Conway+ 2015 Community Profile & Resource Guide

CONWAY+ 2015 COMMUNITY PROFILE & RESOURCE GUIDE

HERE COMES THE BOOM

COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS TOP $300 MILLION

CONWAY + CONTENTS 10

16

26

36

6 CONWAY+

Welcome to Conway

About the Chamber 10 CONWAY+ECONOMY

Here Comes the Boom!

Energy: An Industry

10 Years in the Making

Largest Employers 16 CONWAY+EDUCATION

Public and Private Education

Higher Education

Q&A: Dr. William Tsutsui 26 CONWAY+LIFESTYLE

Outreach

Real Estate

Q&A: Dynamic Duos

4 | Conway+

36

48

64

CONWAY+HEALTH CARE Conway Regional Receives Governor’s Top Award for Quality Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway to Open in Early 2016 Here’s to Good Health

48 CONWAY+LEISURE

Arts and Culture

Events and Festivals

Parks and Recreation 64 CONWAY+COMMUNITIES Downtown Midtown

Neighbors

Q&A: Mayflower

Mayor Randy Holland

ON THE COVER Constructed in 1917, the Halter Building is a 34,000-square-foot, three-story structure at the corner of Oak and Front Streets in downtown Conway.

900 Oak Street Conway, AR 72032 501-327-7788 GetSmart@ConwayArkansas.org While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy in this publication, the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce cannot guarantee the correctness of all information or the complete absence of error or omissions. For changes or to submit your comments, please contact the Chamber.

Welcome to

CONWAY Conway’s strong community spirit, high-performing schools and colleges, family friendly recreation, and vibrant economy continue to attract visitors, residents, and businesses to the city. This quality of life has made Conway the fastest growing big city in Arkansas.

Conway’s population grew at a rate of 8.3 percent from 20102013. The U.S. Census Bureau defines big cities as having a

population of 50,000 or more.

This growth is driven by a strong economy. Among 381 Metropolitan Statistical Areas in the U.S., the Little Rock–North Little Rock–Conway MSA is the country’s 28th strongest metro area. The ranking comes from POLICOM’s 2014 economic strength report, which measures the economic conditions of the United States’ metropolitan and micropolitan statistical areas.

Arkansas’ Big Cities (populations of 50,000+) 2013 POPULATION

2010 POPULATION

(July 1 estimate)

April 1 (estimates base)

Conway

63,816

58,906

8.3%

Rogers

60,112

55,966

7.4%

Fayetteville

78,960

73,581

7.3%

Springdale

75,229

70,747

6.3%

Jonesboro

71,551

67,388

6.2%

North Little Rock

66,075

62,304

6.1%

Little Rock

197,357

193,524

2.0%

Fort Smith

87,650

86,208

1.7%

CITY

PERCENT CHANGE

April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2013

Source: U.S. Census Bureau: State and County QuickFacts. Data derived from Population Estimates, American Community Survey, Census of Population and Housing, County Business Patterns, Economic Census, Survey of Business Owners, Building Permits, Census of Governments Last Revised: Tuesday, 08-Jul-2014 06:42:50 EDT

6 | Conway+

A diversity of jobs in education, health care, manufacturing, technology, energy, government, and an emerging startup community combine to provide Conway and Faulkner County residents with a variety of employment options.

The availability of these jobs is the key driver in the city’s continued residential growth – a trend that has occurred for several decades.

Conway’s three colleges are another reason for the city’s growth. The University of Central Arkansas, Central Baptist College, and Hendrix College produce graduates who choose to stay in the area and enter the workforce. As a result, over 40 percent of Conway’s adults have a postsecondary degree. This educational level is a boon to Conway’s employers.

Retail growth also continues to escalate. At the end of 2016, central Arkansas residents will have access to two major retail developments in Conway, further establishing the city as a regional shopping hub. The downtown area is also luring residents with trendy boutiques, antique stores, and restaurants. Furthermore, a mix of national chains and locally owned stores offer convenient neighborhood shopping throughout Conway.

Faulkner County Employment (total number of employees: 40,437) Other Services Leisure & Hospitality Educational & Health Services Professional & Business Services Financial Activities Information Trade, Transportation & Utilities Manufacturing Construction

Whether you are attending college, searching for employment, raising a family, settling into retirement, or simply looking for a place to shop and dine, Conway is a smart choice.

Natural Resources & Mining

803 4,832 6,029

5,916

1,597 314 6,710 3,132 2,767 1,334

Local Government

3,455

State Government

3,348

Source: PulseOfConway.com

Conway + Social

Educational Attainment (Conway Population 25+)

@chambergates

September 25, 2014 | 9:14 a.m.

6%

Of the 545 cities in US larger than Conway, only 47 grew at a faster rate from 2000-2013. Conway growing faster than 91% of US cities.

23%

Less than high school, no diploma

12% 25%

10%

14 retweets 5 favorites

High school graduate Some college, no degree Associate’s degree Bachelor’s degree

24%

Graduate or professional degree

@chamberbrad

July 24, 2014 | 4:37 p.m.

LR-NLR-Conway MSA ranked 46th best place in America for business & careers by Forbes.

3 retweets 4 favorites

@conway_chamber August 5, 2014 | 6:48 p.m.

It’s not often that a city gets an opportunity to develop hundreds of acres in its core. #CentralLanding 3 retweets 3 favorites

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2008-2012 American Community Survey

Conway 1% Sales Tax Receipts YEAR

INCREASE OVER TAX COLLECTED PREVIOUS YEAR

PERCENT CHANGE

2010

$12,102,898

$546,564

4.7%

2011

$12,308,641

$205,743

1.7%

2012

$12,810,355

$501,714

4.1%

2013

$12,884,529

$74,175

0.6%

Source: PulseOfConway.com

2015 Community Profile & Resource Guide | 7

Conway Area Chamber of

COMMERCE Conway has a lot to offer new residents, businesses, and visitors. The Conway Area Chamber of Commerce has a broad suite of activities for each of those audiences, but the chamber’s overall mission is simply growing the economy.

Today, all chamber activities focus on four strategies: 1. leading the community toward sustainable economic growth; 2. advocating a pro-business climate; 3. building on Conway’s educational foundations; and 4. establishing and executing a vision for the community.

GROWING THE LOCAL ECONOMY The most important role any chamber of commerce can play is economic developer.

Simply put, bringing money into our local economy.

Recruiting new business, retaining and expanding existing business, promoting Conway, and hosting businessto-business networking opportunities for Chamber members all fall under the economic development umbrella. Over the past decade, Conway and Faulkner County have added more than 8,000 jobs and 1,000 new businesses to the economy New Business Recruitment. Few things garner more excitement in the Chamber world than recruiting a major employer to a community. Through a decades-long partnership with the Conway Development Corporation, the Chamber leads the community in efforts to recruit new business.

Business Retention and Expansion. The bread and butter of economic development is the expansion of existing business.

The Conway Area Chamber is in constant contact with the local business community. It has a yearly visitation program

8 | Conway+

for the largest area employers to help gauge the relative health of each. The Chamber also hosts regular “Executive Forums” for leaders of the city’s largest private employers.

Tourism and Promotion. Conway may not be a traditional “tourist destination,” but it is a destination for business events and youth sports. Hotels and restaurants are the most direct beneficiaries of this piece of our economy. The city has a 2 percent tax on hotel rooms and a 2 percent tax on food prepared in restaurants, delicatessens, bakeries, and concession stands. This money is managed by a cityappointed Advertising and Promotion (A&P) Commission.

The Conway Area Chamber acts as the staff of the A&P Commission. This includes assisting visitors and events, advertising on behalf the commission, and looking for opportunities to promote the city.

Benefits of Membership.

The Conway Area Chamber also provides a vibrant suite of business-to-business and targeted consumer opportunities for its members. Whether it’s a gathering of more than 1,000 attendees at annual events such as Business Expo and Taste of Conway or 20 Leads Group members meeting regularly to network, the Chamber offers a business product for every budget or market.

ADVOCATING FOR OUR MEMBERS AND COMMUNITY There is an old saying in the chamber business that goes, “Chambers do what people think just happens.” No description is more appropriate for what a strong government affairs agenda can do. Without it, large infrastructure projects would go unfunded or would occur at a much slower pace, and the voices of small-business owners would be unheard.

Infrastructure. The Conway Area Chamber is the chief advocate for major public projects in Faulkner County.

Additional lanes and exits on Interstate 40, a new airport, and extended highways have all been spearheaded by the Chamber. These projects are often decades in the making; no individual or elected official can sustain the effort necessary to see them through. It takes an organization with a 120-year track record of vision and service.

Advocacy. Most chamber members are small businesses that can’t afford a lobbyist to represent their interests. Each year, hundreds of pieces of legislation are introduced at the state and national levels that impact businesses. Because of the Chamber’s affiliation with the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, those members have representation in both capitals to monitor legislation.

While many Chambers take dozens of positions on legislation each year, the Conway Area Chamber’s policy is to save that energy for areas that are incredibly hostile to business or are specifically relevant to the local business community. It is also the Chamber’s role to speak up when big things need to be done. This Chamber has supported a number of successful initiatives that have built our community’s schools, roads, and infrastructure.

recognizing student achievement at Academic Signing Day, and connecting education and the business community through the Teacher Fair.

The Chamber also helped create and sustain Lifelong Learners Inc. (now Arkansas Preschool Plus), a local nonprofit focused on early childhood education.

Today, Arkansas Preschool Plus is helping more than a dozen preschools offer highest-quality teaching and curriculum to Conway’s youngest students.

EXECUTING A VISION FOR THE CITY In 2009, the Chamber took on the role of coordinating and executing a strategic vision for the city of Conway. The end result was the Conway2025 plan. The plan was developed using surveys and personal input from more than 1,500 area residents. The Chamber and its staff facilitated more than 50 community meetings in order to come up with 132 goals to be accomplished by the year 2025.

EDUCATING THE NEXT GENERATION

In January 2011, the Conway city council adopted Conway2025 as the “official strategic vision for the city of Conway.”

In doing so, they joined a number of other public and private organizations that have pledged to partner in the execution of the plan. Since that time, measurable progress has been made on an impressive number of those goals. The Rogers Plaza downtown, the redevelopment plans for Cantrell Field, and many other highprofile transportation initiatives all trace their roots back to Conway2025.

Education is the cornerstone of Conway’s economy. The Chamber was founded to recruit the city’s three higher-education institutions. An educated population and workforce are critical to recruiting jobs and growing a local economy.

Our chamber works toward that goal in three ways: educational funding through Toad Suck Daze proceeds,

The plan paints a picture of Conway at its best at our next quarter-century mark. It is a reflection of the thoughtful and ambitious spirit that makes Conway great. In 2015, the Chamber will lead Conway2025 2.0, a renewed commitment to planning for and accomplishing the remaining goals.

CHAMBER EVENTS The Conway Area Chamber of Commerce offers a variety of events that provide valuable networking opportunities and avenues for business exposure. These events serve four primary functions for our members and the community: promote, honor, connect, and grow.

Promote

Business Expo and Taste of Conway as well as the Teacher Breakfast and Education Fair are businessto-business and industry-specific trade shows that allow companies to exhibit products and services to hundreds of potential customers.

Honor

Awards programs such as Annual Meeting, Academic Signing Day, Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Awards Gala, and Women in Business celebrate achievements and recognize the contributions of individuals and businesses in the Conway area.

Connect

Fun and informal networking events such as Bowling for Business and Business After Hours give individuals the opportunity to develop relationships with others in the Conway-area business community.

Grow

CEO Luncheons and Leadercast feature local and internationally known leaders who inform and inspire business professionals by sharing their experiences and advice.

2015 Community Profile & Resource Guide | 9

CONWAY + ECONOMY Growth and Stability that Stand Out From the billion-dollar-a-year technology company to the family-owned small business, Conway offers fertile ground for business growth. With more than 40,000 jobs in the city and surrounding area, Conway is the secondary job market in the Little Rock– North Little Rock–Conway Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Faulkner County is among the top 25 places for job growth in the United States, according to recent rankings by CNNMoney – a service of CNN, Fortune Magazine and Money Magazine. It is also one of the most diverse economies in the United States, enjoys low unemployment, and is fueled by an educated workforce.

The discovery and development of natural gas in the region places Conway at the nucleus of Arkansas’ energy industry. Combined with a fast-growing technology sector and $300 million underway in commercial construction, the area is poised for future growth.

Conway Conway++Education Economy

Here comes the

BOOM! In 2016, the first of a number of high-profile, commercial construction projects will open in Conway. However, residents of Conway don’t have to wait nearly that long to witness the impact of more than $300 million in commercial construction.

“When you look three to five years into Conway’s future, I think it’s hard to imagine how transformative these projects will be,” said Brad Lacy, president and CEO of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce. “Any one of them impacts the city in a big way. Together, they positively change what Conway feels like to visitors and residents.”

Central Landing When Conway voters passed a September 2014 bond issue to improve access to their former airport site, they paved the way to a new retail future for Conway. The 150-acre Central Landing development will feature a 250,000-square-foot lifestyle center anchored by a Dillard’s department store and will include more than 40 specialty stores and restaurants.

The Central Landing development will connect to Conway Commons with an overpass spanning Interstate 40. The result will be a regionally significant retail destination serving 10 or more counties in the northern metro. When fully built out, Central Landing will have 600,000 square feet of retail, restaurant, lodging, and outparcel development. Plans for housing and institutional space are also underway.

Lewis Crossing On the southeast corner of Dave Ward Drive and Interstate 40, Lewis Crossing is a 60-acre “power center” development that will feature a Sam’s Wholesale Club, Academy Sports, and several other “big box” style retailers. More than 400,000 square feet of retail and several outparcels for restaurants will anchor the redevelopment of Conway’s Dave Ward exit.

Upon completion, Central Landing and Lewis Crossing will combine to capture an estimated $100 million in retail revenue currently “leaking” out of the Faulkner County economy. They will also create 850 jobs and $24 million in payroll. This doesn’t include the 300 construction jobs created in 2015 and 2016.

Baptist Health Medical Center – Conway Just across the interstate from Lewis Crossing and south of the Acxiom campus, construction is already underway on a $130 million, 96-bed, full-service hospital. The Baptist Health facility will open in early-to-mid 2016 and will employ 450.

The 37-acre project will – almost certainly – be followed by adjacent medical offices and associated operations. As part of a statewide network and Conway’s second fullservice hospital, the new Baptist Medical Center will further establish Conway as a regional destination for health care.

“When you look three to five years into Conway’s future, I think it’s hard to imagine how transformative these projects will be. Any one of them impacts the city in a big way. Together, they positively change what Conway feels like to visitors and residents.”

– Brad Lacy, president and CEO, Conway Area Chamber of Commerce

2015 Community Profile & Resource Guide | 11

Conway + Economy

An Industry 10 Years in the Making When the Fayetteville Shale natural gas play was discovered a decade ago, most Arkansans had little to no knowledge of the energy industry. Arkansas was not an energy-producing state, and there were just a handful of energy-related jobs in our region.

Today, it’s difficult to overestimate the depth and breadth of the impact the natural gas industry has had in Arkansas.

10 YEARS

since the Fayetteville Shale natural gas play was discovered

by Southwestern Energy

$10 BILLION

invested by Southwestern Energy over those last 10 years

4th LEADING STATE

Arkansas is now the 4th leading gas producing state in the lower 48 states

$4 BILLION

in added economic activity from unconventional oil and gas activity

$83,000

The average wage of Arkansas oil and gas jobs

22,000 JOBS

supported by the Fayetteville Shale activity

5 PERCENT

percentage of America’s natural gas reserves home to Arkansas

1 TRILLION CUBIC FEET the amount of natural gas Arkansas produces annually. Enough to power

70,000 HOMES for a year HIGH MARKET VALUE

The market value of oil and natural gas produced in Arkansas today is more than the value of cotton, rice, and soybeans combined.

INCREASED PRODUCTION Arkansas natural gas production has more than doubled over the last five years.

Conway + Economy

Donaghey Avenue Redevelopment Two miles west of the interstate, the University of Central Arkansas is working to redefine the Donaghey Avenue corridor as it embarks on a series of projects that will total more than $50 million. At the intersection of College and Donaghey Avenues, the early phases of a $14 million “Greek Village” will serve as the northern entryway to UCA’s campus.

In the spring of 2015, construction will begin on the $17.5 million “Donaghey Hall” at the intersection of Donaghey Avenue and Bruce Street. Donaghey Hall will have an urban design anchoring the intersection.

Together, these projects will transform the way visitors and residents experience Conway. Our tax base, traffic patterns, and regional impact will improve dramatically.

The commercial construction boom taking place right now in Conway represents an exceptional time in our community’s history and an exciting look into our future.

Conway+ Social @chambergates

September 9, 2014 | 8:45 p.m.

Conway bond rededication FINAL: 78% FOR 22% Against. Passes overwhelmingly. Conway--this is why we CAN have nice things. Thank you!

19 retweets 14 favorites

@ChristinaM716

September 16, 2014 | 6:09 p.m.

UCA Board of Trustees votes unanimously to move forward with the Donaghey project...yay! #excitingtimes #gobears 38 retweets 36 favorites

Conway’s Largest Employers COMPANY

PRODUCT OR SERVICE

Acxiom Corporation University of Central Arkansas Conway Regional Health System Southwestern Energy Company Conway Human Development Center Conway Public School District Wal-Mart Hewlett-Packard Kimberly-Clark Corporation Virco Manufacturing Snap-on Nabholz Companies City of Conway Kroger Hendrix College

Information Technology Education Health Care Natural Gas Exploration

2,000 1,500 1,330 1,300

Institutional Care

1,200

Education Department/Grocery Store (3 stores) Technical Support & Sales Personal Hygiene Products School, Office & Institutional Furniture Diagnostic Equipment Construction Government Grocery Store (2 stores) Education

1,100 915 700 700 600 570 500 415 400 350

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NO. OF EMPLOYEES

CONWAY + EDUCATION A Tradition of Academic Excellence Since its incorporation in the 1870s, Conway has long been noted as a place committed to quality education. As the proud home of three institutions of higher learning, Conway has earned the distinction as the City of Colleges. In 2014, Great Value Colleges ranked Conway No. 2 on its list of 50 Great Affordable College Towns in the U.S. The city also has earned a reputation for its high-achieving public and private school districts. The 2015 Niche Rankings listed Conway School District as the No. 1 Best Public School District in the Little Rock Metro Area and the eighth best public school district in the state of Arkansas. The top-notch educational opportunities Conway offers students in pre-K through 12th grades have been touted as one of the reasons many newcomers decide to call the city home.

Photo courtesy of the University of Central Arkansas.

Conway + Education

During the 2013-14 school year, Conway Public Schools received more than $358,000 in financial incentives for 10 high-performing schools.

The 2015 Niche Rankings listed Conway School District as the No. 1 Best Public School District in the Little Rock Metro Area. ewis Elementary PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM

With more than 9,700 students throughout 15 schools, Conway Public School District is the eighth largest in Arkansas. The district has nine elementary schools that serve kindergarten through fourth grade, four middle op 10% Reward Schools include Carl Stuart Middle schools for grades five through seven, one junior high school 316.48), Carolyn Lewis Elementary ($39,619.08), Ellen Smith for grades eight and nine, and one high school for grades entary ($44,823.78), and Jim Stone Elementary ($41,377.14).

10 through 12. Conway Public Schools also offers a preschool program for eligible families that is located at the Conway op 20% Reward Schools include Bob Courtway Middle Adult Education Center.

818.47), Conway Jr. High ($64,607.27), Julia Lee Moore entary ($14,651.15), Raymond and Phyllis Simon Middle It Pays to Excel 633.93), RuthInDoyle Middle ($24,661.09), and Woodrow 2014, 10 schools in the Conway Public School District mins Elementary ($21,944.88). received financial incentives for being high-performing

schools in the state of Arkansas. The Arkansas School Recognition and Reward Program recognizes the top 20 percent of schools based on academic achievement, academic growth, and graduation rates. In the 2013-2014 school year, the program recognized 206 public schools as high-performing schools.

With 10 schools earning recognition, Conway Public Schools $65,316.48 tied Bentonville Public Schools as having the most reward schools in Arkansas.

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Top 10% Reward Schools

Top 20% Reward Schools

($90.70 per student)

($45.35 per student)

Carl Stuart Middle $65,316.48

Carolyn Lewis Elementary $39,619.08

Ellen Smith Elementary $44,823.78

Jim Stone Elementary $41,377.14

Bob Courtway Middle $21,818.47

Conway Jr. High $64,607.27

Julia Lee Moore Elementary $14,651.15

Simon Middle $19,633.93

Ruth Doyle Middle $24,661.09

Woodrow Cummins Elementary $21,944.88

Schools receiving recognition funds established a committee to determine the best use of the funds. The committee included the principal, a teacher elected by the faculty, and a parent representative selected by the local Parent Teacher Association or another parental involvement group. Schools may use the funds for faculty and staff bonuses, educational equipment and materials, or personnel to assist with improving or maintaining student performance.

Conway + Education

Conway School District 2200 Prince Street 501-450-4800 ConwaySchools.org @ConwaySchools Founded: 1878 Mascot: Wampus Cat School Colors: Blue & White Elementary Schools (K–4th) Carolyn Lewis 1805 Old Military Road 501-450-4835 Ellen Smith 1601 South Donaghey Avenue 501-450-4815

Jim Stone 4255 College Avenue 501-450-4808 Julia Lee Moore 1301 Country Club Road 501-450-4830 Marguerite Vann 2845 Carl Stuart Road 501-450-4870 Theodore Jones 1800 Freyaldenhoven Lane 501-450-6645 Woodrow Cummins 1400 Padgett Road 501-513-4417

Florence Mattison 2001 Florence Mattison Drive 501-450-4820 Ida Burns 1201 Donaghey Avenue 501-450-4825

Middle Schools (5th–7th) Bob Courtway 1200 Bob Courtway Drive 501-450-4832 Carl Stuart 2745 Carl Stuart Road 501-329-2782 Raymond and Phyllis Simon 1601 East Siebenmorgan 501-513-6120 Ruth Doyle 800 Padgett Road 501-450-6675 Conway Junior High (8th–9th) 1815 Prince Street 501-450-4860 Conway High School (10th–12th) 2300 Prince Street 501-450-4880

Conway High School

Conway + Education

PRIVATE AND PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS St. Joseph Catholic School 502 Front Street 501-329-5741 StJosephConway.org @SJSBulldogs Founded: 1879 Mascot: Bulldog School Colors: Purple & Gold St. Joseph School has provided quality, Catholic education to students in Conway for 135 years. Its ultimate goal is to integrate faith and learning in order to develop the whole person: soul, mind, and body. St. Joseph has a current enrollment of 500 students in preschool through 12th grade and is accredited by the Arkansas Nonpublic School Accrediting Association.

Conway Christian School 500 East German Lane 501-336-9067 ConwayChristianSchool.org @ConwayChristian Founded: 1992 Mascot: Eagle School Colors: Blue, White & Red Conway Christian School, established in 1992, provides a comprehensive educational program for 455 students in preschool through 12th grade.

The interdenominational, college preparatory school represents more than 65 churches and is accredited by the Arkansas Nonpublic School Accrediting Association and the Association of Christian Schools International.

2015 Community Profile & Resource Guide | 21

Conway + Education Photo courtesy of Central Baptist College.

Photo courtesy of Hendrix College.

Photo courtesy of the University of Central Arkansas.

HIGHER EDUCATION Conway is the proud home of three institutions of higher learning, earning it the distinction as the “City of Colleges.” Central Baptist College, Hendrix College, and the University of Central Arkansas consistently produce graduates who stay in the area and enter the workforce. This is part of the reason Conway surpasses the state and national averages when it comes to the educational attainment rate – more than one-third of Conway’s adults age 25 or older have a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Central Baptist College 1501 College Avenue 501-329-6872 CBC.edu @CentBaptCollege

Hendrix College

Central Baptist College is a fouryear, private, liberal arts college affiliated with the Baptist Missionary Association of Arkansas.

Hendrix College is a four-year, private college of liberal arts affiliated with the United Methodist Church.

Founded: 1952 (predecessor Central College founded in 1893) Fall 2014 Enrollment: 858 Mascot: Mustang School Colors: Blue & Gray Degrees Offered: • 41 bachelor’s degrees • 5 associate degrees • 24 minors

22 | Conway+

1600 Washington Avenue 501-329-6811 Hendrix.edu @HendrixCollege

Founded: 1876 (moved to Conway in 1890) Fall 2014 Enrollment: 1,358 Mascot: Warrior School Colors: Orange & Black Degrees Offered: • 34 undergraduate majors • 37 minors • M.A. in accounting

University of Central Arkansas 201 Donaghey Avenue 501-450-5000 UCA.edu @UCABears University of Central Arkansas is a four-year, state-run institution and is the fourth largest university by enrollment in Arkansas.

Founded: 1907 Fall 2014 Enrollment: 11,698 Mascot: Bear School Colors: Purple and Gray Degrees Offered: • 80 undergraduate degree programs • 14 graduate certificates • 31 master’s degrees • 6 specialist degrees • 5 doctoral programs

Conway + Education

Fast Facts BEST REGIONAL COLLEGE

CBC ranks 69th in the category of “Best Regional College” among regional colleges in the South.*

VISION 2020: PROJECT #3

In the fall of 2014, CBC opened Dickson Hall, the third of 10 construction projects scheduled as part of the Vision 2020 plan. The new 150-bed, three-story residence hall is the first housing project on campus in 49 years.

MILITARY FRIENDLY SCHOOL

CBC is among the nation’s top 15 percent of colleges, universities, and trade schools recognized as Military Friendly Schools®.

#1 IN THE NATION

Hendrix college is the No. 1 “Up and Coming” liberal arts college in the nation and is No. 8 among liberal arts colleges that demonstrate “A Strong Commitment to Teaching.”*

FIVE YEARS OF GROWTH

First-time undergraduate enrollment at UCA has increased for five consecutive years. The fall enrollment for UCA’s 2014 freshman class is 2,232 students.

TOP PUBLIC SCHOOL DIVERSE STUDENT BODY

New student enrollment at Hendrix College in the fall 2014 semester includes 338 new students from 25 states and five international countries, including China, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Rwanda, and Singapore. The Class of 2018 includes 161 Arkansas students, including 41 Arkansas Governor’s Distinguished Scholarships recipients.

*2015 Best Colleges Rankings, U.S. News & World Report

UCA ranks 29th in the category of “Top Public Schools” among regional universities in the South.*

GREEK VILLAGE UNDERWAY

In the fall of 2015, more than 160 students will occupy five, two-story sorority houses in UCA’s new Greek Village. The first wing of a Greek community center is also under construction.

Conway + Education

Q & A With Hendrix President

Dr. William M. (Bill) Tsutsui is the 11th president of Hendrix College, a top-tier national liberal arts college founded in 1876. An award-winning teacher and scholar, Dr. Tsutsui is the author of numerous books on modern Japanese history, including Godzilla on My Mind: Fifty Years of the King of Monsters.

Photo courtesy of Hendrix College.

What do you see as Hendrix College’s role in the Conway community?

With three thriving institutions of higher education, Conway is one of America’s great college towns. Hendrix, with its deep roots in this community, is part of Conway’s DNA. It’s hard sometimes even to figure out where the college ends and the city begins: our faculty, staff, and students are deeply involved in the life of Conway and we have so many alums in the area. I also think that every couple in Central Arkansas gets their wedding photos taken on the campus!

What do you wish more people locally knew about Hendrix?

Most people know about our strong academic reputation, our unique traditions (like the century-old Shirttails dance competition), and our affiliation with the United Methodist

Church. Fewer folks realize that the highly personalized education we offer is within the reach of all families, thanks to the generous financial aid packages we provide students.

What are your first impressions of Conway and central Arkansas?

It is hard to miss that Conway is one of the friendliest places around. We have natural beauty all around us and one of the most dynamic, entrepreneurial business communities I have ever encountered. But what really makes Conway special is the genuine warmth of the folks here. My wife and I felt at home even before we unpacked our car!

What excites you most about the future of Hendrix College?

Hendrix has always been a launch pad for bright young people, no matter

where they’re from, how much education their parents had, or how much money they have in the bank. I think it is thrilling that Hendrix will still be offering students transformative experiences in an accepting, supportive community for generations to come.

What advice do you have for someone new to our community?

Enjoy all that Conway and Faulkner County have to offer, from the terrific shops and restaurants in The Village, to the distinctive local businesses downtown, to performances by the Conway Symphony and the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre.

And, of course, send all your kids to one of our great local colleges!

3725 College Ave. Conway, AR 72034 501.327.4600 Enjoy “made from scratch” meals while watching horses in the arena!

Our facilities and services include: * * * * *

One 18-stall show stable One 27-stall show stable 240 x 140 ft. outdoor arena 50 ft. outdoor round pen 250 x 130 ft. covered arena

~ All stalls include: automatic waterers, fly control system, and outside runs (most are 48 ft.) ~ Professional Horse Training ~ Riding Lessons and Hourly Riding ~ Horses available for Sale and Lease

Contact us today to schedule your Party, Reunion, Meeting, Wedding or other Special Event! www.BackAchersRanch.com or www.LegendsAtBackAchers.com

24 | Conway+

Crain Kia of Conway

810 South Amity Drive Conway, AR 72032 (501)470-7000

2015 Kia Sorento

2015 Kia Soul

2015 Kia Sportage

Sales Hours:

Monday-Saturday: 9:00am-8:00pm Sunday: Closed

2015 Kia Optima

Service:

2015 Kia Rio

Monday-Friday: 7:00am-6:00pm Saturday-7:30am-3:00pm Sunday: Closed

2015 Kia Forte

CONWAY+ LIFESTYLE Quality of Place When you consider all Conway has to offer, it comes as no surprise that the city of more than 60,000 is the fastest growing city in Arkansas. Located just 30 miles from Little Rock in the heart of The Natural State, Conway is home to two colleges and one university, a premier medical center complex (and another medical center under construction), numerous cultural and recreational opportunities, and a growing and diverse economy.

Although the population has more than doubled in the past 25 years and continues to grow at a rate faster than Arkansas’ other large cities, Conway has retained its small-town charm and community spirit. Residents can find many ways to get involved in the community through service organizations, civic clubs, and churches.

The Village at Hendrix.

Conway + Lifestyle

CONWAY + OUTREACH

One of the best things about Conway is the way its people reach out to each other, whether in the face of crises or long-term need. The city’s many churches and service organizations make it possible for individuals and families to connect with and give back to the place they call home.

Volunteer Conway Volunteer Conway makes it easy for residents to find ways to help others.

The organization connects volunteers, nonprofit organizations, and the community by coordinating service activities that benefit good causes.

Volunteer Conway maintains VolunteerHub, an online tool that allows any community member to choose when, where, and for whom they would like to volunteer. Volunteer Conway also organizes the annual “Big Event,” a community-wide volunteer effort. More than 500 volunteers participated in the 2014 Big Event.

Temporary Assistance DISASTER RELIEF American Red Cross of Greater Arkansas 813 Parkway Avenue 501-329-3571 RedCross.org/Arkansas SHELTERS & HOUSING ASSISTANCE Bethlehem House 1115 Parkway Avenue 501-329-4862 BethlehemHouse.net Habitat for Humanity of Faulkner County 825 Parkway Avenue, Suite A 501-513-3244 HabitatForHumanityFaulknerCounty.org HAVEN House (Help for Abuse Victims in Emergency Need) 501-327-1701 CAIInc.org Soaring Wings Ranch 501-849-2253 SWRanch.org Women’s Shelter of Central Arkansas 501-329-7405 ConwayWomensShelter.com

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Programs for Children & Youth Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arkansas 1105 Deer Street, Suite 14 501-336-9505 BBBSCA.org Boy Scouts of America – Quapaw Area Council 3220 Cantrell Road, Little Rock 501-664-4780 QuapawBSA.org Boys & Girls Club of Faulkner County 1405 Robins Street 501-329-8849 BGCFaulkner.org Children’s Advocacy Alliance of North Central Arkansas 707 Parkway Avenue, Suite 101 501-328-3347 HopeAndJustice.org Community Connections 2740 College Avenue 501-329-5459 CommunityConnectionsAR.org Community Service Inc. 818 North Creek Drive 501-327-9788 CommunityServiceInc.com Conway Cradle Care 2400 Prince Street 501-730-0017 CradleCare.org

Conway + Lifestyle

Girl Scouts Diamonds of Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas – Faulkner County Chapter 615 West 29th Street, North Little Rock 501-758-1020 GirlScoutsDiamonds.org

Programs for Seniors Faulkner County Council on Aging (Conway Senior Wellness & Activity Center) 705 East Siebenmorgen Road 501-327-2895 FCSeniors.com

Health & Wellness Conway Interfaith Clinic 830 North Creek Drive 501-932-0559 ConwayInterfaithClinic.org

Life Choices Inc. 609 Locust Street, 2nd Floor 501-329-5944 LifeChoicesInc.org

Developmental Disabilities Conway Human Development Center 150 East Siebenmorgen Road 501-329-6851 CHDCOnline.com Faulkner County Council on Developmental Disabilities 1301 North Museum Road 501-327-3037 Faulkner County Day School 1700 South Boulevard 501-329-2164 FCDS-Conway.org

Independent Living Services 615 East Robins Street 501-327-5234 IndLiving.org

Conway + Lifestyle

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Community Outreach

City of Hope Outreach 608 East Robins Street 501-205-1614 CityHopeOutreach.com Community Action Program for Central Arkansas 707 Robins Street, Suite 118 501-329-0977 CAPCAInc.org United Way of Central Arkansas 1120 Oak Street 501-327-5087 UnitedWayCentralArk.org

Donations Humane Society of Faulkner County Companions Thrift Store 2219 Washington Avenue 501-932-4444 FixingFaulknerCounty.com The Salvation Army of Conway Thrift Store 950 Carson Cove 501-329-1712 SalvationArmyUSA.org The Louise & Anne Thrift & Flea Market at St. Joseph School 1313 College Avenue 501-513-6899 StJosephConway.org

St. Joseph Catholic Church.

Conway + Lifestyle

CONWAY + LIVING

With its central location in The Natural State, low cost of living, and strong economy, Conway is the type of community people dream of when choosing a place to relocate and raise a family. Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle combined with the powerful energy of a college town.

Conway offers an eclectic mix of housing from which residents may choose, ranging from studio apartments to historic homes; starter homes to dream homes. Mixed-use neighborhoods are the newest housing trend. These neighborhoods offer apartments, town homes, and garden homes within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and offices.

Conway also has numerous apartment complexes in every quadrant of the city, as well as a selection of duplexes scattered among the single-family residences in older sections of town. For those who enjoy urban living, downtown Conway offers an increasing number of apartments, lofts, and studios above the retail establishments.

Retirement Communities Although it is known as a college town, Conway attracts many retirees.

The city offers senior adults topnotch health care and a variety of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities. Housing options are available for retirees, including single-family homes, age-restricted residential communities, and active retirement complexes.

College Square 2421 College Avenue 501-327-6227 CollegeSquareRetirement.com Emeritus at Trillium Park 1160 Hogan Lane 501-513-4300 Emeritus.com HomeTowne at Conway 1750 Village Commons Drive 501-329-3336 HomeTowneConway.com

The Village at Hendrix.

The Park at Whispering Pines 605 First Avenue 501-513-9205 Southridge Village 1306 South Donaghey Avenue 501-327-3030 SouthridgeVillage.com Village Park of Conway, Inc. 1622 Scott Street 501-327-6428 VillageParkOfConway.com

Fast Facts THE “TYPICAL�

CONWAY HOME Median Price

$148,000

Median Price

$90

Median Size

1700 sq. ft.

Median Age

16 years

(per square foot)

2015 Community Profile & Resource Guide | 31

Conway + Lifestyle

Utilities & Public Services

Conway Corporation 1307 Prairie Street 501-450-6000 ConwayCorp.com Conway Corporation is a private, nonprofit corporation that operates the city-owned electric, water, wastewater, cable television, broadband Internet, and telephone services within the city limits. The municipal utility allows residents to enjoy reliable service and reasonable rates.

Conway Corporation has been part of the Conway community since 1929, when the Conway City Council first franchised the corporation to operate the city’s electric light plant. Conway Corporation was created at the time out of a need in the community to raise revenue to help keep Hendrix College and Central Baptist College in Conway. The company has

stayed true to its original mission of supporting education and serving the community.

City of Conway Sanitation Department 4550 Highway 64 West 501-450-6155 ConwaySanitation.org Conway Sanitation provides a 96-gallon trash container to each of the 21,000 homes within the city limits. It also encourages residents to participate in its convenient and free curbside recycling program. Conway’s recycling program is a co-mingled program, meaning all recyclables – with the exception of glass – can be mixed together in a blue, cityprovided, recycling cart. A recycling bin for glass is available to Conway residents at no charge and is picked up on the same day as garbage. More than twothirds of Conway residents participate in the elective recycling program.

Directory Search Search our membership directory at conwaychamber.org/directory to locate real estate agents, rental property management companies, and retirement and assisted living communities in the Conway area.

CenterPoint Energy 817 North Creek Drive | 800-992-7552 CenterPointEnergy.com CenterPoint Energy provides natural gas services to residential and business customers in Conway.

Entergy Arkansas 112 Oak Street | 800-368-3749 Entergy-Arkansas.com Entergy Arkansas provides electricity to residences outside of Conway’s city limits.

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Dynamic Duos Linda Linn & Lori Case Melton

Linda Linn has owned and operated multiple successful businesses during her almost 50-year career in Faulkner County. Lori Case Melton has worked in the Faulkner County banking industry for 20 years. She has twice been named Arkansas Bank Marketer of the Year. Linda and Lori co-chaired the $2.5 million “Make it Happen” campaign to build the new Ola and John Hawks Wellness and Activity Center.

How did you get involved in this effort?

LL: Last year, Deborah Robinson, executive director with the Faulkner County Senior Citizens Program, called me and said their board approved buying the Agora Center for a new Senior Citizens Center.

The campaign would be $2 million plus. She asked if I would co-chair. I told her that I would if we could find a strong cochair and a donor to help kick the campaign off. We agreed to write some names down and get back together the next day. When Lori Case Melton’s name came up, I knew that if we could get her to say yes, our jobs would be a lot easier, and we would have a much better chance of succeeding.

LM: I knew how important the Faulkner County Senior Citizens Center is to this area and how they had outgrown their current facility. I have had many family members take advantage of their services. And since I’m no spring chicken, I wanted a great party place for my friends and me when we hit that age – and it’s not that far away. But the main reason is Linda asked and I, too, can’t say no to Linda.

Had you ever worked together on a project before?

What did you know about her?

LL: Not directly. I knew her from around town and knew her reputation as a hard worker and one of the best marketing persons in this area. I knew that Lori was from Mt. Vernon, was Eddie Hawkins’ sister, knew everybody in town, and didn’t have a bashful bone in her body!

Well that, along with marketing experience, made her the perfect co-chair. When I called her, she agreed to serve as a co-chair, and we met over breakfast at IHOP. We stayed so long we had to leave an extra tip! We made more lists (we thought) than anyone would ever need, but we used most of them at some time or another throughout the year.

LM: I worked on a very small project years ago and realized I liked her style and I really wanted to partner with her in the future. I have admired and respected her business acumen my entire career.

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Describe your team approach. What was Linda/Lori especially good at?

LL: We quickly became a team of four with Deborah Robinson, executive director; Nancy Rowell, fiscal administrator; Lori; and myself. Our committee was made up of people throughout the community and without them, it wouldn’t have been possible.

I feel fortunate to have been able to get to know Lori, Deborah, and Nancy better. I am left with three people I know I can count on. I now consider each of them good friends.

LM: Linda is someone with a contact list out the door. She is one of those people when Linda calls, you answer. And it is hard to say no to her. So Linda did a lot of individual and corporate calling, and I did the organizing of the committee, the database management, and then used my event fundraising experience to coordinate several fundraising projects, primarily the Conway Auto Dealer campaign and the Phone-a-thon.

Anything particularly funny or meaningful take place during the campaign? Anything that stood out?

LL: Early in the campaign, Ms. Ola Hawks made the donation for herself and John that kicked off the campaign. This along with Conway Corp and some CDBG money really energized all of us to know that we could MAKE THIS HAPPEN for our community. The building is now known as the Ola and John Hawks Fitness and Wellness Center.

LM: It was funny the day Linda realized she was eligible for the services at the senior center. When she took on the project, she didn’t get that part. Another funny is I turned 50 in the middle of the campaign, and the folks at the center held a surprise birthday party for me. How could I let being 50 be a bummer when I was the youngest person in the room?

These folks have proven to me that getting older is something to look forward to, not be afraid of. The grand opening of the center was probably my proudest moment as a businesswoman in Conway. The facility is wonderful and has improved the quality of life for thousands of local folks.

Debra Robinson & Nancy Rowell

The September 2014 grand opening of the Ola and John Hawks Senior Wellness and Activity Center was a career highlight for Debra Robinson and Nancy Rowell. Robinson, executive director of the Faulkner County Council on Aging, and Rowell, fiscal administrator, have worked together for more than 18 years.

Did you know each other before working together?

NR: Yes, actually my mother worked with Debra for 17 years. So I’ve known her for almost 37 years. She loved Debra. I’m sure she is smiling down on us and amazed that I have now surpassed her number of years and that through it all, Debra is STILL here!

DR: Yes, Nancy’s mother and I started working at the Faulkner County Senior Citizens Program about the same time in 1978.

We worked together for years, so – through Myrna – Nancy and I have known each other since we were both about 20 years old. We can remember each other’s bad “80s hair.”

Following a $2.5 million capital campaign, the Conway Senior Wellness & Activity Center opened the doors to its new location in September 2014.

Standing, from left: Lori Case Melton, Nancy Rowell, and Debra Robinson.

Seated: Linda Linn.

What is Debra/Nancy especially good at?

NR: Debra has an unbelievable talent for handling 100 things all at once but staying relaxed. She treats everyone with kindness and respect. She doesn’t just act like she cares about people. She really does care. She is one of the most genuine people I’ve ever known.

DR: Nancy is very organized. There are many decisions I don’t make until I have talked it over with her. She is very levelheaded and can help me see all sides of a complicated situation. I trust her judgment tremendously, and she always works until the job is done.

Did anything particularly funny or meaningful take place during the campaign? Anything that stood out?

NR: The day before the grand opening, we wanted everything to be perfect. We found out the bronze plaque for the front of the building honoring Ola and John Hawks wasn’t going to be ready. Debra was fighting back tears (unsuccessfully). Ola is so wonderful we knew it wouldn’t matter to her, but it mattered to us.

Debra was finally consoled by the fact the big “Ola and John Hawks Center” sign along the street was in place. Just about that time, a lady came running into the building to tell us there was a fire out front. The sign’s spotlight had ignited some mulch, and we almost scorched the one sign we did have.

NOW, it’s funny. But it wasn’t at the time.

DR: One of the funny things that stands out for me is that I now know I never want to be a wedding planner. We owned the building for a year before we were able to renovate the kitchen and move in. During that year, we honored commitments made to people when the building had been an event center. That meant preparing for several weddings. At one time in my life I thought that would be a fun job. It’s not!

The new facility includes a fitness center and a walking track to keep seniors active and encourage social interaction.

What’s been most meaningful for us personally has been all of the friendships we’ve made and the people the campaign brought together. It is hard for us to believe that just two years ago we didn’t know Linda and Lori. Our lives are so much richer for friendships and the incredible community support we realize we have.

2015 Community Profile & Resource Guide | 35

Photos courtesy of Conway Regional Health System.

CONWAY +

HEALTH CARE Quality Care Right Here at Home According to the 2013 County Health Rankings and Roadmaps program, Faulkner County ranks among the top three healthiest counties in the state of Arkansas. The study ranked counties based on mortality or morbidity rates and how health behaviors, clinical care, social and economic factors, and physical environment influence the health of each county.

Faulkner County citizens are in good hands when it comes to their health care. Residents have access to Conway Regional Health System, the state’s leader in heart health and the recipient of the prestigious 2014 Governor’s Award for Performance Excellence. And in early 2016, Baptist Health – the largest, not-for-profit health care organization in Arkansas – will open a new 96-bed medical center in Conway.

Conway + Health Care

Conway Regional

HEALTH SYSTEM Conway Regional Health System provides complete, compassionate health care services to the growing communities of north-central Arkansas. The 154-bed, not-forprofit medical center serves patients with comprehensive care – including the state’s top-rated cardiovascular surgery program – as well as cancer diagnosis and treatment, women’s services, and rehabilitation therapy services.

Conway Regional sponsors dozens of health fairs and screenings each year. The health system works with numerous philanthropic organizations throughout the community to provide programs that benefit people of all ages and income levels. Conway Regional also offers support programs to help families and patients through difficult situations, such as cancer treatment, diabetes management, and the tragic loss of an infant.

Conway Regional Health System provides inpatient and outpatient health care services to Faulkner County and the surrounding area.

As a not-for-profit health system, Conway Regional is committed to reinvesting in health care services that benefit the communities it serves.

Additional components of the Conway Regional Health System include an all-digital outpatient imaging center, an outpatient surgery center, a freestanding rehabilitation hospital, several primary care clinics, and one of the largest hospital-owned fitness centers in the nation.

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The Conway Police Department reduced its emissions and cut its fuel costs — all by converting its fleet to run on domestic natural gas, produced right here in Arkansas. And now, Satterfield Fuel’s new CNG station just made serving and protecting even easier. Think about it.

Protecting our neighborhoods — and our environment

Conway + Health Care

Gov. Mike Beebe and Dr. Mark Enderle, Medical Center Director of Veterans Health Care Center of the Ozarks in Fayetteville, present the Governor’s Award for Performance Excellence to Jim Lambert, President and CEO of Conway Regional Health System.

Conway Regional Achieves Governor’s Top

AWARD FOR QUALITY Gov. Mike Beebe presented the Governor’s Award for Performance Excellence to Conway Regional Health System during the 20th annual Awards Celebration for the Governor’s Quality Award in September 2014.

In all, 28 organizations from throughout the state were presented quality awards during the celebration at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Little Rock.

Conway Regional was the only health care organization achieving the Governor’s Award, which is the highest award bestowed by the quality awards program. Conway Regional is also the first organization from its five-county market area (Faulkner, Perry, Van Buren, Cleburne, and Conway counties) to achieve this prestigious award. In 2013, Conway Regional was awarded the Achievement Award – the second-highest level – in its first year to apply.

40 | Conway+

The goal of the Governor’s Quality Award Program is to encourage Arkansas organizations to engage in continuous quality improvement, which leads to performance excellence, and to provide significant recognition to those organizations. Created as a notfor-profit organization, the program is dedicated to assist in building a strong infrastructure for Arkansas businesses. That dedication is reflected in the program’s vision to be a catalyst for excellence in organizational performance. The Governor’s Quality Award program partners with the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce.

Conway Regional was the only health care organization to receive the 2014 Governor’s Award.

Conway Conway+ +Health Education Care

Fast Facts

154 beds 70,000 sq.ft. medically based Health & Fitness Center

1,800 babies born in 2013

40,000 visits

average of Emergency Department visits annually

12-bed

Intensive Care/Cardiac Care Unit

125 physicians $60 million

amount invested in technology and services over the last decade

1921

year the hospital was established in Conway

1,400 employees 100+ volunteers 4 primary care clinics

serving Clinton, Conway, Greenbrier, and Mayflower

Conway + Health Care

Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway to

OPEN IN EARLY 2016 In July 2014, Baptist Health celebrated the official start of construction on its new Conway hospital. Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway will be located on 37 acres on the west side of Interstate 40 near Exit 126. The 216,000-square-foot facility will have 96 beds, eight operating rooms, and a Level III trauma-center emergency room. It is projected to open in the first quarter of 2016.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for Baptist Health to expand services to the residents of the Conway area,” Baptist Health president and CEO Troy Wells said in a press release.

“Conway and the surrounding areas deserve the best in health care services, and we can’t wait to meet their needs in a state-of-theart facility. Not only will this new hospital serve this community’s health needs, but it will also contribute to an increase in local employment, and it will help to attract new businesses.”

The $130 million construction project will generate approximately 250 jobs. At the time of completion, Baptist Health Medical CenterConway will employ around 425 health care professionals and staff committed to improving the health of the community.

“This new three-story medical center will address the health care needs of Faulkner County and surrounding

42 | Conway+

areas, which have experienced unprecedented population growth over the past 10 years,” Wells said.

Baptist Health purchased the land to build the full-service hospital in late 2013. The organization collaborated on this project with more than 30

Conway-based physicians to develop the new medical center.

Baptist Health Medical CenterConway will operate as a not-forprofit, faith-based community hospital offering comprehensive clinical services.

Conway + Health Care

2015 Community Profile & Resource Guide | 43

Conway + Health Care

HERE’S TO GOOD HEALTH Healthy Workplaces With the rising costs of medical care and health insurance, many Conway employers have implemented wellness programs that are mutually beneficial to both the company and its employees. Research has shown that companies with worksite wellness programs have reduced health care costs as well as employee absences and on-the-job injuries. Companies with worksite wellness programs may also experience an increase in productivity and employee morale.

Conway-based Nabholz Construction Services has received national recognition for its wellness program.

The construction company introduced the Nabholz Wellness Program in January 2007, which has resulted in improved health for employees and below average increases in health insurance rates. In 2012, Nabholz was featured in the HBO documentary series The Weight of the Nation for the success of its wellness program.

Conway + Health Care

Local Eating In recent years, individuals and organizations across the country have embraced the local food movement to counteract American society’s reliance on fast and processed foods. “Locavores” advocate eating locally produced foods as a way to make healthier food choices, conserve energy, and support local farmers, among other reasons.

Established in 2008, Conway Locally Grown is an online farmers market that coordinates with local farmers to provide Conway with fresh, high-quality produce, eggs, meat, and dairy throughout the year. All products sold at Conway Locally Grown are produced within 150 miles and many are organic.

Customers can place orders from 6 p.m. on Sundays to 10 p.m. on Tuesdays. Orders are delivered to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church every Friday. For more information, visit Conway.LocallyGrown.net.

Conway also has two outdoor farmers markets. The Conway, Arkansas Farmers Market is open biweekly at 150 Amity Road and features 29 vendors, including local farmers, artisans, and live music.

Conway + Health Care

Directory Search

Conway + Social

Community Health Providers

Residents of Conway and the surrounding area are able to choose among numerous doctors, dentists, behavioral health specialists, chiropractors, physical therapists, and other health care professionals for their health care. In addition, a number of health care organizations in the area provide low-cost medical care to the uninsured and underinsured. Search our membership directory at conwaychamber.org/directory for health care providers in the Conway area.

@Conway_Chamber May 7, 2014 | 1:52 p.m.

@BarackObama recognizes the life-saving work of @ConwayRegional’s ER Dept.

We are proud of their work. #ObamaAR 213 retweets 176 favorites

@chamberbrad

September 15, 2014 | 8:52 p.m.

Congrats to @ConwayRegional for winning the 2014 Governor’s Quality Award for Performance Excellence. Proud!

4 retweets 3 favorites

@BaptistHealthAR July 7, 2014 | 10:47 a.m.

Gov. Beebe helping us break ground on our newest hospital, Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway.

4 retweets 3 favorites

@ConwayRegional

September 15, 2014 | 8:33 p.m.

Conway Regional named recipient of state’s highest quality award— Governor’s Quality Award for Performance Excellence!

12 retweets 8 favorites​

46 | Conway+

Conway + Health Care

Photo courtesy of Soaring Wings Half Marathon.

The market opens the second week of May and runs through October. The Downtown Conway Farmers and Crafts Market is located at 1132 Front Street and offers a variety of vegetables, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Its season also runs from May through October.

Active Lifestyles Those looking to get in shape or maintain their active lifestyle can choose from several gyms and fitness centers that fit a variety of schedules, activity levels, and budgets. Conway also has a strong walking and running community. The volunteer-based Conway Running Club is a member of the Road Runners Club of America and is dedicated to promoting running, walking, and other fitness-related activities in the Conway area.

Runners of all paces and skill levels meet at regular times during the week for group runs. The cost of membership is $15 per year and covers the entire family.

Corporate wellness programs, online and outdoor farmers markets, and an abundance of fitness opportunities can help Conway residents maintain or improve their health.

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CONWAY + LEISURE Experience All Conway Has to Offer From sporting events to the fine and performing arts, there’s no shortage of things to do in Conway. Individuals committed to fostering a vibrant arts community have established galleries, a symphony, live theater groups, art schools, and more to enable children and adults to cultivate their appreciation for the arts. Furthermore, the presence of the University of Central Arkansas, Hendrix College, and Central Baptist College contribute to the city’s strong cultural scene.

Conway’s award-winning, well-maintained parks and recreational facilities have made the city a destination for youth sports.

Each year, Conway hosts approximately 50 youth tournaments in a variety of competitive sports, attracting thousands of young athletes and their families to the city each year.

Conway Conway + Education + Leisure

ARTS + CULTURE

As the fastest growing city in Arkansas and home to three colleges, Conway is ripe for having a thriving arts scene.

Residents and visitors appreciate opportunities to attend diverse events hosted by a number of Conway-based arts and cultural organizations.

Enjoy activities for the entire family.

Arkansas Educational Television Network 350 South Donaghey Avenue www.aetn.org 501-682-2386 AETN offers lifelong learning opportunities through high-quality educational television programs and services. Nearly one-half of all Arkansas television viewers turn to AETN first for programs that help people learn. AETN also hosts an annual Family Day at its headquarters in Conway.

Blackbird Academy of Arts 1058 Front Street, Suite 102 www.blackbirdacademy.org 501-336-8200

Faulkner County Library 1900 West Tyler Street www.fcl.org 501-327-7482 In addition to its wide range of books, research materials, electronic media, and other collections, Faulkner County Library hosts a variety of programs for children and adults. Panel discussions; musical programs; book discussions; story time; crafts; and classes in sign language, yoga, and knitting are just some of the regular programs you’ll find on the library’s calendar.

Explore the history of The Natural State.

Faulkner County Museum 801 Locust Street www.faulknercountymuseum.org 501-329-5918 Faulkner County Museum displays the history of the area from prehistory to the present. Exhibits on sports memorabilia, antique tools, Native Americans, a model railroad, agriculture, and politics can be found in one of two historic buildings on the museum grounds.

Photo courtesy of Blackbird Academy of Arts.

Blackbird Academy of Arts offers programs for children and adults, such as pre-professional dance training and classes in music, filmmaking, theater, visual arts, creative writing, and sewing. Students have the opportunity to share their gifts with the community through performances, art shows, readings, and more.

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Conway + Leisure

Appreciate Art.

Conway ArtsFest in Simon Park.

Art on the Green 1100 Bob Courtway Drive, Suite 1 www.artonthegreen.net 501-205-1922 Art on the Green displays the works of local artists in a 3,000-square-foot museum-style gallery. The gallery rotates its art every three months. Art on the Green also offers classes in a variety of media, including watercolor, oil, and glass fusion.

ArtsFest – Conway Alliance for the Arts (CAFTA) www.artsfestconway.com/cafta Conway Alliance for the Arts promotes the arts in Conway and central Arkansas through a unified forum made up of representatives from Blackbird Academy of Arts, Conway Community Arts Association, Conway Symphony Orchestra, Conway League of Artists, and the city’s colleges and public and private schools. CAFTA hosts the annual ArtsFest each fall in downtown Conway. ArtsFest includes a number of activities geared toward art lovers of all ages.

Mirazozo Luminarium.

Photo courtesy of the Baum Gallery.

2015 Community Profile & Resource Guide | 51

Conway + Leisure Baum Gallery 201 Donaghey Avenue www.uca/edu/art/baum 501-450-5793 The Baum Gallery is an educational art museum located in the west wing of McCastlain Hall at the University of Central Arkansas. The gallery, which is open to the public, develops free exhibitions and events that invite interaction and encourage dialogue about visual art and relevant topics.

Flowers Galleri-E 915 Oak Street, Suites 114 &115 501-428-8275 Flowers Galleri-E, Conway’s newest art gallery, opened in the fall of 2014 in downtown Conway. The gallery features the work of local artists.

The Art School 915 Oak Street, Suite 112 ConwayArtSchool.com 501-269-1208 The Art School of Conway offers a traditional fine arts program for children.

Founded by Hendrix College alumnae Jo Claire Dodson in 2002, The Art School provides students with individualized art instruction. Students have won more than 250 awards on the local, state, and national levels.

See live performances.

Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre www.arkshakes.com 501-428-4165 Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre the state’s only professional Shakespeare company, brings to Conway professional performers from around the country and provides opportunities for local performers as well. AST produces a selection of the Bard’s plays, along with other productions, during its annual summer festival.

The company operates under the aegis of the University of Central Arkansas Foundation.

The Lantern Theatre – Conway Community Arts Association 1021 Van Ronkle www.conwayarts.org Conway Community Arts Association is a volunteer-run, live theater group that provides professional and dynamic theatrical experiences throughout the year.

The productions take place at The Lantern Theatre, and roles

Reynolds Performance Hall – UCA Public Appearances 201 Donaghey Avenue www.uca.edu/publicappearances 501-450-3682 UCA Public Appearances is an annual series under the auspices of the University of Central Arkansas College of Fine Arts and Communication. The organization develops and presents performing arts programming to Conway and the central Arkansas community. Performances take place in the 1,200-seat Donald W. Reynolds Performance Hall. Since it opened in 2000, Reynolds Performance Hall has hosted numerous celebrities as well as presented national and international tours.

Hendrix College Special Events 1600 Washington Avenue www.hendrix.edu/specialevents 501-329-6811 Hendrix College hosts a variety of artists and performances throughout the year through a program called “Special Events Programs in the Fine and Performing Arts.” The performances are free to students and the public. The many student productions, student recitals, and faculty recitals at Hendrix are also open to the public.

are filled by open audition.

Sonshine Academy 2415 Donaghey Avenue SonshineAcademy.com 501-327-7742

Patrick Dougherty’s The Big Naturals. Photo courtesy of the Baum Gallery.

52 | Conway+

Established in 1991, Sonshine Academy is an activity and performing arts center that provides instruction in gymnastics, dance, cheerleading, tumbling, preschool gymnastics, and swimming for children. The center teaches children athletic and artistic skills in a positive, encouraging environment.

Conway + Leisure

Listen to the music.

Photo courtesy of Conway Symphony Orchestra.

Conway Men’s Chorus www.conwaymenschorus.org 501-327-5151 Conway Men’s Chorus is an association of more than 50 men from all walks of life who have come together for the joy of singing and the desire to give back to their community. The group presents two free concerts each year – one in the spring and one in the fall – at the Donald W. Reynolds Performance Hall on the University of Central Arkansas campus.

Conway Symphony Orchestra www.conwaysymphony.org 501-450-3265 Conway Symphony Orchestra celebrated its 30th year in 2014.

The CSO performs a full season of six concerts, including a free outdoor community concert, a holiday performance, and a children’s concert. The CSO also offers a classroom program to local elementary and intermediate schools and has many ensemble performances throughout the year.

Preston Palmer Studios 2105 Harkrider Street www.prestonpalmerstudios.com 501-513-9459 Preston Palmer Studios provides private, one-on-one voice and music lessons. Qualified instructors are on staff to help beginners or seasoned veterans improve their performance on a number of instruments, including guitar, piano, drums, violin, banjo, mandolin, and others.

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Conway + Leisure

EVENTS + FESTIVALS

Several events, festivals, and expos take place in Conway throughout the year, many of which benefit charitable causes and organizations. The following list is by no means exhaustive, but it provides a look at some of the community’s most established annual events.

MAY Toad Suck Daze Founded in 1981, the award-winning Toad Suck Daze festival takes place the first weekend of May and provides funding for education initiatives in Faulkner County. Festivalgoers from across the region gather in the streets of downtown Conway for food-on-astick, local and national entertainment, arts and crafts, activities for kids, and, of course, the World-Famous Championship Toad Races. Several festival-sanctioned events sponsored by local nonprofit organizations take place throughout the weekend as well, including a 5K/10K race and the Tour de Toad bicycle race.

Faulkner County Master Gardeners Plant Sale Faulkner County Master Gardeners’ annual plant sale is one of the largest Master Gardener plant sales in the state. Thousands of plants are available for purchase, including native species, annuals and perennials, vegetables, shrubs, trees, herbs, and shade plants.

Master Gardeners also give lectures and answer questions at the event.

@RyanMHolloway

March 20, 2014 | 10:00 p.m.

Not sure what I am more excited about: more roundabouts in Conway or MC Hammer coming to Toad Suck Daze!

6 retweets 1 favorite

JULY Boys & Girls Club of Faulkner County Live & Silent Auction For the past 20 years, the Boys and Girls Club of Faulkner County has hosted a Live & Silent Auction to raise funds for its programming and afterschool care. Proceeds support a variety of activities for the club, including educational programs, after-school care, sports and recreation programs, and life-skills programs.

Arkansas Outdoors Expo The Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds has hosted the Arkansas Outdoors Expo for four consecutive years. This two-day event features headline entertainment and other events and activities, including a duckcalling contest, chainsaw carving, and 3D archery pop-up bow tournament.

More than 100 vendors and exhibitors are on-site.

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Conway + Social

@ToadSuckDaze

May 3, 2014 | 10:02 a.m.

Breaking news from Toad Dome: Exxon announces $250K #ARtornado recovery contribution. $125K to Red Cross. $125K to Community Foundation.

29 retweets 16 favorites

AUGUST First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon The Conway Running Club conducts the First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon, one of the nation’s premier youth triathlons. Approximately 400 kids ages 6-15 swim, bike, and run while building healthy habits and self-confidence. All funds in excess of actual event expenses benefit a local charity.

Conway + Leisure

SEPTEMBER EcoFest EcoFest is an interactive and educational community event designed to explore ways to experience and enjoy nature while learning how to practice good stewardship of the environment. Activities include the Conway Cardboard Car Derby, a kite show, a butterfly release, geocaching, cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, and interactive exhibits set up by local organizations.

Faulkner County Fair and Parade The Faulkner County Fair kicks off with a parade through downtown Conway. The weeklong fair takes place at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds. It includes a livestock sale, live entertainment, a variety of student and competitive exhibits, carnival rides, and traditional fair food.

Arts Fest ArtsFest is sponsored by Conway Alliance for the Arts (CAFTA) and takes place over a 10-day span. The event includes a number of activities geared toward art lovers of all ages, including performances by Conway Symphony Orchestra and other musical groups, interactive exhibits, a film festival, and literary readings and book signings.

OCTOBER

Soaring Wings Marathon & Half Marathon Soaring Wings Half Marathon is a 13.1-mile race that benefits the Soaring Wings Christian Home and Ranch, an organization that provides a secure and loving home for up to 32 boys and girls. Beginning in 2015, participants will be able to choose between the half-marathon and the inaugural 26.2-mile marathon route.

Taste of Conway

Festival of Chairs

Taste of Conway, organized by the

Festival of Chairs is the annual fundraiser for the Children’s Advocacy Alliance of North Central Arkansas.

At the event, beautifully repurposed chairs go up for auction along with hundreds of other artistic and unique

Conway Area Chamber of Commerce,

items. The chairs symbolize the

food offerings. Attendees have

children and families the Children’s

an opportunity to sample a wide

Advocacy Alliance serves every day.

variety of cuisine under one roof.

takes place at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds as part of the Chamber’s Business Expo.

Local restaurants and eateries set up booths and serve their best

Conway + Leisure

Fast Facts

A quirky name and a commitment to education are at the core of Toad Suck Daze. Here are some quick facts about Conway’s beloved family festival.

160,000 attend Toad Suck Daze each year

$1.5 million

contributed to scholarships, scholarship endowments, and pre-K funding

$77,000+ donated to education initiatives in 2014

$36,000 donated to downtown Conway projects in 2014

49 food concessions 100+ items

sold in the Toad Store

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Faulkner County Fair

NOVEMBER Downtown Christmas Open House For more than 40 years, downtown merchants have opened their doors on Sunday afternoon for Christmas Open House, giving loyal customers a jumpstart on the holiday shopping season.

The Conway Downtown Partnership organizes the event.

Dazzle Daze Dazzle Daze is the annual fundraiser for the Conway Regional Women’s Council. This three-day shopping extravaganza takes place at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds.

More than 85 merchants from around the country offer gourmet foods, home and holiday items, jewelry, children’s toys and books, clothing, and collectibles.

DECEMBER Christmas Parade Conway’s annual Christmas Parade takes place downtown in mid-December and benefits the American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Faulkner County.

Conway + Leisure

PARKS + RECREATION

The abundance of natural beauty in the area makes Conway a great place for an outdoor adventure. Possibilities for fishing, boating, swimming, or other water sports are nearby, as are hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping grounds.

The area has several golf courses, including a driving range and a miniature golf course. Indoor and outdoor fitness opportunities abound at the city’s bicycle and walking trails, ball fields, sports centers, and tennis and basketball courts.

Local Recreational Areas

City Parks & Recreational Facilities

Bainbridge Park 80 Kensington Drive

At 6,700 acres, Lake Conway is the largest man-made game and fish commission lake in the nation and is a favorite of Arkansas anglers. Built in 1951 by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, it is home to bass, crappie, catfish, and bream.

No matter where you find yourself in Conway, you are not far from a park or recreational facility.

Conway Parks and Recreation Department maintains several parks, the expo center and fairgrounds, and two indoor sports centers.

Amenities at this six-acre park include a pavilion, three basketball goals, a small playground, restrooms, and a large parking area. The Tucker Creek Walking/ Bike Trail can be accessed from the park.

Toad Suck Park, located on the Arkansas River at Toad Suck Lock and Dam, has a boat ramp, picnic areas, pavilions, a playground, ball fields, tent and RV campsites, and a restored metal towboat once used as a ferry. The river provides excellent boating or fishing with scenic views.

Airport Park 425 6th Street

Amenities at the 25-acre park near Beaverfork Lake include a handicapaccessible fishing dock, two boat docks, several picnic tables with grills, two pavilions for group gatherings, two sand volleyball courts, a lighted baseball field, public restrooms, and three large parking areas.

Woolly Hollow State Park, located 20 miles north of Conway on 40-acre Lake Bennett, boasts a historical log cabin built by the Woolly family in the mid-1800s. The 400-acre park has a swimming area with a lifeguard on duty during the summer; 30 campsites, some for tents and some for RVs; three hiking trails; and a shady picnic area with a pavilion.

Fishing boats, paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes are available for rent.

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Amenities at this six-acre park include a softball field with two dugouts, a playground, a basketball goal, a picnic area, and three large parking areas.

Beaverfork Lake 20 Kinley Drive

Conway + Leisure

Cadron Settlement Park 6200 Highway 319

City of Colleges Park 1025 East Siebenmorgen Road

Conway Station Park 1501 Robins Street

Facilities at this National Historic site include a restored blockhouse, a Cherokee Trail of Tears memorial, a boat ramp, hiking trails, restrooms, picnic areas, a pavilion, handicapaccessible trails and parking, a historical mural, and dozens of interpretive signs.

This girls’ fast-pitch softball complex includes five fields, a playground, a concession stand, and restrooms. It is one of the top softball parks in the state and region.

This boys’ baseball park features eight fields with a 225-foot fence and one field with a 350-foot fence, a concession stand, and restrooms. It is one of the top baseball complexes in the state and region.

Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds 2501 East Oak Street

Curtis Walker Park 1700 Museum Road

The Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds hosts dozens of large events each year on its 40-acre property and is the site of the Faulkner County Fair. The expo center consists of more than 40,000 square feet of usable space and accommodates up to 2,700 people.

A 55,000-square-foot outdoor pavilion is also on the property.

This recently updated park is the permanent home of the new Braves Field, a baseball field designed for special needs children and adults in Faulkner County and beyond. A new playground on-site accommodates kids of all physical abilities. The park also includes a lighted baseball field with two dugouts, picnic areas, a large parking area, a concession area, and restrooms.

Centennial Soccer Park 5200 John W. Allison Road Amenities at this 51.5-acre complex include 10 full-size soccer fields and two U10-size fields, restrooms, a concession stand, and ample parking. The soccer park hosts several tournaments each year and is home to Arkansas Rush Soccer Club.

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Conway + Leisure

Don Owen Sports Complex 10 Lower Ridge Road

Gatlin Park 2325 Tyler Street

courts; a large meeting room that

This 125-acre complex features six T-ball fields, three lighted adult softball fields with restrooms and concessions, a playground, and a pavilion. Near the park entrance is the Conway Sports Center, which houses three basketball courts; a one-eighth-mile, three-lane walking track; four racquetball courts; and a meeting room that holds up to 100 people. The complex is also the home of Faulkner County Rodeo Arena, which consists of two barns, a large arena, corral areas, announcer stands, restrooms, and a concession area.

Amenities at this 13-acre park include a lighted basketball court, two fenced and lighted tennis courts, a playground, picnic areas, abundant green space, and two large parking areas.

meeting room that seats about 25

Fifth Avenue Park 600 5th Avenue Amenities at this 10-acre park include two pavilions, a lighted adult softball field with two dugouts, two fenced and lighted tennis courts, two basketball goals, a volleyball net, a playground, picnic areas, and restrooms.

Laurel Park 2310 Robinson Avenue This 26-acre park includes a playground, three basketball goals, four fenced and lighted tennis courts, a soccer field, a picnic area with a pavilion, a jogging/ walking track, an amphitheater, a gazebo, and three parking lots.

seats up to 150 people; and a small people. The Conway Skate Park is adjacent to the McGee Center and includes equipment for skateboarding and rollerblading.

Pine Street Park Corner of Pine and Factory Streets Amenities at this 1.5-acre park include a pavilion, basketball court, two playground areas, and park benches.

Pompe Park Morningside Drive

McGee Center 3800 College Avenue

This 18.5-acre park is the principal

The 46,000-square-foot McGee Center occupies 11 acres and features a one-eighth-mile, threelane walking track; four racquetball

the Tucker Creek Trail System. The

trailhead for a new extension of trail extends from Gatlin Park on Tyler Street to Prince Street, where it connects to the existing trail.

Conway + Leisure

Rogers Plaza Oak and Court Streets Rogers Plaza features brick and concrete pavers, a fountain, and an archway that serve as a gateway to the downtown area. The plaza is part of an ongoing effort to invest in and revitalize downtown Conway.

Simon Park 805 Front Street This downtown park consists of a covered band shelter, benches, and a caboose. Different groups use the park throughout the year for various functions, including for concerts during the annual Toad Suck Daze festival.

Tucker Creek Walking/Bike Trail 275 Salem Road The Tucker Creek Trail is a popular destination for runners, walkers, bicyclists, or those simply taking a leisurely stroll.

The 1.2-mile, paved and lighted trail extends across 30 acres and runs east and west of Tucker Creek. Benches, signage with exercise suggestions, and wooden markers every quarter-mile can be found along the way. The trail also features a series of activities that turn everyday outdoor moments into learning opportunities for young children.

A large parking area and a pavilion are located near the Salem Road entrance. The trail also has access points at Bainbridge Park and Pompe Park.

Conway + Leisure

The intentional variety of Conway’s parks In 2010, the city of Conway adopted a strategic plan that laid out more than 100 goals for the city to accomplish by the year 2025. One of those goals read: “In 2025, Conway has a variety of park products, including parks designed for special needs children, dog parks, recreational parks geared toward adults and small neighborhood parks.”

Lake Beaverfork Disc Golf Course This 18-hole, par-54 disc golf course opened in 2013 and regularly hosts area tournaments. The course wraps around – and even crosses – Beaverfork Lake.

There is an active Conway Disc Golf Association, and the course is free of charge.

Less than five years later, Conway has made amazing progress against that goal by adding parks in a variety of sizes and functions. These alternative parks complement Conway’s existing park resources in a fun and meaningful way.

Earl Rogers Plaza Spanning less than 10,000 square feet, Earl Rogers Plaza is one of Conway’s smallest, but most visible, parks. When the plaza isn’t hosting the largest Christmas tree in several states, it features paved open public spaces and a large bowl fountain.

Braves Field The newest addition to Conway’s parks facilities is an expansion of Curtis Walker Park. Braves Field is Conway’s permanent home to special needs baseball. The field features an accessible lighted field, including spectator seating and an inclusive playground. The facility includes a poured-in place field and playground surface that provides an all-access facility for players, regardless of physical ability.

Conway Dog Park Work is already underway on a new park for some four-legged Conway residents. The Conway Dog Park will provide four acres of fenced space for Conway dogs to run and play “off-leash.” The park will be divided into two areas for larger and smaller breeds. Located south of the Don Owen Sports Complex on Lower Ridge Road, the park will include waste stations, a wash-off area and benches.

The park is scheduled to open in early 2015.

Family Fun Conway Parks and Recreation Department sponsors the Silver Moon Cinema, an outdoor, communitycinema program. Family friendly movies are shown on a 32-foot screen in downtown Conway and at the Conway Expo Center. Activities before the movie range from magic to music, and the film begins at dark.

A $1 donation per person supports various local charities. A schedule is available at SilverMoonCinema.com.

Conway and the surrounding area offer several other venues for fun, family outings: an indoor inflatable

62 | Conway+

party and play center; a 12-screen movie theater; family entertainment centers; a bowling alley; a corn maze; indoor trampoline parks; and a miniature-golf course, a golf driving range, and several 18-hole golf courses.

Sports Teams Conway residents have many opportunities to watch or participate in a variety of sporting events.

Conway Parks and Recreation Department oversees programming for youth and adult sports, including kickball, T-ball, baseball, softball, basketball, volleyball, and flag

football. Other organizations also host sporting events and tournaments at Conway’s parks, attracting thousands of athletes and spectators to the city each year.

Directory Search Search our membership directory at conwaychamber.org/directory for family entertainment and amusement venues in the Conway area.

Conway + Leisure

In addition, the public and private high schools and the three institutions of higher learning in Conway offer several sports for student athletes to participate in and for spectators to enjoy.

Conway High School

Photo courtesy of the University of Central Arkansas.

Mascot: Wampus Cats Classification: Arkansas Activities Association, Class 7A Conway Christian School Mascot: Eagles Classification: Arkansas Activities Association, Class 2A St. Joseph High School Mascot: Bulldogs Classification: Arkansas Activities Association, Class 2A

University of Central Arkansas Mascot: Bears Classification: NCAA Division I, Southland Conference Hendrix College Mascot: Warriors Classification: NCAA Division III, Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference Central Baptist College Mascot: Mustangs Classification: National Christian College Athletic Association, Division I

Photo courtesy of Conway Public Schools.

CONWAY +

COMMUNITIES A Look Around Town In Conway, distinct living, shopping, and dining experiences are located in every quadrant of the city. Historic downtown Conway offers an urban living environment in a walkable neighborhood. With antique stores, fashionable boutiques, and a thriving start-up community, the area is a perfect blend of old and new. Midtown is home to a growing mix of restaurants, retailers, and grocery stores. A number of established parks and trails, subdivisions, shopping centers, and small businesses make up the family friendly area that includes the University of Central Arkansas, Conway Regional Health System, and Conway High School-West. The Interstate 40 corridor features two of the city’s largest open-air shopping centers – Conway Towne Center and Conway Commons – along with furniture stores, specialty shops, and national chain restaurants. And West Conway provides suburban-type living with a combination of national and locally owned retailers.

Photo courtesy of A Lynns View Photography.

Conway + Communities

CONWAY + DOWNTOWN

Start-ups, sit-downs, and shop-arounds

With St. Joseph Parish to the south, Hendrix College to the north and a little bit of everything in-between, downtown Conway has a lot to offer its visitors and residents: 400,000 square feet of office space make it a regional employment hub.

Its 20 restaurants provide convenient and exciting dining options. And for more than 100 years, downtown Conway has been a destination for retail.

START-UPS

SIT-DOWNS

The downtown economy has changed a great deal over the last decade. Downtown is still a local hub for the government, finance, legal and media sectors.

But recently, it has become the go-to destination for Conway’s emerging tech start-up scene.

Downtown Conway’s restaurants represent every spot on the culinary and price spectrum. Award-winning steaks and local pizza joints are just around the corner from hearty Italian and sizzling Mexican favorites.

Inuvo (NYSE: INUV), PrivacyStar, Rock Pond Solutions, Eyenalyze and other tech companies have opened or expanded in downtown Conway since 2012. Affordable real estate, quality tech infrastructure and central Arkansas’ workforce all contribute to a fertile climate for start-up success.

WHERE TO START – LOCAL TIP Blue Sail Coffee at 1028 Front Street has free Wi-Fi for customers and great work space.

One of the country’s fastest growing banks, Home Bancshares (NASDAQ: HOMB), calls downtown Conway home. We also have entrepreneurs working out of our many coffee shops. Large or small, downtown Conway has the energy and amenities to support a growing business.

WHERE TO START – LOCAL TIP Front Street has great dining variety and options between Prairie and Mill Streets.

With 20 restaurants and almost 1,000 seats, downtown Conway is a great destination for visiting groups. If you’ve got something smaller in mind, park the car and walk past several options as you find that perfect table for two.

For breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just dessert and coffee, no visit downtown is complete without a stop at one of our great restaurants.

SHOP-AROUNDS Conway’s downtown shopping scene is a perfect mix of old and new. Whether it is a jewelry store doing business on the same block for more than 100 years or a highfashion boutique offering the latest trends, downtown Conway’s shopping is unmatched in service and selection.

Approximately 40 retail businesses call downtown Conway home. In most of these businesses, the owner is on-hand to greet you – frequently by name – and provide a true shopping experience.

WHERE TO START – LOCAL TIP Oak Street from Court to Parkway has a ton of shopping options for clothes, antiques, and more.

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Conway + Communities

CONWAY + MIDTOWN What do the University of Central Arkansas, Conway Regional Health System, Conway Public Schools, Tucker Creek Trail and Laurel Park have in common? They are all located in Conway’s “Midtown” neighborhood.

In the 1.5 square miles bound by Prince Street, Salem Road, Donaghey Avenue and Dave Ward Drive, you will find established subdivisions, parks, trails, shopping, dining and more than 3,000 jobs.

Midtown is eight to 10 blocks west of historic downtown and two miles west of interstate 40. It’s an exciting part of Conway as accessible to visitors as it is to residents.

SUBDIVISIONS Westgate Smoking Oaks Adamsbrooke Parkwood Heritage Brookhaven Scherman Heights College Oaks Timberpeg Pickwicket Westport

SHOPPING CENTERS Scherman Heights The Plazza at Centerstone

Covington Crown Plaza Salem Shopping Center Saddletop Shopping Center

PARKS Laurel Park Tucker Creek Trail Pompe Park

POINTS OF INTEREST University of Central Arkansas Conway High School (west campus) Conway Regional Health System Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center

Fast Facts Here’s what you’ll find within a 3-minute drive of Midtown’s geographic center (Bruce and Farris):

8,537

midtown population

9,305

daytime population

$64 million in retail sales

6,330 employees 24: median age 10.4%

10-year estimated rate of growth

511 businesses with a payroll of

$242 million

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Conway + Communities

Conway + Neighbors

Conway is surrounded by growing communities in Faulkner County as well as neighboring Conway and Pulaski counties. The nearby cities of Greenbrier, Maumelle, Mayflower, Morrilton, and Vilonia are just a short drive from Conway and Little Rock and offer great schools and affordable living.

Morrilton

Maumelle

Greenbrier

Mayflower

Population: 6,799 County: Conway Median Home Price: $110,000

Population: 5,111 County: Faulkner Median Home Price: $114,000

Vilonia

Population: 4,226 County: Faulkner Median Home Price: $133,000

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Population: 17,736 County: Pulaski Median Home Price: $195,000

Population: 2,234 County: Faulkner Median Home Price: $114,000

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Conway + Communities

Q & A With Mayflower Mayor Randy Holland

Mayflower Mayor Randy Holland was elected to office in 2006. A professional musician and occasional Conway Twitty impersonator, Mayor Holland is also vice president of MetroPlan, central Arkansas’ regional planning organization.

Mayflower has seen steady rapid growth over the last 20 years. What do you think drives that growth?

Describe how Mayflower is recovering from the April 27th tornado?

Location, location, location! We’re on Interstate 40 and are minutes away from two major cities: Conway and Little Rock.

We are steadily rebuilding homes and businesses that were damaged or destroyed; new permits are issued every day for rebuilding. Plus, the $1 million plus grant to provide infrastructure along Interstate Drive will entice future businesses to locate along I-40.

What excites you most about the future of Mayflower?

To sum it up in one word, I’d say growth – continuing our economic growth as well as the future growth from having a new overpass.

Describe a fun weekend in Mayflower.

Going to the high school to watch the Eagles play and then spending time fishing on Lake Conway are fun things to do.

What does Mayflower offer someone new to central Arkansas?

The best way to sum it up would be our slogan: “Home Town Atmosphere with Big City Access.”

Why do you love living and working in Mayflower?

The people. It is like being surrounded by family.