CitiScapes Magazine

11/24/2025

Jones Center’s Big Night Gala Raises $310,000 to Support Access for Everyone Scholarships

SPRINGDALE, Ark. – Jones Center announced its 2025 Big Night fundraising event raised $310,000 to support the nonprofit's scholarship program.

On Friday, Nov. 14, more than 350 guests gathered for a French bistro-themed dinner prepared by Chef Thomas Wenrich of Tyson Foods and Catering Unlimited. The evening featured a jewelry pull by Diamond Center, a flower bouquet station, Travel Showcase from Raise Away, a live auction and dancing to Funk Factory's lively music. Guests embraced the "French chic" theme, wearing black dresses and neck scarves as they danced under twinkling lights reminiscent of a Parisian night sky.

Community leaders shared remarks during the event. Bill Bowen, head of sales for prepared foods at Tyson Foods, and Leslie Leonard, senior vice president and general merchandise manager of beauty and personal care at Walmart, spoke about their partnership with Jones Center. Celia Swanson reflected on the center's impact over the past 30 years, and Jones Center President and CEO Joe Lloyd III highlighted the Every Child Swims program and the organization's commitment to teaching life-saving water skills to Springdale students.

Proceeds from Big Night support the Jones Center's Access for Everyone scholarship program, which provides free and low-cost access to recreation, sports, arts, culture, science and education programs year-round.

"As our region grows, we see more families requesting help with memberships and class registrations," Lloyd said. "Community support ensures that every qualifying family who asks for a scholarship receives one."

Visit: https://thejonescenter.org/

Big Night is sponsored by Tyson, Walmart, General Mills, P&G, Diamond Center, Dr. Joel and Lynn Carver, Arvest Bank, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, CDI Contractors, Coty, Cox, C.R. Crawford Construction, ES2, Nabholz Construction, The Schmieding Foundation, Simmons Foods, Straight Talk, Civitas, Celia Swanson, Milestone Construction, Revlon, Shawmut Design and Construction, Walker Brothers Insurance, Wright Lindsey Jennings, Celebrate Magazine, CitiScapes Magazine and 3W Magazine.

The Jones Center is a state-of-the-art recreation, community, and event center located in the heart of Northwest Arkansas. With 220,000 square feet, there is the region's only ice rink, two swimming pools, gymnasium, fitness center, indoor track, conference space, cafe, and chapel.

11/21/2025

The Fayetteville Public Library and the Fayetteville Public Library Foundation announce hiring of two new directors

Director of Communications and Marketing Randy Wilburn joined in early October, Chief Development Officer Greg Leding began this week

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Randy Wilburn and Greg Leding have joined the Fayetteville Public Library and the Fayetteville Public Library Foundation as the director of communications and marketing and chief development officer, respectively. Randy has been with the library since early October and Greg’s first day was earlier this week.

As the director of communications and marketing, Wilburn oversees strategic communications, branding, marketing, and media relations. He is a Howard University graduate, and since living in Northwest Arkansas has served on several boards for organizations such as the Downtown Fayetteville Rotary Club and the Roots Festival. He recently held the title of board president at Ozark Natural Foods for three years. As creator and host of the “I Am Northwest Arkansas” podcast, he has released more than 300 episodes about the people, organizations and developments that impact the Northwest Arkansas region.

Leding is responsible for leading the Fayetteville Public Library Foundation’s development, fundraising and growth strategies. Currently completing his final term in the Arkansas State Senate representing District 30, he serves on committees tasked with agriculture, economic development, public health and labor. He has spent much of his political career focused on renters’ rights, juvenile justice reforms, and access to cancer prevention and treatment measures. Leding is originally from Springdale and is a graduate of the University of Arkansas.

“It’s important to find the right candidates whenever we have an open position, and it felt particularly significant to find the best fit for both of these high-level roles,” said Fayetteville Public Library Executive Director David Johnson. “I am excited to see how Randy will use his two decades of experience in storytelling to ensure that FPL’s mission is communicated with clarity, warmth and impact. Greg’s political career has focused on issues that matter to Arkansas families, and he’s been engaged in national conversations around public policy and community wellbeing. His passion and relationships will open new doors for the Foundation.”

“My family and I are proud to call Fayetteville home,” said Leding. “As a public servant I have advocated for my community’s education, health and economic opportunities. I believe in the mission of the library, and I am ready to champion it through collaboration and thoughtful leadership.”

“The Fayetteville Public Library was one of the reasons that my wife and I moved our family to Northwest Arkansas over 11 years ago,” said Wilburn. “We've had the opportunity to take advantage of all the amazing resources that this space offers and working here has honestly been a bit of a surreal feeling. I look forward to making an impact as a steward of literacy.”

For more information about the Fayetteville Public Library, visit faylib.org. For more information about the Fayetteville Public Library Foundation, visit faylib.org/foundation.

11/21/2025

WelcomeHealth: Northwest Arkansas' Free Health Center Receives $14,000 Grant from the Arvest Foundation to Support No-Cost Medical and Dental Care

Fayetteville, AR — WelcomeHealth has received a $14,000 grant from the Arvest Foundation to expand access to essential health care services for individuals with limited or no access to care.

The grant will help provide 415 no-cost medical and dental services to approximately 114 low-income patients across the region. These services include preventive care, chronic disease management and dental treatment, all key components of WelcomeHealth’s mission to ensure that everyone receives quality care, regardless of income or insurance status.

“We are deeply grateful to the Arvest Foundation for their generous support,” said Cambre Horne-Brooks, Executive Director of WelcomeHealth. “This gift directly impacts our ability to care for our neighbors who would otherwise go without needed medical or dental treatment. Community partnerships like this one make our work possible and strengthen the overall health of Northwest Arkansas.”

The Arvest Foundation’s contribution continues its tradition of investing in organizations that promote the well-being of local communities.

Craig Shy, President, Arvest Fayetteville said, “On behalf of the Arvest Foundation, I am pleased to support WelcomeHealth's efforts to provide greater healthcare for individuals without insurance or with low incomes. The Foundation is committed to supporting the communities it serves.”

WelcomeHealth provides completely free medical, dental and health education services to uninsured and underinsured individuals across Northwest Arkansas. The clinic relies on community support and volunteer providers to deliver thousands of visits each year, helping reduce health disparities and improve quality of life for residents in need.

For more information about WelcomeHealth or to learn how to support its mission, visit www.welcomehealthnwa.org

Photo attached (left to right) are John Moores, Board Member of WelcomeHealth; Brittney Gulley, Director of Development of WelcomeHealth; Craig Shy, President of Arvest Bank – Fayetteville region; Cambre Horne-Brooks, Executive Director of WelcomeHealth; and Jim Johnson, Board Member of WelcomeHealth.

11/18/2025

Local Students to Perform with Old Crow Medicine Show

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS, Nov. 17, 2025 – For the first time, Old Crow Medicine Show is touring with a holiday show and making a stop at Walton Arts Center Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 7 pm. 20 local students grades 6-12 from the University of Arkansas Children’s Choir will perform with the Grammy®-winning group for part of their set.

Join the band for a festive night of foot-stompin’ Christmas classics, fan-favorite Old Crow hits, and songs from their brand-new holiday album. The band will be joined by special guest Bronwyn Keith-Hynes, adding fiddle fire and holiday cheer to this one-of-a-kind celebration.

Old Crow Medicine Show got their start busking on street corners in 1998, from New York state and up through Canada, winning audiences along the way with their boundless energy and spirit. They eventually found themselves in Boone, North Carolina where they caught the attention of folk icon Doc Watson while playing in front of a pharmacy. He invited the band to play at his festival, MerleFest, and the rest is history.

It’s been over 20 years since these humble beginnings. The band has gone on to receive the honor of being inducted as members of the Grand Ole Opry and have won two Grammy Awards: best folk album for Remedy (2014) and best long form music video for “Big Easy Express” (2013). Additionally, their classic single, “Wagon Wheel”, received the RIAA’s Double-Platinum® certification in 2019 for selling over 2,000,000 copies while the band’s debut album O.C.M.S. has been certified Gold® (500,000 copies). The band’s latest Grammy nominated album Jubilee (Aug 2023) released via ATO Records.

The group is comprised of Ketch Secor (fiddle, harmonica, guitar, banjo, vocals), Morgan Jahnig (upright bass), Cory Younts (mandolin, keyboards, banjo, harmonica, vocals), Mike Harris (slide guitar, guitar, mandolin, banjo, dobro, guitjo, vocals), Chance McCoy (vocals, guitar, fiddle, banjo, mandolin, dobro), PJ George (banjo, accordion, mandolin, fiddle, guitar, guitjo, drums)

Standard all-in ticket prices are $67.85 - $217.35. Prices are subject to change. Purchase your tickets now at waltonartscenter.org or by calling 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am – 5 pm.

11/17/2025

Lynyrd Skynyrd and Foreigner Announce Double Trouble Double VisionTour with Stop at the Walmart AMP
Tickets Go on Sale to the Public at 9 am on Friday, Nov. 21

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS, Nov. 17, 2025 – Lynyrd Skynyrd and Foreigner have announced 19 co-headline appearances across North America confirmed for summer, 2026. Produced by Live Nation, the Double Trouble Double Vision Tour will wrap up with a final performance on Saturday, Aug. 29 at the Walmart AMP as part of the 2026 Synchrony Concert Series. Gates open at 5 pm. Show starts at 6:30 pm.

Presales start on Nov. 18 at 9 am. Tickets go on sale to the public at 10 am on Friday, Nov. 21. Standard all-in ticket prices range from $81.55 - $442.95 plus taxes. Prices are subject to change.

The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, access to an intimate behind the scenes backstage tour, photo op with members of the band, exclusive merch pack and more. VIP package contents vary based on the offer selected. For more information, visit vipnation.com.

Foreigner’s Jeff Pilson shares, "The energy the band has felt knowing we'll be touring with Skynyrd this coming summer has been electric! Two bands with plenty of iconic songs, dueling guitars, double trouble and double vision are gonna set each and every stage on fire! No question this will be THE go-to event of the summer!”

Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Johnny Van Zant states, “I'm excited to share the stage with Foreigner and hear all their amazing hits! I've always been a fan, and I believe the audience will love this tour. Lynyrd Skynyrd and Foreigner together — it doesn't get much better than that. See y'all in 2026!”

With more Top 10 hits than Journey, and as many as Fleetwood Mac, Foreigner features strongly in every category in Billboard’s greatest of all time listing. At times, the band’s weekly catalog sales have eclipsed those of Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, the Rolling Stones, the Who, Def Leppard, Van Halen, Aerosmith and most of their classic rock peers (Source: Nielsen SoundScan). With 10 multi-Platinum® albums and 16 Top 30 hits, Foreigner is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world with a formidable musical arsenal that continues to propel sold-out tours and album sales, now exceeding 80 million.

Responsible for some of rock and roll’s most enduring anthems including “Juke Box Hero,” “Cold As Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Waiting For A Girl Like You,” “Feels Like The First Time,” “Urgent,” “Head Games,” “Say You Will,” “Dirty White Boy,” “Long, Long Way From Home” and the worldwide No. 1 hit and member of Spotify’s exclusive Billions Club, “I Want To Know What Love Is,” the Rock & Roll Hall of Famers still rock the charts almost 50 years into the game with massive airplay and continued Billboard album chart success. Audio and video streams of Foreigner’s hits are approaching 20 million per week. Their catalog sales were recently celebrated in Business Insider as hitting the Top 40 among the best-selling music artists of all time.

More than a half century after the release of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s critically acclaimed debut album Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd, they resonate as deeply with their multi-generational fan base today as when they first emerged out of Jacksonville, Florida in 1973. Few ensembles have had the deep impact in creating a lifestyle as Skynyrd has. The band travels forward with a primary mission of celebrating a legacy that honors all whom have had a resonating contribution to the lives of hundreds of millions of fans globally. Former members Ronnie Van Zant, Gary Rossington, Allen Collins, Steve Gaines, Ed King, Billy Powell, Bob Burns and Leon Wilkeson alongside others will forever remain significant contributors to this indelible repertoire and the band’s colorful history. Today, Lynyrd Skynyrd rocks on with a current line-up featuring Johnny Van Zant, Rickey Medlocke, Damon Johnson, Mark “Sparky” Matejka, Michael Cartellone, Robbie Harrington, Peter Keys, Carol Chase and Stacy Plunk.

The rock and roll powerhouse continually tours, and as Van Zant shares, “It’s about the legacy of Lynyrd Skynyrd, and what it stands for, what the fans are all about. There’s nothing like getting out there playing a great show with Skynyrd and seeing people love this music.”

With a catalog of over 60 albums, billions of streams, tens of millions of records sold, and the introduction of Hell House whiskey, Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Lynyrd Skynyrd remain a cultural icon that appeal to all generations.

Add-ons for the 2026 season include reserved parking, AMP Underground, Fast Track, collectible tickets and lawn chair rentals. Concert tickets and add-ons for this show will be delivered digitally. Purchase tickets and add-ons at walmartamp.com or ticketmaster.com.

11/14/2025

When the women of the Gamma Nu Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma gathered in October to mark their organization’s centennial year, the milestone was more than a celebration of history. The chapter — with more than 650 active members, one of the largest women’s organizations on the University of Arkansas campus and the largest active Kappa membership in the United States — chose to use the centennial not only to reflect on a century of friendship and service but also to make investments in its members, house and the community. 🗝️ 💙

The centennial year inspired the chapter to take on a major renovation of its historic house at 800 West Maple St. Spearheaded by co-chairs Angie Johnson and Ashley Parker, the renovation transformed the east wing and surrounding spaces to better serve the needs of today’s collegiate women.

Read more about this sisterhood’s house renovations at www.citiscapes.com/living-spaces-kappa-kappa-gamma! 🏠

By Glenda Graves | Photos by Chadwick Turner

Sorority renovates its home as it celebrates 100 years at the University of Arkansas

11/13/2025

As Crystal Bridges marks its 14th anniversary, it continues to be a place of inspiration, education and community. Nearly half a million students have visited through the Willard and Pat Walker School Visit Program, which provides enriching educational experiences at no cost to schools. The museum’s commitment to accessibility and lifelong learning remains at the heart of its mission. 🖼️❣️

Read more about Crystal Bridges’ expansion at www.citiscapes.com/arts-culture-crystal-bridges! 🌟

Text and photos courtesy of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

Crystal Bridges Celebrates 14 Years of Art, Architecture and Nature; Prepares for Landmark Expansion in 2026

11/12/2025

Get ready for an unforgettable winter wonderland experience starting Nov. 13. Mount Sequoyah Center is hosting its beloved Festival of Trees, presented by the Willard & Pat Walker Charitable Foundation, Inc., which will transform Millar Lodge into a white forest you know from stories long ago. 🌲❄️

This year’s series is chaired by Leah Spears-Blackmon and Meredith Lowry, with honorary chair Jennifer Irwin, president and CEO of Chamber Fayetteville. Proceeds from the events will support the preservation of the Mount Sequoyah historic district.

Read more about these festivities at www.citiscapes.com/seasonal-festival-of-the-trees! ✨

Text and photos courtesy of Mount Sequoyah

Mount Sequoyah Center’s Festival of Trees Returns Bigger and Brighter Than Ever

11/11/2025

Final Months for the Amazeum’s Hershey’s Lab Experience

Bentonville, Arkansas – The Scott Family Amazeum announced today that its Hershey’s Lab, the only location outside of Hershey, Pennsylvania, where guests can experience hands-on experiments inspired by The Hershey Company, will transition to a new experience at the end of this year. Guests have until December 31, 2025, to experience this beloved interactive lab before it transforms into a new space for experimentation in early 2026.

Since opening in 2015, the Hershey’s Lab has inspired curiosity and creativity in thousands of visitors, blending science, engineering, and chocolate in the sweetest way possible. Designed for families and friends to enjoy together, the lab offers self-guided experiments that rotate weekly and encourage exploration through play, teamwork, and sensory discovery.

Daily sessions are offered at 9:45, 10:30, 11:15, 12:00, 12:45, 1:30, 2:15, 3:00, and 3:45. Complimentary tickets are available at Admissions in the lobby on a first come, first served basis. Space is limited.

Upcoming Experiments at the Hershey’s Lab

The Hershey’s Lab features a variety of rotating experiences that showcase the science and creativity behind candy-making. Guests can enjoy a new experiment each week during the final two months of the year:
• Float Trip (November 5–10) – Explore density, buoyancy, and engineering design using eight different Hershey’s candies.
• Candy Chemistry (November 12–17) – From sour candies to silky chocolate, dive into the candy jar to uncover the science of taste and chemistry.
• Sweet Speedway (November 19–24) – Test the speed of four different chocolates and discover which one races to the finish first.
• Slinky Scale (November 26–December 1) – Test weight and density in the sweetest way possible—with Hershey’s candy and a slinky.
• Chocolate Adventure (December 3–8) – A unique interactive board game that takes you on a journey exploring how chocolate is made.
• Ancient Drinking Chocolate (December 10–15) – Travel back in time with this delicious experiment inspired by the origins of chocolate.
• Sweet Speedway (December 17–22) – Test the speed of four different chocolates and discover which one races to the finish first.
• Science of Tasting (December 24–31) – Chocolate lovers, this one’s for you! Explore the world of chocolate using your senses to compare flavors and textures.

*Times and experiments subject to change as we adapt to the shifting needs of our guests*

“As we celebrate a decade of discovery in the Hershey’s Lab, we’re also looking ahead,” said Sam Dean, CEO of the Scott Family Amazeum. “This space has been a cornerstone of our hands-on learning experiences, and while we’re honoring the conclusion of this chapter, we’re thrilled to transition it into a new space for innovation and experimentation in 2026.”

Learn more about the Hershey’s Lab and upcoming exhibits at

We are your hub for fun, creativity, and discovery. The Amazeum features approximately 50,000 square feet of exhibit and learning spaces inside the museum to bring learning to life and enhance family involvement, while evoking a sense of curiosity and discovery through hands-on activities.

11/11/2025

The reason Sgt. Jesse Vermillion gives back is tattooed on his arm. It’s a Bible verse, Mark 10:45, which reads, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many. ⛪️🌟

“That’s something obviously I fail to do, but I think that’s a goal,” Jesse said. “That’s what I consider my personal philosophy is: to live to serve others.”

Read more about Jesse’s service through the Fayetteville Police Department at www.citiscapes.com/profile-sgt-jesse-vermillion! 👮‍♂️

By Nancy Peevy | Portrait photo by Keith Branch

A Servant's Heart

11/10/2025

Support small businesses, local charities, and get a jump on your holiday shopping! 💞

The 19th annual will be November 21-22 at the Rogers Convention Center, with 185 of the ✨best ✨shops brimming with fashion, decor, jewelry, toys, gifts and yummy treats! (Mainly women-owned, Arkansas-based!)

🎀For times and tickets, go to www.nwaboutiqueshow.com 🎀

11/10/2025

Fayetteville Public Library adds memory care kits to assist those experiencing memory loss

The launch coincides with National Family Caregivers Month

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. Nov. 10, 2025 – Fayetteville Public Library has added four memory care kits to their collection. The kits include puzzles and games for those experiencing memory loss to help with engagement, social interaction and memory retention. The kits can be found in the Denton & Cathy Cole Seilhan Fiction collection located on the third floor.

Fayetteville Public Library’s Adult & Reference department put the kits together to provide caregivers with curated tools to help their loved one experiencing memory loss. Each kit contains items suitable for different stages of memory loss as well as a mix of individual and group activities. Library staff worked to have these kits ready by November to coincide with National Family Caregivers Month.

“Memory loss is an unbelievably difficult process, both for those directly experiencing it and their loved ones,” said Heather Robideaux, adult and reference manager at Fayetteville Public Library. “Our goal with these kits is to provide caregivers with a collection of tools that they can quickly pick up instead of having to find them one at a time, because time can be so limited and precious for a family dealing with the memory loss of a beloved friend or relative.”

The memory care kits can be found near the book club kits in the fiction section on the third floor, and you can contact the Reference Desk at 479-856-7250 with questions. For more information about the Fayetteville Public Library, visit faylib.org.