SoMa 501 Announces 2026–2027 Executive Committee

From left to right: Angelina Johnson, Arlton Lowry, Tricia Bean, and Amanda DiPippa.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — SoMa 501 has elected its Executive Committee for the 2026–2027 fiscal year.

The Executive Committee includes:

President: Arlton Lowry, FEW

Vice President: Tricia Bean, consultant and SoMa resident

Secretary: Angelia Johnson, Carver-Washington STEAM Magnet

Treasurer: Amanda DiPippa, UAMS

“We are grateful to have this group of thoughtful, committed leaders serving SoMa 501,” said Elizabeth Michael, Executive Director of SoMa 501. “Their experience, perspective, and love for the neighborhood will help guide our work as we continue supporting businesses, improving public spaces, and creating community events that bring people to South Main.”

SoMa 501 also thanks outgoing President Phil Brandon, Vice President Keri Fishburn, and Treasurer Juli Brandenberger for their leadership and service. Angelia Johnson will continue serving as Secretary for a second term.

"I joined the SoMa 501 board in 2022 because I saw what this organization could become. Phil Brandon did a fantastic job stewarding it during his time as president, and I’m grateful to inherit the strong foundation he built. Now it’s on us to grow from it," says Lowry. "I’m excited to work alongside our talented and engaged board and Executive Director Elizabeth Michael because this organization is only getting started. Let’s get to work.”

SoMa 501 is a nationally accredited Main Street America program dedicated to championing the economic vitality, historic character, and unique culture of South Main Street.

The Spot @ SoMa: Living Up to Its Name - A Place for Family & Flavor.

The Spot is a restaurant that truly lives up to its name. A local favorite rooted in the heart of SoMa. Previously home to Press Waffle, the location found new life when owner Stefan Johnson saw an opportunity that turned into a dream. For years, Stefan dreamed of owning a business that reflected the values most important to him: family, connection, and meals that brought people together. 

 The Spot isn’t your typical brunch spot but a neighborhood with great food and a welcoming atmosphere. 

Inspired by Family, Made with Heart

One of the things that makes The Spot so unique is the personal story behind its menu.

One of the first signature additions was The Connor, a savory burger named after Stefan's son. Stacked with smoked bacon, cheddar jack cheese, and bacon jam. It has quickly become a customer favorite. Not long after came The Jules, a sweet waffle creation inspired by his daughter. Bright, comforting, and full of personality, it's the perfect reflection of its namesake for those with a sweet tooth.

Connor and Jules now work alongside their dad. Along with the rest of their close-knit staff, they’ve created an environment where hospitality feels like second nature.

Visit The Spot @ SoMa

The Spot is the perfect casual and cozy eatery. Whether you want brunch, lunch, or something in between, and whether you’re craving sweet or savory, The Spot is ready to welcome you. 

📋 The Details: 

• Versatile Menu: Something for everyone, including brunch, lunch, and plant-based options.

• Café to Bar: Grab a coffee or a signature mimosa. 

• Family-Friendly: Built on family and offers tons of kid-friendly events!

• Good & Green: Enjoy a meal made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Proudly certified through the City of Little Rock's Green Restaurant Program. 

🕜 Operating Hours:

• Wednesday – Sunday: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Located at 1424 Main St, Suite 104, Little Rock, AR 72202. The Spot is ready to become your next place to eat. Look through their menu and learn more on their website. Follow them on social media for updates, specials, and upcoming events.

Facebook: The Spot at SoMa

Instagram: the.spot.soma

SoMa 501 Welcomes New Board Members and Adopts Ambitious FY 2026/27 Work Plan

As SoMa 501 prepares for another year of community building, economic development, and placemaking, the organization is pleased to welcome new leadership, recognize outgoing board members, and announce the adoption of its FY 2026/27 Work Plan.

Thank You to Our Outgoing Board Members

First and foremost, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Keri Fishburn and Katherine Snyder as they conclude their service on the SoMa 501 Board of Directors.

Katherine has dedicated many years of service to SoMa 501, serving in numerous leadership and volunteer roles throughout her tenure. Most recently, she served as Secretary of the Board and has been an active member of the STEAM Committee, helping guide the growth of educational programming and partnerships that have become a hallmark of the organization. Katherine's steady leadership, institutional knowledge, and commitment to the district have left a lasting impact on SoMa.

We also want to recognize Keri Fishburn for her tremendous contributions over the past three years. Keri most recently served as Vice President of the Board and previously chaired the Events Committee. During her service, she played a pivotal role in the growth and evolution of some of SoMa's signature events, including SoMardi Gras, SoMa Pride, and Fiesta en SoMa. Keri has dedicated countless volunteer hours to planning, logistics, fundraising, and event execution. Her tireless work ethic and passion for the neighborhood have helped shape many of the experiences residents and visitors enjoy today.

While we will miss their leadership at the board table, we are incredibly grateful for their service and know they will continue to be valued members of the SoMa community.

Welcoming New Board Members

Beginning July 1, SoMa 501 welcomes two new members to its Board of Directors.

Christopher Tyler Burks, Ph.D., MPA is an assistant professor in the School of Public Affairs at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, where he teaches political science, public administration, and nonprofit management. He is also an instructor in the Arkansas Public Administration Consortium's Certified Public Manager program and the founder of Urban Analysis, a consulting firm focused on policy, planning, and civic innovation. His background in urban policy, nonprofit management, transportation policy, zoning reform, and Complete Streets initiatives will bring valuable perspective to SoMa's work in economic vitality, walkability, public space, and long-term district planning.

Sarah Thomas, MBA, MPH is a wellness leader, author, advocate, and community connector whose work focuses on accessible and inclusive health practices. She is the founder of 365 Yoga Dream and MS Dreams, initiatives focused on making wellness and mobility resources more accessible, particularly for individuals living with Multiple Sclerosis. She is also the author of Chair Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis and Chronic Pain, a certified Health and Wellness Lifestyle Coach through Emory University, President of Women+ in Technology of Central Arkansas, and Program Manager of Strategic Partnerships and Programs at The Venture Center. Sarah's experience in public health, inclusive wellness, strategic partnerships, and community leadership will be a meaningful asset to SoMa 501.

They join a dedicated working board that includes Angelia Johnson, Phil Brandon, Juli Brandenberger, Nathan Miller, Tricia Bean, Sarah Ann Bost, Arlton Lowry, Angela Sortor, and Amanda DiPippa.

“We are thrilled to welcome Chris and Sarah to the board,” said Elizabeth Michael, Executive Director of SoMa 501. “Both bring unique expertise and a deep commitment that will strengthen our work as we continue to grow SoMa as Little Rock’s most welcoming, walkable, and creative communities.”

2025 highlights

The Annual Meeting also highlighted SoMa’s impact in 2025, including more than 32,000 event attendees and an estimated $3,746,705 in economic impact generated through district programming and events.

Looking Ahead: FY 2026/27

The Board recently adopted an ambitious work plan focused on the Main Street Four Point Approach: Organization, Promotion, Design, and Economic Vitality.

Organization

The Organization Committee focuses on building a strong and sustainable foundation for the district. Priorities for the coming year include expanding volunteer leadership, strengthening board development and succession planning, increasing sponsorship and fundraising efforts, improving volunteer management systems, maintaining Main Street America accreditation, and growing partnerships throughout the community.

One major focus area will be recruiting additional volunteer leadership, including a volunteer manager, to help support the organization's growing portfolio of projects and events. In 2025 alone, more than 220 volunteers contributed their time and talents to SoMa initiatives.

Promotion

The Promotion Committee is responsible for marketing the district and creating reasons for people to visit SoMa.

In FY 2026/27, the committee will continue producing signature events including SoMardi Gras, SoMa Pride, SoMa After Dark, the Main Street Mile, Small Business Saturday, and other special activations throughout the year. The committee will also oversee expansion of the SoMa Co-Op Advertising Program, management of the SoMa Scene newsletter, public relations efforts, tourism promotion, and district branding initiatives.

The committee will continue building Math on Main, a year-long series that combines math, art, education, and placemaking through community events such as Infinity Day and Fibonacci Day.

Design

The Design Committee focuses on the physical appearance and experience of the district.

Projects planned for FY 2026/27 include beautification efforts, public art installations, wayfinding improvements, maintenance of existing art assets, and implementation of projects designed to improve walkability and encourage slower traffic through the neighborhood.

Highlighted projects include the Infinity Day Crosswalk, the Fibonacci Mural, the "We Are SoMa" mural, the SoMa Bench, public art maintenance, landscaping improvements, and continued collaboration with the Quapaw Quarter Community Improvement District on beautification initiatives.

Economic Vitality

The Economic Vitality Committee focuses on helping businesses start, grow, and thrive in SoMa.

The committee will continue recruiting new businesses, supporting existing merchants, promoting available properties, and strengthening communication through SoMa BAM (Business and Merchants). This year will also see the return of the SoMa Mini-Grant Program, featuring grants for exterior business improvements and community activations.

Additional priorities include entrepreneurship support, economic impact tracking, and exploration of a temporary retail container project that would provide low-cost opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs, artists, makers, and small businesses to test concepts in SoMa before investing in a permanent storefront.

The committee will also continue advocating for thoughtful development and investment that strengthens the district while preserving the character and creativity that make SoMa unique.

Building SoMa Together

As we look ahead to FY 2026/27, we remain committed to creating a vibrant, welcoming, and economically strong district while preserving the unique character that makes SoMa special.

If you're interested in volunteering, serving on a committee, sponsoring a project, or getting involved in the future of the neighborhood, we'd love to hear from you.

Together, we're building something special.

“SoMa has grown tremendously over the past 20 years, and we’re just getting started,” Michael said. “With strong leadership, community support, and a clear strategic framework, we’re positioned for our most impactful years yet.”

3rd Annual SoMa Main Street Mile Returns as Regional Championship Event in Little Rock

The streets of SoMa will come alive on the evening of June 5, 2026, as runners, spectators, and the Central Arkansas community gather for the 3rd Annual SoMa Main Street Mile, a high-energy celebration of movement, competition, and summer racing in the heart of Little Rock.

Presented by Blue Rose Running in collaboration with SoMa 501 Little Rock, Inc., and supported by volunteers from across the region’s running community, this event delivers a unique blend of elite competition and community-driven fun.

This year’s race has earned regional recognition as the RRCA Southern Region 1-Mile Championship, solidifying its place as one of the premier mile races in the South.

“From first-time runners to elite competitors, the SoMa Main Street Mile creates an electric, inclusive experience that showcases the very best of Little Rock,” said Logan Dockery of Blue Rose Physical Therapy and Running. “It’s fast, it’s fun, and it’s truly for everyone. This event is about more than racing – it’s about creating a starting point. We’ve seen firsthand how a mile can change the trajectory of someone’s health and life.”

Dockery added that last year’s event served as a turning point for one participant who used the race as a starting point toward improving his health, ultimately losing 110 pounds and counting as he embraces a more active lifestyle. He is now part of a supportive, active community and has become healthier across all aspects of his life.

“The SoMa Main Street Mile is a beautiful intersection of our commitment to healthy living and the preservation of our historic downtown spirit,” said Elizabeth Michael, Executive Director of SoMa 501. “There is something truly magical and unique about racing through the heart of South Main under the warm glow of our iconic string lights, surrounded by the energy of our community.”

Race Schedule & Divisions

Kid’s Mini Mile (Ages 12 & under)

  7:00–7:10 p.m. | $5 (+ fees)

  Children under 8 must run with an adult

Women’s Open Mile (Above 6:00 min/mile)

  7:15–7:35 p.m. | $30 (+ fees)

Men’s Open Mile (Above 5:00 min/mile)

  7:45–8:05 p.m. | $30 (+ fees)

Women’s Elite Mile (6:00 min/mile and under)

  8:15–8:25 p.m. | $30 (+ fees)

Men’s Elite Mile (5:00 min/mile and under)

  8:35–8:45 p.m. | $30 (+ fees)

Registration prices increase after May 5, 2026.

The Fastest Mile in Arkansas

Runners will take on a dynamic, spectator-lined course beginning and ending in the vibrant SoMa district. The route winds through South Main Street and surrounding blocks before finishing with a fast, downhill sprint back to the start/finish line—creating an unforgettable race experience for both participants and fans.

A Festival Atmosphere

More than just a race, the SoMa Main Street Mile is a full street-festival experience. Spectators can expect high energy, community pride, and a lively atmosphere as runners chase personal records and championship titles under the evening lights.

Sponsors

The 2026 SoMa Main Street Mile is made possible by the support of Kinco Construction, Blue Rose Physical Therapy, Blue Rose Running, Little Rock Roadrunners, Smith Underground, and RMP LLP, along with numerous community partners.

Register Now

Participants are encouraged to secure their spot early and be part of one of Arkansas’s most exciting race events: https://runsignup.com/Race/AR/LittleRock/TheSoMaMainStreetMile

To sponsor, volunteer or learn more, visit: SoMa Main Street Mile

HAPPENING TONIGHT: SoMa Hosts “SoMa After Dark Preview” Ahead of Spring Series Return

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (March 6, 2025) – The SoMa District in Little Rock invites the community to enjoy an evening of art, shopping, and local flavor tonight, Friday, March 6, during a SoMa After Dark preview evening ahead of the event series’ return beginning Easter weekend in April.

Several SoMa businesses along Main Street will host special events and exhibition openings throughout the evening:

• Pink Olive will kick off the night from 4–8 p.m. with the debut of its spring Lavender Latte, topped with vanilla–hibiscus rose cold foam and a touch of edible glitter. Guests can also enjoy complimentary sips from Lost Forty Brewing while shopping the boutique’s latest arrivals.

• From 6–9 p.m., M2 Gallery will celebrate 19 years of bringing Little Rock exceptional art and custom framing with a special anniversary show opening.

• Also from 6–9 p.m., Boswell Mourot Fine Art will host a reception and art opening featuring new work by artists Brent Rowley, Anna Stiritz, and Carrie Olsen, with light bites and drinks available for guests.

The evening offers a chance to explore the SoMa district after hours while building excitement for the return of SoMa After Dark, a recurring event featuring art, shopping, food, and entertainment along Main Street the first Friday of every month. Visitors are encouraged to stroll the district, visit participating businesses, and support local shops and galleries throughout the evening.

To learn more and find updates about future events, visitors can find more information at somalittlerock.com/things-to-do.

About SoMa 501SoMa 501 is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and enhancing economic development, public relations, historic integrity and quality of life for the citizens of the SoMa district in Little Rock. As an accredited Main Street Arkansas program, we work with our local businesses, government partners, and other stakeholders to deliver events, improvement projects, and programming for the benefit of everyone who visits our stretch of Main Street.

Media Contact
Elizabeth Michael, Executive Director
soma@southsidemain.org

Request for Proposals (RFP) Landscape Maintenance Services

Request for Proposals (RFP)
Landscape Maintenance Services

Issued by: Quapaw Central Business Improvement District #5 (QCBID)
Issue Date: 3/4/26
Proposal Due Date: 3/7/26

1. Introduction

Quapaw Central Business Improvement District #5 (QCBID) is seeking qualified landscape maintenance contractors to provide comprehensive landscape services within the QCBID district along Main Street from 12th Street to 17th Street and adjacent half blocks as specified below.

The selected contractor will be responsible for maintaining plant beds, trees, shrubs, litter removal, lawn areas, and general landscape appearance in accordance with accepted horticultural practices.

QCBID 501’s goal is to maintain a vibrant, safe, and attractive streetscape that reflects the identity and growth of the district.

2. Contract Term

The contract will be awarded on a month-to-month basis.

Either party may terminate the agreement with thirty (30) days written notice. Continuation of services will be contingent upon satisfactory performance, budget availability, and alignment with QCBID 501 beautification standards.

QCBID 501 reserves the right to evaluate performance regularly and make adjustments to scope, frequency, or vendor selection as needed to best serve the district.

3. Scope of Services

The following services are required at a minimum and shall be performed according to generally accepted horticultural and arborist practices.

A. Plant Bed Management

• All plant beds to be maintained in neat and weed-free appearance.

• All shrubs and ground cover to be trimmed according to generally accepted horticultural practices, and as necessary to maintain necessary visibility for drivers and pedestrians.

• All shrubs and ground cover to be evaluated for any signs of insects or disease and any problems reported to, and treatment options discussed with, QCBID representative.

B. Tree & Evergreen Care

• Trees and evergreens to be pruned and shaped according to arborist techniques, and as necessary to maintain necessary visibility for drivers and pedestrians. This covers pruning and shaping up to a maximum of 10 feet; pruning and shaping above 10 feet is not included.

• Trees and evergreens to be evaluated for any signs of insects or disease and any problems reported to, and treatment options discussed with, QCBID representative.

C. Lawn Care

• Lawn areas to be mowed at appropriate height, with clippings collected and removed as required.

• Mowing to be completed every other week, or as needed, during the growing season.

• All walkways and plant beds to be edged with line trimmer, as needed.

• Lawn areas to be evaluated for any signs of insects or disease and any problems reported to, and treatment options discussed with, QCBID representative.

D. Leaves & Litter Removal

• Leaves, sticks, litter and debris to be removed from plant beds, lawn areas and sidewalks, and hauled off.

• Once each week during the growing season, and when leaves are falling.

• Once every 2 weeks during other times.

Contractor will designate a Project Supervisor who will oversee contractor’s work in the District, and maintain regular communication with QCBID representatives. 

E. Additional Services (Quoted Separately)

To be performed upon mutual agreement and written authorization:

• Seasonal color planting

• Soil improvements and amendments

• Mulch installation or replacement

• Pesticide or chemical applications

• Irrigation adjustments or minor repairs

• Native plant installation

• Bed renovations

4. Areas Included

The service area includes:

Main Street

• Both sides from 12th Street to 16th Street

• West side only from 16th Street to 17th Street

12th Street

• South side from Main Street to ½ block East

• Both sides from Main Street to ½ block West

13th Street, Daisy Bates (14th), and 15th Street

• Both sides from ½ block East of Main Street to ½ block West of Main Street

• Includes grass in front of 112 W Daisy Bates, which is immediately west of the alley

16th Street

• North side from Main Street to ½ block East

• Both sides from Main Street to ½ block West

17th Street

• South side from Main Street to ½ block West

Walgreens perimeter excluded from maintenance but included for leaf/litter removal.

5. Performance Standards

Contractor must:

• Maintain clean, professional crews.

• Provide supervision and quality control oversight.

• Communicate proactively about issues observed.

• Provide monthly service summary reports.

• Carry required insurance and licensing.

• Comply with all local regulations.

6. Proposal Requirements

Proposals must include:

1. Company Overview

   • Years in business

   • Relevant commercial or district experience

   • References (minimum three)

2. Staffing Plan

   • Crew size

   • Supervisor name and qualifications

   • Licensed applicator credentials if applicable

3. Detailed Pricing

   • Monthly base maintenance cost

   • Hourly rates for additional services

4. Equipment List

5. Insurance Certificate

6. Optional Enhancements

   • Sustainability practices

   • Native plant expertise

   • Irrigation management capabilities

7. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

• Experience and qualifications

• Understanding of district-scale maintenance

• Pricing structure

• Responsiveness and communication

• Sustainability practices

• References

QCBID 501 reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.

8. Submission Instructions

Submit proposals electronically in PDF format to:

Elizabeth Michael
Executive Director, SoMa 501 on behalf of QCBID
SoMa@SouthSideMain.org

Deadline: 3/7/26 5 p.m.

Late submissions will not be considered.

SoMa 501 Launches Math on Main, a Year-Long Public Art Series Bringing Math, Art, and Food to South Main

SoMa 501 today announced the launch of Math on Main, a year-long public art and community learning series that will transform South Main Street into a walkable outdoor math experience through art, music, food, and permanent street installations.

Produced as part of the Simons Foundation’s Infinite Sums national initiative, Math on Main will feature three free public events in 2026, each unveiling a permanent, math-inspired crosswalk or mural along Main Street. Together, these installations will form the Math Path on Main, a lasting public art corridor designed to invite curiosity, slow traffic, and encourage people to walk and gather in the neighborhood.

Math on Main is produced in partnership with Dr. Annie Childers and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Math Department, whose faculty and students will help design activities and engage the public throughout the series.

“Math is a fundamental part of the most beautiful things in our world, but many people never get the chance to experience it that way,” said Elizabeth Michael, Executive Director of SoMa 501. “Math on Main is an invitation to look again and to experience math through beauty, creativity, and shared experience.”

The series unfolds across three signature events:

On Pi Day, March 14, Math on Main will launch with the unveiling of a Pi-themed crosswalk, marking the first stop on the Math Path. The day will include DJ for a Day, teaching math and music theory, the Big Bubble Blast, and activities for children under 10. Free circle-shaped foods, including pies, pizzas, and cookies, will be served to the public.

On Infinity Day, August 8, the Math Path will expand with the unveiling of an infinity-themed crosswalk. The celebration will explore infinity as both a mathematical concept and a human one, featuring a community wedding and vow renewal ceremony. Loop-shaped foods will be shared throughout the event.

The series concludes on Fibonacci Day, November 23, with a Fibonacci Friendsgiving. A communal table will stretch down Main Street for a free public meal highlighting spiral-shaped foods and natural Fibonacci patterns. During the event, community members will help install a kinetic, wind-activated mural inspired by the Fibonacci sequence, creating a permanent public artwork that moves with the environment.

Rather than presenting math as a set of rules to follow, Math on Main invites people to experience math as a series of patterns that shape everyday life. Each event combines hands-on learning, public art, and communal meals to make math accessible for people of all ages, whether math enthusiasts or math-averse.

South Main Street is one of Arkansas’s most eclectic and art-filled neighborhoods, shaped by decades of community-led revitalization. Math on Main builds on that legacy, using public art and shared experiences to activate streets, improve walkability, and create lasting neighborhood landmarks.

All Math on Main events are free and open to the public.

Math on Main is supported by the Simons Foundation and is part of its “Infinite Sums” initiative. To learn more, visit https://infinitesums.simonsfoundation.org/.

To learn more, visit somalittlerock.com/mathonmain or follow @soma_little_rock on social media.

More Than Just a Thrift Store, Quapaw Quarter UMC and QQ Thrift Welcome You to Shop, Connect, and Belong

At the corner of 1601 S Louisiana Street in SoMa, something special is happening every first and third weekend of the month. Step inside the historic walls of Quapaw Quarter United Methodist Church and you’ll find QQ Thrift Shop, a vibrant community hub filled with vintage treasures, antiques, furniture and household items.

Why Locals Love QQ Thrift

Open every 1st and 3rd Friday (2–5pm) and Saturday (9am–4pm), QQ Thrift Shop is a well-loved secret among SoMa thrifters. Whether you're searching for the perfect vintage find, a quirky gift, or something you didn’t know you needed until you saw it, there's something here for everyone. And since proceeds go right back into supporting local outreach, shopping here means you're also giving back.

Don’t forget to follow them on Facebook @qqumc for updates on sale weekends, sneak peeks at featured items, and community news.

Love Without Exception

Quapaw Quarter UMC is a 100-year-old church that believes deeply in creating an open and affirming space for all people. Their welcoming statement says it best:

“We welcome into our faith community people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, physical and mental abilities, economic means, and family structures.”

Whether you’re attending worship, visiting the thrift shop, or participating in one of their community meals like the Sunday Community Breakfast or Stone Soup lunch, you’re entering a space that practices radical inclusion and kindness.

Did You Know?

QQ UMC is also the proud host of "Communion on the Run" for the Little Rock Marathon, a tradition that earned them a medal for their creative community support!

Stop By and Say Hi

Quapaw Quarter UMC and QQ Thrift are both located at:
1601 S Louisiana St, Little Rock, AR 72206

Worship & Community Meals
- Community Breakfast: Sundays at 7:30am
- Adult Sunday School: Sundays at 9:45am
- Stone Soup (free hot meal): Sundays at 3:00pm

QQ Thrift Shop Hours
- 1st & 3rd Fridays: 2–5pm
- 1st & 3rd Saturdays: 9am–4pm

Whether you’re looking for great thrift finds, a welcoming place to worship, or simply a way to support the community, QQ UMC and QQ Thrift invite you in, All are welcome!