a huge stigma and fear surrounding the AIDS crisis. No one wanted to be near a person with AIDS because they thought they would catch it,” she says

“ThisThisis whois me.I am.

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And this is what I do.

Kamran has invested the majority of her life into her career.

rolling her eyes. “People with AIDS were in desperate need of help and, more importantly, they needed support.” She joined the AIDS foundation and designed a fabric that was made into scarves and ties and sold for the benefit of Arkansas AIDS patients. “I got people talking about AIDS more openly, and I got the media involved, so the issue of lack of funding and support was brought to Arkansans’ ears.” One memory stands out amongst the rest for Kamran. “A middle-aged man came in and bought a scarf and a tie and when he was turning to leave, he stopped. He looked at me with tears in his eyes and said, ‘Thank you.’” Kamran herself gets emotional sharing this story. “Over the last 50 years of my career, it’s that moment that makes me the happiest. I did something substantial and meaningful with my skill, and I’ll always be proud to have supported the people that no one else would,”

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Kamran says, looking at a sample of her AIDS Foundation fabric hanging on the wall. Realizing that she felt the most fulfilled helping others, Kamran made the decision in 2007 to share her skill and knowledge with others. She opened Arkansas Fashion School, the first of its kind in the state. “Sharing my knowledge and giving back the gift that was given to me was the one thing I hadn’t done yet,” she says. Kamran began planning the curriculum for her school and looking at the available materials taught to fashion students. “I didn’t like the books, so I wrote my own.” At that, she shows off her first two books, The Art of Couture and The Art of Decoration. Arkansas Fashion School now has around 14 levels of instruction that Kamran and her assistant, Amanda Morely, teach to the students. “We started out in a one-room building where the students were crowded, and we were limited on how many aymag.com

Inside the Arkansas Fashion School’s new location.

classes we could hold,” Kamran says. She gestures to the space around her, “Now we have three work areas that can hold multiple classes at once, and my students can feel more comfortable.” Her students learn everything from designing to sewing to making patterns to measuring to anything and everything under the fluorescent lights of the studio. “There was nothing in Arkansas like this. The people wanting to learn fashion had to go to schools out of state that are expensive, and even more so for out-of-state students,” Kamran says. “My students are all ages. They work hard in and out of the school while supporting themselves and possibly their families.” Kamran tells her students that they must keep their passion for the art alive. “Passion, commitment, rewards. That is our motto,” Kamran says, pointing to a large sign above the door. “I tell my story to my students to prove to them that if they put in the work and stay focused, they will find reward.” She emphasizes that her students know that the journey will be a series of ups and downs.

“My entire life has been ups and downs, but through it all, I worked and became better. I didn’t stop.” She tries to provide her students with all of the opportunities that bigger fashion schools around the country offer their students. “In 2022, we will be attending New York Fashion Week. We’ll have an entire hour to exhibit our designs, and my students will get to feel what it’s like to be a professional designer.” The Arkansas Fashion School has attended New York Fashion Week in the past, but COVID-19 halted their trips for 2020 and 2021. “I have students that are already working on their designs for the trip. It’s a huge opportunity for them,” Kamran says. A video of the previous New York Fashion Weeks plays on loop in the entrance of her school. “Many of the students in this video are now in Chicago, New York or shipping their designs across the globe.” Her next goal is to bring more attention to her school on Rodney Parham Road in Little Rock. “We want the student body account to

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come up substantially,” she says. “I have so much to share with students, and I know there are more aspiring designers out there. Most people don’t know that they have an option right here.” The fashion designer and teacher says she’s not finished yet. “I have been so blessed with this gift, and I have to thank God for it. I know that there is still more for me to do, starting with this school.” She is passionate about her students and their progress in their developing fashion careers. “Great things are happening, and more can be done.” Kamran shares that she has zero regrets. She’s invested the majority of her life into her career, and it’s obvious to anyone around her that she is the happiest when she’s around fabric. “When I came here, there were a lot of things trying to stop me. I was a foreigner, I was a woman, and it was difficult at times to prove myself. I didn’t let any doors close on me, though. I opened them wide and told people, ‘This is me. This is who I am. And this is what I do.’”

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This side of

SEVEN – By Jason Pederson

Trust the roots that can’t be seen. You worked many years — the silo years — to make those roots as strong as possible.

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f you travel Highway 71 in southern Missouri, you may have seen a silo with a tree bursting forth from the top. If you are driving north, it’s on the left — somewhere a little past Nevada and a bit shy of Butler. I pass this silo each time I travel to and from my home state of Wisconsin. I always look for it. It’s one of those travel markers: “I’m making good time; there’s that tree in the silo.” But during my most recent drive-by, it was more than a marker. It was a reassurance. Usually, the sun is high in the sky when I drive by. This time the sun was setting. It was windy and chilly, but I stopped along the side of the road and snapped a couple of photos with my smartphone. And with at least five hours of driving still in my future, I turned off the radio and let my thoughts wander. On my mind was one of our adult children. A mistake had been made. Some trust was going to need to be rebuilt. This situation didn’t involve Mom and Dad; this situation involved others. We raised our kids to know right from wrong. But, of course, that guarantees nothing when newfound freedoms, friends and the quest for fun beckons. Anyway, I got some disappointing news while driving back to Little Rock, and my thoughts returned to the tree in the silo. It reminds me of parenting. You have no doubt heard of helicopter parenting. It is the desire of a parent to figuratively, like a helicopter, “hover overhead” and try to oversee every aspect of a child’s life. It is a level of involvement and oversight that seems over-the-top to everyone, but the parent engaged in the practice. Helicopter parenting is not a new metaphor. The concept was first coined in a book in 1969 when a teen offered this complaint: “Mother hovers over me like a helicopter.” The term gained more widespread use when Baby Boomer parents started helping and advocating for their children at levels not before seen. A child may accept (or not even recognize) helicopter parenting in elementary school. But if such close observation continues into junior high and high school, it will likely strain the relationship or create a dependent young person not prepared to live life above the top of the silo. Here’s how silo parenting works: The silo is you. The tree growing inside the silo is your child. During childhood, you can direct and guide your children

fairly effectively. They often respond to your instructions, they value your input and you are, in their opinion, wise. They are quite content living within the walls and safety you provide. But as they become teenagers, your influence begins to wane. They get older, they get taller, and they start to branch out. A desire to see more of the world grows and that world begins to see them not just as your son or daughter but as an individual. Sometimes their growth goes in directions that concern you. Sometimes their growth goes in directions that surprise you, even amaze you. Outward pride and inward disappointment can occur during the same week … maybe the same day. During the later teen years the silo is still there — its walls still strong — but you are no longer able to shield your now young adult from the influences of the world. Branches that before felt only a slight breeze can now be bent, battered and even broken by strong winds. The hardest part for a parent is often the realization that your job is done. You can always love and support and offer guidance (when asked). But the life you created must live life on his or her own. Like most analogies, this one is flawed. When your children become adults they don’t just peer over the top of the silo. In most cases, they leave the silo altogether. And just like most of the silos that dot America’s rural landscape, an emptiness remains. But during the time that the analogy applies, take your focus off the branches that the world can see. Trust the roots that can’t be seen. You worked many years — the silo years — to make those roots as strong as possible. They are still there. They can outlast rebellion, heated exchanges and bad decisions. Silos serve a purpose. They are strong and not easily influenced. They store fermented pasture grasses or silage that will be used to feed animals. The silo protects against moisture and insects. But silos are not designed to store feed forever. Silo parents serve a purpose. They are strong and not easily influenced. They provide a safe home for young people who will one day be used by the world. They protect against harm and the influences of evil. But silo parents are not meant to guide their children forever. Trust the roots as they branch out. And trust that the Lord loves them even more than you do.

JASON PEDERSON For two decades, Jason Pederson served as KATV-Channel 7’s “Seven On Your Side” reporter. Now on the other “side” of his award-winning time on the news, he leads the Office of the Ombudsman for the Arkansas Department of Human Services. His perspective-filled and thought-provoking column, “This Side of Seven,” publishes exclusively in AY About You magazine monthly.

THE PEOPLE BEHIND YOUR NEWS:

Mallory

BROOKS By Dwain Hebda • Photos by Jamison Mosley

Mallory Brooks.

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f the hand of fate had touched Mallory Brooks on the left shoulder instead of the right, there’s no telling where the unfailingly cheery Arkansan might have wound up. It may have after all led her to the invasive and sometimes painful world of broadcast journalism that has been her stock and trade for nearly 14 years. Then again, it may have guided her to the classroom after her mom, or politics after her dad, or dropped her gently into the role of full-time motherhood. One thing is for certain, Mallory and family. (Courtesy) it could never have pulled the KARK-Channel 4 anchor from her roots. “I’ll be honest. My heart is in mass communications and from there, went to Fayetteville. very much at home,” she says. “I love what I do, and I hope I can “My first job was at KFSM-Channel 5 [in Fayetteville], the always stay at Channel 4. Maybe I’ll still be anchoring two hours of CBS affiliate. I was a general assignment reporter for a year, and it news in 10 years, I don’t know.” was so much fun because I got to cover a lot of the Razorback games The definition of family is a fluid thing. Some are born to the in the fall and a lot of the neat events that happen in Northwest right people, and others find their tribe later, forming bonds that Arkansas. You kind of feel like you’re a part of something big and go beyond blood and bone. Brooks has been blessed with both exciting there.” varieties, starting in her formative years in Russellville and later at Brooks nonetheless pined for a job in the Central Arkansas the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) in Conway, then to her market to get closer to her relatives, which led her to a general work cohorts and tightly knit biological circle. assignment post at KARK. Before long, she was a morning anchor. In every phase of her life, the former Mallory Hardin always “Moving to morning anchor was kind of my dream,” she says. seemed to be right where she was supposed to be. “I wanted to be a morning news anchor since I was a little girl. I’ve “I cannot tell you how much I love the town of Russellville and loved the Today Show since I was a kid.” the people there,” she says. “I went to Russellville High School and Brooks’ sunny disposition and chemistry with her co-hosts was active there. I was really involved with my church growing up made for a winning combination and she enjoyed a nine-year run in and really involved in school. I graduated from UCA with a degree

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I wanted to be a morning news anchor since I was a little girl. I’ve loved the Today Show since I was a kid. The kids visiting mom at work in the KARK studio. (Courtesy)

the morning. Even as she moved to the noon and 4 p.m. anchor two years ago, she did so with one eye cast fondly back to the morning desk. “I miss the fun of the morning show. That will probably always be the favorite time of my career, but the hours are brutal,” she says. “Anyone who works mornings will tell you the hours are rough. I don’t miss the 2:30 a.m. alarm clock, but I miss the fun.” Of course, no job is always fun, and the news is no exception. Being seen by thousands of viewers is a double-edged sword, and Brooks has had to learn to deal with the challenges and subtle double standards that came with the notoriety. “It would be surprising for a lot of people to know the amount of email you get over the course of a year, so much of it having to do with clothing and hair and makeup and shoes and wearing the same thing,” she says. “There was a story a few years ago where a male news anchor wore the same suit for an entire year. He changed his tie, and no one ever noticed. But if I wear the same dress two days in a row, I’ll get an email about it. I feel like that’s become harder to deal with over

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the years; when I was younger, it was easier.” Wardrobe wasn’t the only difficulty that came with the anchor desk. All members of the media, particularly those in smaller markets, understand how accurate and fair reporting often hits very close to home. In each case, with every sobering and tragic story, Brooks gives the news according to her journalism ethics to deliver impartial and dispassionate reporting. Obviously, much easier said than done. “Coping, it’s tough,” she says. “People can say you just have to just read it and not process it, but at the end of the day it’s just heartbreaking, and there are a lot of sad things happening in the world. So, I just try to get through it. I never want to make it where I get emotional, where it’s distracting.” Brooks says time hasn’t made the process any easier, particularly as she and her husband, Aaron, married in 2013 and began a family. Becoming a mother often sharpens the sting of the day’s headlines. “It has become much more tough after becoming a mother, especially when you’re reporting on children,” she says. “Lately there have been so many tragedies with children, whether it is a child

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I grew up in Arkansas, so I feel like we’re all kind of family here. We’re all connected. who’s shot or a child at the border. It’s tough, and your heart hurts for these people and what they’re going through.” Time and experience have also changed her perspective on celebrity. As she and her husband have welcomed daughter, Grace Anne, now 7, and son Bowen, 3, Brooks has seen her life’s milestones play out in public. It's another element of the job that took some getting used to in order to strike the right balance of sharing and security. “I grew up in Arkansas, so I feel like we’re all kind of family here. We’re all connected,” she says. “Starting out it was always a little bit strange; it would kind of shock me that someone would recognize me. I always thought about it as, ‘I’m just reporting,’ and I never thought about it as anything more than that. But it always made me feel good because people were always kind and encouraging. “I love talking about my kids as they get older. In my eyes, they’re the cutest and funniest kids in the world, so it was always fun on the morning show to share some of the funny things that they would do. Then it was always sweet when viewers would ask how Grace Anne’s ballet class was going because I had shown a picture of her in a tutu doing a little spin. “At the same time, we’re careful about what we share and not sharing too much. Yes, I have to be very mindful because we know it’s a scary world out there, and my babies are everything to me. Protecting them is very important, and I definitely have to step back and be careful and not put everything out there.” Such is not to say that celebrity doesn’t have its perks. Being a public figure, Brooks has been able to bring attention to causes she cares about, of which there are many. “There are several things I’m passionate about. One of them is

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Easter Seals,” she says. “My nephew was born at 2 pounds, 2 ounces at 26 weeks gestation. It was a very rocky few months in the NICU and, thanks to UAMS doctors — who are absolute heroes — and Easter Seals, he is perfect. “Salvation Army is important to me. The Miracle League, my husband and I were coaches for years right up until about two years ago. And [Arkansas] Children’s Hospital is near and dear to me because our little boy has had some pretty severe respiratory issues. We love Children’s Hospital.” As her personal life accelerates, Brooks doesn’t know precisely what the future holds for her professionally. Advancement in the news business generally involves moving around to larger markets with bigger audiences and more demands. She doesn’t necessarily feel that pull, being that she’s far more comfortable with the places and people she knows best, on both sides of the camera. “Being on mornings for so long, that’s more of a personal

The Brooks family. (Courtesy)

experience. I felt connected to people in that way,” she says. “I feel like viewers were with me through both pregnancies and through really happy times and really hard times, really sad times. “I had a miscarriage between my daughter and my son, and it actually happened on the air as I was closing the show. I didn’t talk about it, obviously, and no one knew at the time, but I feel like everyone’s been with me through it all. So, it’s always sweet to meet people and to connect.” For now, she likes what she’s doing and says she would be content to stay where she is indefinitely, especially if she succeeds in pulling off her dream project. “I’m very, very passionate about good news,” she says. “I do a weekly franchise called ‘Good News Matters’ and it runs every

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Friday at 5 p.m. I get to go out and feature good things that are happening in the community. “I push hard in the newsroom for good news because there are so many people doing amazing things, and they just don’t get the attention that they deserve. I’m big on trying to feature those because I think the biggest complaint … is we’re always showing bad news. It’s always depressing. “I’ve tried to beg the bosses to give me 30 minutes of just good news. And I wish you could see the looks on their faces. We can find enough good news to fill 30 minutes a day, but sadly that’s not what everybody wants in the newscast. I think to anyone in news in this country, that’s probably not realistic. But someday, hopefully, it will happen. I feel like we need it right now in the world.”

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Million Things the

e h S

Gives Us:

A Mother’s Influence  By Dwain Hebda

“As great as our attachment is, as great as our therapy is, as much as they know, and they are happy, healthy children, that will never completely replace their birth mom,” she says. “There is something biologically that is always going to be attached. But you can be happy and healthy without it being fully healed.”

hey wear your macaroniand-string necklaces to church. They know the magic words to make a skinned knee stop stinging. Their words of caution stick in your head and their praise lifts your spirit. They greet you at the door after curfew and from the front pew on your wedding day. Your mother held you first and her hold on you lasts.   As the old saying goes, without Mom, none of us would be here. Generations of research and centuries of personal experience agree that the maternal bond is the first and fundamentally most important relationship in every aspect of our development as human beings.   So it stands to reason that when that relationship is interrupted, faulty or altogether absent, the pockmark of this absence upon one’s personality and mental health is substantial. And it’s the reality faced by a growing number of people as the stress of societal forces continues to fracture many families, and mothers are increasingly left alone to face their own demons, impacting their ability to live up to their sacred responsibility.  “When you really look at it, if a mother were to leave a family, versus a father leaving a family, for both it’s going to be a huge impact on a child,” says Katie Walker, North Little Rock Clinical Director for Chenal Family Therapy. “But while a father can be connected and attached and loved, there is an actual biological connection that a mother experiences with her child. “On top of having the connection of the child literally coming out of the womb, you’ve got going all forms of attachment during those early stages; giving the bottle or, if they choose to breastfeed — there’s a whole different type of connection, even in

a same-sex marriage. The baby learns from the very beginning of its life that this is the person who, when I cry, is going to meet my needs. This is the person who’s going to be here.”  In study after study, the impact of positive and negative relationships between a mother and child have been shown to be monumental in shaping a person’s relationships, health and overall success

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in life. In fact, a mother’s connection to her children can actually impact how the brain develops physically, per years of animal research. Subsequent brain images in humans show children with nurturing mothers develop up to 10 percent more hippocampal volume compared to children who lacked such nurturing. The same can be said for the volume of the amygdala and together, research concludes, these brain

THE SPARE MOM

Graphic courtesy of The Lancet.

elements contribute to better memory, higher emotional functioning and ability to regulate stress.   Moreover, these impacts grow stronger over time. Findings of the 2019 Wisconsin Longitudinal Study revealed more positive mother-child interactions during the first 16 years of life impacted educational attainment and episodic memory support and higher marital satisfaction later in life.  Better academic performance, healthy relationships, appropriate sexual activity, lower incidence of mental illness and higher self-esteem have all been traced back to the level and quality of the maternal bond. So, it doesn’t take a Ph.D. to understand the devastating effect on children and youth when that bond is unhealthy or altogether absent.   “The loss of or lack of a positive or strong bond with the mother definitely can affect someone’s ability to have positive relationships in the future,” says Courtney Bishop, licensed professional counselor and director of assessment and referral at Pinnacle Pointe Hospital in Little Rock.

“And, it’s a generational effect, because that relationship affects a person’s ability to positively bond with their own child. So, it continues to trickle down.”   Bishop said a mother doesn’t have to be physically absent or meet the definition of abuse or neglect for this negative effect to occur. So-called “normal” families can have the same experience, depending on the level of intimacy in the mother-child relationship.  “There are all kinds of things that come into play with that, in terms of postpartum depression, the mother’s own mental health issues or the mother’s own anxiety about being a parent,” she says. “All kinds of things can affect that and that can change over time.  “Maybe there was a strong bond at birth because the mother was healthy and supportive and all of that, but if later she becomes a single parent, and she’s working full time and has more stress, that bond can change when the mother’s mental health and physical health change. I think that you see a lot of kids at that point with acting

No mom (or dad) gets it right all the time. Ask anyone who’s done it and they’ll tell you raising children is an exercise in day-to-day experimentation and often the very definition of “fake it ‘til you make it.” Such challenges can be multiplied in cases of foster, adoptive or step-parents trying to play a meaningful role in their child’s life. Katie Walker of Chenal Family Therapy says there’s value in not overthinking things in such situations; simple intentionality and time investment can go a long way toward healthy, well-adjusted families even when mother and child don’t share a blood bond. “As cliché as it sounds, for the parent who didn’t give birth, they need to be as actively involved in that attachment stage as possible,” she says. “Obviously, that would be the first step. When you get home from work, give the bottles, change the diapers, look at the babies. The coos and the oohs and ahs and staring at them and saying those silly things are actually very, very important. That’s part of development.” Walker also says non-blood mothers have to remind themselves that not unlike their adult relationships, their child comes with a history and that history cannot be dismissed or forgotten about. “What needs to happen is there always needs to be a safe place for the child to speak of that [birth] parent completely free of judgment,” she says. “You have to step up and help them deal with the insecurities they may have, their personal issues, their anger. For the child to truly connect with someone and attach, they should be able to speak of their mother, whether they hate her or love her to someone who is a validating, listening source. “If that person is pushing back and saying, ‘Well, your mom left you. Do you think she really loved you if she left you? Your mom chose this over you.’ All that’s doing is pushing back guilt on the child, and it breaks down the walls of communication. The most important thing for that child is having someone step up who is a safe outlet to validate each and every thought that comes.”

Better academic performance, healthy relationships, appropriate sexual activity, lower incidence of mental illness and higher self-esteem have all been traced back to the level and quality of the maternal bond.

out behaviors.”  Given the pain and problems that children experience in the absence of a healthy motherchild relationship, one might think they would resolve to not walk the same path with their own children. However, such is not always the case, because, in addition to everything else, the child also loses a positive role model for how to parent differently.  “The habits you develop as you grow older will mimic what your parents taught you and what you learned from them, unless someone steps in to actually actively teach you something else,” says Craig Gammon, United Methodist Children’s Home administrator for Methodist Family Health who, with his wife Alicia, is a longtime foster parent.  “It’s the same thing as surviving a car crash doesn’t make you a better driver,” he says. “If the kids go through the trauma of having bad relationships, their problems will disrupt their lives when they’re growing up. That makes them a survivor; it doesn’t make them a better parent. It just means they managed to survive. They still may not know exactly how to do it,

just how they got through.”  Repairing the damage in children caused by issues with the maternal bond often falls to people such as the Gammons. At any given time in the United States, there are roughly 400,000 children and youth in the foster care system and all of them will rely on a nonrelative to fill the maternal void, however briefly. Children in this situation, while all unique, tend to share some similar traits, Craig says.  “If you get a younger child, they’re going to adapt, initially, probably much easier in the system,” he says. “The older ones, they’re going to be tougher on the surface. Whether inappropriately or not, they’re going to learn survival skills, emotionally. Those can be a tough nut to crack. And they’re going to be very cautious.   “As for the younger ones, it will pop up later, almost always, to some degree or another, depending on how much memory they have of the situation. Some of those things can come back to bring up questions and can be very upsetting. If nothing else, they become

more aware there’s something unusual and abnormal about the situation, probably around age 5, 7, and then on into teenage years.”  Children who are in the middle of developing and processing questions about identity and trust typically look for a place to assign blame, often away from the source of the situation onto whatever is easily at hand. This demonstrates how deep-seated a maternal influence can be in a child, however brief or toxic.  “A lot of times, we’ve seen that no matter what mom did, whether it was drugs or prostitution or what have you, kids want to lay the blame with the state, with the Department of Human Services, or with us as a caretaker because if we weren’t here, they’d still be with mom,” Craig’s wife Alicia says. “Or, if DHS hadn’t intervened, then they would still be with mom and that’s where they want to be. Even though it’s not rational to blame the person who’s saving you or taking care of you, a lot of times that’s what they’re looking to do.”  Sadly, this often causes foster and surrogate moms to throw up their hands in frustration which only deepens the child’s sense of abandonment. Even best cases don’t fully resolve issues overnight, says Katie Walker, the adoptive mother of two.   “As great as our attachment is, as great as our therapy is, as much as they know, and they are happy, healthy children, that will never completely replace their birth mom,” she says. “There is something biologically that is always going to be attached. But you can be happy and healthy without it being fully healed.”

THE MYTH OF PERFECT

ot all unhealthy mother-child relationships stem from drugs, divorce, abuse or abandonment. Sometimes it’s a parent who, although present, doesn’t want to act like one. “I view very strongly that I was not put here to be my child’s friend,” says Alicia Gammon, who is both a biological and foster mother. “I can’t do a good job if I’m their friend. I have to be able to make those hard decisions. I have to be able to say, ‘No.’ I have to be able to draw the line in the sand and hold that, in order to help my child in the long run.” Gammon says whether by viewing one’s child as a bestie instead of setting boundaries and being unpopular now and again, or being a helicopter parent who drives the child to succeed, ostensibly for their own good, such behaviors carry their own set of negative consequences. “Mom’s not being the best role model,” she says. “In some cases, it’s, ‘Let’s go do what’s fun and let’s go shop.’ Instead of saying, ‘Hey, maybe that shirt is not the best cut for you,’ it’s, ‘Maybe we’ll both get that.’ You’re not establishing those boundaries that the kids need. “Other times, it’s the push for perfection; moms often think that they need to have a career, that they need to have a beautifully kept house, that they need to go to all of their kids’ activities, they need to be the perfect wife for their husband. That just exhausts her and the kids themselves. Trying to be the best mom and the best everything can be very detrimental to their relationship with their kids.”

CAUSE &Effect: Teen Pregnancy in Arkansas

By Dustin Jayroe

hristie Erwin’s heart has had to endure more than most. As the executive director of Project Zero, she and her team work tirelessly to find forever families for foster children in Arkansas. For 10 years now, Project Zero has envisioned a world where no child is without a home; when even if a child is not raised by his or her biological parents, he or she finds adoptive families. So as long as there are waiting children, Project Zero will continue — until the “zero” part of its name is fulfilled. It’s among the noblest of causes imaginable. Children are innocent, precious; children who are in pain or alone is heartbreaking. It’s an ironic fortune for most people not to have to think about that every day, but not Erwin. She lives for them. As such, her life is a fluid dichotomy of emotion. In 2019, Erwin says that Project Zero helped connect nearly 200 foster children with adoptive parents; however, Erwin also estimates that every year around 200 or more children in Arkansas age out without ever being adopted. One minute, she gets the call that a 7-year-old foster child has been adopted. The next, it’s a 21-year-old who never experienced that and found cycles with destructive behaviors to fill the void in his heart that a family never did. Like any issue facing our world today, this one is complicated and lacking in definitive answers. But one piece of the puzzle — and a significant one, at that — is teen pregnancy. According to most metrics, Arkansas has the highest rate of teen births in the United States. “Our very first baby we fostered was from a 14-year-old mama who was naive, left for band camp, had one encounter and came home pregnant,” Erwin says. “[She] hid her pregnancy through the whole

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pregnancy, except for from her mom, and she gave birth to a baby boy.” Erwin and her husband, Jeff, became foster parents in 1993. During her time fostering for Bethany Christian Services, she recalls that most of the children they fostered came from teen births. While with the agency, she was involved in a program called Inside Out, which was designed specifically to help teen moms. One particular memory from that period continues to linger in her mind, after all this time. “I was actually in the delivery room with two 14-year-olds before they gave birth to their babies,” she says. “It was profound. As a mom myself, watching these beautiful young girls become moms in the midst of the trauma and chaos in their own lives, and then bringing another little one into that, it just broke my heart. They needed to be mothered, not to become mothers. That part of it was just incredibly difficult.” She goes on to say that children who become pregnant while in foster care are among the saddest of examples. They’ve been waiting for a family nearly their whole lives, and then the pregnancy provides that, in a sense. “They see it as, ‘This is something that’s mine,’” Erwin says. “And then the reality sets in, and it’s a very different story. It’s, ‘This is very, very hard.’ I think often those kids end up in foster care as well.” A study from the National Institutes of Health archives found that among young adults with a history of foster care, 49 percent of young women become pregnant, and 33 percent of young males report getting someone pregnant by the age of 21. Recalling Erwin’s anecdote, it’s easy to see this part of how the teen parent cycle is persistent. And that’s only the foster-related piece of the puzzle. According to 2015 data from the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH), Arkansas had a birth rate of 37.6 per 1,000 among teens in the age range 15-19, the highest in the country. The U.S. average is 22.3 per 1,000. Teen birth rates among minority populations are even higher. For the same year among the 15-19 age range, the Black, non-Hispanic teen birth rate was 50.1 per 1,000, and 45.1 among Hispanic females. ADH also lists data breaking the state down by region, in which southeast Arkansas had the highest rate at 49.4, followed by the northeast corner of the state at 46.4. Southwest was 41.7, northwest was 34.1 and central was 30.4. The percentage of the state’s teen births that result in foster care or adoption is not tracked by ADH nor the Arkansas Department of

“We have the highest teen birth rate (and second-highest teen pregnancy rate) in the nation. We need to do better.” Human Services. Other conclusions, however, are available. According to a Pew Research Center article from 2019 on the subject, of the approximate 450,000 pregnancies among teens nationwide in 2013, about 61 percent resulted in live births, 24 percent ended in abortions, and 15 percent in miscarriages or stillbirths. Further, according to ADH, teen mothers are the least likely pregnant demographic to receive prenatal care in the first trimester; participate in WIC at a rate of 79.2 percent (more than 20 points higher than any other age demographic); are more likely to participate in Medicaid; are more likely to experience postpartum depression; are almost as likely to bear a child with low birth weight as women over 35; and teen births have a higher rate of infant mortality (deaths before one year of age). According to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), children born to teen parents are more likely to enter child

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welfare or juvenile systems and are more likely to also become a teen parent. Sons born to teens are more than two times as likely to be incarcerated in adulthood than those born to mothers even as young as 20 or 21. There is some good news to report, though. Countrywide and here in Arkansas, instances of teen pregnancy are going down. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, the U.S. teen birth rate peaked between the 1950s and ’60s, or what is commonly known as the Baby Boomer era, at 96.3 births per 1,000 females, ages 15-19. Numbers began to decline during the ’70s and ’80s, before rising and peaking again in the ’90s at 61.8. The data has been on the decline practically everywhere since. In 2007, ADH reported a rate of 60 per 1,000 in the state, which fell to 33.5 in 2016, following a similar trend line as the rest of the country. Although, the U.S. is still one of the leaders in teen pregnancy rates among developed nations, and Arkansas still at the top (or bottom) of the country.

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But the compositions have changed almost entirely. According to Pew, during the Baby Boomer years, around 85 percent of teen moms were married. Today, 89 percent are out of wedlock. Many believe more preemptive measures could continue to curb the prevalence of unplanned teen pregnancy in Arkansas, thus preventing many of the aforementioned trickle-downs that are more likely to stem from teen births. As the NCSL said in its 2014 “Teen Pregnancy in Arkansas” report, “Taking steps to address high teen pregnancy and birth rates in Arkansas has potential to reduce high school dropout rates, improve educational attainment, boost tax contributions through higher earnings and improve the economy overall. Reducing births to adolescents also can help strengthen families, improve child wellbeing and assist young people in achieving their goals.” What those measures look like, however, is a point of contention — at least on the surface. *************** Heather Hudson, Ph.D., is as much a mirror in passion for sexual health and wellness education as Erwin is for foster children. Hudson, an associate professor at the University of Central Arkansas in the health sciences department, is a Master Certified Health Education Specialist, a Certified Sexuality Educator and is the national delegate for the Arkansas Society for Public Health Education. Even at the upper level that her classes encompass (mostly juniors and seniors), she is discouraged to find that about half of her students come to class with a below-average understanding of sexual health-related topics. “I often get statements from students saying that they are taking my class as an elective because they lack sexual health and skills and want to learn,” Hudson says. “These are adults, most of which have been previously or are currently sexually active. Many are shocked to see the variety of contraceptives beyond the condom, pill and Nuvaring (all of which frequently have commercial advertisements). I always tell them that it isn’t their fault if they come into this class with a significant lack of knowledge and skills, because they didn’t get sex education in schools, at home and/or they were too afraid to ask questions.”

Hudson believes that this lack of knowledge can have a detrimental effect on one’s college experience, as the majority of teen births in Arkansas are 18- and 19-year-olds. She points at Act 943, passed by the Arkansas legislature in 2015, as a positive movement on that front. The law requires higher education institutions in the state to develop and implement action plans to prevent unplanned pregnancy. However, as is evident by the data, while such legislative developments are helpful, getting in front of the issue to, as the bill states, “prevent unplanned pregnancy,” can actually err on the side of reactive by the time teens make it to the college level. By that point, according to ADH, nearly half of them will have already had sex, and more than 34 percent will be “currently sexually active.” Like most in her field, Hudson believes it even more imperative to do a better job of educating adolescents comprehensively before they face the decision to become sexually active. Part of that problem, in her mind, is that the state does not require sexual education in K-12 schools. In fact, according to the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE), there is no formal requirement to provide any education at all. “Arkansas Code § 6-18-703 provides local school boards the authority to develop policies regarding sexual health education provided by the district,” a spokesperson for ADE tells AY About You. Arkansas is one of only a few states in the country without some form of sexual

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education requirement. Much of that is likely boiled down to the main two opposing factions, each of which agrees that Arkansas’ unplanned teenage pregnancy rates are problematic but disagree on many of the preventative measures that have been put forth to correct the course. They are both often generalized as: comprehensive sex education (CSE) vs. abstinence-only and/or abstinence-focused education. Hudson is very forthcoming about her belief in the need for “comprehensive, evidence-based” education, but she is also quick to dispel a lot of the light that many try to find between the two sides. “People and parents who initially oppose or are uncomfortable with the idea of CSE have an inaccurate perception of what CSE teaches,” Hudson says. “They hear ‘comprehensive sex’ and get the wrong idea. If people took the time to review the National Sexuality Education Standards for each grade and the topics it covers, they would find that it teaches a lot of different safety, personal and social skills. Comprehensive sex education still teaches that abstinence is the best method for avoiding unplanned pregnancy (and STIs) but provides education on effective condom usage and contraceptives as safer sex methods to reduce their risk of pregnancy, and teaches young people how to find reliable resources needed to obtain additional information and relevant health services.” The “evidence-based” part of the equation is based on numerous published studies,

such as by the University of Washington, the National Institutes of Health, the Guttmacher Institute, the American Journal of Nursing, the University of Arkansas and many others, which find that the type of education Hudson is proposing is more likely to reduce the rates of teen pregnancy than abstinence-only (or Sexual Risk Avoidance Education as it is also referred). “In terms of teenage pregnancy prevention, evidence-based comprehensive sexuality education has been proven to be more effective (compared to abstinence-only programs or no formal sex education) in terms of reducing rate of sexual activity, unprotected sex, number of partners and teen pregnancy,” Hudson says. But according to the state code mentioned by ADE, as it currently stands, if a district or local board is to adopt a sex education curriculum in Arkansas, the only requirement acknowledged is the focus on abstinence. Rather than requirements to, as Hudson believes would be more impactful, requiring trained health educators to teach sexuality education, not limiting access to contraception and family planning services, providing adequate time for sex education curriculum to be taught, requiring sex education to be medically accurate, unbiased, inclusive and culturally and developmentally appropriate, and so on. That education code dates back to 2010, and Arkansas has remained at or near the top of the U.S. in teen pregnancy rates since (and actually perform worse vs. our peers in recent years). When asked if ADE felt like these policies were effective or if it believed more could be done by way of preventing unplanned teen pregnancy in Arkansas, a spokesperson for the department’s answer was a reiteration of the current law. “Arkansas policy allows for local school boards to have the autonomy to address the needs of the students they serve, as well as to incorporate local resources that may be available,” the response said. When asked if the department felt it had a role to play in teen pregnancy prevention at all, the spokesperson said, “The Arkansas Academic Standards for Health and [Physical Education] address the following: demonstrating healthy relationships and interaction with others; utilizing effective communication skills; differentiating between healthy and unhealthy behaviors and how those behaviors impact relationships with peers and adults; and the understanding of human growth and development that includes examining factors around human production.” Just as important to the conversation as

the curriculum is the people who deliver it. At present, when schools do present some form of sex education to students, it’s often conducted by members already on staff with that particular school. In a 2017 article, the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported anecdotes from an education seminar conducted in the same year that discussed the topic of sex/ abstinence education in schools. “The topic makes some health teachers, who often double as coaches and physical education teachers, uncomfortable,” the article said, citing attendees from the seminar. Hudson believes schools should hire professionals designed specifically to fulfill those roles, rather than teachers without the interest, aptitude or comfortability. “For sex education to be successful, those who teach sex education must have a desire to teach the content (rather than being forced), have confidence in their ability to teach sex education (so they are less likely to skip content or rush through it), be supported by administrators (so they are given adequate time to teach it), and must be adequately and extensively trained (to make sure they are teaching the curriculum with fidelity),” Hudson says. “It’s recommended that schools hire health education or health promotion specialists to teach sex education, preferably who have national certifications as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES), Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES), or Certified Sexuality Educator (CSE). Certified Health Education Specialists and Certified Sexuality Educators are trained to develop and implement accurate, developmentally and culturally appropriate

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Arkansas is one of only a few states in the country without some form of sexual education requirement. Much of that is likely boiled down to the main two opposing factions, each of which agrees that Arkansas’ unplanned teenage pregnancy rates are problematic but disagree on many of the preventative measures that have been put forth to correct the course.

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behavior change programs tailored to specific priority populations.” Hudson also suggests that schools could better involve parents and guardians in the process. One example of which she provides is by hosting a night at the school where adults could ask questions about the curriculum to the educators, be informed as to what (and why) their child is being taught, and “how it can enhance the health of their children.” “While this is anecdotal, one theme that is mentioned over and over in papers from my students is the lack of sexuality education in schools as well as at home. Many students state that they were scared or uncomfortable to talk to their parents about sex and contraception,” Hudson says. “My students who have parents that allowed and answered their questions usually acknowledge their appreciation for them, which I think is significant. However, the majority of my students say the opposite; that their parents ignored or discouraged any developmental, relational or other sexualityrelated questions, or only answered them in ways that instilled fear or shame. Even parents (from previous focus groups) have stated they avoid answering sex-related questions or having ‘the talk’ with their kids because they are not very knowledgeable about pregnancy prevention, or contraceptives, or they are uncomfortable or lack confidence answering questions, as they never received formal sex education either.” *************** In a disheartening parallel to the cycles and solitude of waiting children, teenage

parents — moms especially — are often ostracized, outcast and altogether alienated post-pregnancy. Some might opt for abortion to avoid such a social climate. Some will give their child up for adoption, half of whom are likely to age out of the foster care system without ever being adopted. The majority keep their children to raise on their own, many of whom drop out of school in order to do so. No matter the outcome, it’s often hard to escape the scarlet letter. “I’ve held babies in my arms that have been placed for adoption by teen mamas who have made a sacrifice and have been courageous,”

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Erwin of Project Zero says. Her opinions related to teen pregnancy tend to revolve around her personal perspectives — as a foster parent and adoption advocate, as well as an adoptive mother. Erwin has six children, two of which were adopted. One of her adopted children’s biological mothers aged out of foster care, and the cycle repeated itself. From her vantage point, unplanned teen pregnancy evolves from chaos, confusion, and lacks of self-esteem and confidence. Though occupying a different vocation, Hudson is just as passionate about being supportive and keeping the best interests of the teens (and, if applicable, their kids) at heart. Maybe that’s the million-dollar puzzle piece — that no matter if it’s a professor at UCA or the leader of a foster care/adoption nonprofit, there’s a role to play to reach a similar conclusion. For Hudson, that might look like a world where everyone is educated to make informed decisions, thus living healthier and safer lives; for Erwin, it’s a world with zero children waiting to find forever families. The way to each’s goals might follow the same path. “It makes me sad that our society is harsh on teen parents, especially teen moms, yet we don’t educate teens on ways to prevent pregnancy other than abstinence,” Hudson says. “Students come into my class holding a lot of shame stemming from damaging messages from when they were younger about teens who are sexually active. But good kids have sex too. We have to be realistic and protect our teenagers. We can’t keep doing the same things … and expect different results. The results are evident: We have the highest teen birth rate (and secondhighest teen pregnancy rate) in the nation. We need to do better.”

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SUBLIMITY By John Kelly

ur lives are often made up of intensity and the rush of making our way through plans while at the same time planning for the next thing. We all want to let up on the gas pedal and breathe in, quiet our minds and simply be still. But it’s difficult, isn’t it? But when those moments come, they are not only refreshing but gratitude-inducing. I had such a moment not long ago. I had been on our property in north-central Arkansas, some acreage in the quaint township of Snowball (one abandoned general store and a masonic lodge used for community meetings) close to the Buffalo National River, taking a respite from Little Rock and looking at a fence that had just been put in to keep our evercurious and Houdini-like horses on our side. I’d also taken three dogs with me, and as we crossed hill and dale — always followed by the small herd of affectionate equines — I found myself reveling in a moment of sublime contentment. It wasn’t anything dramatic, but it was one of those rare times when you are present and grateful for the moment itself, and for the day and all that is in it. As I crested one hill, the sun pleasantly tingled on my face and the far mountains and Point Peter seemed close, surrounding us like a big granite hug. The horses had stopped to graze a few yards away, enjoying their own moment of contentment. My three dogs, Fergus, a large English mastiff, Gabby, our gazelle-like mountain cur and Henry, our Benji doppelganger, were racing into a pond, relishing the water and the simple joy of doing so. I watched all this from a spot where I could see both sets of animals, and I suddenly realized this was my life; not the far-flung hopes of a future where we picture such things, but my real life, right now. I stood there and found my mouth halfway open, caught between a sudden rush of emotion where I wanted to gleefully yell across the property, exuberant thankfulness in the quiet, tinkling of time. My childhood friend, Derek, used to make fun of me because I always wanted to “walk the land,” and here I was placing footprints in soil that was my own to steward. In such times as these, I usually bow my head a little, giving thanks because that is where my gratitude is breathed. Words always diminish moments like these, but that is the best I can do. My thoughts turned to the past several years that had brought my wife, Dawn, and me to this moment in time. And again, all I could do was shake my head in wonder as the dogs raced past, the horses lifted their heads for a moment then turned back to their grassy meal. I had a wife, a partner in life whom I deeply love. I was surrounded by animals

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It wasn’t anything dramatic, but it was one of those rare times when you are present and grateful for the moment itself, and for the day and all that is in it. that I had bonded with and were my family, and our dream of building a home on a piece of land we had forged together was coming true. I was cognizant enough of the moment to never again want the pace of life to warp me past such moments, though I knew that was impossible. Still, I imprinted the moment so that I’d hoped it was burned into my gray matter enough to be recalled when quiet times were again needed, as they always are. I went over, scratching a couple of horses behind the ears and affectionately rubbed their muzzles before calling the dogs back to the car and climbing in. As I started the engine, I looked around at the land that had called to us and nodded again in thanks. We drove away as the horses watched us, the dogs panting and smiling back at them as if to say thanks for the playtime. I was smiling, too, and would continue to do so all the way home. aymag.com

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MURDER MYSTERY: The Rise and Fall of John Thurman McCool – By Janie Jones

ohn Thurman McCool was a hero at the age of seven. After serving with honor in World War II, he became a father and a successful businessman. In December 1956, he was in prison, utterly disgraced. Six years later, he was dead, slain by a person, or persons, unknown. His murder is an Arkansas mystery. McCool’s extraordinary life began on August 18, 1913, in Grant County. His first brush with fame happened when he and his playmate, Gene McDonald, were wading in a pond near Sheridan. In the center of the pond was an old well that had never been covered. Suddenly, McCool saw his friend disappear beneath the water. Without hesitation, he dove under and pulled the struggling McDonald to safety. Some folks thought the Carnegie Medal for heroism should have been bestowed upon the brave little boy for saving his pal’s life. At the time of the pond incident, McCool’s father had just gone to work in the clothing department of Isaac Dreyfus and Company in Pine Bluff. Shortly after, McCool, his mother and sister joined his father and made their home in Jefferson County. After the war, McCool formed the Office Supply & Equipment Company. Active in civic affairs, he prospered and gained a prominent position in the community. He dabbled in politics and became a member of the Young Democrats Club. The late Gov. Sid McMath appointed him to the board of trustees of the then Arkansas Agricultural, Mechanical & Normal College (AM&N), now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. McCool’s company manufactured equipment used

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by the state revenue department for car titles, certificates and registrations. He had to relinquish his position on the AM&N board when Chancellor Frank Dodge ruled that State Act 214 prohibited members of state boards from selling goods to the state. Arkansas paid McCool’s firm through the customary process of issuing warrants, which were similar to checks. In 1956, state officials discovered that someone had forged state warrants issued to his company. The three forgeries John Thurman McCool. totaled more than $85,000. The stamped endorsements on the false warrants read, “For Deposit Only, Office Supply & Equipment Company.” W. A. Stone, president of the bank used by McCool’s company, said McCool withdrew $3,750 in cash. The bank held $20,000 pending an investigation. The rest of the money, according to Stone, appeared to have been used to pay off McCool’s financial obligations, including payroll checks to his employees. The state treasurer’s office found discrepancies in account numbers on the warrants, and a bookkeeping machine rejected them because they did not contain valid code perforations. More damning evidence of forgery came from something McCool himself had done prior to the malfeasance. Visiting the auditor’s office, he requested blank warrants and asked how warrants were processed.

He told the employees there that he was an honorary captain with the Arkansas State Police and needed the warrants to use in a confidential investigation “to uncover some crooks at the State Capitol.” Jefferson County Sheriff Harold Norton and Prosecutor Pat Mullis determined that the warrants were doctored in McCool’s place of business. The Arkansas Gazette ran an article about the investigation, but reporters could not get a comment from McCool. His wife said he was away on a business trip. Around 9 o’clock that night, however, he returned home — exhausted, soaking wet and covered in blood. He was hospitalized under the care of his physician, who said McCool had suffered a gunshot wound to his left arm and bruises and lacerations to his head and face, injuries consistent with a severe beating. Prosecutor Mullis and Grant County Sheriff Vernon Hope served an arrest warrant at the hospital. The charges were forgery and uttering (intent to defraud). McCool’s attorney posted a $2,500 bail bond. Facing a sentence of five to 20 years in prison, McCool refused to speak to the police and would not reveal who had attacked him nor why. With his reputation in ruin, the once-proud entrepreneur faced Circuit Judge Henry W. Smith on October 4, 1956. Blue-suited, with hands folded in front of him and eyes cast down, McCool pleaded guilty. His lawyer, Reginald A. Eilbott, Jr., spoke of McCool’s WWII naval combat record that had earned him five battle stars. Judge Smith sentenced him to five years but allowed McCool 60 days to get his affairs in order. He never made a public statement, and the physical attack on him baffled the lawmen. On December 4, Deputy Sheriff Buck Oliver delivered McCool to Cummins Prison Farm. The following month, his business was listed for sale and placed in receivership. Having been a model inmate, McCool served fewer than two years before being paroled. He returned home to his wife and three children and settled in an older, unpretentious section of Pine Bluff. He tried to take up where he had left off, working as an agent for printing and business machines. Gov. Orval Faubus pardoned him in November 1960. With his citizenship rights restored, McCool once again went into business on his own. “Of course, you never get over a thing like that,” said one of McCool’s old classmates. “But when he was pardoned and came back, he picked up life as best he could, and people who had known him all his life just accepted him for what he always was.” Not everyone felt that way. During a snowstorm on Monday night, January 8, 1962, McCool’s wife and his business partner, Dexter Young, reported to police that McCool was missing. The following morning, with snow still falling,

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Gov. Orval Faubus. Jefferson and Grant counties sheriffs’ departments and volunteers started searching area roads and highways with aerial support and the help of heavy forestry equipment from the International Paper Company. The search continued throughout the week. Then around 1 p.m. on Friday, Sheridan resident Wesley Hale went hunting, but instead of finding rabbits, discovered McCool’s frozen, dead body slumped in the front seat of his white 1960 Pontiac Bonneville. The car was parked in Hardin Cemetery a little over 2 miles east of town. Grant County Coroner Russell Newby ruled the death a homicide. Someone had shot McCool seven times in the chest with a .45 caliber gun. The murder weapon was never found. Because the snow around the car was not disturbed, authorities believed the victim was killed sometime before Monday’s snowfall. The bullets that killed him had traveled through his body and lodged inside the car door, indicating the killer had sat in the passenger seat. Though the Grant County sheriff had no suspects, he said, “We hope to come up with something soon.” But that was not to be. McCool’s slaying was as puzzling as the mysterious beating and gunshot wound he had suffered just before his arrest for forgery six years earlier. Sheriff Hope said McCool might have been carrying a large sum of money, but robbery as a motive was just speculation, as were other theories that included a grudge killing, or even a mafia hit. Perhaps, it was related to the crime for which he had gone to prison, although Prosecutor Mullis said, “I have no evidence that anyone else was involved in the forgery.” The murder of John Thurman McCool remains unsolved, a coda to a life that took many turns and held many secrets.

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Rainmaker By Joe David Rice

n today’s terminology, “rainmaker” frequently refers to an individual who generates legendary financial windfalls — almost by magic — for his or her employer. It’s a word often used to describe particularly successful stockbrokers, bond daddies, lobbyists and lawyers — the hard-driving alpha personalities wearing bespoke suits, occupying posh offices and commanding eight-figure bonuses. Half a century ago a rainmaker of an altogether different ilk operated across Arkansas. Working from his Chevrolet pickup and dressed in a plaid shirt and blue jeans, Homer Franklin Berry was known to literally “make it rain.” Or at least that was the story. Born in Mayflower in 1906, Berry joined the United States Air Force, retiring as a major in 1946. After dabbling with inventions and politics — he was an unsuccessful mayoral candidate in North Little Rock — Berry turned his attention to modifying weather. Usually concentrating on producing rain or snow, he also insisted his expertise could deliver dry skies. Berry’s technique involved a two-fold procedure. First, he soaked lumps of coal or charcoal in a silver iodide solution, a step that turned his hands a bright yellowish-green. He then burned the coal in a customized oil drum (lined with firebrick) occupying the bed of his truck. As he drove over the Arkansas highways, smoke billowed from his weather machine, sending billions of tiny particles of iodide high into the atmosphere where — if things worked as planned — they attracted microscopic bits of water vapor. When enough collected on the particles, they fell to earth as precipitation. “We’ll stop at each little wide spot in the road and do some seeding,” he said. “It’s a slow process. We can’t average but about 25 miles an hour.” Berry’s concept was based on the pioneering iodide cloud-seeding work of Dr. Irving Langmuir, a Nobel Prize-winning chemist, in the late 1940s. While most meteorologists were skeptical of the theory (and remain so today), Berry had no doubts about its effectiveness and devised his primitive system for seeding clouds. The major found himself catapulted into the public eye during the summer of 1962. August had been a grim month in Arkansas — drought

conditions with day after day of record-breaking temperatures. In a written proposal to the city council, Berry offered to “air condition” the entire community of North Little Rock for $500 a month. A front-page story in the Arkansas Gazette detailed provisions of his comprehensive plan: 1) lowering temperatures by 10 degrees daily for the duration of the summer; 2) raising daily winter temperatures by 10 degrees; 3) eliminating frost and tornado damage; 4) increasing the frequency of rainfall (while keeping to the annual average); and 5) maintaining a desired surface moisture throughout the growing season. Fearing municipal revenues would plunge by $55,000 a month if residents quit watering their lawns, North Little Rock’s civic leaders ignored the proposal. But local radio station KLRA hired Berry on Wednesday, August 22, agreeing to pay him $500 if he could deliver an inch of rain in Little Rock by midnight, August 26. Berry and his second cousin got to work early on August 23, seeding the atmosphere south and west of the city while driving their rain-making apparatus through Benton, Crows and Paron in Saline County. Little Rock’s skies turned dark about 3:30 p.m. on Friday, and a downpour soon followed. Officially measuring 1.5 inches, it was the first recorded rain in Arkansas’ capital city in 44 days. At a packed news conference broadcast live the next day, KLRA presented Berry with his $500 check. During this media event, Berry promised a “White Christmas,” noting he’d reserved a supply of silver iodide and charcoal for the holiday season. In an editorial titled “The Rain-maker,” the Arkansas Gazette commented on the deluge: “Despite the warnings of Major Homer Berry, we must confess, we left our raincoat at home just like the rest of the non-believers. And, like the rest, we got wet. Major Homer Berry deserves the community’s plaudits, either for his remarkable science or for his uncannily accurate timing. He said there would be rain between 2 and 4 p.m. and, by Jupiter Pluvius, there it was at 3:30. The man obviously has some influence somewhere, and he is a man it would be well to know in the event things get dry again.” A few weeks later, the Arkansas Livestock Exposition hired Berry to keep the skies dry during the annual Arkansas State Fair in Little Rock.

Having booked Hollywood stars Lorne Greene and Dan Blocker (Ben and Hoss Cartwright from the Bonanza television series) for a three-day gig, the fair’s management knew ticket sales depended upon good weather, something the fair didn’t always get. Berry placed his smoking contraption next to the Swine Building and a week later received a $500 check for successfully preventing rain (a process he kept close to the vest). As for Berry’s guarantee of a White Christmas, he came close. The weather service in Little Rock officially recorded a 1.5-inch snowfall on December 24, but most of the flakes had melted by Christmas morning. Berry made an appearance in 1962 on the popular television show To Tell the Truth, and found himself in the news again in 1966 following an outburst of UFO sightings around Fort Smith. According to the major, he’d inadvertently caused public hysteria when chemicals he’d discharged into the atmosphere collected in basketball-sized objects that emitted strange lights. He even got a prominent mention (and two photographs) in an April 1972, article (“We’re Doing Something About the Weather!”) in National Geographic. Berry’s methodology produced mixed results. In one month alone, he received more than $5,000 from six Arkansas towns for delivering rain. But he also regularly failed to generate the specified precipitation for other clients. When the selfproclaimed Arkansas rainmaker announced plans to expand operations into the Lone Star State, the Texas State Water Development Board warned Berry he could be jailed for attempting to modify weather without a permit. Late in the summer of 1974, Homer Berry hung up his rain suit and retired from the weather alteration business, citing eye problems from years of chemical exposure. He moved to Arizona where he lived for about a year before dying at the age of 69.

Joe David Rice, former tourism director of Arkansas Parks and Tourism, has written Arkansas Backstories, a delightful book of short stories from A through Z that introduces readers to the state's lesser-known aspects. Rice's goal is to help readers acknowledge that Arkansas is a unique and fascinating combination of land and people – one to be proud of and one certainly worth sharing. Each month, AY will share one of the 165 distinctive essays. We hope these stories will give you a new appreciation for this geographically compact but delightfully complex place we call home. These Arkansas Backstories columns appear courtesy of the Butler Center for Arkansas Studies at the Central Arkansas Library System. The essays have been collected and published by Butler Center Books in a two-volume set, both of which are now available to purchase at Amazon and the University of Arkansas Press.

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