Fayetteville, AR April 2025 by City Lifestyle

The Priceless Return of Investing with Purpose

Welcome to Spring, Fayetteville!

We are officially entering the second quarter of the year and one of the most beautiful times to be in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The theme of this issue aligns perfectly with the season, as the word "investment" brings to mind growth and flourishment. Just as the landscape of our city begins to bloom, so do the investments we make in ourselves, our partners, and our community.

With a background in finance, I always envisioned my career heading toward banking, asset management, or investments. I never expected to be running a community publication. However, through the process of acquiring this publication, partnering with local businesses, and developing editorial content, I have gained a deeper understanding of what it truly means to invest Investing is more than simply putting money into something with the expectation of a greater financial return. While there is a numerical valuation tied to investments, there is also a hedonic value that carries weight and grows over time. This represents the personal enjoyment and satisfaction that comes from pursuing something rewarding and impactful, a value that is difficult to quantify but undeniably significant. I did not anticipate experiencing this type of fulfillment, yet it has become an endless source of motivation and purpose.

This idea is not new. It aligns with the well-known adage: "Find a job you love, and you will never work a day in your life." When passion drives your work, its value cannot be measured solely in monetary terms. True returns are often unknown until you wholeheartedly commit to something, investing your money, time, and energy into a vision. Only then do you begin to understand the deeper rewards of investing, beyond financial gain.

With a mindset of growth and renewal, let’s continue to invest in our community, it’s people, and the businesses that make it thrive. The greatest returns will likely be found in the satisfaction of making an impact rather than in the dollar-for-dollar outcome.

Wishing you a fulfilling and blessed April,

April 2025

PUBLISHER

Gavin Magee | gavin.magee@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Sydney Johnson | sydney.johnson@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Clay Ridgeway | clay.ridgeway@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Kate Gryder | kategryder@outlook.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sydney Johnson, Hailey Smith, Will Newton

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Meredith Mashburn, Emily Hendrick, Andrea Pruitt

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Learn

3:5-6

Functional Medicine Applied to Primary Care

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Baseball Season is Here! 2: Fayetteville is our Favorite-ville, and we appreciate the artwork that defines it 3: Get your Hog Gear ready for Baseball Season 4: Mayor Molly and friends attend the Mardi Gras Parade 5: Peaceful mornings with Spring sunrises 6: Patrons celebrate in the Mardi Gras festivities Downtown Fayetteville 7: Patrons enjoying the Hog Pen as baseball season gets rolling

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Eterna by Romance, New Service Offering by Romance Diamond Co.

Romance Diamond Co., a trusted Fayetteville legacy brand, is excited to launch Eterna! A new service line specializing in custom design, restoration, appraisal, and estate jewelry. With decades of expertise, the Romance Diamond Co. team brings unparalleled craftsmanship and personalized service to help clients create timeless pieces or restore cherished heirlooms. Explore the artistry of Eterna and let us transform your vision into a legacy.

Root Coworking, A New Working Environment for Productivity & Connectivity

The Root Coworking has officially launched in North Fayetteville, offering a dynamic space designed for productivity and collaboration. With flexible memberships, this new coworking concept is perfect for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and teams looking to thrive in a vibrant community. The Root provides not only a functional workspace but also daily events to inspire creativity and connections. Secure your membership today and join Fayetteville’s newest hub for innovation!

Walker Brothers' New Website + New Rogers Location, Grand Opening

Walker Brothers is excited to welcome customers at their new Rogers location located at: 3503 S 55th Street. Walker Brothers has also launched a brand-new website to showcase their legacy and for customers to easily order online. Stay connected by following @shopwalkerbrothers on social media for updates and enter the giveaway for a chance to win! Be sure to visit their new location and website at: walkerbrothers.com

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BUILDING A LEGACY

How Trent Hanna is Leading SSI of Northwest Arkansas with Integrity, Collaboration, and Community Impact

At just 28 years old, Trent Hanna became the owner and CEO of SSI of Northwest Arkansas, a fully integrated design-build construction firm. Hailing from Northwest Arkansas, he went to West Fork High School, a tight-knit community where everyone was familiar with one another. He initially started his college journey at Harding but after a few changes in direction, transferred to the University of Arkansas’ Fay Jones School of Architecture. Trent gained a deep appreciation for the intricacies of design, but soon realized that his true passion was in the construction process itself. “I don’t want to draw this stuff, I’d rather build it!” he says. His architectural background has given him a unique perspective on managing job sites, where he’s learned that paying attention to the smallest details can make all the difference. Beyond work, Trent is dedicated to his family, serves as a Deacon at his church, and enjoys a round of golf whenever he can.

Trent discovered SSI at the perfect moment, what he calls a true “right place, right time” scenario. He holds Leo Anhalt, the company’s original owner and founder, in the highest regard, describing him as one of the most impressive figures in the industry. Having led SSI since 1969, Leo was ready to pass the torch, and in 2023, Trent took the helm. Since then, he’s played a pivotal role in doubling the company’s size. With an unwavering commitment to safety, a solid reputation, and a foundation

rooted in integrity, SSI is on a steady path to becoming one of the region’s most trusted general contractors. “We don’t need to be the biggest, but we are determined to be the best,” says Trent, reflecting on SSI’s commitment to excellence. Several aspects set SSI apart from others in the industry. A top priority is clear, consistent communication to ensure that clients are always in the loop, something supported by their 24-hour maximum response time policy. Trent is also deeply involved in the day-to-day operations, personally overseeing projects because he genuinely cares about their success and the satisfaction of every client who has invested in them. This hands-on approach is at the heart of SSI’s promise to deliver exceptional quality and service, every step of the way.

In addition to intentionally caring for clients, SSI is equally invested in supporting the youth of Northwest Arkansas. Trent frequently speaks at high schools, encouraging students to explore career opportunities in construction and highlighting educational programs and companies that offer financial support in the field. Recognizing the current construction industry challenges, SSI is committed to fostering the next generation of skilled professionals to ensure the industry’s future. Through these efforts, SSI is not only shaping future talent but also investing in the long-term growth and resilience of the local community.

CONTINUED >

ARTICLE

BY SYDNEY JOHNSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEREDITH MASHBURN

The culture at SSI is deeply collaborative, with each employee actively contributing toward a shared objective. With everyone working together toward something bigger, the sense of fulfillment is deeply rewarding. The company places quality over speed, and as Trent puts it, “I will never ask anyone at the office to do something that I wouldn’t do myself.” This philosophy is a reflection of the team-oriented mindset that flows from the top down. In the construction world, a 40-hour workweek is a rarity, so having driven, dedicated employees is crucial. Trent is determined to match employees with roles that play to their strengths, creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable and fulfilled, ultimately driving exceptional results on projects. One such project is the restoration of the tennis and pickleball courts at Wilson Park, Fayetteville, awarded to SSI through a public bid. This project is not just about construction; it’s about building community. People have already begun tearing down the tennis court barricades to play, and the courts have become a popular gathering spot, with people playing around the clock.

With a relentless commitment to excellence and cultivating lasting relationships, Trent and SSI are redefining the future of construction in Northwest Arkansas. As the region grows, SSI isn’t just part of the development—they’re laying the groundwork for its long-term success. Through unwavering dedication to both quality and community, SSI is cementing its role as a trusted partner, ensuring that as our cities thrive, so too do the promises of exceptional work, lasting relationships, and enduring impact.

DID YOU KNOW?

SSI recently won the Historical Restoration/Renovation Award (Under $1M) for its outstanding work on the Cave Springs Community Building! This project showcases SSI’s dedication to preserving history while revitalizing spaces for the future.

Trent Hanna, President

SSI Team

Harvey Pediatric Clinic

Fueling

ARTICLE BY WILL NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA PRUITT

Startup Junkie and Kiva NWA are paving the way for local businesses like Pink Fern and SLAPCHALKS to thrive in Northwest Arkansas.

Local Dreams

In the heart of downtown Fayetteville lies a nonprofit dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs of all kinds in their business endeavors: Startup Junkie. The nonprofit, which established its mission in 2008, is dedicated to providing no-cost consulting sessions and other helpful resources for aspiring and existing entrepreneurs and business owners. Additionally, the nonprofit offers free coworking spaces and reservable conference rooms.

“Our mission is to empower innovators and entrepreneurs by educating, inspiring and supporting them through no-cost consulting, events, workshops, and programs, and access to capital and talent,” said Harrison Kitson, Director of Marketing and Outreach for the Startup Junkie Foundation. “We’re a hub of resources and referrals.”

Although the nonprofit offers its resources nationwide, Startup Junkie felt a calling to plant its headquarters in Fayetteville. Kitson said that the growth of the business ecosystem of Northwest Arkansas has led to a need for support for local businesses. This need from the community lined up perfectly with Startup Junkie’s mission. “Everyone deserves a piece of the pie,” said Kitson.

Since the start of its mission, Startup Junkie has grown tremendously, adding additional programs and events to its initial line of services. A landmark event thrown by the nonprofit is its Startup Crawl, an annual block party in downtown Fayetteville designed for local startups to connect with its community.

Another generous resource available through the nonprofit is Kiva NWA which is dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs receive microloans to fund their business. Kitson said that the no-cost, no-interest loans are typically provided to entrepreneurs who are financially excluded and are granted based on social capital rather than collateral. Loans are between $1,000$15,000 and are crowdfunded through the aid of Kiva NWA. These loans are then matched by the Walton Family Foundation.

Several Fayetteville small businesses have benefited from working with Startup Junkie’s programs. Pink Fern, a local business specializing in houseplants and home decor, was able to open its doors because of the services provided by Kiva NWA. Lindsay Neely, founder of Pink Fern, said that, thanks to an interest-free loan from Kiva NWA, she was able to accomplish necessary achievements prior to opening Pink Fern’s store front, including building and maintaining her website, establishing her inventory, and attending private classes and workshops. “Kiva NWA has been a wonderful source for my small business,” said Neely.

Lindsay Neely, Pink Fern Founder

Pink Fern

“LOCAL INVESTMENT IS A GAME CHANGER FOR SMALL BUSINESSES, GIVING THEM THE CASH AND CONNECTIONS TO GROW AND SUCCEED. ADDITIONALLY, STARTUPS HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPAND WITHIN A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY AND ENGAGE WITH THEIR INVESTORS WHO UNDERSTAND THE REGION’S UNIQUE MARKET DYNAMICS.” – JOSEPH ROUSE.

Joseph Rouse, SLAPCHALKS Founder

Before receiving funding from Kiva NWA, Neely ensured that it was the right step for her business. “My advice for budding small businesses would be to have some experience and a clear vision in place to ensure that additional funding would aid in scalability for your business and financial growth…I truly believe that taking small intentional steps over the past few years has helped each hurdle seem more manageable and led Pink Fern to where it is today,” said Neely.

Pink Fern is not the only local business that has reaped the rewards of receiving aid from Startup Junkie. Joseph Rouse, the teenage founder of SLAPCHALKS, a popular local business that manufactures apparel designed for chalk-using athletes, saw his business take a turn in a positive direction after connecting with the nonprofit.

Rouse, who was only 14-year-old when SLAPCHALKS was patented, initially was building his business solely with the help of his parents. Rouse went through several trial-and-error attempts to perfect his business model, including failed partnerships, technical errors and connecting with an unhelpful patent lawyer. After connecting with Startup Junkie, Rouse was referred to the Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program, a business incubator program through the University of Arkansas that granted him $15,000 to grow his business. He was also the first high schooler admitted into the program. “I strongly recommend any startup business in Northwest Arkansas to seek help from Startup Junkie,” said Rouse.

Since receiving aid from Startup Junkie, Rouse has stayed connected with the nonprofit. He has won several pitch competitions hosted by Startup Junkie and is vocal about the nonprofit’s importance to the entrepreneurial community in Fayetteville. “Local investment is a game changer for small businesses, giving them the cash and connections to grow and succeed. Additionally, startups have the opportunity to expand within a supportive community and engage with their investors who understand the region’s unique market dynamics,” said Rouse.

There’s an entrepreneur in everyone, and the business idea brewing in your mind could be the next beloved small business in Northwest Arkansas. If you have an interest in discussing the best path for your next business venture, schedule a meeting with Startup Junkie. Take it from Kitson:

“If you think that you’re someone that isn’t made to start a small business, that’s probably not true. You should come have a conversation with us and see where you potentially fit into the ecosystem – there is a fit for more people than you realize.”

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SCULPTING SMILES

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY JOHNSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEREDITH MASHBURN

Dr. Wilson

DR.

WILLIAM WILSON BLENDS PRECISION, ARTISTRY, AND INNOVATION TO REDEFINE THE DENTAL EXPERIENCE

When was the last time you truly looked forward to a dental appointment? At Sequoyah Dental, creating excitement around the dentist is not just a goal—it’s their standard of care. Under the leadership of Dr. William Wilson, Sequoyah Dental has reimagined dentistry, combining cutting-edge technology, artistic craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to personalized care. The result? A dental experience unlike any other.

Dr. Wilson’s journey to becoming one of Northwest Arkansas’s premier dentists is as inspiring as it is unique. A native of El Dorado, Arkansas, Dr. Wilson grew up surrounded by inspiration. His father, also a dentist, instilled in him the value of precision. However, it was Dr. Wilson’s own passion for art—nurtured through a minor in Art Studio at the University of Arkansas—that led him to view dentistry not just as a science, but as an art form. “Dentistry allows me to combine the technical with the creative,” he reflects. “It’s about sculpting something as small as a millimeter to achieve beauty and harmony.”

At Sequoyah Dental, this meticulous attention to detail is evident in every unique smile they create. Whether crafting same-day crowns with precision-milled CAD/CAM technology or designing custom cosmetic veneers, the practice treats every procedure as a work of art. “Our lab isn’t just a place where restorations are made—it’s an art studio,” Dr. Wilson explains. “Every patient is a muse, and every case is a collaboration.”

TECHNOLOGY THAT ELEVATES, NOT SIMPLIFIES

What sets Sequoyah Dental apart is its commitment to innovation. Equipped with industry-leading technology such as the SOLEA Laser, 3D scanners, CAD/CAM milling equipment, and 3D

printing, the practice is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in dentistry. But for Dr. Wilson, technology isn’t just about making things easier—it’s about challenging what can be achieved. “Our tools allow us to elevate the artistry of dentistry,” he says. “We aren’t just fixing teeth; we’re creating something beautiful, functional, and lasting.”

Patients often comment on the seamless blend of technology and comfort they experience at Sequoyah Dental. From replacing the dreaded putty impressions with precise 3D scans to offering minimally invasive laser treatments, every detail is designed with the patient in mind. This approach not only enhances outcomes but also transforms the perception of what a dental visit can truly be. Each patient’s story is different, and each appointment is treated as such.

MORE THAN DENTISTRY— A COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY

Sequoyah Dental’s story is deeply rooted in Fayetteville and the community members they serve. What began as a grassroots effort offering free dental care in a Walmart parking lot has grown into one of the most advanced dental practices in Northwest Arkansas. Despite this growth, the spirit of giving back remains at the heart of the practice. “We LOVE this community,” Dr. Wilson shares. “It’s where we started, and it’s what inspires us to keep improving.”

The team at Sequoyah Dental doesn’t just care for their patients—they care for the whole person. This holistic approach is evident in their personalized treatment plans, attention to patient comfort, and willingness to go above and beyond to support overall wellness. From partnering with nutritionists to address the root causes of dental issues to ensuring patients feel empowered in their treatment choices, Sequoyah Dental prioritizes relationships over procedures.

A DENTAL EXPERIENCE DIFFERENT THAN MOST

Dr. Wilson’s philosophy is reflected in the practice’s motto: “A Dental Experience Different Than Most.” This ethos is embodied in every aspect of Sequoyah Dental, from the warm, family-like atmosphere to the thoughtful details that make each visit exceptional. Patients are encouraged to participate in their care, with Dr. Wilson often collaborating on creative solutions tailored to each individual’s needs and goals.

With its blend of artistry, technology, and heartfelt care, Sequoyah Dental is redefining what it means to provide dental care. For those seeking a practice that prioritizes both health and beauty, Sequoyah Dental offers an experience that is as transformative as it is personal.

THE HEART OF FAYETTEVILLE’S SMILE

As Fayetteville’s leading dental office, Sequoyah Dental continues to inspire confidence, one smile at a time. Dr. Wilson and his team are not only passionate about dentistry but also about the community they call home. By combining innovation, artistry, and compassion, Sequoyah Dental has become more than a dental office—it’s a cornerstone of care and creativity in Northwest Arkansas. Whether you’re looking to improve your oral health or transform your smile into a masterpiece, Sequoyah Dental is ready to partner with you along the way. With their expertise and commitment to excellence, the best is yet to come.

“I STRIVE TO CARE FOR PEOPLE WELL AND BUILD A TEAM THAT DOES THE SAME.”

ARTICLE BY HAILEY SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY HENDRICK

JOURNEY BEYOND THE Natural State

WHILE ARKANSAS WAS THE MOST MOVED TO STATE IN 2024, INVESTING IN TRAVEL AWAY FROM HOME PROVES WELL WORTH IT

Northwest Arkansas is growing faster than any other city in the region. The area has welcomed visitors from all around the world, but we are also due to explore the outside. Many have said that the world is coming to NWA, but we need to engage and invest outside of here too. To help with this, Sevin Travels is ready to help guide you on your next investment of a dream trip. Founder Sevin Gallo is a college world history professor and a group travel expert. She thrives at showing others how popular culture intersects with national identity and politics while joining you on your trip to guide you and ease the stress of planning. Group travel adventures are one of the ways Sevin enjoys showing her peers the benefits of traveling. Having international experience is very important and will teach you more about yourself than you would imagine. Going with someone local to NWA with this experience, like Sevin, is a way to connect with those around you and trust who you are with.

“If it sounds too good to be true, it is. Being genuine and building relationships is so important.”

Some popular destinations that Sevin Travels has helped locals go to include Greece, Europe, Portugal, and diving trips in Croatia. Typically, a round-trip group would include around 16-22 people. A variety of ages are welcome on these voyages, from those in their 20’s to 80’s. The word of mouth in NWA has allowed those to join in on a trip with friends and family. The boutique travel company has taken groups of friends on birthdays, anniversaries, and even a New Year’s Eve chartered yacht trip in the Maldives. The trends Sevin has seen the most in the Northwest Arkansas region include Italy, Morocco, Argentina, and even some interested in African safari trips. Having such a large group travelling together not only fosters memories but also creates shared experiences for everyone to bond over making it easier to get out of your comfort zone. Having international experience is also a great investment into networking skills, and is known to stick out to employers in job interviews. Research has shown that you have a better chance of getting hired if you have traveled somewhere exciting and can elaborate on what it taught you. One of Sevin’s most memorable trips was during Covid-19 when she and a friend who had terminal cancer were able to book a lifelong dream of going to Africa. Not only did they get to travel during the pandemic, but she got to make a very special memory with her friend.

As for the future of travel, trends show that “glamping” in the Sahara Desert, Japan, and India will top many bucket lists. Here in the Ozarks, we’ve long embraced the beauty of camping, but now could be the time to take that love for the outdoors to stunning destinations around the world. Adventure is calling, and Sevin Travels is ready to help you answer.

Sevin Gallo, Founder

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS NEWS In

NWA Daily is on a mission to “turn up the volume” on local news stories

ARTICLE BY WILL NEWTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEREDITH MASHBURN

NWA Daily Team: Tad Moore, Luke Brasuell, Daniel Fritsche

It’s no secret that Northwest Arkansas is one of the fastest growing areas in the country. Around every corner is a ribbon cutting for a new business, a construction site for a housing development and additions to Northwest Arkansas’ thriving outdoor recreation communities. This increased activity in cities like Fayetteville, Bentonville, Springdale and Rogers comes with its community perks, but keeping up with all of their exciting happenings can be a challenge. Luckily, a collective of three men are on a successful mission to compile the positive and uplifting news across Northwest Arkansas into an easy-toread daily newsletter.

NWA Daily, established in 2021, was co-founded by Daniel Fritsche and Luke Brasuell after noticing a shift in the way that the community of Northwest Arkansas connected with each other. Fritsche said that, over the years, they noticed the cities forming a sense of cohesion, leading people to identity as a resident of Northwest Arkansas rather than being from a specific city in the area. Although based in Fayetteville, this sense of unity compelled the news organization to broaden the newsletter’s outreach across the entirety of Northwest Arkansas.

“It’s fun because we can have a sense of pride in the region, and I don’t really feel like you always see that in other regions,” said Fritsche.

NWA Daily’s mission to bring awareness to the good news in the area has connected with thousands of Northwest Arkansans. Each weekday, an NWA Daily newsletter can be found in over 39,000 inboxes and counting.

“We want people to feel connected to the region, and our newsletters give us a really neat platform to highlight small businesses, new openings, community events, and other ways to connect with the region,” said Tad Moore, Market Director and Lead Writer for NWA Daily. “We want to turn up the volume on news stories that our readers might otherwise have missed..”

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Tad Moore, Market Director and Lead Writer

The daily newsletter is NWA Daily’s primary news outlet, but the organization also has several other interactive features on its website, including local guides, event calendars, job and volunteer boards, a playlist that features songs from music artists local to Northwest Arkansas, and a three-tier fan club that grants access to exclusive content and giveaways. Additionally, games are often featured in the newsletter, such as House Hunch NWA, where subscribers guess the price of local real estate listings. Subscribers will occasionally notice a newsletter takeover by local nonprofits to raise awareness and funding.

“In pretty much everything we are doing, we’re trying to help readers connect with their community in one way or another,” said Fritsche.

NWA Daily finds its success in many ways. In securing ad partnerships with well-funded businesses in the area, these businesses receive awareness and the newsletter remains free to its subscribers. This generosity trickles down by allowing NWA Daily to use its resources to find creative ways to feature local nonprofits and start-up businesses that may not yet have the funds to advertise in typical methods, Moore said.

“We want to continue being the megaphone that speaks out about the restaurants and the small businesses and support others who are investing in the community,” said Brasuell.

NWA DAILY AT NWADAILY.COM

Being informed of the exciting things happening throughout Northwest Arkansas, whether in your city or the next one over, can help you feel more connected to your community. If you are interested in receiving Northwest Arkansas-focused news in your inbox each day, subscribe to NWA Daily at nwadaily.com .