New Business of the Year: HoneyPops Bar & Grill
When HoneyPops Bar & Grill opened its doors in November 2024, it didn’ t just mark the launch of another restaurant— it represented the triumphant resurrection of a community landmark and the real-ization of an ambitious dream that refused to die. The transformation began with a bold vision: breathe new life into the old Shangri-La in Anderson, a building that had been slowly deteriorating and losing its place in the community’ s heart. After careful consideration and confident in their plan, the owners embarked on what would become a year-long journey Rusty Wilson, Mayor of Anderson, praised the establishment’ s impact:“ HoneyPop’ s Bar and Grill is a great addition to our community and the county! They provide not only an amazing selection of food but also bring entertainment that draws in both locals and visitors from throughout the region. It’ s become a vibrant gathering place that adds real value to the community.” The road to opening wasn’ t without its challenges. Health setbacks tested their resolve and the renovation process was demanding. Yet through perseverance and dedication, they transformed what was once a dying structure into a vibrant new wonder that has become the talk of the area.
The restaurant’ s name carries special meaning— HoneyPops is what the grandchildren call Spencer Dawdy, one of the establishment’ s owners.
John Newby, President / CEO of the McDonald County Chamber, high-lighted their strategic approach:“ The Dawdys did this right, they spent the money needed, marketed from day one for a full year prior to opening, hired the right people, and spent the time needed to launch a vision and a dream. By all measurements, they have created a new attraction that draws customers from the entire region, exactly what it takes to grow in a small community or county.”
Non-Profit of the Year: I’ m Your Huckleberry Rescue
In the rolling hills of McDonald County, where community spirit runs as deep as family roots, one organization stands as a beacon of hope for the region’ s most vulnerable four-legged residents.
This remarkable foster-based rescue extends its lifesaving mission across state lines, serving McDonald and Newton counties in Missouri and Benton and Washington counties in Arkansas. Specializing in heartbreaking cases— lost, abandoned, injured, and surrendered dogs— Huckleberry goes beyond traditional rescue work, providing essential veterinary care, spay / neuter services, and food assistance to families facing hardship, ensuring beloved companions stay in loving homes.
Their ambitious mission statement captures both hope and determination: rescue today, and someday, have no need to rescue at all— a world where every animal has a loving home.
Longtime county resident Luap McKeever has witnessed their extraordinary dedication firsthand:“ Over the years I’ ve seen many exam-ples that come to mind, I witnessed some of their volunteers drive down one of the sketchiest driveways I’ ve ever seen to rescue an abused and malnourished dog from its owner, showing little concern for their personal safety. I’ ve observed their fa-cilities and am consistently impressed with the way they conduct themselves while putting the care for animals at the top of their priority list. I’ ve seen these volunteers work from daylight to dark with minimal breaks. Many volunteers sacrifice hundreds of hours of their personal time and resources to organize fundraisers, knowing that because of their efforts, 100 % of the proceeds go directly to the charity.”
Results speak volumes: this year alone, Huckleberry reached 2,500 spay / neuters— four months ahead of schedule. Through accessible pricing($ 35 for dogs, $ 25 for cats), they’ re strategically addressing pet overpop-ulation at its source.
Citizen of the Year: Bill Martin
In the tapestry of McDonald County’ s community fabric, few threads have been woven as deeply as Bill Martin’ s. Bill chose McDonald County as his retirement destination, where he would become synonymous with community spirit and selfless service.
Bill’ s dedication to McDonald County manifested through countless hours of board service that touched virtually every corner of community life. From the McDonald County Chamber to the White Rock Fire Department, from Crowder College to other oganizations, his leadership fingerprints can be found on initiatives that shaped the region’ s growth and development. His extensive board involvement was passionate advocacy for progress and prosperity.
Perhaps nowhere was Bill’ s heart more evident than in his unwavering love for Jane, Missouri. As its unofficial mayor, he became its biggest champion and most enthusiastic promoter, working tirelessly to ensure this small town retained its charm while embracing opportunities for growth. His passion for Jane was infectious, inspiring others to see its potential and beauty.
Jim Armstrong, a longtime Mc-Donald County resident, captured Bill’ s true essence:“ Bill Martin is not native to McDonald County, but he moved to Jane upon retirement. He was very active with the Fire Department and other events in the Jane area. What a lot of folks were not aware of was his philanthropy to many organizations and to individuals who needed assistance. This county and country need more people like Bill who cares for people.”
Those words reveal the depth of Bill’ s character— a man whose public service was matched only by his private generosity. His legacy lives on in a stronger communities, touched lives, and a model of what caring citizenship truly means.
10 • 2025 • HOMETOWN MCDONALD COUNTY