Of the three Arkansas Times polls we host every year, Best of Arkansas covers the most ground, calling upon our readers to weigh in on their favorite places and entities across the realms of recreation, dining, medicine, commerce, culture and beyond. Sure, there’s plenty to complain about in Arkansas, but when presented with such a broad catalog of Natural State treasures, it’s hard not to feel some pride in our state. 

In the pages ahead, you’ll find the exhaustive list of winners and finalists from the poll, paired with a selection of stories plucked directly from or inspired by your selections.

Elizabeth L. Cline visited Gitti Studio in Pettaway Square, where she chatted with shop owner Anne Dudash, a German immigrant with impeccable tastes in vintage women’s clothing.

YOUR FRIEND IN FASHION: After moving to Arkansas from Germany, Anne Dudash turned a lifelong love of vintage clothes into Gitti Studio, a women’s boutique proving that great style doesn’t require a luxury budget. Credit: Brian Chilson

Frederick McKindra sat down with Arkansas photographer Harlan Bozeman, whose moving images of Elaine, the site of Arkansas’ bloodiest act of racial violence, straddle tragedy and hope.

Credit: Harlan Bozeman

Daniel Grear got chummy with the folks behind Herron Horton Architects, a husband-and-wife firm in Little Rock specializing in modern designs that privilege natural light.

DESIGNING FOR GOOD: Founded in Little Rock in 2000 by Jennifer Herron and Jeff Horton, Herron Horton Architects work with plenty of residential and commercial clients, but their “heartstrings” lie with nonprofit organizations. Credit: Katie Childs

Anne-Elise Tidwell caught up with Fayetteville burlesque performer Raven Rose, an unexpected winner in a category typically dominated by visual artists.

TAKING THE LEAP: After years of dancing as a hobby, Raven Rose stepped up to the plate as a full-time burlesque artist during the COVID-19 pandemic. Credit: Raven Rose

And last, but certainly not least, Milo Strain drove up to Rogers, where he experienced the best meal of his life at Heirloom at The 1907, an intimate tasting menu restaurant helmed by James Beard Award finalist Jason Paul.

FINISHING TOUCHES: Chef Jason Paul, the James Beard Award finalist behind Heirloom at The 1907, fine-tunes a dish before delivering it to a table of hungry diners. Credit: Novo Studio

Recreation

Bike trail

Winner: Arkansas River Trail

Finalists: Allsopp Park Trail, Back 40 Loop (Bella Vista), Northwoods Trails (Hot Springs), Tucker Creek Trail (Conway)

Family attraction

Winner: Little Rock Zoo

Finalists: Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, Motley’s Tree Farm, Museum of Discovery, CALS Children’s Library

Gym/place to work out

Winner: Rock City Complete Fitness

Finalists: Jolly Bodies, Bolte Fitness, Jim Dailey Fitness and Aquatic Center, Blue Yoga Nyla

Hiking trail

Winner: Pinnacle Mountain State Park (Roland)

Finalists: Devil’s Den State Park (West Fork), Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area (Roland), Northwoods Trails (Hot Springs)

Outdoor attraction

Winner: Buffalo National River

Finalists: Hot Springs National Park, Little Rock Zoo, Petit Jean State Park (Morrilton), Pinnacle Mountain State Park (Roland)

Park

Winner: Two Rivers Park

Finalists: Allsopp Park, Burns Park (North Little Rock), Hot Springs National Park, Pinnacle Mountain State Park (Roland)

Place to canoe/kayak/tube

Winner: Buffalo National River

Finalists: Caddo River, Fourche Creek, Little Maumelle River, Ouachita River

Place to mountain bike

Winner: Two Rivers Park

Finalists: Back 40 Loop (Bella Vista), Mt. Nebo State Park Monument Trails (Dardanelle), Northwood Trails (Hot Springs), Pinnacle Mountain State Park Monument Trails (Roland)

Place to swim

Winner: Greers Ferry Lake

Finalists: Bishop Park (Bryant), Buffalo National River, Conway Recreation Center, Jim Dailey Fitness and Aquatic Center

Resort

Winner: Mount Magazine Lodge

Finalists: Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort (Hot Springs), Gaston’s White River Resort (Lakeview), In the Trees (Hot Springs), Lindsey’s Resort (Heber Springs)

Weekend getaway

Winner: Eureka Springs

Finalists: Hot Springs National Park, Gaston’s White River Resort (Lakeview), Cherokee Casino & Hotel (Roland, Oklahoma), Angel at Rose Hall (Eureka Springs)

Education

Best pre-K or preschool

Winner: The Anthony School

Finalists: Pulaski Academy, Ferncliff Nature Preschool, Episcopal Collegiate School, ABC Pre-K (Ashdown)

Community college

Winner: UA Pulaski Technical College (North Little Rock)

Finalists: University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton, Arkansas Northeastern College (Blytheville), Shorter College (North Little Rock), East Arkansas Community College (Forrest City)

Four-year college or university

Winner: University of Central Arkansas (Conway)

Finalists: Hendrix College, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, University of Arkansas (Fayetteville), Arkansas State University (Jonesboro)

Private school

Winner: Mount St. Mary Academy

Finalists: Pulaski Academy, Catholic High School for Boys, Central Arkansas Christian Schools, St. Joseph School (Conway)

Public school

Winner: Little Rock Central High School

Finalists: Conway High School, Parkview Arts and Science Magnet High School, Don R. Roberts Elementary School, Lakeside High School (Hot Springs)

Tutoring

Winner: Huntington Learning Center 

Finalists: Academic Advantage, College Prep Coach, Mathnasium, Odyssey College Prep

Local entertainment

Artist

Winner: Raven Rose

Finalists: CC Mercer Watson, Dylan Dugger, Envy S. Hart, Norwood Day Floral Company

Casino

Winner: Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort (Hot Springs)

Finalists: Saracen Casino Resort (Pine Bluff), Cherokee Casino and Hotel (Roland, Oklahoma)

Comedian

Winner: Gene Berry

Finalists: Brett Ihler, Dawnie Hesselbein, Keith Glason, May Gayden

Country/folk band/artist

Winner: Ashley McBryde

Finalists: Bonnie Montgomery, Arkansauce, Buckshot Princess, Emily Fenton, Mark Currey

Dance club

Winner: Club Sway

Finalists: Discovery, Maxine’s (Hot Springs), Eureka Live (Eureka Springs), Peppermint Hippo (North Little Rock)

DJ

Winner: Mike Poe

Finalists: Dripfunk, g-force, Kecia, PorterHaus

Drag king/queen

Winner: Gage Leon

Finalists: Akasha Adonis, Melanie Masters, Stormy Weather, Sugga Cookies

Event venue

Winner: Birdie’s Cabaret Theater and Lounge (North Little Rock)

Finalists: The Hall, Rusty Tractor Vineyards, Cherokee Casino & Hotel (Roland, Oklahoma), Reynolds Performance Hall (Conway)

Filmmaker

Winner: Jeff Nichols

Finalists: Corbin Pitts, Graham Gordy, Mark Thiedeman, Shelley Rose

Gay bar

Winner: Hairpins

Finalists: Club Sway, Triniti Nightclub, The New 610 Center, Reno’s Argenta Cafe

Hip-hop artist

Winner: Big Piph

Finalists: Baang, 501Bryze, DesD1, Penn Davis

Jazz band/group

Winner: The Big Dam Horns

Finalists: Rodney Block Collective, Ricky Howard, Dave Williams and Christopher Parker, The Goat Band

Late-night spot

Winner: White Water Tavern

Finalists: Four Quarter Bar (North Little Rock), Midtown Billiards, Club Sway, Birdie’s Cabaret Theater and Lounge (North Little Rock)

Library branch

Winner: CALS Main Library

Finalists: Fayetteville Public Library, Laman Library (North Little Rock), Terry Library, McMath Library 

Live music festival

Winner: Argenta Vibe Music Series (North Little Rock)

Finalists: Hillberry Music Festival (Eureka Springs), King Biscuit Blues Festival (Helena-West Helena), Mutants Fest, Valley of the Vapors Independent Music Festival (Hot Springs)

Live music venue

Winner: The Hall

Finalists: White Water Tavern, Cherokee Casino & Hotel (Roland, Oklahoma), George’s Majestic Lounge (Fayetteville), Birdie’s Cabaret Theater and Lounge (North Little Rock)

Local actor/actress

Winner: Natalie Canerday

Finalists: Steve Farrell, Willie Lucius, Jonathan Fili, Quinn Gasaway

Local theater

Winner: Actors Theatre of Little Rock

Finalists: Arkansas Repertory Theatre, Argenta Contemporary Theatre (North Little Rock), Stage 13, Birdie’s Cabaret Theater and Lounge (North Little Rock)

Local tourist attraction 

Winner: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (Bentonville)

Finalists: Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, Little Rock Central High School, Clinton Presidential Library & Museum, Birdie’s Cabaret Theater and Lounge (North Little Rock)

Movie theater

Winner: CALS Ron Robinson Theater

Finalists: Riverdale 10 VIP Cinema, Regal McCain Mall (North Little Rock), Film Alley Breckenridge, Cinemark Tinseltown USA (Benton)

Museum

Winner: Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

Finalists: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (Bentonville), Museum of Discovery, Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, Gangster Museum of America (Hot Springs)

Neighborhood festival

Winner: SoMa Pride

Finalists: Hillcrest HarvestFest, SoMardi Gras, Lost Forty Festival of Darkness, Dogtown Throwdown (North Little Rock)

Performing arts group

Winner: Argenta Contemporary Theatre

Finalists: Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, Actors Theatre of Little Rock, Ballet Arkansas, Murry’s Dinner Playhouse, Foul Play Cabaret (Hot Springs)

Photographer

Winner: Caroline Holt

Finalists: Katie Childs Photo, Matt White, Julie Gayler, Jenn Terrell Photography

Place for karaoke

Winner: White Water Tavern

Finalists: The New 610 Center, Birdie’s Cabaret Theater and Lounge (North Little Rock), Town Pump, Midtown Billiards

Place for trivia

Winner: Birdie’s Cabaret Theater and Lounge (North Little Rock)

Finalists: Fassler Hall, Flyway Brewing (North Little Rock), Stone’s Throw Brewing, The Pizza Pub (North Little Rock)

Poet

Winner: Caroline Earleywine

Finalists: Kai Coggin, Bryan Borland, Kalina Smith, R.J. Looney

Rock band

Winner: The Big Dam Horns

Finalists: OrOrOr, Pallbearer, Bad Habit, Dark From Day One

Local media

Columnist/reporter

Winner: Dwain Hebda (Ya!Mule Wordsmiths)

Finalist: Elizabeth L. Cline, Andrew DeMillo, Joseph Flaherty, Josie Lenora

Local magazine

Winner: Arkansas Times

Finalists: AY Magazine, Inviting Arkansas, Little Rock Soirée, Arkansas Money & Politics

Podcast

Winner: Rex Nelson’s Southern Fried Podcast

Finalists: Couples Inc., Track One (Little Rock Public Radio), Woman-Run (Wright Lindsey Jennings)

Radio station

Winner: KABZ-FM, 103.7 The Buzz

Finalists: KUAR-FM, 89.1; KABF-FM, 88.3; KMJX-FM, 105.1 The Wolf; KIPR-FM, Power 92 Jams

TV meteorologist 

Winner: Todd Yakoubian (KARK, Channel 4)

Finalists: Tom Brannon (THV11), Melinda Mayo (KATV, Channel 7, retired), Joel Young (KLRT, FOX16), Tracy Beene (THV11)

TV personality

Winner: Melinda Mayo (KATV, Channel 7, retired)

Tracy Beene (THV11), Nichole Niemann (KARK, Channel 4), Ashley King (THV11), Daniela Dehaghani (KATV, Channel 7)

TV station

Winner: KTHV (THV11)

Finalists: KARK, Channel 4; KATV, Channel 7; Arkansas PBS

Website

Winner: arktimes.com

Finalists: arkansasadvocate.com, arkansasonline.com, onlyinark.com, thv11.com 

People and politics

Arkansan

Winner: Chris Jones

Finalists: Alice Walton, Aaron Reddin, Hallie Shoffner, Wendell Griffen

Author

Winner: Bryan Borland

Finalists: Eli Cranor, John Grisham, Joseph Scott Ford, Monica Robinson

Celebrity

Winner: Billy Bob Thornton

Finalists: Mary Steenburgen, Bill Clinton, Ashlie Atkinson, Wes Bentley

Charity event

Winner: Soup Sunday (Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families)

Finalists: Taste of Little Rock (UA Little Rock Alumni Association Scholarship Fund), Cupcakes for Goodness Sake (CareLink), Festival of Trees (CARTI), Miracle Ball (Arkansas Children’s Hospital)

Chief Executive Officer

Winner: Adam Head (CARTI)

Finalists: Brock Hoskins (Garver), Marcy Doderer (Arkansas Children’s Hospital), Steve Arrison (Visit Hot Springs), Troy Wells (Baptist Health)

Little Rock City Director

Winner: Kathy Webb

Finalists: Andrew Lewis, Antwan Phillips, Capi Peck, Virgil Miller Jr.

Little Rocker

Winner: Chris Jones

Finalists: Capi Peck, David Bazzel, Matt White, Tippi McCullough

Nonprofit

Winner: The Van (The One, Inc.)

Finalists: Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families, Argenta Contemporary Theatre, Dropping Hairpins Project, LifeTouch Health

Philanthropist

Winner: Christian Gwatney

Finalists: Alice Walton, Will Feland, Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation, Walton Family Foundation

Politician

Winner: Chris Jones

Finalists: Clarke Tucker, Greg Leding, Hallie Shoffner, Tippi McCullough

Worst Arkansan

Winner: Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders

Finalists: Jason Rapert, Dan Sullivan, Tom Cotton

Food and drink

Arkansas-brewed beer

Winner: Lost Forty Brewing

Finalists: Flyway Brewing (North Little Rock), Moody Brews, Stone’s Throw Brewing, Superior Bathhouse Brewery (Hot Springs)

Bread

Winner: The Croissanterie

Finalists: Boulevard Bread Company, Community Bakery, Sterling Market, Buckman Brewhouse (Cabot)

Catering

Winner: Two Sisters Catering

Finalists: Heritage Catering, RX Catering, Vibrant Occasions Catering (Hot Springs), Whole Hog Cafe (North Little Rock)

Comfort food

Winner: The Faded Rose

Finalists: Big Bad Breakfast, Ciao Baci, Copper Grill, Homer’s Kitchen Table

Hangover food

Winner: Señor Tequila

Finalists: Leo’s Greek Castle, Four Quarter Bar (North Little Rock), Ciao Baci, Midtown Billiards

Liquor store

Winner: Colonial Wines & Spirits

Finalists: Legacy Wine and Spirits, 107 Liquor (Sherwood), JFK Liquor (Sherwood), Sullivant’s Liquor Store

Most creative menu

Winner: Funky Stretch Pizza (North Little Rock)

Finalists: Brave New Restaurant, Ciao Baci, Raduno Brick Oven & Barroom, Rōber :: Cocktails + Culinary (Benton)

Munchies food

Winner: Four Quarter Bar (North Little Rock)

Finalists: Funky Stretch Pizza (North Little Rock), Ciao Baci, Hill Station, Professor Bowl

Outdoor dining

Winner: Hill Station

Finalists: Cypress Social (North Little Rock), Southern Tail Brewing, Ciao Baci, U.S. Pizza Co.

Place for a girl’s night out

Winner: BCW (Bread Cheese Wine)

Finalists: Ciao Baci, Copper Grill, Crush Wine Bar, Cherokee Casino & Hotel (Roland, Oklahoma)

Place for a guy’s night out

Winner: Rock Town Distillery

Finalists: Ciao Baci, Four Quarter Bar (North Little Rock), Swing Social, Cherokee Casino & Hotel (Roland, Oklahoma)

Restaurant for a first date

Winner: Raduno Brick Oven & Barroom

Finalists: Brood & Barley (North Little Rock), Ciao Baci, Copper Grill, Problem Child

Vibes

Winner: Brood & Barley (North Little Rock)

Finalists: Attic Bar, Ciao Baci, Moody Brews, The Fold Botanas & Bar

Whiskey bar

Winner: Rock Town Distillery

Finalists: Four Quarter Bar (North Little Rock), Brood & Barley (North Little Rock), Copper Grill, The Bourbon Bar at 501 Prime (Hot Springs)

Wine bar

Winner: Crush Wine Bar

Finalists: Ciao Baci, By The Glass, Samantha’s Tap Room & Wood Grill, Zin Wine Bar

Shopping

Antiques

Winner: Kiehl Avenue Flea Market (Sherwood)

Finalists: Midtown Vintage Market, Fabulous Finds Antiques and Designs, The Cotton Shed Vintage Market (Bryant), The Punchbowl

Art gallery

Winner: Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

Finalists: M2 Gallery, Art Group Gallery, Boswell Mourot Fine Art Gallery, Lucky Star Handmade (Yellville)

Bicycle shop

Winner: Spokes

Finalists: Shift Modern Cyclery, The Ride (Conway), Trackstand Cyclery and Tavern (Bentonville), Pedego Electric Bikes (Fayetteville)

Bookstore

Winner: Paper Hearts Bookstore

Finalists: WordsWorth Books, Beautywood Books (North Little Rock), Pocket Dimension Bookshoppe, Books by the Pound

Bridal store

Winner: Low’s Bridal (Brinkley)

Finalists: The Bridal Cottage (North Little Rock), The Vogue Veil (Cabot), Unveiled Bridal Collection, Monica’s Bridal (Jonesboro)

Fabrics and drapery

Winner: Cynthia East Fabrics 

Finalists: Fabrics Etc, Mountjoy’s Custom Draperies, Rushin Upholstery Supply, Simply Charming Window Works & Design

Flea market

Winner: Y’allternative Market (Sherwood)

Finalists: Midtown Vintage Market, South Main Creative, The Bee’s Knees (Searcy), Flip Flop Flea Market (Bryant), Kiehl Avenue Flea Market (Sherwood)

Flooring store

Winner: Akel’s Carpet One

Finalists: C&F Flooring, Arnold’s Flooring America, Carpet Barn (North Little Rock), Acme Brick, Tile & Stone (North Little Rock)

Florist

Winner: Norwood Day Floral Company

Finalists: North Hills Florist & Gifts (Sherwood), Tipton & Hurst, Buds N Bows (North Little Rock), Sherwood Florist & Every Blooming Thing

Furniture

Winner: Midtown Vintage Market

Finalists: Cantrell Furniture Design Center, Cobblestone & Vine, Down South Furniture (El Paso), Ivory & Oak Design (Searcy)

Garden store

Winner: The Good Earth Garden Center

Finalists: Plantopia (North Little Rock), Cantrell Gardens Nursery, Botanica Gardens, The Plant Outlet (Conway)

Gift shop

Winner: Y’allternative Market (Sherwood)

Finalists: Box Turtle, North Hills Florist & Gifts (North Little Rock), Norwood Day Floral Company, Kiehl Avenue Flea Market (Sherwood)

Grocery store

Winner: Edwards Food Giant

Finalists: Kroger, The Fresh Market, Ozark Natural Foods (Fayetteville), Whole Foods

Hardware/home improvement

Winner: Fuller & Son Hardware

Finalists: Ace Hardware Cantrell, Hiegel Supply (Conway), Kraftco Hardware, Stanley Hardware (North Little Rock)

Hobby shop

Winner: Argenta Bead Company

Finalists: ART Outfitters, AlchemyXXII, Game Goblins, Gracefully Stitched

Jeweler

Winner: Bang-Up Betty (North Little Rock)

Finalists: Sissy’s Log Cabin, Bella Vita Jewelry & Gifts, Hillcrest Designer Jewelry, Cecil’s Fine Jewelry

Men’s clothing

Local Winner: J Duke and Co.

Finalists: Mr. Wicks, Rye 51 (formerly Q Clothier), Baumans

Outdoor store

Winner: Ozark Outdoor Supply

Finalists: Gene Lockwood’s, Gearhead Outfitters, Bass Pro Shops, Pack Rat Outdoor Center (Fayetteville) 

Shoes

Winner: Fleet Feet

Finalists: Rock City Kicks, Warren’s Shoes, Barbara/Jean, Tops Shoes

Vintage clothing

Winner: Y’allternative Market (Sherwood)

Finalists: Kiehl Avenue Flea Market (Sherwood), Thriftpologie, Sylvercreek Vintage, Eanes Road Vintage

Women’s clothing

Winner: Gitti Studio

Finalists: Barbara/Jean, Dillard’s, E. Leigh’s Contemporary Boutique, Thriftpologie

Goods and services

Accounting firm 

Winner: Frost PLLC

Finalists: Forvis Mazars; Kathy Turner CPA; Landmark CPAs; Mann, Hasson & Co.

Apartment complex

Winner: The Fitzroy Promenade

Finalists: Bowman Pointe, The Point Brodie Creek Apartments, Chenal Woods, The Fairways at Nutters Chapel (Conway)

Architect

Winner: Wendell Kinzler (Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects)

Finalists: Herron Horton Architects, David French (French Architects), James Sullivan (AMR Architects), Jim Yeary (Lindsey Yeary Architects)

Arkansas-based company

Winner: Nabholz Construction Group (Conway)

Finalists: Lion Legal, AlchemyXXII, North Hills Florist & Gifts (North Little Rock), Arkansas Asphalt Solutions

Artisan

Winner: Bang-Up Betty (Stacey Bowers)

Finalists: Bella Vita Jewelry (Brandy McNair), Aubrey Hagel (Slyvana Studio), Shelby Brewer (Whimsey and Wondercat), Ashley Llyn (AlchemyXXII)

Auto dealership

Winner: Subaru of Little Rock

Finalists: Crain Automotive Team, Winrock Automotive Group, Top Choice Auto Group (Cabot), Red River Auto Group (Heber Springs)

Auto service

Winner: Paulie’s VW Audi Specialist

Finalists: Jett’s Gas & Service, Joe Hudson’s Collision (Jonesboro), The Shop GM Repair (North Little Rock), Titan Auto Services (Jacksonville)

Bank

Winner: Arkansas Federal Credit Union

Finalists: Arvest Bank, Bank of Little Rock, First Security Bank, Southern Bancorp

Car salesperson

Winner: Dustin Dean (Parker Lexus)

Finalists: Chad Stephenson (Subaru of Little Rock), Matt Ingram (Porsche Little Rock), Micah Rhodes (Crain Kia of Conway), Anthony Burnett (Gwatney Buick GMC)

Commercial insurance agency

Winner: State Farm (Conway)

Finalists: Darling Bell Insurance Solutions (Conway), Insurance Center Inc., JTS Financial, Mike Fason (Farmers Insurance)

Commercial real estate agency

Winner: SVN ArkBest Realty

Finalists: Moses Tucker Partners, Century 21, Kelley Commercial Partners

Company to work for

Winner: CARTI Cancer Center

Finalists: Lion Legal, North Hills Florist & Gifts (North Little Rock), Saracen Casino Resort (Pine Bluff), Wright Lindsey Jennings

Contractor

Winner: Hines Homes (Maumelle)

Finalists: Nabholz Construction (Conway), Haney Contractors, Scott Lucas Construction & Remodeling (Conway), Sullivan Contracting Services (Bentonville) 

Event planner

Winner: Norwood Day Floral Company

Finalists: Evergreen Events, Gretchen Larkan Events, North Hills Florist & Gifts (North Little Rock), JoBeth McElhanon (Lilias & Olive)

Funeral home

Winner: Smith Family Funeral Homes

Finalists: Roller Funeral Home, Ruebel Funeral Home, A Natural State Funeral Service, Ralph Robinson & Son Funeral Directors (Pine Bluff) 

Handyman

Winner: Luck Be A Lady Rentals and Repair

Finalists: B’s Handyman Service (Greenbrier), Knight Solutions (North Little Rock), Serrato Services (Rogers), The Handy Mason

Home builder

Winner: Hines Homes (Maumelle)

Finalists: Dandelion Building Co (Vilonia), Millco Enterprises (Greenbrier), Noah Treat Construction, Scott Lucas Construction & Remodeling (Conway)

Home inspection

Winner: Honeybee Home Inspection

Finalists: All Corners Property Inspection (Sherwood), All-Star Home Inspections (Benton), Kevin Bass Home Inspections (Conway), Ark Inspections (Conway)

Home, life, car insurance

Winner: Arkansas Farm Bureau 

Finalists: Candy Alford (Shelter Insurance), Gabbie Insurance Agency (Jonesboro), Jay Snider (Shelter Insurance), Mike Fason (Farmers Insurance)

Hotel

Winner: Capital Hotel

Finalists: 21c Museum Hotel (Bentonville), Aloft Little Rock West, Cherokee Hotel & Casino (Roland, Oklahoma), Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort (Hot Springs)

HVAC repair

Winner: Seaton Heat N’ Air & Electric (Sherwood)

Finalists: Dash Heating & Cooling, Yates Maintenance Heating & Air, Hogan’s Heating & Air (Alexander), Hillenburg Heat & Air (Cabot)

Interior designer/decorator

Winner: Kelley Kolettis Designs

Finalists: AC Design, Amy Wheeler Designs, Debi Davis Interior Design, Larry West Jr.

Investment adviser

Winner: Hatim Smouni (Merrill Lynch)

Finalists: Chris Harkins (Harkins Rafferty Wealth Management of Raymond Jones), Debbie Elgen (Edward Jones), Mason Laws (Modern Woodmen of America), Sarah Catherine Gutierrez (Aptus Financial)

IT services

Winner: Pinnacle IT

Finalists: Arkansas Network Experts (Conway), BizTek Connection, PCA Technology Solutions, Southwest Power Pool

Landscaper/landscape design

Winner: The Good Earth Garden Center

Finalists: Exterior Solutions, NLS Lawn & Landscape (Maumelle), Village Precision Pros (Hot Springs)

Law firm

Winner: Lion Legal

Finalists: Wright Lindsey Jennings, Turner & Rasch, JW Law Firm (Sherwood), DZN Law Firm

Lawyer

Winner: Zoe Robinson (Lion Legal)

Finalists: Victoria Leigh (Lion Legal), Rebecca Ferguson (Lion Legal), Tara Pool (Lion Legal), Andrew Norwood (DZN Law Firm), Jud Kidd (Dodds, Kidd & Ryan)

Marketing firm

Winner: Hummingbird Media

Finalists: CMW Marketing + Creative, Eric Rob & Isaac, Vines/Brookshire, Waveline Studio

Mover

Winner: Two Men and a Truck (North Little Rock)

Finalists: Brandon Moving & Storage (North Little Rock), All My Sons Moving & Storage, Arkansas River Valley Moving (Russellville), College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

Music equipment

Winner: Guitar Center (Little Rock)

Finalists: Renown Music (North Little Rock), Quattlebaum Music (Searcy), Rosen Music Company, Saied Music Company

Pest control and termite service

Winner: Adams Pest Control

Finalists: Best Pest Control, Bug Masters, Empire Pest Solutions (Conway), Thomas Pest Control

Pet groomers

Winner: SouthPaw Grooming (North Little Rock)

Finalists: Purrfectly Pawlished Pet Grooming, Pretty Paws Grooming, Hillcrest Dog Spot, Golden Touch Grooming (Jacksonville)

Plumber

Winner: Cogan Plumbing

Finalists: Victory Plumbing (North Little Rock), Sanders Plumbing HVAC (North Little Rock), Bert Black — AC Heating Plumbing Electric, Airco Service (North Little Rock)

Property management

Winner: J&K Premier Properties

Finalists: Block Multifamily Group, Platform Residential, Turnkey Property Management, Unwind Luxury Vacations

Realtor

Winner: Jay Calhoun (Signature Properties)

Finalists: Allison Pickell (Coldwell Banker RPM Group), Amber Wood (Mid South Realty), Ashley Watters (eXp Realty), J Kirt Thomas (Bailey and Company Real Estate), Karena Malott (Keller Williams Realty)

Residential real estate agency

Winner: eXp Realty

Finalists: The Janet Jones Company, Jon Underhill Real Estate, Keller Williams Realty, Mid South Realty

Siding, windows and roofing

Winner: Roelke Roofing

Finalists: Arkansas Roofing Kompany (Conway), EZ Roofing, Regal Construction, Rock City Roofing (Maumelle)

Solar company

Winner: Everything Solar 

Finalists: Delta Solar, Arkansas Solar Solutions (North Little Rock), EZ Roofing

Tattoos

Winner: Catfish Jimmy’s Tattoo Shop

Finalists: 7th Street Tattoos, Lucky Bella Tattoos (North Little Rock), Black Cobra Tattoos (Sherwood), Brickhouse Tattoo Studio (Cabot)

Travel agency

Winner: Poe Travel

Finalists: Sue Smith Vacations (North Little Rock), Clark Custom Travel, Dream Vacations, Travel with Friends

Wealth management

Winner: Edward Jones

Finalists: Chris Harkins (Raymond James), Hatim Smouni (Merrill Lynch), Modern Woodmen of America, Mendel Capital Management

Web design

Winner: Hummingbird Media

Finalists: Few, Silverlake Design + Marketing (Conway), SixtyOne Celsius (Hot Springs), Ward Brothers Digital

Window tinting

Winner: D&D Sun Control, Inc. (North Little Rock)

Finalists: Diamond State Car Salon, Monster Tint (Malvern), Signature Window Tinting

Medical and personal care

Assisted living facility

Winner: Fox Ridge Luxury Senior Living

Finalists: Ridgemere Senior Living (Conway), StoneBridge Senior Living (Cabot), Superior Health & Rehab (Conway), Woodland Heights Senior Living

Audiology

Winner: CARTI Audiology

Finalists: Little Rock Audiology, UAMS, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Nathan Darby (Chenal Hearing)

Barbershop

Winner: Dogtown Barber Lounge (North Little Rock)

Finalists: Park Hill Barbershop (North Little Rock), Sydney Hunsicker (Iconic Salon Suites), The Men’s Den Grooming Lounge (Ward), V’s Barbershop 

Budtender

Winner: Jacob Gadberry (Natural Relief Dispensary)

Finalists: Cervonn Whitmore (Good Day Farm), Christey Dodson (Sepakeasy, Pine Bluff), Marcie (Good Day Farm, Monticello)

Cardiology clinic

Winner: Arkansas Heart Hospital

Finalists: UAMS Cardiology Clinic, CHI St. Vincent Heart Clinic, Baptist Health Heart Institute

Chiropractor 

Winner: Beverly Foster (Chiropractic Health & Rehabilitation)

Finalists: Ashley Mann (Life Wellness and Spinal Care), Jonathan Jamison (Pinnacle Chiropractic), Shawn McGehee (Lamey Chiropractic), Brady DeClerk (Omnis Chiropractic)

Concierge doctor

Winner: Dr. Siobhan Hruby (Pinnacle Internal Medicine)

Finalists: Dr. Allan D. McKenzie, Dr. D. Bart Sills (Sills Family Medicine), Dr. I. Torin Gray, Dr. Preston McCormack (Perspective Health)

Cosmetic dentist

Winner: Buchman Family Dental

Finalists: Dr. DJ Dailey (Smile Dailey General and Cosmetic Dentistry), Dr. Ethan Erwin (Smile Hot Springs), Dr. Samuel Strong (Dentalways), Dr. Jeff Garner (The Smile Doctor)

Cosmetic surgeon

Winner: Dr. Suzanne Yee (Cosmetic & Laser Surgery Center)

Finalists: Dr. Kris Shewmake (Shewmake Plastic Surgery), Dr. Melanie Prince, Dr. Rhys Branman (Cosmetic Surgery Center), Dr. Gene Sloan (Aesthetic Plastic Surgery)

Counselor/therapist

Winner: Stacy Kinzler Therapy

Finalists: Alex Sprouse (Courage Counseling), Beth Rogers (New Path Mental Health & Wellness), Carrie Calhoon, Stacey Reynolds (Blue Yoga Nyla)

Dermatologist

Winner: Arkansas Dermatology

Finalists: Dr. Andrea Mabry (Pinnacle Dermatology), Dr. Sara Shalin (UAMS), Dr. Hayden Franks (Franks Dermatology), Gibson & Guthrie Dermatology

Dietician

Winner: Alyssa Frisby (UAMS)

Finalists: Courtney Sutterfield (Arkansas Heart Hospital), Julie Olson (ArCare), Meg Green

Dispensary

Winner: Natural Relief Dispensary (Sherwood)

Finalists: Suite 443 Dispensary (Hot Springs), Good Day Farm, Codes Dispensary, Speakeasy Dispensary (Pine Bluff)

Family dentist

Winner: Otter Creek Family Dentistry

Finalists: Buchman Family Dental, Cooper Family Dentistry (Jacksonville), Kitchens Pediatric Dentistry, Nichols Family Dental

Family physician

Winner: Dr. Alison Richardson (Arkansas Family Medicine)

Finalists: Dr. John Jayroe (Little Rock Family Medicine), Dr. Archie Hearne (CHI St. Vincent), Dr. Michael Gann (UAMS), Dr. Brad Jenkins (Baptist Health)

Fitness instructor

Winner: Stacey Reynolds (Blue Yoga Nyla)

Finalists: Alexander Winans (ZenStudio Fitness), Anna Bolte (Bolte Fitness), Jean Paul Francoeur (JP Fitness + Recovery), Tara Stevens (Rock City Complete Fitness)

Hair removal

Winner: Studio Von (North LIttle Rock)

Finalists: European Wax Center, Infidimensional Skin, Milan Laser Hair Removal, Revolution Med Spa (Cabot)

Hair salon

Winner: Bloom Salon

Finalists: Alexander’s Salon (North Little Rock), Carter | Miller Hillcrest, Red Beauty Lounge

Health coach

Winner: Anna Bolte (Bolte Fitness)

Finalists: Jolly Bodies, Jean Paul Francoeur (JP Fitness + Recovery), The Wellthy Healthy Life (Nicole Johnson)

Health-related products

Winner: Bio-Tech Pharmacal (Fayetteville)

Finalists: Alliance Home Care Equipment, FarmaKeio (Conway), Hot Springs Natural

Hospice care

Winner: Hospice Home Care

Finalists: Baptist Health Hospice, LifeTouch Health (El Dorado), LifeTouch Health (Conway), LiftTouch Health Ottenheimer Inpatient Center

Hospital

Winner: UAMS

Finalists: Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Conway Regional, Baptist Health, CHI St. Vincent

In-home care

Winner: CareLink (North Little Rock)

Finalists: Hospice Home Care, Miracle Hands In Home Care (Cabot), Right at Home, CrossRidge Community Hospital Home Health (Wynne)

Massage therapist

Winner: Delaney Davis (Touch of Sky Spa)

Finalists: Ava Bella Day Spa, Dawn Eick (Copper Well Retreat), Samern Turner (Arkansas Healing Arts), Zach Turner (Zach Turner Massage and Wellness)

Med spa

Winner: Beauty Boss Co.

Finalists: Rejuvenation Clinic Day Spa, Skin Fix Med Spa, Dr. Suzanne Yee Cosmetic & Laser Surgery Center, THE SPA’AH (Conway)

Memory care facility

Winner: Fox Ridge Chenal

Finalists: Pinnacle Place Memory Care, Landmark Lifestyles at Bryant, Providence Assisted Living, Ridgemere Senior Living (Conway)

Mental health facility

Winner: Stacey Kinzler Therapy (North Little Rock)

Finalists: The BridgeWay (North Little Rock), New Path Mental Health & Wellness, Catalyst Counseling (Conway), The Break Room

Neurologist

Winner (tie): Chelsea Presson (CHI St. Vincent) and Dr. Kelli Schlesinger (Legacy Spine & Neurological Specialists)

Finalists: Dr. Keith Schluterman (Conway Regional), Dr. Reza Shahim (Neurological Surgical Associates), Dr. Tim Freyaldenhoven (Conway Regional)

Neurosurgeon

Winner: Dr. Ali Krisht (CHI St. Vincent)

Finalists: Dr. Zachary Mason (Arkansas Surgical Hospital), Dr. Ali Raja (Arkansas Surgical Hospital), Dr. Gautam Gandhi (Pinnacle Spine & Neurosurgery)

Nursing home

Winner: Briarwood Nursing & Rehabilitation

Finalists: Cabot Health and Rehab, Greystone Nursing & Rehabilitation (Cabot), Presbyterian Village, Woodruff County Health Center (McCrory)

OB/GYN clinic

Winner: UAMS Health Women’s Center

Finalists: Central Clinic for Women, Cornerstone Clinic for Women, North Little Rock Women’s Clinic, Women’s First Gynecology and Wellness Clinic

Oncologist

Winner: Dr. Sindhu Malapati (UAMS)

Finalists: Dr. Diane Wilder (CARTI Cancer Center), Dr. Thomas Sneed (CARTI Cancer Center), Dr. Ron Kuhn (CARTI Cancer Center)

Ophthalmologist

Winner: Dr. Tracy Baltz (Little Rock Eye Clinic)

Finalists: Dr. Christian Hester (Little Rock Eye Clinic), Dr. Edward Penick (Central Arkansas Ophthalmology), Dr. R. Scott Lowery (UAMS), Dr. Joseph Chacko (UAMS)

Optometrist

Winner: Dr. Bailey Zachry (Little Rock Family Eyecare)

Finalists: Dr. Angela Rose (Rose Eye Clinic), Dr. Nicholas Sachse (Patterson Eye Care), Dr. Bryan G. Armstrong (Bryant Eyecare Clinic)

Orthodontist

Winner: Dr. Andy Vondran (Vondran Orthodontics)

Finalists: Dr. Michael Quick (Orthodontics Associates), Wardlaw Orthodontics, Dr. Clayton Owen (Owen Orthodontics), Dr. Michael Ashcraft (Orthodontics Associates)

Orthopedic surgeon

Winner: Dr. Adam Norwood (Baptist Health)

Finalists: Dr. C. Lowry Barnes (UAMS), Dr. Simon Mears (UAMS), Dr. William Hefley (Bowen Hefley Orthopedics), Dr. Ethan Schock (OrthoArkansas)

Pain specialist

Winner: Dr. Drew Beasley (OrthoArkansas)

Finalists: Dr. Aparna Jindal (UAMS), Dr. Johnathan Goree (UAMS), Martin Eisele (Evergreen Acupuncture), Dr. Christopher Mocek (Mocek Spine Clinic)

Pediatrician

Winner: Dr. Chad Rodgers (Little Rock Pediatric Clinic)

Finalists: Dr. Dawn Martin (All for Kids Pediatric Clinic), Dr. Aaron Strong (Little Rock Pediatric Clinic), Dr. Jeremy Harwood (CHI St. Vincent), Dr. Leah Youngblood (Little Rock Children’s Clinic)

Personal trainer

Winner: Stacey Reynolds (Blue Yoga Nyla)

Finalists: Lee Ann Jolly (Jolly Bodies), Lori Forrester (Rock City Complete Fitness), Jean Paul Francoeur (JP Fitness + Recovery), Anna Bolte (Bolte Fitness)

Pharmacy

Winner: The Pharmacy at Wellington

Finalists: Cornerstone Pharmacy, Kavanaugh Pharmacy, Park West Pharmacy, Rhea Drug Store

Physical therapist

Winner: Edward Drangle (Ageless Health and Fitness)

Finalists: Andrew Musgrove (Baptist Health), Bo Renshaw (Harris & Renshaw Physical Therapy), Jack Bridges (Cabot Physical Therapy), Nathan Tumlinson (Associates Physical Therapy)

Physical therapy clinic

Winner: OrthoArkansas

Finalists: Advanced Physical Therapy, Baptist Health Therapy Center, Blue Rose Physical Therapy, Cabot Physical Therapy

Prosthetics

Winner: Snell Prosthetics & Orthotics

Finalists: Horton’s Orthotics & Prosthetics, Advanced Prosthetics Services (Searcy), Hanger Clinic: Prosthetics & Orthotics, Johnson Prosthetics & Orthotics (Fayetteville)

Retirement community

Winner: Good Shepherd Community

Finalists: College Square Retirement Community (Conway), Harding Place Retirement (Searcy), Orchards at Cabot, Parkway Village 

Spa

Winner: Touch of Sky Spa (Sherwood)

Finalists: Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa (Hot Springs), Astral Spa Oaklawn (Hot Springs), Rejuvenation Clinic Day Spa, THE SPA’AH (Conway)

Sports medicine clinic

Winner: OrthoArkansas

Finalists: Arkansas Children’s Hospital Sports Medicine Clinic, Conway Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, UAMS Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Jonesboro Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine

Veterinarian

Winner: Dr. Stacey Greathouse (Cantrell Animal Clinic)

Finalists: Pleasant Valley Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Katelyn Lang (Healthy Life Pet Clinic), Dr. Greg Hartman (Hartman Animal Hospital), Dr. Brian Barron (Shackleford Road Veterinary Clinic)

Yoga studio

Winner: Blue Yoga Nyla (North Little Rock)

Finalists: Barefoot Studio, Camp Yoga & Pilates, Go Inside Yoga (Conway), Arkansas Yoga Collective