Arkansas Times - November 30, 2011

New UA System President Donald Bobbitt’s vision for overhauling higher education.

NEWS + POLITICS + ENTERTAINMENT / NOVEMBER 30, 2011 / ARKTIMES.COM

Embrace naturism.

Encourage a gap year between high school and college for travel.

Reconnect the Old State House to the Riverfront.

Build an iconic performing arts center.

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ARKANSAS’S SOURCE FOR NEWS, POLITICS & ENTERTAINMENT 201 East Markham Street 200 Heritage Center West P.O. Box 34010, Little Rock, Arkansas 72203 www.arktimes.com arktimes@arktimes.com @ArkTimes www.facebook.com/arkansastimes PUBLISHER Alan Leveritt EDITOR Lindsey Millar SENIOR EDITOR Max Brantley MANAGING EDITOR Leslie Newell Peacock CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Mara Leveritt ASSOCIATE EDITORS Cheree Franco, David Koon, Bob Lancaster, Doug Smith ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Robert Bell EDITORIAL ART DIRECTOR Kai Caddy PHOTOGRAPHER Brian Chilson

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COMMENT

About that 1957 declaration In response to Max Brantley’s column “Forget 1957; talk about today” (Nov. 23) on the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce proposal to repeal a 1957 Little Rock City Board resolution that cheered Gov. Orval Faubus for fighting to preserve segregation at Central High School.

With all due respect to Ruth Shepherd, Charles Stewart, and anyone else behind the repeal effort, I respectfully disagree with it, am offended by it, and will publicly denounce it.

Repealing the ordinance can’t and won’t undo a single injustice associated with what Little Rock did to support Orval Faubus in 1957. It won’t do anything to eradicate present systemic bias.

It will simply amount to window dressing for the cultural incompetence and calculated injustice that characterize how Little Rock operates.

Governor Faubus seized on that cultural incompetence and tolerance for calculated injustice in his reaction to the Supreme Court’s decision in Brown v. Board of Education. Little Rock civic, religious, and business leaders followed Faubus in 1957 in much the same way they followed the 2011 sales tax appeal

by Mayor Stodola and the Chamber of Commerce.

Rather than an ordinance repealing a dead declaration that nobody cares about (but which should never be forgotten or excused), we ought to propose and lobby for passage of an ordinance that ends the three at-large city directors and have all city directors elected from fairly drawn voting wards. That ordinance would address ongoing systemic bias and have real impact on how power is held and wielded in the capital city of Arkansas.

This repeal effort is merely a “feel good” exercise, an attempt to erase ugly history. History, ugly and otherwise, can’t be changed by a cover-up. The 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments didn’t try to erase slavery. Instead they were ratified to end and address the systemic injustices slavery carried.

What Orval Faubus did in 1957 (including the unjust declaration enacted by Little Rock directors) can’t be erased. Nobody should try to cover it up, defend it, or rehabilitate the city’s image on account of it. It happened. It was unjust. And it was widely supported by politicians, business, religious, and civic leaders.

Rather than turning over the political graves of Orval Faubus and the misguided people who supported him, we should invest our time and efforts in confronting and correcting present injustices.

Passing an ordinance to repeal the 1957 4 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

declaration takes no courage, corrects no wrong, and changes no injustices suffered because of that declaration. Little Rock won’t be a bit more just whether the 1957 declaration is repealed or not.

We profess to be agents of social justice. Let’s not waste our time exhuming a dead ordinance. No one should celebrate passage of an ordinance to repeal a dead ordinance when we have living injustices to face and fight.

Wendell Griffen Little Rock (Griffen is a Pulaski County circuit judge.)

city councils.

From the web

Thomas Pope

The only systemic bias that exists today is the Democratic Party’s abuse of the Justice Department and Civil Rights Statutes to suspend the rights of whites in employment and education through Affirmative Action Programs. That is for everyone except for themselves. A bold solution to the under-representation of blacks and Hispanics on the city council would be to incorporate into two new cities, East Little Rock and West Little Rock. That would prevent a predominance of either race on their respective

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The at-large council membership is systemic bias whether Thomas Pope believes it or not. City officials’ obeisance to the Chamber of Commerce is another systemic bias. And since the city’s main newspaper serves as a spokesman for the above that represents a third systemic bias.

Too many of our citizenry shy away from all things political, therefore none of this is going away. All hail the Little Rock occupiers.

Verla Sweere

Hope for critical thought and empathy While walking to class at UALR last week I heard the sound of preaching. I was surprised to find a man and three women preaching fire and brimstone outside the student center. They were not there to convert, council, or pray with students. They were there to tell us we’re hell-bound, the lot of us. My homosexuality condemned me, while the girls on campus were whores, and the frat boys, whoremongers. We were all servants of Satan. The group was not on campus to change minds, nor were their minds open to change. They were only there to display their own vanity (which I’m pretty sure the Lord frowns upon).

The crowd of student observers grew over the three hours I watched. I was so transfixed I had to skip class. I couldn’t look away. If the “evangelists” ’ purpose was to win souls for Christ, they failed miserably. If their purpose was to bring a diverse group of students together, they succeeded. The crowd was every color, creed, religion and sexual orientation.

Lesbians passed out “gay cookies.” Frat boys made it rain condoms while Muslims distributed information about Islam.

Self-professed Christian students challenged the preachers on their interpretations of scripture. Those challenges gave me hope that the next generation of evangelicals and social conservatives will be capable of critical thought and empathy. I was very impressed with the student body that day. If that group of people is indicative of our future, then perhaps we will see more people who seek to understand rather than shout ideology at the personal expense of others.

H.L. Moody Little Rock

Submit letters to the Editor, Arkansas Times, P.O. Box 34010, Little Rock, AR 72203 or via e-mail at arktimes@ arktimes.com. Please include name and hometown.

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EDITORIAL

EYE ON ARKANSAS

Bold talk

6 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

PAUL BARROWS

K

ansas Gov. Sam Brownback has called the dogs off a high school student who’d spoken harshly of him. Some see this as admission that it’s hard not to speak harshly of Sam Brownback, but more likely, the governor’s uncharacteristic display of tolerance was prompted by all the criticism he was receiving from people who believed a governor should have better things to do than seek retribution on an 18-year-old girl, even a mouthy one.

For her part, Emma Sullivan says that she’s still a liberal, still disagrees with the far-right Brownback on just about everything, and still plans to enroll next year at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. She’ll find a few fellow liberals there, although the Waltons seem to have the campus on a rather tight leash these days, and Sullivan may not like them any better than Brownback, many of whose views they share. She’ll probably let us know.

Sullivan was in a group of high school students touring the Kansas capitol in Topeka to learn about state government. While Brownback was speaking to the group, Sullivan tweeted that the governor “sucks,” a common expression of disapproval among high-schoolers today. An aide to the governor saw the remark while monitoring the social media, and before long Sullivan’s high school principal was demanding she write a letter of apology to the governor. Wisely, that demand has now been dropped, and both the school and the governor’s office say they won’t pursue the matter further.

Conservative commentators see the Sullivan incident a further evidence of the decline of civility in the nation’s political discourse. And it probably is, to a degree, though it’s more illustrative that people are still struggling with communications technology that puts everybody and everything on the record, immediately. A truer example of declining civility was the booing, by adults, of Michelle Obama and Jill Biden at a NASCAR race a few days earlier. The two were present as part of a charitable campaign to support veterans and their families.

Mrs. Obama’s husband, the president, has been called a liar to his face by a U.S. representative while Mr. Obama was addressing a joint session of Congress. The offender was much celebrated in his and Governor Brownback’s party. Nobody sets the civility bar lower than Rush Limbaugh, and the Far Right loves him for it. A high school student’s disparagement of a public official is not nearly so shocking as a grown man’s making fun of a junior-high-school girl’s looks, as Limbaugh did with Chelsea Clinton. A Republican presidential nominee, John McCain, joined in the sport.

Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe is far from perfect, but he’s far from Sam Brownback too. Sullivan and Brownback will both be happier with her in Beebe’s jurisdiction.

FROM THE CLINTON BRIDGE: Paul Barrows submitted this photo of the Bill Clark Wetlands and the Little Rock skyline to the Eye On Arkansas Flickr page.

A bridge too few

L

ittle Rock’s Broadway Bridge, which opened in 1923, was supposed to be a cutting edge design and last for 1,000 years. The state Highway Transportation Department proposes to replace it 910 years early, in 2013, with $45 million in bridge construction money.

Crumbling concrete facades pose no structural risks, but are a continuing headache. Traffic engineers would like better traffic lanes and better pathways for bicyclists and pedestrians.

Add to this wish list the desire of local elected officials — particularly Mayors Mark Stodola of Little Rock and Pat Hays of North Little Rock and County Judge Buddy Villines — to make the replacement bridge an icon. Architecturally arresting bridges have become a worldwide trend and they want Little Rock to keep up.

Metroplan’s effort to stir up some interest in the fancy bridge cause hasn’t produced a huge response yet. Only 364 responded to an on-line survey about bridge replacement. A bare plurality — 157 to 147 — favored an iconic design over making the bridge as attractive as possible within the budget.

A design competition, winner to be announced later this month, continues at newbroadwaybridge. org. But it is not binding on the Highway Department, which is at work on a replacement plan. Most expect that without local intervention the state’s work will be every bit as lovely as the plugugly Main Street bridge, a replacement span itself.

What has not been discussed much to date is the disaster that awaits rush hour travelers when the Highway Department closes the Broadway Bridge for a year or two while building a replacement. The streets and freeway serving the Main Street and Interstate 30 bridges already experience gridlock at rush hour. The Broadway Bridge backup is even worse. Take that bridge out of commission and road

rage on the alternate crossings will be volcanic.

What’s the solution? Here’s an idea that is getting a little bit of thought. The push for an iconic bridge as a replacement MAX started late. Realistically, it’s not BRANTLEY going to happen in 2013 without maxbrantley@arktimes.com an outpouring of public support not yet in evidence. The Highway Department won’t bust its budget to create a striking design, which apparently costs more, though I can’t tell you why.

Unless a rich benefactor or local voters come up quickly with extra cash, a replacement built in 2013 seems most likely to be another utilitarian slab that will make us remember the old Broadway Bridge fondly.

But what if local voters could get behind a temporary tax to build a NEW river crossing first?

The obvious spot would span the river at Chester Street and feed neatly into improving thoroughfares on the north shore, including the nearby Euro-style traffic circle. This isn’t a state highway route so state money isn’t available. It could be built for less than the Broadway Bridge replacement. A one-year county sales tax might do it.

The idea would be to build this span first and defer the Broadway replacement. When the Broadway Bridge did come down, there’d be an escape valve for traffic. A Chester Street crossing also would make the Broadway replacement cheaper because no connection ramp with LaHarpe would be needed.

The local tax investment and savings might make the Highway Department more amenable to investing additional federal bridge money in appearances.

It’s an idea at any rate. I like it better than the gunfights I fear will break out at Markham and Scott, just outside my office, if downtown bridge crossings are reduced to two in 2013.

OPINION

The season of apostates

Y

ou can now make it a political maxim. No Republican can be a serious candidate for the presidential nomination in 2012 without a record of apostasy on all the burning issues of the day.

Thrust suddenly to the top rank of candidates alongside Mitt Romney after the all-too-brief boomlets for Michele Bachmann, Rick Perry and Herman Cain fizzled, Newt Gingrich set about to formally renounce his political principles, at least those that collided with the cherished ideas of the Tea Party. He held onto only one, his notion that the country ought to have a little compassion for the Hispanics who came into the country illegally to work. Give him time on that one.

The biggest renunciation, of course, is health insurance reform. It has required the whole party to reverse field, perhaps the biggest policy shift for the Republican Party since it forsook the legacy of Lincoln and equal rights for the Southern strategy.

The mandate for individuals or employers to buy health insurance had been the Republican solution to the giant problem of healthcare access since the late 1980s, and actually further back than that: to President Nixon’s address to Congress in 1973 when he outlined a bill to require all U.S. employers to buy private insurance for their employees.

Gingrich had been a leading champion of a government mandate that people buy health insurance — until a couple

of weeks ago when he put out a long paper on entitlement reform that called mandates an introduction to ERNEST “socialized mediDUMAS cine,” whether they were adopted by states or the federal government. It was the opening shot at Romney, who as governor of Massachusetts pushed through a law requiring people to insure themselves in the private market. Romney’s plan was the template for the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, aka “Obamacare.”

Unless you’ve been in a coma, you know that the insurance mandate, which is the heart of the reform act, has been the Republican Party’s call to arms for two years. Every Republican presidential candidate, including Romney, who ought to claim paternity, has vowed to try to repeal the Affordable Care Act and the insurance mandate as soon as they take office. Republicans filed all the lawsuits asking the courts to strike down the mandate. The Supreme Court will settle that question next summer. If Romney had been elected president in 2008 and enacted it, there would be no uncertainty about what the Supreme Court would do.

Roberts, Scalia, Alito and Thomas would declare it constitutional and a great act of government forbearance.

The Heritage Foundation, the conser-

Saddest day of the year

I

like to think I’m a reasonable man.

I’ve accomplished childhood goals.

Traveled all over the world. Dined with heads of state. Yet here I am, pulling into the overflow parking area at 11:55 p.m. on Thanksgiving night for Target’s Black Friday sale.

What’s perhaps sadder is that I set an alarm for this. Rested up. Went to sleep at 9:30 p.m. to get two hours so I could be fresh. But I’m not fresh. I’m groggy and irritable. And standing in line in 45 degree weather with 300 other people isn’t helping.

At midnight, the doors open, but the line moves slow. Strategizing goes on around me. “Electronics first” they seem to be saying. “Then toys, then housewares.”

By 12:05 a.m., carts are already rolling out with Westinghouse 46” TVs for $298. The man in front of me emphatically asserts his theory that a store only has to sell one TV at the advertised price for it to be “legal.” “Then they can charge

what they want.”

He’s clearly been burned before.

By 12:10 a.m.

I’m inside. I get one of the last GRAHAM carts. Elbow-toGORDY elbow and wheelto-wheel down most aisles.

I opt to go straight to toys as my bigticket items are child-related. Score. An end-cap is still stocked with “My First Disney Princess Doll and Matching Toddler Dresses.” I go with the Rapunzel from “Tangled,” a fan-favorite at my house. I try to push my cart around the corner to the “Ultimate Disney Princess Collection 7-Doll Gift Set,” but it’s packed.

I leave my cart. I go and pick one out. The entire process takes maybe two minutes.

But when I return, my cart is gone, Rapunzel doll and all.

Now, I don’t know if there is a Hell, but let me say something I’m sure of: If around 12:20 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 25, the

vative think tank that was the policy fountain for the Reagan revolution, revived Nixon’s plan in 1989. In 1993, when Bill and Hillary Clinton were trying to push their convoluted health insurance reform through Congress, Republicans filed the Heritage Foundation mandate bills as alternatives to what they called “Hillarycare.” Seven Republican sponsors of those bills — Orrin Hatch, Kay Bailey Hutchison, Charles Grassley, Dan Coats, Thad Cochran and Richard Lugar — are still in the Senate. All of them kept silent during the healthcare debate in Congress in 2009 and 2010 on orders from the leadership and quietly voted against the bill that was built upon the ones they had sponsored.

Across the Capitol in the 1993 healthcare battle, Rep. Newt Gingrich was championing the mandate in the House of Representatives.

What he said then on Meet the Press: “I am for people, individuals — exactly like automobile insurance — having health insurance and being required to have health insurance.” He explained it the same way President Obama explained it after he came around to the mandate. It’s necessary to stop uninsured people from shifting the cost of their care to those who are covered, they said.

On Meet the Press last May, Gingrich said he was not going to use Romney’s Massachusetts mandate against him because he fundamentally agreed with it.

“I have said consistently we ought to have some requirement that you either have health insurance or you post a bond, or in some way you indicate you’re going to

be held accountable,” he declared.

At that point Gingrich was joining in the fulminations against Obamacare but he was picking out other reasons, repeating, for example, Sarah Palin’s fictitious charge that the new law had “death panels.” The death panels, by the way, were based on another Republican idea — insuring “end of life” counseling by doctors. Gingrich had strongly and repeatedly embraced that idea, too — until recently. The Senate stripped the little Republican proviso from the bill after Palin’s rant got legs.

Gingrich’s for-profit think tank, the Center for Health Transformation, still promotes the individual insurance mandate. Everyone who earns more than $50,000 a year would be forced by law to buy health insurance or post a bond to cover future catastrophic medical expenses. Instead of posting a bond, the Obama law gives them the option of paying a small tax if they choose not to buy insurance with the help of a government subsidy.

When Gingrich attacked Romney on his Massachusetts insurance mandate and accused him of fathering Obamacare in a debate in October, Romney said he got the idea from Gingrich and the Heritage Foundation.

“If I’d been clever,” Gingrich retorted, “I would have said, ‘yes, Mitt, and I was wrong and why don’t you recognize that you’re wrong too?’”

That’s all that it takes, you see, to be the front-runner for the Republican presidential nomination this year. Just a little phony remorse.

year of our Lord 2011, you stole a shopping cart with a “My First Disney Princess Doll and Matching Toddler Dress,” you’re a really, really bad person.

Now I’m carrying everything I pick up. The Rapunzel, the Princess Collection, Portable DVD Player, 80-Piece Bag of MegaBloks, two plush pillows, Dora the Explorer footy-pajamas, and Princess slippers, all in my two arms.

A cart. A cart. My kingdom for a cart. I go to the front of the store where the same affable guy has shrugged his shoulders at me at the last three requests. My arms are killing me. I have desperation in my eyes.

“I will give you the five dollars I’m going to save on these two puppy-dog themed hooded bath-towels if you will get me a cart.”

He shrugs again, smiling, “I’m sorry, man.” I drop everything in my arms at his feet. “Then watch these for me.”

I go outside. A solid five minutes of searching, cussing, leads me to one. I head back in and collect my things. “Nobody took ’em,” the seemingly unoccupied cart valet says. I seethe.

I pick up a few more items and head for

the check-out. I’m nudged, bumped and snarled at on every aisle. This is America.

When I finally make it to the line, I stand in both awe and despair. Fifteen years ago, I was reading Marx and underlining every gutting critique of capitalism (which are still stunning, no matter how short-sighted his prescription for an alternative). Yet here I am, at least two hours after my normal bedtime, in a line that snakes in and out of 38 aisles, so I can afford the toys my kids want in the midst of the shittiest economy of any of our lifetimes. An economy that’s not helped, but now depends on this kind orgiastic spending every holiday season. How bad do you want it? Do you want it at all?

When I slide my card, though, I feel my first instance of pride. My total savings is around $127 dollars. Pretty good deal for a fiasco.

On the way out, I decide to treat myself.

Marx made good points, but he recedes in the rearview when faced with popcorn and fountain Coke for $1.96.

I fill my mouth and push my cart into the cold, dark night, sighing to myself, “...deal of the day.” www.arktimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2011 7

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Good vs. great

I

t took two whole months, but Arkansas’s tank finally ran dry.

After leaving Tuscaloosa in September, bruised and abused, the Razorbacks were forced into seasonsaving mode early. The trek back toward respectability was both ennobling and draining: there were three come-frombehind wins (Texas A&M, Ole Miss, Vanderbilt), a couple of out-and-out wallopings (Tennessee and Mississippi State), and two impressive home victories over ranked foes (Auburn and South Carolina). As has become custom in this age of ESPN gibberish and abstruse computerized qualifiers, Arkansas scaled from the valley while others faltered, finally cresting at No. 3 in those eminently penetrable BCS rankings.

It put Arkansas in the enviable position of an upstart, the third wheel trying to implode a title date between SEC powerhouses. A teammate’s death provided a clarion call for a team that assuredly did not need a 19-year-old man to die to be further galvanized. It was one terribly disheartening moment after weeks of heartening performance.

Trouble is, LSU did Friday what No. 1 teams are expected to do. The Tigers are serially protective of their turf, having won 17 consecutive at Tiger Stadium.

They are not mistake-free, but they are determined to make your errors hurt worse. And in much the same way that Alabama does, the Tigers boldly take liberties with their pass coverage, overwhelmingly confident of their ability to control the line of scrimmage.

For these reasons, Arkansas left with its second loss of the season, by the same 24-point margin that Alabama forged in its dismantling of the Hogs. This game was distinctive in that the Razorbacks’ progress from that first loss was, as hoped, plainly evident. Arkansas won field position masterfully at the outset, broke LSU’s will briefly with a steady march toward an early touchdown, then followed with a defensive score on Alonzo Highsmith’s 47-yard fumble return. It was 14-0 and the boisterous Tiger Stadium crowd was in a lull — and LSU simply paid no mind.

The momentum tilt was a mere trickle at first, with Highsmith being flagged on a face-mask penalty that allowed LSU to continue its first scoring drive. Tyrann Matthieu followed that with a long punt return, then Dennis Johnson fumbled in Tiger territory before halftime. Arkansas trailed at the half, 21-14, and CBS’ sideline reporter seized upon an opportunity to query Bobby Petrino about his team’s purported fragility. Petrino curtly

deflected the implication, and the third quarter seemed to validate him: the Hogs snuffed out LSU’s bid to stretch the lead on Tramain Thomas’ interception, followed with a field goal, then buckled down inside the five-yard line to hold the Tigers to a three-pointer.

BEAU It seems almost WILCOX desperate in retrospect to categorize it this way, but Arkansas was very much in a dogfight by the time the fourth quarter began.

It was only then that the Razorbacks began to collapse under the weight of the previous week. That fourth quarter — where the great genuinely do separate from the good — perhaps predictably became Arkansas’s worst of the year. LSU amassed 127 of its 286 rushing yards in the quarter, owned possession for nearly 12 minutes, and waltzed toward the SEC championship game with a 41-17 win.

The finish obviously frustrated Petrino, who visibly cursed LSU coach Les Miles from across the field as things went awry, then exchanged a midfield handshake with his counterpart that could conservatively be called “brusque.”

Frankly, Petrino appeared on edge all day, which can be explained — not excused, however — by the tumult of the days before. To be clear, while Petrino’s conduct was arguably petulant, it’s also refreshing to see an Arkansas coach project something other than pitiful resignation after a loss. He’s driven these Razorbacks to new heights in his short time here, yet he is exasperated that we have not yet reached the ultimate apogee.

(A sidebar on that point: we are quick to lament the apparent death of maturity and character in our sporting world.

It’s a fair, if futile, gripe. Yet this columnist’s jaded observation is that if LSU can freely ride the right arm of a quarterback that earlier this year had him on the receiving end of felony assault charges, Arkansas’s head coach is afforded a little creative license with his in-game diction.

Let’s just call our stadiums no-morals zones, with half-assed apologies to Bill O’Reilly.)

Arkansas now likely heads to Dallas to presumably and hopefully clash with one of the Oklahoma schools on the first Friday night of 2012. Whatever the bowl match up, Arkansas will be seeking its first 11-win season since 1977, a worthy enough claim for a team that did well just to immerse itself in the national championship conversation.

It’s the return of the annual Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase as performers compete for an array of prizes. All acts who have at least four songs of original material are encouraged to enter. All styles are welcome.

2011 WINNER TYRANNOSAURUS CHICKEN

Semifinalists will compete throughout January and February at Stickyz and Revolution.

Weekly winners will then face off in the finals in March.

Check out arktimes.com/showcase12 for information on how to enter online and upload your files.

Door prizes will be given away to fans in attendance.

DEADLINE FOR ENTRY DEC. 31, 2011 FOR MORE INFO E-MAIL robertbell@arktimes.com

Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase Entry Form NAME OF BAND HOMETOWN DATE BAND WAS FORMED AGE RANGE OF MEMBERS (ALL AGES WELCOME) CONTACT PERSON ADDRESS CITY, STATE, ZIP PHONE E-MAIL SEND ENTRIES AND DEMO CD TO: Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase, PO BOX 34010, Little Rock, AR 72203

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W O RDS

Sustaining the hoit This week’s guest host is Max Brantley: “From the Arkansas Times: ‘In addition to using small-scale, local suppliers — all of their meats are sourced locally, and a large percentage of their vegetables and cheeses are grown and produced in the region — they also took a sustainable approach to financing.’ “ ‘Sourced.’ I hate that trendy word.

Why not ‘grown’ or ‘produced,’ as in the next clause?

“It’s all over food writing nowadays.

Along with that other word I hate, ‘curate.’ Now you don’t merely curate art collections. You also curate dinner menus. Which sounds a lot more knowledgeable and hoity-toity than select, devise, draw up, pick, choose.

“And ‘sustainable.’ I know that it’s somehow a ‘green’ concept word in high fashion these days. But sustainable financing? I presume that means your income matches or exceeds your outgo.

“And, BTW (not to be confused with BBW or BLT, the former of which you can become by eating too many of the latter), does anybody say hoity-toity anymore?”

I had to respond to Max’s presentation with a question of my own: What is BBW? “Big Beautiful Women,” he explained. “There’s a magazine

of that name that features ‘plussize’ clothing.”

As to whether anybody says hoity-toity anymore, I think I DOUG SMITH remember that dougsmith@arktimes.com a few years back, a writer for a local newspaper described a certain restaurant as hoity-toity. And I think I agreed,with the assessment, but the restaurant only quoted the description in one of its own ads, rather proudly, and continued to hoit and toit. Eventually it went out of business, but I don’t know how much the HT factor had to do with that.

Coincidentally, I just came across a definition of “sustainability” in “Books and Letters,” the newsletter of the University of Arkansas Libraries: “A new field of study that involves long term stewardship of resources, the complex attempt to create conditions under which humans and nature can exist in productive harmony that fulfills the requirements of present and future generations.” The same issue announced that “Books and Letters” is ceasing publication, to be replaced by a new newsletter.

The new guy will be called “Quiddity.”

Woo pig, hoity.

WEEK THAT WAS

It was a good week for…

It was a bad week for…

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION. Judge Wendell Griffen ordered the Little Rock police department to turn over “use of force” documents concerning Lt. David Hudson. Hudson was filmed on video while working as a private security guard at Ferneau restaurant. He repeatedly hit a customer, Chris Erwin, in the face. The city earlier had contended it had provided Erwin’s lawyer all it was required to provide under the Freedom of Information Act. According to Griffen’s order, Hudson has prepared such reports four times, including in the beating of Erwin.

THE ARKANSAS RAZORBACKS. After climbing to number 3 in the BCS standings, a position that afforded a window into the national championship game, the football Hogs were beaten soundly by LSU in Baton Rouge, 41-17. To add insult to injury, CBS cameras caught Arkansas coach Bobby Petrino cursing at LSU coach Les Miles for, presumably, running up the score. Petrino’s frustration was understandable, though it doesn’t excuse his behavior.

PULASKI COUNTY EMPLOYEES. They’re due cost of living increases up to 5 percent. The increases will correspond to employees’ longevity.

GEESE. The North Little Rock City Council passed an ordinance to allow shooting Canada geese in Burns Park, where their excrement has become a nuisance on the golf course and soccer fields, on three days, Dec. 20-22.

THE OBSERVER NOTES ON THE PASSING SCENE

FRIED

Saved by SUV ON

A

PARTICULARLY

GROGGY

THURSDAY MORNING, rounding out a

particularly spiteful week of misfires, The Observer bummed a ride from the Significant Other and canine friend because ye old jalopy (that really isn’t so old) was having an expensive, twomechanics-worthy temper tantrum.

We were en route to the Fortress of Employment when we spied a stalled sedan in the midst of a busy intersection and a distressed young family man repeatedly flinging himself against the back bumper, enacting a ritual last witnessed at Warp Tour ’98. Those were the days when The Observer could float pleasantly atop noise pollution in a cloud of complex chemical concoction.

Somehow, witnessing Family Man’s solo mosh pit was much less pleasant, and it was failing to budge the sensible sedan with 2.5 kids plus wifey inside.

“Why don’t they get out of the car?”

Significant Other grumbled, mostly because he was annoyed that Jiminy Cricket was cozying up on that right shoulder, chirping himself hoarse.

He sighed, pulled into the bus stop and hopped out of his truck, leaving it running because The Observer was, of course, already delinquent at the Fortress.

He joined Family Man. As they body slammed in unison, The Observer began to worry that the sedan had fused itself to the pavement, the way that a tongue fuses itself to a flagpole in similar temperatures. The Observer hopped out of the truck too, taking care to first engage the unlock button. We bounced impatiently on the sidewalk, not even shutting the door, wondering if we should join the action in the mosh pit.

Suddenly, there was a gust of wind, and the truck door slammed shut.

Simultaneously, the sedan started rolling.

Family Man and Significant Other ran behind it, while the wife steered to safety.

The Observer meandered back to the truck and casually tried the door.

Now something else wouldn’t budge.

As our canine friend whined piteously and scratched at the airtight windows, we tugged, braced ourselves and tugged some more. Exhaust mocked us robustly from the tailpipe. By the time Significant

Other returned, we knew it was a lost cause. An ominous rain began to fall.

Just as Significant Other decided he should hike several miles home and retrieve the spare key — our phones and are wallets are in the truck, mind you — a stranger pulled up in something that vaguely resembled those SUV limousines beloved by hip- hop stars.

His attire indicated that, at 8:49 a.m., he was on his way to some black tie event.

Significant Other disappeared into the massive SUV, and he and the Man in Black headed into the unknown.

We huddle by the truck and shivered, shouting encouragement to our petrified canine friend, who was now projecting our panic. His paws moved frantically on the horizontal treadmill of the window.

We told him to quit panting, so that the oxygen inside the truck would last longer.

A bus pulled alongside the truck. The driver shot eye daggers. We hung our head, ashamed, pathetic and increasingly damp. Significant Other’s voice boomed inside our head, aping the screech we knew our voice would take if the situation were reversed.

Then a cop pulled up, lights flashing.

All we needed was a ticket, or worse, a tow! The Observer tried an easy jog to the patrol car, hoping to appear casual and likeable, prepared to assure the cop that everything’s under control, that she likes us and wants to be our friend, that if she holds off for just two minutes, the truck will be removed from the bus stop.

She pulled a Good Cop routine, offering to turn on her lights and park behind us so the truck wouldn’t take it in the youknow-what, since it was jutting into the busy intersection.

Finally the massive SUV returned, expelling Significant Other from its steaming belly. We waved our thanks to the cop and gratefully situated ourselves in the truck. Our canine friend rewarded his liberators with a warm pink tongue on all exposed skin. We steeled our spine and turned to Significant Other to accept our chiding.

But instead of shouting, he was laughing. It’s the only necessary response, really. And as soon as the Observer realized this, we were laughing too.

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www.arktimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2011 11

Arkansas Reporter

THE

IN S IDE R

Kristi Malzahn, wife of Auburn assistant football coach Gus Malzahn, was among friends when she appeared Oct. 6 at The Summit luncheon series sponsored

by Cross Church, the Springdalebased megachurch.

She was interviewed by pastor Ronnie Floyd, who knew the Fort Smith native well from her days with Gus as a coach at the affiliated Shiloh Christian School.

Maybe Floyd didn’t know her well enough.

In the video, he seems to laugh a little nervously as she talked loudly and volubly about her happiness at being an empty nester, about the long hours that her husband works, about how much they dislike Alabama, about Lou Holtz’s lisp and about questionable recruiting techniques, among much else.

She mentioned players – Cam Newton very favorably; Michael Dyer of Little Rock not so favorably.

Words don’t do the performance justice. The video went viral, particularly a heavily edited version by an Alabama fan. It won her little praise. “Wackjob” was applied liberally used by blog commenters.

Monday, as the video multiplied on blogs across the country, Cross Church removed the video from its archive and sent notice to YouTube that it was asserting a copyright claim, which forced its removal from YouTube sites.

The Internet being the Internet, you could still find copies. It’s a certainty that Malzahn’s future employers – he’s been mentioned as a candidate for the head job at North Carolina – will obtain a screener. And it seems likely Gus might repeat what Kristi reported him telling her often: “… like, shut up.”

Easter Seals development The Hillcrest Residents Association has received an indication from Easter Seals that the charity won’t pursue further a proposal to sell its land lease, and a largely vacant former training center on Lee Avenue, to Little Rock businessman John Chandler for $240,000 for redevelopment for offices.

Neighbors had objected to commercial use of the property, in a residential neighborhood near Stifft Station.

The land is owned by the CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 12 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

DAVID KOON

Unexpected stardom

COLE: Threats an act of “cowardice.”

Trouble in Huttig A black mayor receives threats.

BY DAVID KOON

L

ike a lot of small towns in the counties pushed hard up against the Louisiana border, Huttig, in Union County, has seen better days. At the elementary school, which closed in 2008 after the local plywood mill shut down, a sign out front reads “Gone with the Wind,” grass grows in the cracks in the parking lot, and the windows in the gymnasium hang mostly shattered.

But financial woes aside, most of the folks in town seemed to get along fairly well until earlier this year, when the city’s long-time police chief, who is white, was fired by the town’s mayor, the first black to ever hold that office. Since then, pets have been poisoned, threatening letters have been sent to the mayor and KKK-themed graffiti has been sprayed around town.

Huttig, population 731, elected Tony Cole as its mayor in 2010. Though the six-member city council is evenly divided between white and black, as is the population of the town, Cole is the first AfricanAmerican to ever run for mayor in Huttig, much less win. His tenure so far has been anything but smooth. Letters and graffiti started appearing soon after he moved to fire Huttig police chief Byron Sartor in January. Cole, who had worked as a police officer in Huttig for three years before becoming police chief of nearby Strong in 2007, claims he identified a pattern in Sartor’s arrests and ticket writing.

“I try to keep away from assumptions, because you can make a mess of yourself,” Cole said. “I went back and checked police records, tickets, arrests, things of that nature. All of them, pretty much, were [against] blacks, and whites that deal with blacks.”

Sartor was rehired as a police officer by the city council, but officially let go in August for what Cole said was improper use of a city-owned vehicle. Cole said he believes supporters of the former chief are the source of the letters and signs.

Attempts to reach Byron Sartor for comment were unsuccessful at press time.

Cole describes the letters he’s received as “full of hate,” with a barely literate one beginning “Dear Tony the Ape.” He has forwarded them to the FBI. In addition, “KKK” and “KKK is here” have been spray-painted onto buildings around town. In March, over a dozen dogs in town — many of them, Cole said, belonging to those who are understood to support the former police chief — died after being fed what a veterinarian later determined were millet seeds coated in strychnine, a common rodent poison. Someone hung a hand-lettered sign near a local swamp which warned that the alligator-infested slough would be the “swimming hole” of Cole and the husband of a black city council member.

The weekend before Thanksgiving, somebody threw small white crosses, handlettered with “KKK” in red, into the yard of Cole’s house and four other locations around town, including the lot of a businesses owned by a black alderman. The same night, a sign showed up across from City Hall which said Cole should resign.

Cole, who was born in Oklahoma City, suspects that the sentiment that has come out of the woodwork since he was elected might be the reason he was the first black candidate for mayor. He said his primary goal as mayor has been to find ways to bring black and white together.

“I have a mixed grandbaby, and I don’t want him to grow up worrying about color,” Cole said. “It shouldn’t be an issue.

Everybody is human, whether you’re black, white, green or purple. We have to learn how to love. If we learn how to start loving, we’ll get rid of all the hate.”

Laura Manning is a city council member in Huttig. Her husband has been the focus of some of the incidents this year, including being singled out on the “swimming hole” sign. She said that blacks and whites have always gotten along well in Huttig, and thinks the case is “being handled the wrong way by being taken to the media.” She believes those responsible for the letters and signs don’t even live in town.

“There are good people in Huttig, black and white,” she said. “But in every town there are going to be some bad people. ...

This is my town, and I love my town. I don’t want to do anything to put it in a bad light. As my mama said: The more you stir it, the more it’s going to stink.”

Union County Sheriff Mike McGough said his office is investigating the incidents in Huttig. He said the FBI is also aware of what’s going on there, though he doesn’t know if they plan to formally investigate.

McGough believes the invocation of “KKK” is simply meant to frighten black residents, and isn’t an indication of organized KKK activity in Union County.

“There are supporters and non-supporters [of Sartor], and those are the two groups that are the center of the controversy down there,” McGough said.

“There’s been some graffiti sprayed around town, and if we identify who did it, we’ll arrest them.”

McGough said it’s sad that the town is divided. “The community just has to get together,” he said. “The leaders and the city council need to sit down and, instead of yelling at each other and spray painting up the town, they need to talk to one another — to talk about their differences and resolve them in an adult way.”

Cole is staying positive. He helped start a group of community leaders who meet to try to resolve issues in Huttig, and calls the letters and anonymous signs acts of cowardice. He said he doesn’t worry about being personally harmed. “I’ve made no changes. I live my life,” he said. “I’m a praying man, a God-fearing man, so things like this don’t get up under my skin. But I do worry for other families, as well as my own family. I feel like I can take care of myself and protect myself, but you can’t be everywhere at the same time.”

VISIONS FOR A NEW BROADWAY BRIDGE

THE

BIG PICTURE

T

he Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department plans to replace the Broadway Bridge in 2013 with a $45 million project. Local officials, including Mayors Mark Stodola of Little Rock and Pat Hays of North Little Rock and County Judge Buddy Villines, want an iconic structure that would likely cost more than $45 million.

Metroplan has tried to inspire interest in such a bridge with an online survey and a design contest. Only 364 responded to the survey, and among that number 43 percent said it was important to make the replacement bridge iconic, while 40 percent said the new bridge should be as attractive as possible within the budget. Though the Highway Department is not bound by the results, Metroplan has asked for public votes on the designs below and others; at press time, 10 designs had been submitted. To vote and for more information on the designs, visit arktimes.com/bridgecompetition. Read more about the bridge project on page 6.

“Top Hat and Tails” George Wittenberg Envisions an iconic, lightweight structure on the top of the bridge visible from miles away and a glass railing with intermittent lights along a pedestrian lane. LED lighting from the water and undersides of bridge would illuminate the structure.

Single spire Bob Dahms A single spire cable-stayed bridge much like the one in Greenville, Miss. Five lanes of traffic, with one variable lane, would allow three lanes to be used for morning and afternoon rushes. A trolley line would run on one side. Plan includes pedestrian paths on both sides of the bridge.

Traditional Randy Murphy A steel suspension cable bridge that utilizes traditional concrete and masonry towers and, to support shorter spans, concrete arch spandrels. Lampposts along the roadway and lights on the piers provide lighting.

Renovated George Wittenberg After renovating the bridge for safety, bike and walking lanes would be added, pylons would be added underneath the bridge for support, the existing arch would be painted and lit and new light standards would be installed.

Tower Aaron Ruby The arch bridge’s four towers, all built with native stone, represent the Ozarks, the Ouachitas, the River Valley and the Timberlands, respectively, while the bridge itself is meant to represent the Delta. The towers are engraved with pictorial or sculptural representations of the regions.

Broadway Bridge 2.0 Brandon Johnston This plan would include a pedestrian walkway atop the bridge with access by spiraling ramps at either end, and create a new exit ramp to La Harpe to replace the S-shaped ramp there now.

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Available on iTunes & arktimes.com

INSIDER, CONT. Arkansas School for the Blind.

The Board of the Arkansas Schools for the Blind and Deaf declined to approve the deal recently. The land, almost 10 acres, sits across a deep forested ravine from the state schools.

Rejection of the deal with Chandler now moves another proposal into consideration.

Doug Martin, a Stephens Inc., executive, has proposed to buy the land outright, paying $240,000 each to the state and Easter Seals and paying up to $500,000 to raze the building. He’d build a single-family home and convert most of the property into guaranteed green space. It’s uncertain where the school board stands on this idea.

Bonus blues The Pulaski County Quorum Court recently voted a 4 percent pay bonus for all county employees including themselves.

It’s the fourth year running the court has given itself a pay raise and/or bonus, while many other public employees at the city and state level have gone without pay increases for a couple of years.

Justices of the peace make $11,106 a year and are entitled to free health insurance (an untaxed benefit) for attending two meetings a month, so a raise was worth only $444.

But some had second thoughts. JPs Phil Stowers, Shane Stacks and Paul Elliott all said they didn’t want the onetime bonus.

JP Teresa Coney wrote to the payroll administrator, however: “I want my money.”

JP Judy Green elaborated: “I would like to receive the COLA and any other bonus the County will reward us with. As I stated in the meeting last night ‘if every JP works as hard in their district as I do, we are not receiving enough for what we do. I participate in everything my constituents request of me, which is a lot (day and night); and my district is very big land wise which requires me to use a lot of mileage and spend a lot of money on gas, not to mention wear and tear on my car.

I’m not complaining, because I ran for this position with a knowledge of this; but it really irritates me when I hear JPs say that we are making too much money. Let those JPs refuse the little extra money, but don’t take it from the rest of us. We voted on this issue last night, and it should not be voted on again thru e-mails.’ ” www.arktimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2011 13

ILLUSTRATIONS BY BRYAN MOATS

I

n what’s become an annual tradition, the Arkansas Times recently solicited suggestions from readers and experts from across the spectrum on how to make Arkansas a better place to live. In keeping with the results of the past two years, the suggestions have been downright inspirational. Ideas range from pragmatic policy considerations (consider racial disparity in the criminal justice system, stop tearing down old buildings) to the visionary (build an iconic performing arts center, reconnect the Old State House to the Arkansas River).

Separately, we’ve highlighted two big ideas that already have juice behind them: new University of Arkansas System President Donald Bobbitt’s vision for expanding online education throughout the system and consultant and venture capitalist Kristian Andersen’s plan to keep talented Arkansas university graduates in the state.

Utilize holistic defense in the justice system

BY CORY BIGGS

T

he Arkansas legal community should work to employ a fairly new concept in legal circles called holistic defense, the goal of which is to more directly combine the legal work of traditional public defenders’ offices with improved access to social services — drug rehab, mental health counseling/therapy, educational/vocational training, etc. — that address the issues that send indigent citizens into the justice system. The idea was pioneered by a New York non-profit called The Bronx Defenders, whose model focuses on teams of lawyers, social workers, probation officers and others working, often side by side, with clients from arrest to the conclusion of legal proceedings to ensure that all needs of the client are met. In Arkansas, there are a lot of groups — from drug courts to veteran support organizations to social services — that are working toward the same goal, but not under the same roof. In a holistic justice system, a defendant could, for instance, get legal support in one room and meet with a drug or workforce counselor in another, instead of being referred from one agency to another and so on, possibly missing an important link along the way due to scheduling or transportation problems.

Other holistic defense programs have been set up through a combination of private attorneys working pro bono with students from legal clinics or through public defenders’ offices.

Regardless of the organizational structure, embracing the practice is sure to help us turn the corner on lowering the rate of recidivism.

Cory Biggs is executive director of The First Tee of Central Arkansas. Biggs researched holistic defense in partnership with the Arkansas attorney general’s office for his capstone project at the Clinton School for Public Service.

14 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

Rethink higher education The new University of Arkansas System president’s vision for online education.

BY DONALD BOBBITT

BRIAN CHILSON

I

f you think about the university nowadays, we offer semesters based on agrarian calendars even though few to none of our students are actively engaged in farming. Our semesters and courses are designed in 15-week blocks of times.

What’s so special about 15 weeks? Material is presented linearly. Which means if you miss a concept in a chemistry course, you’re in serious trouble come the final.

Everything drives from the concept you missed. Because we’re working with 20 to upwards of 300 students in one class, we orient the material and the rate and everything we do in the classroom around the middle of the class. For those who are struggling, it’s very difficult to help get them up to the middle; those who’re bored are doing nothing when they could be doing more advanced work.

Much of what we do in higher education — from the way we teach to the administrative structure we use to carry out the mission — has been around for hundreds of years and perhaps even a thousand of years going back to the formation of Oxford and Cambridge. So the question then becomes, is that structure appropriate for the challenges facing higher education both within the state of Arkansas and indeed across the nation?

In his book “The Innovative University: Changing the DNA of Higher Education from the Inside Out,” Harvard professor Clayton Christensen examined business leaders a decade after they were at the top of their industry and found that most were at the middle of the pack and many were in bankruptcy. He found that leaders rarely got beat in head-to-head competition. Rather, a business came in at the bottom to offer a new product that was simpler, more affordable and allowed more people to participate. Christensen suggests that online education has the potential to be that sort of disruptive technology in the world of higher education.

Of course many people have already figured this out. The University of Phoenix enrolls 30,000 students per month. Last year, its revenues were $3.8 billion.

Someone asked me recently, “What hope is there if Phoenix can do this?” Well, the University of Arkansas means something in the state of Arkansas. The brand means something; we just need to embrace the technology. In the future, I think our students are going to be fully online, fully taught using technology in the classroom or taught through a hybrid of the two, where technology is brought in to enhance the educational experience.

Online courses can be started at a variety of times and in a variety of formats.

There’s no reason why a class couldn’t start on April 15 or Oct. 1. Students should be able to take classes parallel, the traditional way, or sequentially, where they’d concentrate on a topic for five weeks, learn it very deeply and then move on. For working adult learners, sequential is really an advantage. Over a year, the student gets the same number of credits, only in a different format. Alternative pricing structures might also be envisioned to address a variety of approaches.

We know a lot more about our students online than in the classroom. I can tell you how long a student spends on a particular module. I can tell you who read the material and how many times they went back over it. Because of the anonymity of the Internet, students are more likely to comment freely and contribute to discussions. Feedback to students can be immediate and constant. There are ways to

build loops into the system, so that as individuals have problems they’re sent back to the appropriate section, where they review the material, develop competency and move on.

A lot of critics have suggested that some disciplines are not going to be amenable to online education. But about the time that someone says that, they’re proved wrong. A lot of people said an MBA could never be earned online. Then the London School of Economics and the University of North Carolina put their programs online. Some have suggested chemistry can’t be taught online — safely.

But at Harvard there is a chemistry course for non-majors where you do all of your experiments in the kitchen. It’s the same experience; you just get to eat your experiments. They said you couldn’t teach biology. But it turns out that you can buy an attachment for your iPhone that turns it into a 10-power microscope.

The quality issue, which rears its head often, has been addressed recently in two reports, one from the Department of Education and one from the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. Both looked at online education and came to the same conclusion: There are some students who benefit from face to face instruction. If you can’t get out of the bed in the morning, you’re not going to turn on the computer and take your class. The role of mentors and the benefits of socialization are among other benefits. At the same time, other students benefit quite dramatically from the online experience because they’re time or space bound and can’t make it to the campus. Both reports concluded that for students who are properly motivated, the learning outcomes are identical between face-toface and online education.

Donald Bobbitt is the University of Arkansas System President. The essay above was extracted and edited from a speech he delivered on Nov. 14 at the Clinton School for Public Service entitled “Innovate or Perish: The Challenges Facing Higher Education in the Next Decade,” which is available to watch in full in streaming video at arktimes.com/bobbittvideo. Bobbitt began serving as UA System president on Nov. 1.

Rethink the Arkansas Highway Commission

BY TIM MCKUIN

C

hange the name of the Arkansas Highway Commission to the Arkansas Transportation Commission. Then send every commissioner, the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department director, and their families on a month-long, all-expenses-paid, first-class worldwide learning expedition.

First, they should visit the Netherlands for a week to see how simple changes in infrastructure design can allow bikes to play a significant role in the transportation network. Then send them to France to ride the trains for a week, both the high speed TGV and the more traditional lines that crisscross the country. Next, take them to South America to experience true Bus Rapid Transit in Curitiba, Brazil, and Bogota, Colombia. Finally, the expedition should conclude its trip with a weeklong stay in Vancouver, British Columbia, to relax in a place that proves that cities can absolutely thrive with no freeways.

Such a trip, if it leads to real change back on the ground in Arkansas, will be much cheaper for the people of this great state than just continuing with business as usual. It’s time for our tax dollars to go toward building real choice and resiliency into our statewide transportation system instead of just leveraging bil-

lions of dollars of debt to continue building and expanding roads that we can’t afford to maintain. Cars and highways will always play a significant part in our transportation system, but it’s foolish to lock us into that one mode for all of our trips when it’s cheaper, healthier, better for our economy and just more enjoyable to make walkable, bikeable places that are also served by convenient public transportation. The leaders at the newly renamed Arkansas Transportation Commission should focus on increasing freedom and choice rather than putting all of our eggs in one basket.

Tim McKuin is co-author of the blog MoveArkansas (movearkansas.blogspot. com). www.arktimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2011 15

Consider racial disparity in the criminal justice system

BY ADJOA AIYETORO

R

Memorialize racial atrocities

BY GUY LANCASTER

R

ight now, the Arkansas Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission is aiding communities in establishing markers for a variety of military events that happened across the state during the Civil War. While I am a tremendous supporter of this initiative, the attention paid to these various skirmishes — some of which entailed only one or two deaths (such as the Skirmish at Lunenburg) — highlights by contrast the events that remain invisible upon our commemorative landscape, despite their having far greater significance. The Elaine Massacre of 1919 entailed, according to one estimate, approximately 200 murders and has poisoned race relations in Phillips County and the Delta to the present day. The Harrison Race Riots of 1905 and 1909 and the Catcher Race Riot of 1923 involved the brutal destruction of vibrant black communities, so much so that few, if any, African Americans live in those places now. In Little Rock, before there was the Central High Crisis, there was the 1927 lynching of John Carter, during which 5,000 whites rioted in the heart of the city’s black community as they burned and tore apart Carter’s corpse.

The state of Arkansas needs to establish markers at the site of these events, for more than Civil War skirmishes, these riots and massacres impact our present lives, and solemnly commemorating them will help us understand the present shape of race relations and aid us in coming to grips with how we might improve our record on civil rights and human rights for the 21st century.

Guy Lancaster is the editor of the Encyclopedia of Arkansas History & Culture.

16 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

acial disparity in Arkansas’s criminal justice system must be addressed.

Disproportionately higher rates of incarceration based on race harms communities of color and ultimately all of Arkansas. Since the death penalty is the punishment for which, once imposed, there is no recourse, Arkansas should start by addressing it and implementing a Racial Justice Act. Such an act would allow people of color charged with a capital crime to challenge the imposition of the death penalty by presenting data that the punishment has not been imposed on similarly situated whites.

The problem of racial disparity in the death penalty was addressed by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1987 in McClesky v.

Kemp. The late David Baldus presented statistical evidence showing that in Georgia, black men were significantly more likely than white men to be charged with a capital crime. The disparity increased when the victim was white. The Supreme Court said to invalidate death sentences based on the statistics would turn the criminal justice system on its head. Justice Powell, who authored the opinion, later said if he could revisit it he would decide differently.

Baldus conducted a similar study in Arkansas’s 8th circuit north (Hempstead and Nevada Counties) and 8th circuit south (Miller and Lafayette Counties) in 2008 that reviewed cases from January 1, 1990, to December 31, 2005. He found that only black men had been charged, convicted of capital murder and sentenced to death and only for the murders of white victims.

State legislators throughout the United States have introduced Racial Justice Act legislation. It passed in North Carolina in 2009 and is now the basis for a number of challenges by black men to their sentence of death. Legislation addressing the death penalty, however, should only be the first step. The same approach should be taken for other felony convictions. Why should the state allow this actualization of structural racism?

Adjoa A. Aiyetoro is the director of the UALR Institute on Race and Ethnicity and an associate professor of the UALR William H. Bowen School of Law.

Close off Clinton Avenue in the River Market on weekend nights and create a health care program for Little Rock artists and musicians

BY GRAYSON SHELTON

C

losing President Clinton Avenue from LaHarpe to the I-30 bridge on Friday and Saturday beginning at 7 p.m. would make the area safer and more friendly to crowds. It would keep people who cruise the River Market away and allow police to set up checkpoints, which would allow them to spot underage drinkers and otherwise monitor the crowds.

The blueprint for a healthcare program for local artists is Austin’s HAAM, which helps professional musicians with basic health and dental care and mental health counseling. A program like this could inspire a new wave of creativity in Little Rock and, ultimately, benefit the economy.

Grayson Shelton is a Little Rock musician, who plays in the band War Chief.

Reconnect the Old State House to the Riverfront

BY MASON ELLIS

T

he Old State House was built in the mid 1800s atop a prominent hill along the Arkansas riverbank. It was the one of the most impressive buildings in the state when it was built and a focal point along the old riverfront.

Today, it is still a prominent landmark along Markham Street, but with the construction of La Harpe Boulevard, the Old State House was cut off from the riverfront it once proudly overlooked. East of La Harpe, the Riverfront Park and downtown meld into one bustling environment, but to the west, downtown and the river are divided by a concrete barrier where once the land sloped down to the river from behind the Old State House.

We should reconstruct this connection and build a tunnel over La Harpe behind the Old State House to create a large green lawn between Ashley and Conway streets. The greenway would link downtown to the west end of Riverfront Park and encourage more people to use it. The caged pedestrian bridge that crosses La Harpe behind the Old State House now is often overlooked or avoided because it is small, hidden and unsightly. And though it makes it possible to cross over La Harpe, it does not invite visitors to do so. Access to the west end of Riverfront Park could spark a renewed interest in that area, similar to the revitalization of the east end of the park that we have seen in recent years.

Mason Ellis is an intern architect at Witsell Evans Rasco Architects and Planners.

Embrace naturism

Make registering to vote easier

BY JOHN BRYANT

A

rkansas is called the “Natural” state, but yet “Naturism,” or social nudism, is expressly prohibited by a legislative act passed in 1947 after a crusading preacher passed through the state and convinced lawmakers to pass this obviously unconstitutional legislation.

Other locales, North Miami Beach (Haulover) for instance, have embraced the desire for residents and tourists to enjoy their beach sans clothing and in doing so have realized millions of visitors from around the world who come and spend millions of dollars each year.

Arkansas has literally hundreds of natural scenic areas that lend themselves to nude recreation. Not to mention private development of facilities accommodating nudists that is now being prevented by this archaic legislation.

Although not a coastal state, Arkansas has much more to attract such development than other inland areas that have capitalized on nude recreation like Pasco County, Fla., which is home to more than a dozen nudist resorts and residential communities. Also, Palm Springs, Calif., boasts several upscale nudist resorts and spas. And they are in the middle of a desert! Let’s get with it Arkansas, and become truly the “Natural State”.

John Bryant is retired from a TV broadcast career.

He lives in Elkins.

BY GARY PHILLIPS

W

hile right-wingers push to pass laws requiring photo IDs for people to vote, we should introduce a law that automatically registers everyone 18 and older who has an Arkansas photo ID (Driver’s License or Non-Drive ID). Those who get driver’s licenses prior to 18 would, on their 18th birthday, be automatically registered to vote. The technology is there to make this a reality. All that is lacking is the political will. Of course there are those who will not ever vote, but at least this method removes an impediment to true representative democracy.

Gary Phillips is the chair of the Mississippi County Democratic Central Committee. www.arktimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2011 17

Stop the brain drain A plan to put Arkansas’s best graduates to work.

BY KRISTIAN ANDERSEN

W

here kids wind up out of college usually determines where they spend the next 10 or 15 years of their professional career. The question is, how do we keep them in Arkansas? The way we’re doing it now doesn’t work.

By and large, high performance students follow the opportunity and the money. Our best kids go to San Francisco, Austin or New York because that’s where the best jobs are.

But if you can grab those kids and keep them in Arkansas for a couple of years, introduce them to mentors and high-horsepower networking, get them civically engaged and create their professional center of gravity in say, Little Rock, the odds of those kids leaving diminishes tremendously.

That’s the idea behind the Arkansas Fellowship Program — to attract and retain the best Arkansas college graduates every year. Right now, I’m talking to innovative companies in Arkansas, from large corporations to startups, about serving as the 10 sponsor organizations of the fellowship. Each will commit to fund one student for two years by agreeing to hire a graduate and commit to circulating the fellow through highimpact jobs inside the organizations, projects in which a recent college grad wouldn’t normally be involved.

The CEOs of the sponsor companies will also agree to spend a significant amount of one-on-one time with their fellows and meet once with all the other fellows in the program.

And monthly, there will be mixers and a speaker series.

By the time two years has elapsed, the fellow will have developed a relationship with an entrepreneurial, high-growth corporation. They’ll have relationships with nine other CEOs. They’ll have deep connections to the other fellows. They’ll have been engaged in the community. And they will have 10 years of experience, from a cycling perspective, crammed into two years.

These fellows might be sacrificing some initial earning power, but in return they’re getting an unbelievably high level of access. Meanwhile, the host organizations get to help curb the brain drain in Arkansas, and they get to hire rock stars for at least two years.

It’s a high-impact, efficient, inexpensive way to juice the start-up economy in Arkansas. A similar program in Indianapolis, that I’m very familiar with, has a long list of host organizations hoping to participate in the program. There’ve been dozens of startups launched by past fellows from the program.

We’ll be looking for maybe 20 fellows in the Arkansas program. These won’t necessarily be the 4.0 GPA students who come from business school. They’ll be graduates who’ve shown an extraordinary level of entrepreneurialism, the sorts of kids who in third grade were selling candy bars to their classmates.

We’re not going to have a problem attracting 20 rock star graduates. Arkansans have a long history of punching above their weight class when it comes to entrepreneurialism, and a program like this will go a long way toward building upon that legacy.

Kristian Andersen is the president of KA+A, a brand and design consultancy group in Indianapolis, and the managing partner of Gravity Ventures, a seed-stage venture fund active in Indianapolis and Arkansas. He is working on the Arkansas Fellowship Program thanks to a feasibility grant from Innovate Arkansas. He lives in Conway with his wife and four children. You can find him online at www.kristian.vc

18 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

Build an iconic performing arts center

BY PHILIP MANN

L

ittle Rock needs an iconic performing arts center that would serve as a hub for creative and innovative talents from our great state and a magnet to expand our ability to draw top talents in all fields to Arkansas.

I imagine a building, possibly on the riverfront, with a performance hall for live symphony, opera, ballet and a myriad of other productions. It would also house a smaller venue for recitals, an experimental space for innovative projects and office and rehearsal spaces for the center’s resident arts organizations.

The center would provide a high quality acoustic space where great artists from Arkansas and around the world could be heard at their best. Arkansas has a great symphony orchestra, and building it a performance hall with world-class acoustics would be like giving a talented musician a great instrument. It could also be the impetus for a return of full-scale opera and ballet to downtown Little Rock. Its heart would be a hall where fans and artists of every genre, from an Ozark folk or bluegrass band to a gospel chorus, could experience the joy of an intimate, acoustic concert experience.

The center would be a bustling hive for arts education, offering activities for young Arkansans to expand their horizons and potential, hosting everything from youth orchestras, to music lessons, to ballet lessons and rehearsals, to studio opera projects, to university and student productions, to any number of things that have yet to be imagined.

Incredible possibilities for collaborations and original projects would result from the close interaction of local artists and organizations as a product of their physical proximity to each other.

As a new Arkansan, I have been amazed and heartened by the quality of our key performing arts organizations, and I can think of no better way to advance our community and attract creative capital for the future of our state than to build them a home.

Philip Mann is the music director of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.

Encourage a gap year between high school and college for travel

BY NIKKI BEARD

T

CHARLES WYRICK

he Brits do it. The Aussies do it. It’s a tradition in Israel. The concept of a gap year between high school and university is commonplace in many parts of the globe. Unfortunately, it remains the exception here in the U.S., and as a result young people are missing out on a prime opportunity for self-betterment. Let’s encourage young Arkansans to take a gap year between high school and college to travel the world.

It’s a rare high school graduate who has a firm grasp on what she wants to study in college (three changes in major and a semester of exploratory electives, anyone?). Parents, save the tuition money that indecision will cost you and introduce your graduates to new cultures and ideas that may unlock a previously dormant passion and stimulate a new, more directed thirst for knowledge. Let high school graduates wander a bit and then come back with fresh eyes and a new perspective, ready to take on the next phase of life with focus and clarity.

Spending time abroad builds muscle in adaptability, problem solving, selfreliance and communication, giving young people who take a gap year a leg up in university admissions and later, the job search. Entering university life bolstered by this new maturity is sure to foster a more successful college experience. Investing in our youth in this way will lead to a great return on investment as they become the future pillars of the community.

A young person’s gap-year experience starts by learning how to raise and save money for the journey. Seed money gets young travelers through their first leg, after which they can take a job overseas for cash or work a volunteer program that covers room and board.

Time abroad is more rewarding when one has a purpose and can stay for a while.

Working or volunteering in a country fills both criteria nicely.

Regardless of how young travelers elect to spend their time abroad, any type of self-directed exploration at that age will lead to a host of character-building opportunities. A workforce populated with well-rounded, self-assured, focused people can only be a good thing for Arkansas.

Nikki Beard is a international group travel specialist at Poe Travel. She recently lived and worked in McMurdo, Antarctica. She’s traveled to all seven continents.

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World AIDS Day

In observance of World AIDS Day, the Clinton Presidential Center will display the single largest traveling section of the AIDS Memorial Quilt. More than 100 12x12 foot panels will blanket the lawn at the Clinton Center. This year’s display includes panels representing Ryan White, Rock Hudson, Pedro Zamora, Easy E, Freddie Mercury, Anthony Perkins, Robert Reed and Arthur Ashe. The quilt panels were handsewn by friends and family members of AIDS victims.

AIDS Quilt Display Clinton Presidential Center Park Thursday, December 1, 2011 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Reading of Names

Wednesday, November 30 at 5 p.m. until Thursday, December 1 at 5 p.m.

Volunteer

BY FERNANDO CUTZ

A

recent study done by the federal government ranks Arkansas dead last, 51st among the 50 states and the District of Columbia, for hours spent per resident volunteering in their community.

When I first moved to Arkansas, I was impressed by the kindness and friendliness of everyone I met. People are genuinely interested in each other and proud of their Southern hospitality. I admire that a lot. But isn’t it time we took that a step further?

Last year, a few classmates and I took it upon ourselves to drive over to the Delta region in Eastern Arkansas on a monthly basis and help mentor kids on college access. We’re busy folks, and it’s a long drive to get there.

But doing this has quickly become one of the most meaningful and rewarding experiences I’ve had.

I know the Delta is a ways away for many of us, but we can look closer to home for other opportunities. There is always great need in your own backyard. Whether it’s through your house of worship, your child’s school, a foodbank or a local veteran’s organization, what’s important is to find something that you care about, and give them a bit of your time.

The impact is tremendous. In recent years, Tennessee has averaged $3.2 billion in economic benefit from the volunteering that folks did in that state. Missouri averaged $3.5 billion and Texas $13 billion. In these tough economic times, what we need is not more political bickering or protesting or grandstanding, but to extend Southern hospitality outside of our homes and into our communities. Please consider volunteering.

Fernando Cutz is the student body president at the Clinton School of Public Service. This year, he is doing his Capstone Project with U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor.

1200 President Clinton Avenue • Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 • 501-374-4242 • clintonpresidentialcenter.org 20 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

Stop tearing down old buildings

T

BY VANESSA NORTON MCKUIN

hroughout Arkansas, the pervasive attitude is that progress means clearing the old — sometimes to make room for the new, other times to get rid of a perceived problem. This outdated approach takes a toll on our towns and cities, stripping communities of important distinctive places, and robbing communities of the opportunity to give character-defining sites new life for the future.

Tearing down buildings is wasteful. Most debris from demolished buildings goes into landfills, increasing the burden on already stressed municipal and county resources. Materials from old buildings include old-growth timber, brick, stone and tiles that would last hundreds of years if maintained instead of discarded.

Demolition is not a development strategy. Run down, vacant neighborhoods or commercial districts are the product of long-term disinvestment, not of bad buildings. It is time to re-evaluate existing assets and re-imagine how to use them. We have examples all over Arkansas — an abandoned warehouse becomes a public library, a “haunted” hospital becomes energy-efficient affordable housing.

Old neighborhoods are well designed. Look anywhere in the country and the desirable places to live, visit and do business in are historic, walkable neighborhoods. Trendy new developments, like the Promenade at Chenal, go to great lengths to mimic the look and feel of older communities, but cannot recreate the quality,

BY MAX GREEN

dd a second floor to every elementary school, also instead of stairs have slides and eskalaters.

Nine-year-old Max Green lives in North Little Rock.

Vanessa Norton McKuin is executive director of the Historic Preservation Alliance of Arkansas.

No more buyouts

Replace stairs with slides at every school

A

diversity and authenticity.

Instead of tearing down buildings that are vacant, abandoned or in need of updates, let’s commit to finding innovative uses to reinvigorate our state’s undervalued assets. Let’s redirect public money set aside for demolishing buildings to stabilizing and marketing for redevelopment instead, offering incentives that leverage private investment, adopting and enforcing property maintenance codes to allow municipalities to address problem properties before condemnation and demolition become the only attractive options, adopting policies to evaluate buildings for historical significance before demolition permits are issued, and re-evaluating required parking minimums in dense communities.

T

BY ERIC FRANCIS

he legislature should pass a law that forbids any buyout clauses for public employees in contracts. No one — not coaches, not university presidents — should be exempt. You screw up, you get fired and don’t walk away with a hefty taxpayer-funded subsidy.

Eric Francis is a freelance journalist living in North Little Rock.

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Arts Entertainment AND

BAH, HUMBUG!: David Benoit stars as Ebenezer Scrooge in The Rep’s production of ‘A Christmas Carol, The Musical’.

the

REDEMPTION

SCROOGE

In The Rep’s ‘A Christmas Carol, The Musical’.

A

common thread runs through Alan Souza’s directorial efforts at The Rep: fallen men who redeem themselves, and in a flashy musical format, no less. Souza made his Arkansas Rep debut with last season’s holiday production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” so it’s fitting that he returns this year with another Christmas tale of redemption — “A Christmas Carol, the Musical.”

A cast of 19 adults and six children sing and dance their way through the musical telling of Charles Dickens’ classic novella about everyone’s favorite Christmas curmudgeon, Ebenezer Scrooge (played by David Benoit) and his ghost-aided epiphany. The Rep’s production will be a slightly remodeled version of New York’s extravaganza that played annually at Madison Square Garden for a decade.

“This piece was made as big holiday entertainment to compete in New York City with Radio City Music Hall’s show,” Souza said of the original. “So I think one of our challenges is trying to get to the heart of a story that’s been told in so many ways, and still bring all of the giant entertainment values, including costumes and surprises and scariness and thrills and all of those bells and whistles.”

With lyrics by Lynn Ahrens (the writer and lyricist behind Broadway’s “Ragtime,” “Seussical” and some of the tunes from “Schoolhouse Rock!”), and music by

22 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

‘A Christmas Carol, The Musical’

Arkansas Repertory Theater Nov. 30-Dec. 25 7 p.m. Wed.-Sun.; 2 p.m. Sat.-Sun., also 2 p.m. Dec. 20-21 and 23.

Nov. 30 is pay-what-you-can night. $30-$60

Disney legend Alan Menken, the “musical” part of the production is sure to be a thrill for audiences — especially families.

“He writes beautiful, sweeping ballads,” Benoit said of Menken’s original score, written for the New York stage.

“He writes good pastiche numbers, such as ‘Abundance and Charity.’ It’s along the lines of ‘Beauty and the Beast.’ ” Though the tale comes from Dickens and the book (written by Ahrens and Mike Ockrent) and music from Broadway, the sets and costumes will be very much original to The Rep. “One of the beautiful things about a regional theater like this is that this production is being made for this theater. Everything that we chose with the designers and with the staff is for this production,” Souza said. That includes the Victorian Industrial periodinspired set, conceived by resident set designer Mike Nichols, as well as the fantastical costumes, products of Michael Bottari and Ronald Case. “We’re saying it will be ‘Beetlejuice’ meets ‘Night of the Living Dead’ meets

CINDY MOMCHILOV

of

BY BL AIR TIDWELL ‘A Christmas Carol,’ ” Souza said, laughing.

Ryan G. Dunkin plays Jacob Marley, the famous chain-rattling apparition who sends the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future to Scrooge in the night.

Dunkin said his glow-in-the-dark costume helps him feel like the frightening apparition: “All of the chains are fake, but there’s actually weight to them, so it does bring you down a little bit. And I get to be scary, which is fun.”

Benoit transforms from a teddy bear of a man into his grizzled, harsh character when he dons a ritzy cape and top hat, and scowls to accentuate the hard lines drawn on his face. “I love a good villain. Everyone loves a good nasty Grinch, and he has some very funny lines,” Benoit said of Scrooge. “But I actually don’t see him as a villain; I see him as a victim of circumstance. I want to humanize him. Everything he’s ever touched, whether it be his mom, his dad, his sister, his fiance — it’s all been taken away from him so it’s easier to shut down and hold on to the one thing he can, which is the money and material things. All the experiences in his life caused him to shut down out of self-preservation,” Benoit said of his character.

Dickens’ tale “really is a story about redemption and the choices that we make to open ourselves up or close ourselves off based on what happens to us. It’s about how we find that Christmas spirit in our hearts every single year, or in the case of Scrooge, at all.”

ROCK CANDY Check out the Times’ A&E blog arktimes.com

A&E NEWS BRINKLEY NATIVE AL BELL got his professional start in the ‘60s as a DJ in Little Rock before conquering the world of soul and R&B as one of the key figures in — and later chairman and owner of — the legendary Stax Records.

He had a hand in launching the careers of such giants as The Staple Singers, The Emotions and Isaac Hayes, and produced records for Sam and Dave, Booker T and the M.G.’s, The Bar Kays, Otis Redding, Rufus Thomas, Albert King and many more.

He serves on the boards of directors for several nonprofits and schools and has earned numerous awards, including a 2011 Grammy Trustees Award for his contributions to recorded music.

In other words, the man is a living legend and he lives right here in Little Rock.

Now, Bell is back on to the airwaves of Central Arkansas as the host of “Al Bell Presents American Soul Music,” a three-hour show that made its radio debut last week. The program got started as an online show back in 2009, but now you can also hear it on HeartBeat 106.7-KHLR every Friday night at 7 p.m.

“Music is the great emotional trigger of the human soul,” Bell said in a press statement. “Nothing elicits a memory, nothing inspires a mood and nothing moves people to action as thoroughly as does a great song.”

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WHILE LITTLE ROCK NATIVE JEFF NICHOLS’ second film “Take Shel-

ter” didn’t win either of the Gotham Awards it was nominated for at Monday night’s ceremony, the psychological thriller was nominated for five 2012 Film Independent Spirit Awards, tying the black-and-white silent film “The Artist” for the most nominations this year.

“Take Shelter” earned nods for Best Feature, Best Director, Best Male Lead (Michael Shannon), Best Supporting Female (Jessica Chastain) and the Piaget Producers Award (Sophia Lin).

The awards ceremony is scheduled for Feb. 25, and will be aired later that evening on IFC. The judges for the Independent Spirit Awards consider feature-length films that express a “uniqueness of vision,” with “original, provocative subject matter” that were made for $20 million or less. The films also must have either screened for one week in a commercial theater or have been screened at the Los Angeles, New Directors/New Films, New York, Sundance, Telluride, or Toronto film festivals.

www.arktimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2011 23

THE TO-DO

LIST

BY ROBERT BELL

WEDNESDAY 11/30

‘FIDDLER ON THE ROOF’

7:30 p.m. Robinson Center Music Hall. $17-$50.

The first production of “Fiddler on the Roof” opened on Broadway nearly 50 years ago. The smash-hit musical was based on a short story by Sholem Aleichem called “Tevye and his Daughters,” published in 1894. Then, as now, the theme of striving to hold on to one’s traditions in the face of enormous changes and societal upheaval was a relevant one. Tevye, a poor Jewish milkman in early 20th century Russia, wrestles with a variety of internal and external forces that are threatening big

changes for his family and his way of life: a wealthy, middle-aged suitor seeks his eldest daughter’s hand in marriage, though she’s in love with a poor young tailor. Another daughter seeks to marry a Marxist revolutionary (disregarding the traditional role of the matchmaker) and yet another of his daughters falls in love with a young Russian gentile despite Tevye’s disapproval. Meanwhile word is spreading of an imminent pogrom and the expulsion of Jews from Russia.

Throughout it all, Tevye must search his soul for the answers to these modern dilemmas. This production runs again Dec. 1, same time and price.

THURSDAY 12/1

WING SPUR WILD HORSES BENEFIT

6 p.m. Argenta Community Theater. $50.

Out west, herds of wild horses that are supposed to be protected by the Bureau of Land Management are sometimes rounded up and sent to Mexico for slaughter, their meat shipped overseas, to places where the consumption of horse is considered acceptable. I know this will shock you, but it turns out BLM has a very cozy and incestuous relationship with oil and gas companies, which lease federal lands for drilling. Those companies pay a nominal fee to the feds, and in return, they can do pretty much as they please with the land, extracting their fill of the fossil fuels and then leaving the mess for someone else to clean up.

It seems that herds of wild horses have a tendency to inconvenience these companies, hence the animals’ poor treatment at the hands of the agency that is ostensibly supposed to protect them, under the Wild

R ’N’ R BLOWOUT: Two Cow Garage (pictured) and Slobberbone headline a two-night stand at White Water Tavern starting Friday.

Horses and Burros Act of 1971. But some accommodating legislation from former Montana Republican Sen. Conrad Burns negated critical parts of the act, allowing for the removal of the wild horses.

Burns snuck the changes into an appropriations bill in 2005 without any public notice or debate in Congress. “Wild Horses and Renegades” is a documentary that tells this story of corporate greed and animal cruelty abetted by bureaucratic negligence. The film contains some pretty shocking footage of abuse, though, so if that sort of thing bothers you, then you should definitely make a donation to Wing Spur Wild Horses, which cares for two families of wild mustangs rescued from a grisly fate at the abattoir. The nonprofit sanctuary, located at Wye, is among several that were started by kindhearted folks around the country who wanted to make sure these majestic creatures get a chance to survive. There will be drinks and hors d’oeuvres in addition to a screening of the film.

FRIDAY 12/2

SE7EN SHARP

8 p.m. Cornerstone Pub and Grill. $7.

If you dig listening to guitar-centric, crunchy modern rock and you also want to help The Boys & Girls Clubs spread some holiday cheer to the less fortunate this season, this benefit show that the band headlines is probably where you should be on Friday night. Se7en Sharp is self-described as “Eagles in Chains,” which sounds right on the money to these ears. “Classic grunge” could also accurately describe 24 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

the band, which has little in common with much of the hyper-compressed modern radio rock that barrels out of truck speakers all over the nation. The band’s tunes are by turns heavy and quiet, dynamic and melodic, with the acoustic guitars playing nice with the electric ones. If that sounds like it’s up your alley, make sure to bring a gently worn coat, three cans of nonperishable food or a new toy and help someone stay warm, fed and a maybe just a little bit happier.

FRIDAY 12/2

SLOBBERBONE, TWO COW GARAGE

9:30 p.m. White Water Tavern. $20.

So you missed out on seeing the last Two Cow Garage all-weekend blowout back in September because you didn’t buy tickets in advance. Well don’t make that same mistake again, because this time, the Ohio cow-punkers are playing a double-header with those Denton, Texas, trouble-causers in Slobberbone.

There will be plenty of other perform-

ers as well, at what will no doubt be a rowdy, boozy ear- and liver-punishing good time. On that topic, I would encourage any of you imbibers of alcohol to consult my hangover prevention/remediation guide that was published in last week’s Times as part of the Smoke Up Johnny preview. The simple guidelines contained therein will serve you well, especially if you’re hoss enough to take on both nights of this here throw-down.

SATURDAY 12/3

ALCHEMY SONGWRITING COMPETITION

7:30 p.m. Hendrix College’s Worsham Hall. $10.

Blackbird Academy of the Arts is a nonprofit arts education program based in Conway that offers affordable classes for all ages, with a curriculum that runs the gamut from visual arts to music and dance to filmmaking and creative writing. Founder Jennie Strange got the idea for the school a few years ago, but now it’s a 6,000-square foot building with a staff of 23 that offers full and partial scholarships. The Alchemy Songwriting Competition is a fundraiser for the nonprofit. Ten finalists will perform their songs for the judges, who

include Kris Allen, the Conway native and American Idol winner; David Hodges, a Little Rock native who’s earned Grammys for his work with Evanescence and Kelly Clarkson, and Andy Davis, a former marketing exec who is involved with several musiccentered nonprofits. Of the finalists, six are from Arkansas and the other four are from Amherst, N.Y., Ontario, Alexandria, Va. and Bidnija, Malta, respectively. The grand prize is an expenses-paid trip to Los Angeles to record the winning song in a studio with producers Ryan Peterson and Nolan Sipe. Proceeds from the competition, including entry fees, sponsorships and showcase tickets, will benefit Blackbird Academy.

IN BRIEF

THURSDAY 12/1 The Philander Smith College Choir performs its holiday concert at the Kendall Center Atrium on campus at 7:30 p.m. The choir will also perform Sunday at 6:30 p.m. at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. Both concerts are free.

For some monstrous blues rock, check out The Sideshow Tragedy at White Water Tavern. The band plays with local country-punk-soul bruisers Jonathan Wilkins and The Reparations, 10 p.m. All ye Ren Faire folke won’t want to miss Ye Olde Madrigal Feaste, in which ye shall be regaled by candlelight with the festive songs of the UCA Chamber Singers, all whilst partaking of prime rib, chicken Florentine or a vegetable plate, if feasting on the beasts of the fielde doth offendeth thee. The revelry beginneth at 7 p.m. each night through Saturday and will set ye backe $40.

FRIDAY 12/2

TOYS FOR ROCK: Kingsdown headlines an annual benefit for Toys for Tots Saturday night at Revolution. Bring a new toy, or heck, bring two.

SATURDAY 12/3

KINGSDOWN, FREE MICAH, BELAIR

8:30 p.m. Revolution. $5 with new toy, $8 without.

Here’s another chance to see some of that rock ’n’ roll music the kids keep talking about while also doing a small turn to help out the less fortunate among us. Is there anything sadder than the

thought of a boy or girl going without a stances. It’s been a big year for the band, present this Christmas because mom or playing supporting slots alongside such dad lost a job or had to put every penny acts as Poison, REO Speedwagon, Jet toward paying the mortgage and bills? and others, so the group — along with This is the third year that indie rawk many other bands, venues, promoters outfit Kingsdown has hosted a Toys for and others — is giving something back.

Tots benefit to help make sure that all The folk-rock free spirits in Free Micah kids in Central Arkansas get a toy for and the pop-punk quartet Belair are also Christmas, regardless of their circum- playing the show.

SUNDAY 12/4

SUNDAY 12/4

LITTLE ROCK WIND SYMPHONY

RIVER CITY MEN’S CHORUS

3 p.m. Second Presbyterian Church. Free.

The Little Rock Wind Symphony’s “A Christmas Extravaganza” includes performances from the LRWS brass choir, woodwind ensemble, soprano Laura Storm singing “O Holy Night,” the Don Roberts Elementary School Children’s Choir singing “Sleigh Bells,” “Peace on Earth … and Lots of Little Crickets,” and “Sweet Songs of Christmas,” as well as classics such as Strauss’ “Unter Donner und Blitz,” “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “It’s Christmas!” and more.

3 p.m. Trinity United Methodist Church. Free.

‘A CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA’: Soprano Laura Storm performs with the Little Rock Wind Symphony for its annual holiday show Sunday afternoon.

It’s time once again for the River City Men’s Chorus Christmas show. This year marks the 10th holiday concert by the group, but as usual, expect to hear many of your favorites. On the play list for this year are: “The First Noel,” “I Saw Three Ships,” “Gloria in Excelsis,” “Do You Hear What I Hear?” “Silent Night,” “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” “Deck the Hall” and many more. In addition to Sunday’s show, the choir will perform at 7 p.m. on Dec. 5 and Dec. 8 at Trinity United Methodist.

Do you have an affliction that can only be cured by drinking and carrying on and listening to a bunch of rowdy-ass hillbillies tear it up? Thought so. Well, check out Mountain Sprout to cure your ailment, Stickyz, 9 p.m., $6. Nilson Matta is widely considered one of the best bass players in the world.

The Brazilian virtuoso has played alongside such greats as Joao Gilberto, Joe Henderson, Yo Yo Ma, Gato Barbieri and many others.

He comes to Argenta Community Theater with his latest project, The Brazilian Voyage, playing originals and Brazilian standards. The show starts at 7 p.m. and is $35. If you’re looking to take an excursion into the bizarre world of geeks, freaks, anomalies and oddities, look no further than The 999 Eyes Freakshow & Surreal Sideshow, Maxine’s, 8 p.m., $8 adv., $10 door. “Judgment at Nuremberg” – a drama based on the trial of four German judges accused of supporting the Nazis – opens at The Weekend Theater, 7:30 p.m., $12-$16.

SATURDAY 12/3 The Big Jingle Jubilee Holiday Parade begins at 3 p.m. at Second and Broadway streets in downtown Little Rock and ends at the State Capitol. For some psychedelic string band madness, check out the Mockingbird Hillbilly Band, Reno’s Argenta Cafe, 10 p.m., $5.

The Hendrix Choir will host its Candlelight Carol Service at 7:30 p.m. (and at 4 p.m. on Sunday). It’s free, but reservations are required, so call 501-450-1495. Fayetteville pop-punkers Dreamfast host a CD release party at Maxine’s, with openers The Last Slice, 8 p.m., $5 adv., $7 door.

www.arktimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2011 25

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THE TELEVISIONIST

‘WEED WARS’: Steve DeAngelo owns Harborside Health Center, which is featured in the show.

A trio of new shows

BY DAVID KOON

NEW SERIES: WEED WARS

9 p.m. Thursdays The Discovery Channel

Look, unless you smoke enough to give yourself lung cancer, get shot by some nefarious nogoodnik you’re forced to buy it from, or get beat up in jail after being arrested for having it, smoking pot is probably not going to hurt you. Forget what Nancy Reagan said. Pot does some semi-cool things to your consciousness for awhile, makes you wanna eat your weight in tacos, but it isn’t that dangerous unless you operate heavy machinery or giggle yourself to death. Even so, America has been having a shit-fit over ol’ Mary Jane for nearly 100 years now, tying up police and courts, breaking down doors in the middle of the night to arrest Harold and Kumar, and generally acting like weed isn’t around five million times less destructive to lives and families than alcohol. Even if you don’t buy that marijuana should be available for recreational use, studies show that most Americans are down for medical marijuana. While many states are on board, the federal government is standing pat, periodically swooping down on and dismantling medical marijuana clinics. In

its new series “Weed Wars,” Discovery Channel steps to the front lines of the battle between Johnny Law and Doctor Pot, detailing day-to-day operations at Oakland’s Harborside Health Center.

With 95,000 customers, Harborside is the largest medical marijuana clinic in the world, and owner Steve DeAngelo moves weed in tonnage quantities and dozens of potencies, all while waiting for the feds to bust down the door and arrest his whole staff at any minute. Should make for some interesting television, no matter where you come down on the issue.

NEW SERIES: VIRGIN DIARIES

8 p.m. Sunday TLC

... and while I’ve got my culture-wars soapbox out: What is it with folks taking virginity to extremes? I’m not talking about “I’m 17 and I’ve never gone all the way with a boy.” I’m talking: “I’m 32 and have been engaged for three years, but I’m saving not only my naughty bits but my first kiss for my wedding night.”

First of all, let me just say that I’d like somebody to show me where the Bible says you can’t even kiss before mar-

riage. Second: while I personally think the whole virgin-until-your-weddingnight thing sounds like a great recipe for misery — buy a car without a test drive or two, and you probably deserve to get a lemon — I’m cool with it. Your body, your rules has to apply to all, even those who want their honeymoon to be filled with the most awkward and unfulfilling sex imaginable. That said, I never ever want to be in a room with somebody who wants to gush to me how dreamy it will be to lock lips for the first time AFTER the only way out is to hire a lawyer. Luckily, TLC has a plan to keep me far away from those with minty-fresh genitalia with their new show, “Virgin Diaries.” Here, young couples and singles who have chosen to keep themselves pure until marriage talk about navigating the treacherous waters of Blue Ball Lagoon with Jesus as their silent wingman. Sounds like it’ll be fun for an episode or two, and maybe longer if some of them have a horizontal failure of willpower.

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NEW SERIES: THE LAYOVER

8 p.m. Mondays The Travel Channel

I’ve been a fan of chef, writer, culinary philosopher and all-around coolest mf’er on the planet Anthony Bourdain for years now. Through the magic of television and Bourdain’s show “No Reservations,” I’ve been all over the world with him, from eating pizza in New York to scarfing down fermented shark steeped in permafrost in Iceland.

He’s been pretty much everywhere and seen everything. The issue with that show is that, unless you’re on a trust fund, it’s not really that realistic to follow in his footsteps. Also, because of Bourdain’s obsessive need to show “The Real,” “No Reservations” can be a little exclusionary, favoring out-of-theway places over cities in a lot of cases.

Almost everybody has been stuck in an airport, however, and that universal experience forms the core of his new show, The Layover, which is built around exactly what it sounds like: a flight layover of 24-48 hours in an unfamiliar city, with Bourdain forced to find his way to The Real with only his wits and the help of a faithful guide. The result is a show that feels a lot more quick and vital than “No Reservations,” with less time spent in thoughtful musing and contemplation (which Bourdain admittedly does well), and more time spent on drink, food and highlycaffeinated fun. If you’re a fan of “No Reservations,” Bourdain, or just great food in exotic locales, this will probably be a sure-fire hit.

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www.arktimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2011 27

AFTER DARK All events are in the Greater Little Rock area unless otherwise noted. To place an event in the Arkansas Times calendar, please e-mail the listing and all pertinent information, including date, time, location, price and contact information, to calendar@arktimes.com.

through Dec. 2, 8 p.m.; Dec. 2, 10:30 p.m.; Dec. 3, 7, 9 and 11 p.m., $7-$10. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501-228-5555. www.loonybincomedy.com.

EVENTS

Arvest River Market on Ice. See Nov. 30.

CARTI Festival of Trees. Statehouse Convention Center, 10 a.m. $3-$5. 7 Statehouse Plaza.

Hillcrest Shop & Sip. Shops and restaurants offer discounts, later hours, and live music.

Hillcrest, first Thursday of every month, 5-10 p.m. P.O.Box 251522. 501-666-3600. www.hillcrestmerchants.com.

Madrigal Feaste. The UCA Chamber Singers will don period costumes and serenade the audience with carols and a jester will entertain the crowd. Meal includes choice of prime rib, chicken Florentine or vegetable plate. University of Central Arkansas, 7 p.m., $40. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. www.uca.edu.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 30

MUSIC

Acoustic Open Mic. The Afterthought, 8 p.m., free. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www. afterthoughtbar.com.

Alternative Wednesdays. Features alternative bands from Central Arkansas and the surrounding areas. Mediums Art Lounge, 6:30 p.m., $5.

521 Center St. 501-374-4495.

Bolly Open Mic Hype Night with Osyrus Bolly and DJ Messiah. All American Wings, 9 p.m.

215 W. Capitol Ave. 501-376-4000. allamericanwings.com.

Brian & Nick. Cajun’s Wharf, 5 and 9 p.m., $5 after 8:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-3755351. www.cajunswharf.com.

Casey Donahew Band, Matt Stell & The Crashers. Ages 18 and up show. Revolution, 9 p.m. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. revroom.com.

Grim Muzik presents Way Back Wednesdays.

Cornerstone Pub & Grill, 8:30 p.m. 314 Main St., NLR. 501-374-1782. cstonepub.com.

Jim Dickerson. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

Ted Ludwig Trio. Capital Bar and Grill, 5 p.m., free. 111 Markham St. 501-374-7474. www.capitalhotel.com/CBG.

COMEDY

Matt Sadler, Chris Dowell. The Loony Bin, -Dec. 2, 8 p.m.; Dec. 2, 10:30 p.m.; Dec. 3, 7, 9 and 11 p.m., $7-$10. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road.

501-228-5555. www.loonybincomedy.com.

EVENTS

Arvest River Market on Ice. Ice skating rink. Go to holidaysinlittlerock.com/river_market_on_ice/ for schedule. River Market Pavilions, through Jan. 8, 2012, $9 an hour. 400 President Clinton Ave. 375-2552. www.rivermarket.info.

Barcade Edition. Tournaments for Modern Warfare 3, Super Street Fighter IV and more.

Registration is $5 per game. Downtown Music Hall, 7 p.m. 211 W. Capitol. 501-376-1819. downtownshows.homestead.com.

Interfaith Event on the eve of World AIDS Day. With Dr. Walter Kimbrough, president of Philander Smith College, and Dr. Jay Barth, 2010 distinguished professor of politics at Hendrix College. A candlelit march to the Clinton Presidential Center will follow. Christ Episcopal Church, 6 p.m., free. 509 Scott St. 501-375-2342.

FILM

Arts in Motion Film Series: “All That Jazz.”

The semi-autobiographical story of legendary choreographer Bob Fosse. Arkansas Arts Center, 7 p.m., free. 501 E. 9th St. 501-372-4000. www.arkarts.com.

“Daisy Bates: First Lady of Little Rock.” Call 569-3235 to make reservations. UALR, Stella Boyle Smith Concert Hall, 7 p.m., free. 2801 S. University Ave. 501-569-8977.

BOOKS

Randy Fertel. Fertel will discuss his book, “The

28 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

DOUBLE-WIDE DREAMER: The Casey Donahew band plays a hybrid style, mixing Red Dirt rocking with the arena bombast of ‘80s and ‘90s country superstars like Garth Brooks and George Strait. The Fort Worth act is on tour for its latest, “Double-Wide Dream” and plays an 18-and-older show at Revolution Wednesday, Nov. 30, 9 p.m., $12.

Locals Matt Stell & The Crashers open the show.

Gorilla Man and the Empress of Steak.” Sturgis Hall, 6 p.m. 1200 President Clinton Ave. 501683-5239. clintonschool.uasys.edu.

THURSDAY, DEC. 1

MUSIC

The Cold Front with Sean Fresh, Gina Gee, 607, Osyrus Bolly, Justin Paul, 4X4 Crew, DJ Fatality, Adrienne Collins. 21 and over show. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 9 p.m., $10. 107 Commerce St. 501-372-7707. www.stickyfingerz.com.

“Inferno.” DJs play pop, electro, house and more, plus drink specials and $1 cover before 11 p.m.

Sway, 9 p.m. 412 Louisiana. 501-907-2582.

Interstate Buffalo. The Afterthought, 8 p.m., free. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www. afterthoughtbar.com.

Jim Dickerson. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

Kevin Gordon. Maxine’s, 8 p.m., free. 700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. maxinespub.com.

Mayday By Midnight (happy hour), Raising Grey (headliner). Cajun’s Wharf, 5 and 9 p.m., $5 after 8:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-375-

5351. www.cajunswharf.com.

Miss Used. West End Smokehouse and Tavern, 10 p.m., $5. 215 N. Shackleford. 501-224-7665. www.westendsmokehouse.net.

Mr. Lucky. Shooter’s Sports Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.

9500 I-30. 501-565-4003. www.shooterslittlerock. com.

Ol’ Puddin’haid. Thirst n’ Howl, 7:30 p.m., free.

14710 Cantrell Road. 501-379-8189. www.thirstn-howl.com.

Philander Smith College Choir. Philander Smith College, 7:30 p.m., free. 900 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive.

Port Arthur Band. Parrot Beach Cafe, 9 p.m.

9611 MacArthur Drive, NLR. 771-2994.

The Sideshow Tragedy, Jonathan Wilkins.

White Water Tavern, 10 p.m., $5. 2500 W. 7th.

501-375-8400. www.whitewatertavern.com.

Ted Ludwig Trio. Capital Bar and Grill, 5 p.m., free. 111 Markham St. 501-374-7474. www.capitalhotel.com/CBG. “Thirsty Thursdays.” Juanita’s, 9 p.m. 614 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-1228. www. juanitas.com.

COMEDY

Matt Sadler, Chris Dowell. The Loony Bin,

FILM

“Wild Horses & Renegades.” Benefits Wing Spur Wild Horses, a nonprofit sanctuary for wild mustangs on Wye Mountain. Includes wine bar and catering by Starving Artist Cafe.

Argenta Community Theater, 6 p.m., $50. 405 Main St., NLR. 501-590-5330. argentacommunitytheater.org.

BENEFITS

Tie One On. Our House benefit, with hors d’oeuvres by Trios, live music from The Smittle Band, wine and beer and a live auction. Pavilion in the Park, 6:30 p.m., $55. 8201 Cantrell Road. ourhouseshelter.org/events/.

FRIDAY, DEC. 2

MUSIC

Big Stack. Denton’s Trotline, 9 p.m. 2150 Congo Road, Benton. 501-315-1717.

Bohemian Sauce. Reno’s Argenta Cafe, 10 p.m., $5. 312 N. Main St., NLR. 501-376-2900. www. renosargentacafe.com.

Brian & Nick. Flying Saucer, 9 p.m., $3. 323 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-7468. www. beerknurd.com/stores/littlerock.

Buddafli, Adrienne Collins, Shea Marie, Nick Beam. Sway, 9 p.m., $10. 412 Louisiana. 501907-2582.

Eoff Brothers (headliner), Some Guy Named Robb (happy hour). Cajun’s Wharf, 5 and 9 p.m., $5 after 8:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road.

501-375-5351. www.cajunswharf.com.

First Impressions. The Afterthought, 9 p.m., $7. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www. afterthoughtbar.com.

“The Flow Fridays.” Twelve Modern Lounge, 8 p.m. 1900 W. Third St. The Meanies. West End Smokehouse and Tavern, Dec. 2-3, 10 p.m., $5. 215 N. Shackleford. 501224-7665. www.westendsmokehouse.net.

Monkhouse. Faulkner County Library, 7 p.m.

1900 Tyler St., Conway. 501-327-7482. www. fcl.org.

Mountain Sprout. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 9 p.m., $6. 107 Commerce St. 501-3727707. www.stickyfingerz.com.

Nilson Matta & the Brazilian Voyage. Argenta Community Theater, 7 and 9:30 p.m., $35-$45.

405 Main St., NLR. 501-353-1443. argentacommunitytheater.org.

Se7en Sharp benefit show. Bring three canned goods, a gently worn coat, a new toy or a $7

donation. All proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Club. Cornerstone Pub & Grill, 8 p.m. 314 Main St., NLR. 501-374-1782. cstonepub.com.

Slobberbone, Two Cow Garage. White Water Tavern, Dec. 2-3, 9:30 p.m. 2500 W. 7th. 501-3758400. www.whitewatertavern.com.

Ted Ludwig Trio. Capital Bar and Grill, 9 p.m., free. 111 Markham St. 501-374-7474. www.capitalhotel.com/CBG. Thomas East. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, Dec. 2-3, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

Zodiac: The Sagittarius Edition featuring Zoogma. Ages 18 and older. Revolution, 9 p.m. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. revroom.com.

COMEDY

Matt Sadler, Chris Dowell. The Loony Bin, through Dec. 2, 8 p.m.; Dec. 2, 10:30 p.m.; Dec. 3, 7, 9 and 11 p.m., $7-$10. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501-228-5555. www.loonybincomedy.com.

EVENTS

The 999 Eyes Freakshow & Surreal Sideshow.

Maxine’s, 8 p.m., $8 adv., $10 door. 700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. maxinespub.com.

Arkansas Craft Guild’s 33rd Annual Christmas Showcase. Statehouse Convention Center, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 7 Statehouse Plaza.

Arvest River Market on Ice. See Nov. 30.

CARTI Festival of Trees. Statehouse Convention Center, 1:30 p.m. $3-$5. 7 Statehouse Plaza.

Festival After Dark. Food and fun with a silent auction and performance from Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster band. Statehouse Convention Center, 7 p.m., $50. 7 Statehouse Plaza.

Festival of Fashion Show. Statehouse Convention Center, 10 a.m. p.m., $50. 7 Statehouse Plaza.

LGBTQ/SGL Youth and Young Adult Group.

Diverse Youth for Social Change is a group for LGBTQ/SGL and straight ally youth and young adults age 14 to 23. For more information, call 244-9690 or search “DYSC” on Facebook. 800 Scott St., 6:30 p.m. 800 Scott St. Madrigal Feaste. See Dec. 1.

A Soulful Christmas Gala. Hosted by the Arkansas Democratic Black Caucus, this event includes music, food, drinks, prizes and more.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, 8:30 p.m., $15. 501 W. 9th St. 501-376-4602. www.ardemocraticblackcaucus.org/.

LECTURES

“The Philanthropy In All of Us.” Artist Claire Mungai is a native of Nairobi, Kenya, who works for Microsoft and paints in her spare time to raise money for schools in rural Kenya. Clinton School of Public Service, 12 p.m. 1200 President Clinton Ave. 501-683-5239. www.clintonschool. uasys.edu.

BENEFITS

Toy Hill Weekend. Drop off donations to Toys for Tots and enjoy live music, parades and more.

War Memorial Park, Dec. 2-4, 11:30 a.m. Van Buren and Markham Streets.

BOOKS

Don Duren. The author of “Bathers Baseball: A History of Minor League Baseball at the Arkansas Spa” will sign his book and visit

with former members of the Bathers team, including Jack Bales, Tony Zini and Ed White.

Hot Springs Convention Center, 4 p.m. 134 Convention Blvd., Hot Springs. 501-321-2027. www.hotsprings.org.

SATURDAY, DEC. 3

MUSIC

The Alchemy Songwriting Competition and Showcase. Hendrix College. 1600 Washington Ave., Conway. www.hendrix.edu.

The Ariels Band. Cornerstone Pub & Grill, 9 p.m. 314 Main St., NLR. 501-374-1782. cstonepub.com.

Arkansas Chamber Singers fundraiser. Includes meal, silent auction and entertainment from Sharon Douglas. The Little Rock Club, 5 p.m., $125. 400 W. Capitol, 30th Floor.

“A Conway Christmas.” Includes performances of holiday favorites by The Conway Symphony Orchestra, The Central Arkansas Children’s Choir and Arkansas Festival Ballet. Reynolds Performance Hall, University of Central Arkansas, 7:30 p.m., $5-$38. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway.

Donna Massey & Blue-Eyed Soul (headliner), Richie Johnson (happy hour). Cajun’s Wharf, 5 and 9 p.m., $5 after 8:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-375-5351. www.cajunswharf.com.

Dreamfast, The Last Slice. CD release show for Dreamfast. Maxine’s, 8 p.m., $5 adv., $7 door.

700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. maxinespub.com.

The Drowning Men, Yellowire. Ages 18 and older. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 9 p.m., $7. 107 Commerce St. 501-372-7707. www.stickyfingerz.com.

Dry County. Denton’s Trotline, 9 p.m. 2150 Congo Road, Benton. 501-315-1717.

Hendrix Choir Candlelight Carol Service.

Reservations required. Call 501-450-1495.

Hendrix College, Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 4, 4 p.m., free. 1600 Washington Ave., Conway. www.hendrix.edu.

Kingsdown, Free Micah, Belair. This is a benefit for Toys for Tots. Revolution, 8:30 p.m., $5 with new toy, $8 without. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. revroom.com.

“KISS Saturdays” with DJs Deja Blu, Greyhound and Silky Slim. Sway, 10 p.m. 412 Louisiana. 501-907-2582.

The Meanies. West End Smokehouse and Tavern, 10 p.m., $5. 215 N. Shackleford. 501224-7665. www.westendsmokehouse.net.

Mockingbird Hillbilly Band. Reno’s Argenta Cafe, 10 p.m., $5. 312 N. Main St., NLR. 501376-2900. www.renosargentacafe.com.

Runaway Planet. The Afterthought, 9 p.m., $7.

2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www. afterthoughtbar.com.

Shannon McClung. Flying Saucer, 9 p.m., $3.

323 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-7468. www. beerknurd.com/stores/littlerock.

Sister Rock. Hardrider Bar & Grill, 8 p.m., free.

6613 John Harden Drive, Cabot. 501-982-1939 .

Slobberbone, Two Cow Garage. White Water Tavern, 9:30 p.m. 2500 W. 7th. 501-375-8400. www.whitewatertavern.com.

Ted Ludwig Trio. Capital Bar and Grill, 9 p.m., free. 111 Markham St. 501-374-7474. www.capitalhotel.com/CBG. Thomas East. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

Uncrowned. Juanita’s, 9 p.m., $8 adv., $10 door.

Holly Trolley Day December 17, 2011

FREE Trolley Rides 8:30 a.m. – Midnight FREE Pose and Refreshments with Santa at the Trolley Barn 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

(Bring your camera!)

CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

www.arktimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2011 29

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AFTER DARK, CONT. 614 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-1228. www. juanitas.com.

COMEDY

Matt Sadler, Chris Dowell. The Loony Bin, 7, 9 and 11 p.m., $7-$10. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501-228-5555. www.loonybincomedy.com.

EVENTS

Arkansas Craft Guild’s 33rd Annual Christmas Showcase. Statehouse Convention Center, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. 7 Statehouse Plaza.

Arvest River Market on Ice. See Nov. 30.

Big Jingle Jubilee Holiday Parade. Parade begins at Second and Broadway streets and ends at the State Capitol. Downtown Little Rock, 3 p.m. downtown. 501-835-3399.

CARTI Festival of Trees. Statehouse Convention Center, 10:30 a.m., $3-$5. 7 Statehouse Plaza.

Falun Gong meditation. Allsopp Park, 9 a.m., free. Cantrell & Cedar Hill Roads.

Holiday Tree Trimming Party. Laman Library, 2 p.m. 2801 Orange St., NLR. 501-758-1720. www. lamanlibrary.org.

Madrigal Feaste. See Dec. 1.

Winter Watchable Wildlife. Arkansas Game & Fish wildlife coordinator Kirsten Bartlow will speak about wildlife species people can see during the winter. The Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center, 2 p.m., free.

602 President Clinton Ave. 501-907-0636. www. centralarkansasnaturecenter.com.

SPORTS

UALR Women’s Trojans vs. Southern Miss.

Jack Stephens Center, UALR, 12 p.m., $4-$35.

2801 S. University Ave.

BENEFITS

Breakfast With Santa to Benefit Arkansas

Children’s Hospital. Enjoy breakfast and photos with Santa at this ACH fundraiser. Arkansas Children’s Hospital, 7 a.m., $10 adv., $15 door.

1 Children’s Way. A Celebration of Living Gifts. Learn how livestock can provide food and income for hungry families. You’ll have the chance to purchase an animal for a family in need, take pictures with goats, llamas, lambs and other animals. Heifer Village, 10 a.m. p.m. 1 World Ave. 501-376-6836. heifer.org/heifervillage.

Modeling for a Cause. This fashion show benefits Big Brothers & Big Sisters. Dreamland Ballroom, 6 p.m., $20. 800 W. 9th St. 501-7445449.

Toy Hill Weekend. See Dec. 2.

BOOKS

Kimberley Wesley. The author will sign copies of her book, “Surviving the Storms: One Woman’s Struggle with Church Hurt.” Hastings - Conway, 3 p.m. 1360 Old Morrilton Hwy., Conway.

SUNDAY, DEC. 4

MUSIC

Hendrix Choir Candlelight Carol Service.

Reservations required. Call 501-450-1495.

Hendrix College, 4 p.m., free. 1600 Washington Ave., Conway. www.hendrix.edu.

Kopecky Family Band, My Name Is John Michael. Ages 18 and older. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 8:30 p.m., $6. 107 Commerce St. 501-372-7707. www.stickyfingerz.com.

Little Rock Wind Symphony: “A Christmas Extravaganza.” Second Presbyterian Church, 3 p.m., free. 600 Pleasant Valley Drive.

Maurice Brown. Porter’s Jazz Cafe, 7 and 8:30 p.m., $10. 315 Main St. 501-324-1900. www. portersjazzcafe.com.

Mychildren Mybride, Within The Ruins, Lionheart, I Declare War, The Plot in You, Fear the Aftermath. Downtown Music Hall, 6 p.m., $13 adv., $15 door. 211 W. Capitol. 501376-1819. downtownshows.homestead.com.

Philander Smith College Choir. Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 6:30 p.m., free. 1100 Napa Valley Drive. 501-221-5300.

River City Men’s Chorus: “Holiday 2011.”

Trinity United Methodist Church, Dec. 4-5, 7 p.m.; Dec. 8, 7 p.m. 1101 North Mississippi St. 501-666-2813. www.tumclr.org.

Sunday Jazz Brunch with Ted Ludwig and Joe Cripps. Vieux Carre, 11 a.m. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www.vieuxcarrecafe.com.

Traditional Irish Music Session. Hibernia Irish Tavern, through March 18: first Sunday of every month, 2:30 p.m.; third Sunday of every month, 2:30 p.m. 9700 N Rodney Parham Road. 501246-4340. www.hiberniairishtavern.com.

DANCE

Sunset on the Nile 2011. Make reservations for this evening of dinner, dancing and costume modeling by calling 501-455-1229 or 501837-9305. Taziki’s, 7 p.m., $35. 12800 Chenal Parkway. 501-225-1829. www.tazikiscafe.com/ location_chenal_creek.

EVENTS

12th Annual Taste of the Holidays. Features food from Hot Springs restaurants. MidAmerica Science Museum, 4 p.m., $65 adv., $75 door. 500 Mid-America Blvd., Hot Springs.

501-767-3461. www.midamericamuseum.org.

44th Annual Christmas Frolic and Open House.

The Arkansas Country Dancers in the Hinderliter Grog Shop, hot cider and ginger cake in the 1850s Log House Farmstead, demonstrations by the Early Arkansaw Reenactors Association,

children’s pioneer games and more. Historic Arkansas Museum, 1 p.m., free. 200 E. Third St. 501-324-9351. www.historicarkansas.org.

8th Annual Christmas in the Quarter. A holiday tour of historic Quapaw Quarter homes, with appetizers, beverages, live music and more.

Quapaw Quarter United Methodist Church, 2 p.m., $20. 1601 S. Louisiana.

Arkansas Craft Guild’s 33rd Annual Christmas Showcase. Statehouse Convention Center, 10 a.m. p.m. 7 Statehouse Plaza.

Arvest River Market on Ice. See Nov. 30.

Holiday Open House. Enjoy a Christmas celebration with children’s activities, caroling and more. Old State House Museum, 1:30 p.m., free. 500 Clinton Ave. 501-324-9685. www.oldstatehouse.com.

Holiday Open House at Mosaic Templars Cultural Center. Includes music and theatre performances, arts and crafts, refreshments and more holiday activities. Bring toys to donate for Say’s Stop the Violence toy drive. Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, 1 p.m., free. 501 W. 9th St. 501-376-4602. www.mosaictemplarscenter.com.

North Little Rock Christmas Parade. Parade starts at Pershing and Orange and concludes at Main and East Washington. Downtown Argenta, 2 p.m. Main Street, NLR. 501-758-1424.

Pet Portraits with Santa. This is a fundraiser for the Humane Society of Pulaski County, with photography by Waynette Traub. The Promenade at Chenal, 1 p.m., $15-$45. 17711 Chenal Parkway. 501-529-6330. chenalshopping.com.

LECTURES

Conversation with Anne Lemanski. The former resident of Penland School of Crafts and the CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

www.arktimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2011 31

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HUGO’S PARIS: Martin Scorsese’s latest flick, “Hugo,” stars Sir Ben Kingsley as a curmudgeonly toymaker and Asa Butterfield as an orphan who lives underneath a Paris train station and must get by on his wiles and his wits.

Market Street Cinema showtimes at or after 9 p.m. are for Friday and Saturday only. Rave shows are Friday only. Chenal 9, Lakewood 8, Movies 10 and Riverdale times were not available by press deadline. Find up-to-date listings at arktimes.com.

NEW MOVIES A Warrior’s Heart (PG) – A high-school lacrosse player must cope with self-destructive urges after his father’s death. Market Street: 2:00, 4:15, 7:15, 9:15.

RETURNING THIS WEEK A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas (R) – Remember how the first Indiana Jones movie was awesome, and the second one was kinda meh, but then the third was awesome again?

(3D Stoner Christmas comedy). Rave: 10:55 p.m.

Arthur Christmas (PG) – This 3D computer-animated film answers the question of how Santa manages to deliver all those gifts in one night.

Breckenridge: 1:05, 7:05 (2D), 4:10, 9:30 (3D).

Rave: 12:01 a.m., 12:35, 3:10, 5:50 (2D), 11:35 a.m., 2:10, 4:45, 7:05, 9:25 (3D).

Happy Feet Two (PG) – In which computer-animated penguins with famous voices sing and dance and carry on in glorious, wholly necessary 3D. Breckenridge: 4:20, 9:40 (2D), 1:20, 7:15 (3D). Rave: 10:55 a.m., 1:40, 4:20, 7:10, 9:55 (2D), 11:55 a.m., 2:40, 5:20, 8:10 (3D).

Hugo (PG) – Martin Scorsese’s latest is a family-friendly 3D epic based on the best-selling “The Invention of Hugo Cabret.” Rave: 10:20 a.m., 11:20 a.m., 1:20, 2:20, 4:25, 5:25, 7:35, 8:35, 10:35, 11:35 Ides of March (R) – Clooney directs Clooney in this political thriller starring Ryan Gosling, who seems poised to become the next Clooney.

Riverdale: 12:55, 6:30, midnight.

Immortals 3D (R) – The producers of “300” continue to blur the line between movies and over-long video game cut-scenes. This one

has hordes of glistening dudes fighting with swords and whatnot. Breckenridge: 4:25, 10:00 (2D), 1:25, 7:40 (3D). Rave: 8:25, 11:05 (2D), 11:00 a.m., 1:55, 4:35, 7:25, 10:05 (3D).

J. Edgar (R) – Word is this flick is enjoyable enough, but doesn’t get into to the nitty gritty of J. Edgar Hoover’s deepest, darkest secret, namely, his crippling addiction to crossword puzzles. With Leonardo DiCaprio.

Breckenridge: 1:35, 4:40, 7:45. Rave: 10:10 a.m., 1:35, 4:50, 8:05, 11:20.

Jack & Jill (R) – Dear sweet Lord, is there any way for us to all just pay Adam Sandler to not make movies? Breckenridge: 1:14, 4:15, 7:20, 9:50. Rave: 10:15 a.m., 12:50, 3:35, 6:45, 9:20.

Like Crazy (PG-13) – An international love story about the perils of long-distance relationships.

Rave: 12:10, 2:35, 5:10, 7:40, 10:10.

Love Crime (NR) – Office politics take a turn for the deadly in the final film from director Alain Corneau. Market Street: 1:45, 7:00.

Margin Call (R) – This thriller, starring Kevin Spacey, Demi Moore and Jeremy Irons, depicts a day in the life of an investment firm back in the good old days, fall 2008. Market Street: 2:15, 4:25, 6:45, 9:00.

Martha Marcy May Marlene (R) – This taut psychological thriller follows a former cult member whose reality is crumbling all around her. Market Street: 2:00, 4:20, 7:00, 9:15.

Moneyball (PG-13) – Baseball can seem pretty boring, but this movie makes it look funny, but also people learn things about life and themselves. Breckenridge: 1:25, 7:10 (doublefeature with The Ides of March). Rave: 10:00 a.m., 3:30, 9:05.

The Muppets (PG) – This Muppets reboot starring Jason Segel and Amy Adams has gotten nothing but glowing reviews. Breckenridge: 1:40, 4:45, 7:34, 10:05. Rave: 12:01 a.m., 11:05 a.m., 12:05, 1:45, 2:45, 4:30, 5:30, 7:15, 8:15, 10:00, 11:00.

Puss in Boots (PG) – A Shrek spin-off following

the adventures of Puss in Boots, voiced by Antonio Banderas. Breckenridge: 1:45, 7:25 (2D), 4:35, 9:35 (3D). Rave: 1:00, 5:55, 10:50 (2D), 10:25 a.m., 3:20, 8:20 (3D).

Take Shelter (R) – Critically acclaimed and directed by Little Rock native Jeff Nichols, in which a husband must protect his family from his apocalyptic nightmares. Market Street: 1:45, 4:00, 6:45, 9:00.

Tower Heist (PG-13) – A Bernie Madoff type steals millions from his clients as well as the retirement funds of the staffers at his luxury condo. Rave: 10:05 a.m., 12:40, 3:15, 6:35, 9:15.

Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 (PG-13) – Vampires and werewolves and young actresses and supernatural battles and sexual tension and dramatic things and other stuff all are factors in this movie. Breckenridge: 1:00 (open-captioned), 1:30, 1:50, 4:00, 4:30, 4:50, 7:00, 7:30, 7:50, 9:40, 10:10. Rave: 12:01 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:15, 1:30, 2:15, 3:00, 4:15, 5:00, 5:45, 7:00, 7:45, 8:30, 9:50, 10:30, 11:15.

The Way (PG-13) – Martin Sheen plays a father who learns some unexpected lessons after traveling to France to pick up the remains of his adult son, who was killed while hiking in the Pyrenees. Written and directed by Emilio Estevez. Market Street: 4:00, 9:15.

Chenal 9 IMAX Theatre: 17825 Chenal Parkway, 821-2616, www.dtmovies.com.

Cinemark Movies 10: 4188 E. McCain Blvd., 945-7400, www.cinemark.com.

Cinematown Riverdale 10: Riverdale Shopping Center, 296-9955, www.riverdale10.com.

Lakewood 8: 2939 Lakewood Village Drive, 7585354, www.fandango.com.

Market Street Cinema: 1521 Merrill Drive, 312-8900, www.marketstreetcinema.net.

Rave Colonel Glenn 18: 18 Colonel Glenn Plaza, 687-0499, www.ravemotionpictures.com.

Regal Breckenridge Village 12: 1-430 and Rodney Parham, 224-0990, www.fandango.com.

MOVIE REVIEW Animal Art Event!

Featuring paintings by a variety of animals from the Little Rock Zoo.

Thursday, December 8, 2011 • 6 to 9pm The unique artwork will be available for purchase through a silent auction. Christmas ornaments also painted by zoo animals will be available for purchase as well.

‘THE MUPPETS’: Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog star.

The return of the Muppets

All proceeds will benefit the Little Rock Chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers efforts toward conservation and continuing education.

5815 KAvAnAugh BLvd • LittLe RoCK, AR 72207 • (501) 664.0030 www.BosweLLmouRot.Com

Kermit and co. still got it.

BY SAM EIFLING

J

okes about how out-of-date the Muppets are date to at least 1996, when Lisa Simpson asked Homer, “Dad, what’s a Muppet?” (His response: “Well, it’s not quite a mop and it’s not quite a puppet …”.) For anyone familiar with Jim Henson’s cast of foam-and-fur puppets (date of origin: 1954) it’s a bizarre conceit even to ask: the Muppets were staples on “Sesame Street” (since 1969) and “The Muppet Show” (b. 1976, d. 1981) and “Fraggle Rock” (’83 to ’87) and then as pint-sized animations on “Jim Henson’s Muppet Babies” (’84-’91) and, in the last TV show to include the word “Muppets” in its title, the short-lived “Muppets Tonight,” which drew down in 1998. There were eight movies from 1979 to 2005 to remind the world of Muppetdom, but no theatrical releases since the 1999 flop “Muppets in Space.” Their one-time ubiquity is no more. The average 15-year-old might be inexcusably ignorant in myriad ways, but by now you can’t blame the poor thing for wondering what a Muppet is.

The sense of general Muppetlessness is a central conceit of “The Muppets,” a reboot title if ever there was one. In it, a boy named Walter grows up in Smalltown, U.S.A., feeling a bit different — kinda short, reedy and made with some kind of supple foam. You could probably diagnose him with Muppetism upon sight, but he just becomes a hardcore Muppet fanboy without ever understanding why. When his brother Gary (Jason Segel, who also splits a writing credit) invites Walter to join him and his girlfriend of 10 years Mary (Amy Adams) on a trip to the Muppets’ old studio, Walter is elated. Then in L.A. he finds the studio in a state of decrepitude (not unlike the franchise) and learns that an oil baron named Tex Richman (Chris

Cooper) is buying the studio in order to raze it and drill. A loophole in the contract means the Muppets can halt the sale if they can scrounge up a cool 10 million bucks, so Walter seeks out Muppet ringleader Kermit the Frog, whose only solution to raising that kind of fliff is to put on a show.

But it turns out these “Muppets” Muppets are as rusty as the real-life Muppets.

They haven’t performed together for years, and as Kermit tries to get the gang back together he finds the talents of Fozzie the Bear being wasted in a Reno casino fronting a tribute act called the Moopets, while Gonzo is indulging his inner plumbing executive and Animal is in some kind of new age retreat to wean him away from drumming. The Muppets were always comfortably meta enterprise, happy to kick down the fourth wall if it meant even a chance at a chuckle, but “The Muppets” is self-aware even by their standards. This movie about the Muppets’ comeback show to help save them from obscurity and ruin is that very comeback show! And it’s pretty funny! Every size and shape of joke gets tossed in; if you balk at Fozzie’s cornball vaudeville, no matter, as a Gonzo pratfall or Chris Cooper rap is moments away. The camp is high, and it’s everywhere.

Director James Bobin, in his first feature film, taps the absurdist musical spirit of his “Flight of the Conchords” to slip song into even the smallest crannies of the plot, and it’s in these numbers that the nostalgia rides highest. When Smalltown’s good citizens jump into choreographed lines as mail carriers and milkmen and florists, the Muppets’ vision of America is realized: quaint yet garish, earnest yet sly, unabashedly silly. If this was all you knew of the Muppets, you’d have to wonder where they’ve been all these years.

Est. 1981

“A HiddEn GEm” LUnCH-dinnER 2200 N. Rodney Parham Rd. • Cypress Plaza • 501-217-9393 • www.theterracelittlerock.com

www.arktimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2011 33

AFTER DARK, CONT. Ox-Bow Summer School of Art in Saugatuck, Mich. will discuss her complex, three-dimensional works. Arkansas Arts Center, 6 p.m., $15$20. 501 E. 9th St. 501-372-4000. www.arkarts. com.

SPORTS

UALR Men’s Trojans vs. SMU. Jack Stephens Center, UALR, 2 p.m., $4-$35. 2801 S. University Ave.

BENEFITS

Toy Hill Weekend. See Dec. 2.

MONDAY, DEC. 5

MUSIC

Greg McGowan. The Afterthought, 8 p.m., free.

2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www.afterthoughtbar.com.

Steve Scallion Memorial Fundraiser. Benefit show to help pay for funeral expenses for Steve Scallion, musician and longtime artist for Nightflying. Featuring The Joe Pitts Band and The Seth Freeman Band. White Water Tavern, 7:30 p.m., $5. 2500 W. 7th. 501-375-8400. www.whitewatertavern.com.

EVENTS

Arvest River Market on Ice. See Nov. 30.

Hot Springs Christmas Parade. Downtown Hot Springs, 6:30 p.m. Central Avenue, Hot Springs. 501-318-2222.

The Jewish Guys Channukah Special.

Reservations required, call 501-569-8485.

Clinton Presidential Center, 7 p.m., $5. 1200 President Clinton Ave. 370-8000. www.clintonpresidentialcenter.org.

LECTURES

“Death to the BCS: The Definitive Case Against the Bowl Championship Series.” Author Jeff Passan will discuss his book, which argues for a college football playoff in lieu of the current system. Clinton School of Public Service, 6 p.m.

1200 President Clinton Ave. 501-683-5239. www. clintonschool.uasys.edu.

BOOKS

David Sedaris. One ticket per customer will be issued for each Sedaris book purchased at WordsWorth through Dec. 4, while its supplies last. There might be a short reading, but it’s not for sure. No cameras allowed. WordsWorth Books & Co., 5 p.m. 5920 R St. 501-663-9198. www.wordsworthbooks.org.

Kristin Kaufman. Book signing from the author of “Is This Seat Taken?” That Bookstore in Blytheville, 5:30 p.m. 316 W. Main St.

TUESDAY, DEC. 6

MUSIC

Continental, Booyah! Dad. White Water Tavern, 10 p.m. 2500 W. 7th. 501-375-8400. www.whitewatertavern.com.

Conway Men’s Chorus: “WinterSong.”

Reynolds Performance Hall, University of Central Arkansas, 7 p.m., free. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. 501-327-5151.

The Fling, Yukon Blonde. Juanita’s, 9 p.m. 614 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-1228. www. juanitas.com.

Gil Franklin & Friends. Holiday Inn, North Little Rock, first Tuesday, Wednesday of every month.

120 W. Pershing Blvd., NLR. Grave Robber, Behold the Kingdom, Every Knee Shall Bow. Downtown Music Hall, 7 p.m.

211 W. Capitol. 501-376-1819. downtownshows. homestead.com.

Jeff Long. Khalil’s Pub, 6 p.m. 110 S. Shackleford Road. 501-224-0224. www.khalilspub.com.

34 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

Jim Dickerson. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

Lucious Spiller Band. Copeland’s, 6-9 p.m. 2602 S. Shackleford Road. 501-312-1616. www.copelandsofneworleans.com.

Mandy McBryde. Maxine’s, 8 p.m., free. 700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. maxinespub.com.

Mr. Gnome. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 9 p.m., $7. 107 Commerce St. 501-372-7707. www.stickyfingerz.com.

Tuesday Jam Session with Carl Mouton. The Afterthought, 8 p.m., free. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www.afterthoughtbar.com.

DANCE

“Latin Night.” Revolution, 7 p.m., $5 regular, $7 under 21. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-8230090. www.revroom.com.

EVENTS

‘80s Skate Night. Skate to 80s music in your 80s outfit. River Market Pavilions, 7 p.m. 400 President Clinton Ave. 375-2552. www.rivermarket.info.

Arvest River Market on Ice. See Nov. 30.

EAA’s B-17 Salute to Veterans Tour. Take a flight aboard a B-17. Ground tours are available after flights are complete, $5, free for all veterans.

North Little Rock Airport, 10 a.m., $400-$465.

204 Aviation Way, NLR. 800-359-6217.

Tales from the South. Authors tell true stories; get schedule at www.talesfromthesouth. com. Dinner served 5-6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m.

Reserve at 501-372-7976. Starving Artist Cafe.

411 N. Main St., NLR. 501-372-7976. www.starvingartistcafe.net.

LECTURES

Patrick Woodyard. Woodyard founded Nisolo Shoes earlier this year to help small-scale shoemakers in Northern Peru sell their products to a larger market. Clinton School of Public Service, 6 p.m. 1200 President Clinton Ave. 501-6835239. www.clintonschool.uasys.edu.

SPORTS

UALR Men’s Trojans vs. Philander Smith. Jack Stephens Center, UALR, 5:15 p.m., $4-$35. 2801 S. University Ave. UALR Women’s Trojans vs. South Dakota State.

Jack Stephens Center, UALR, 7:30 p.m., $4-$35.

2801 S. University Ave.

BENEFITS

Spirited Art Arkansas Ovarian Cancer Coalition benefit. This beginners’ painting class offers step-by-step instruction, with a portion of proceeds benefiting Arkansas Ovarian Cancer Coalition. Spirited Art, 6 p.m., $35. 5612 R St. 501-296-9903. myspiritedart.com/.

BOOKS

Ed Bethune. The former congressman and author of “Jackhammered: A Congressman’s Memoir of Big Time Politics, Blue Water Sailing and Believing” will read and sign copies of his book. Old State House Museum, 5:30 p.m.

500 Clinton Ave. 501-324-9685. www.oldstatehouse.com.

THIS WEEK IN THEATER

Arkansas Arts Center Children’s Theatre: “A Year with Frog and Toad.” Arkansas Arts Center, through Dec. 18: Fri., 7 p.m.; Sat., 1 and 3 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m., $11-$14. 501 E. 9th St. 501-372-4000. www.arkarts.com.

Captured Live from the Met: Handel’s “Roedelinda.” Reynolds Performance Hall, University of Central Arkansas, Sun., Dec. 4, 2 p.m., $5-$15. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway.

“A Christmas Carol, The Musical!.” A musi-

cal retelling of Dickens’ classic, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens. Arkansas Repertory Theatre, through Dec. 21: Fri.-Sun., 2 p.m.; Wed.-Sun., 7 p.m.; Tue., Wed., 2 p.m., $30$60. 601 Main St. 501-378-0405. www.therep.org.

Festival of One Act Plays. Two to three different one acts will be performed each evening, directed by the 2011 Directing Class and involving over 50 actors and crew. University of Central Arkansas, Dec. 6-8, 7:30 p.m., $10. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. www.uca.edu.

“Fiddler on the Roof.” Tevye tries to hang onto Jewish traditions in the face of changing times and his strong-willed daughters. The classic musical tale is one of Broadway’s longest-running shows. Robinson Center Music Hall, Nov. 30-Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m., $17-$50. Markham and Broadway. www.littlerockmeetings.com/convcenters/robinson.

“Judgment at Nuremberg.” Abby Mann’s drama is based on the trial of Four German judges accused of supporting the Nazis and how the case was complicated by the developing relationship between West Germany and the United States. The Weekend Theater, through Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m.; through Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m.; through Dec. 17, 7:30 p.m., $12-$16.

1001 W. 7th St. 501-374-3761. www.weekendtheater.org.

“Not Now, Darling.” British farce concerns the hilarious complications between a fur shop owner, mobsters and mistresses. Murry’s Dinner Playhouse, through Dec. 3, 6 p.m.; Wed., Nov. 30, 11 a.m.; through Dec. 10, 6 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 11, 11 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; through Dec. 17, 6 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 18, 11 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; through Dec. 24, 6 p.m.; through Dec. 31, 6 p.m., $15-$33. 6323 Col. Glenn Road. 501-5623131. murrysdinnerplayhouse.com.

“Oliver!.” This musical by Lionel Bart is based on the classic Charles Dickens novel. Pocket Community Theater, Dec. 1-3, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 4, 2:30 p.m.; Dec. 8-10, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 11, 2:30 p.m., $5-$15. 170 Ravine St., Hot Springs.

“Scrooge The Musical.” Based on Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” Royal Theatre, Dec. 1-3, 7 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 4, 2 p.m.; Thu., Dec. 8, 7 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 11, 2 p.m., $5-$12. 111 S. Market St., Benton.

GALLERIES, MUSEUMS

NEW EXHIBITS, EVENTS

ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER: 43rd “Collectors Show and Sale,” drawings ranging from 18th century to contemporary and contemporary craft from 26 New York galleries, including work

by Robert Arneson, Thomas Hart Benton, Bonnard, Chuck Close, Corot, Viola Frey, Childe Hassam, George Inness, Franz Kline and more, Dec. 2-31, Sam Strauss Sr. and Stella Boyle Smith galleries. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Sat. 372-4000.

THEA ARTISTS STUDIO GALLERY, 401 Main St., NLR: Studio open house, work by Ted Parkhurst, opens with reception 4-7 p.m. Dec. 1, continues 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Dec. 2, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 3. 515-3224.

STATEHOUSE CONVENTION CENTER: Arkansas Crafts Guild’s 33rd annual “Christmas Showcase,” 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Fri., 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun., free 8-10 a.m. Sat., $5 at other times.

UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT LITTLE ROCK, Fine Arts Center: “Society of Illustrators Traveling Exhibition,” through Dec. 9, Gallery I; senior exhibitions by Rachel Elizabeth Smith, Joe N. White III, Lindsey Yvonne Knight, Hannah Elizabeth May, Gallery III. 569-8997.

BENTONVILLE CRYSTAL BRIDGES MUSEUM OF AMERICAN

ART, 600 Museum Way: “Skyspace Discussions,” 20 minutes before sunset Dec. 2, James Turrell Skyspace; lecture by Suzanne Loebl, author of “America’s Medicis: The Rockefellers and their Astonishing Cultural Legacy,” 5 p.m. Dec. 4; American masterworks spanning four centuries. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon., Thu., Sat.-Sun.; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Wed.-Fri. Tickets free but timed; reserve at 479-418-5700.

FAYETTEVILLE S O M A : A N E X P L O R AT I O N I N T O ARCHITECTURE AND DECAY: Collaborative project by 10 UA sculptors to transforms studio behind the Art Experience, 641 W. MLK Blvd., 5-8 p.m. Dec. 1.

STUDIO 3, 3 E. Mountain St.: Fund-raiser for Fayetteville Art Alliance, 5-8 p.m. Dec. 1, First Thursday. 471-521-1502.

FAYETTEVILLE UNDERGROUND, One E. Center St.: “Art for the Holidays,” works

by Fayetteville Underground studio and E Street artists and others, 5-8 p.m. Dec. 1, First Thursday, continuing through Dec.. Noon-7 p.m. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., extended hours Dec. 2 (until 10 p.m.) and Sunday, Dec. 4 (11 a.m.-5 p.m.).

UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS: “untitled/MFA Exhibition,” graduate student work in all media, Dec. 1-14, reception 4:30 p.m. Dec. 8, Fine Arts Center Gallery. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 2-5 p.m. Sun. 479-575-7987.

HOT SPRINGS JUSTUS FINE ART, 827 A Central Ave.: New work by Steve Griffith, Dolores Justus and Rebecca Thompson, reception 5-8 p.m. Dec. 2, with demonstration by Griffith. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Wed.-Sat. 501-321-2335.

JONESBORO ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY, Bradbury Gallery: “Fall 2011 Senior Exhibition,” works by graduating seniors, Dec. 1-17.

PINE BLUFF ARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER FOR SOUTHEAST ARKANSAS, 701 Main St.: “2011 Irene Rosenzweig Biennial Exhibition,” Dec. 2-Feb. 4. 870-536-3375.

UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT PINE BLUFF, Hathaway-Howard Fine Arts Center: “Series 1,” abstract paintings on wood inspired by the civil rights struggle by Sarah May Leflar, opens with reception 6 p.m. Dec. 1.

RUSSELLVILLE RIVER VALLEY ARTS CENTER, 1001 E. B St.: “Young Arkansas Artists,” 90 works selected from the Arkansas Arts Center exhibition; paintings by Laura Burton, through Dec.

ONGOING EXHIBITIONS

ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER, MacArthur Park: “Will Barnet at the Arkansas Arts Center: A Centennial Exhibition,” through Jan. 15; “Cast, Cut, Forged and Crushed: Selections in Metal from the John and Robyn Horn Collection,” through Jan. 15. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tue.-Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. 372-4000.

BOSWELL-MOUROT, 5815 Kavanaugh: Brad Cushman, mixed media on paper; Kelley Edwards, raku; Donala Jordan, mixed media on paper and canvas. 664-0030.

BUTLER CENTER GALLERIES, Arkansas Studies Institute: “Thomas Harding, Pinhole Photography,” through Dec.; “Reflections in Pastel,” Arkansas Pastel Society’s 4th national exhibition, through Jan. 14; “Leon Niehues: 21st Century Basketmaker,” through Jan. 28. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Sat. 320-5790.

Dining

Information in our restaurant capsules

reflects the opinions of the newspaper staff and its reviewers. The newspaper accepts no advertising or other considerations in

exchange for reviews, which are conducted anonymously. We invite the opinions of

readers who think we are in error.

B Breakfast L Lunch D Dinner $ Inexpensive (under $8/person) $$ Moderate ($8-$20/person) $$$ Expensive (over $20/person) CC Accepts credit cards

BELLY UP Check out the Times’ food blog, Eat Arkansas arktimes.com

BRIAN CHILSON

WHAT’S COOKIN’

DELICIOUS TACOS: At Grills on Wheels.

Loco for tacos At Grills on Wheels food truck.

O

ne of the newer additions to Little Rock’s array of food trucks is Grills on Wheels, serving up tacos, burritos, tortas and quesadillas. Lately, the trailer has been parked on the east side of the Arkansas Studies Institute. That’s been good news for those of us who live and/or work downtown, as it means we can gorge on cheap, delicious tacos without having to drive out to the southwest side of town.

Surely by now most Arkansas Times readers are aware that a taco can — and, one could argue, should — be much, much more than a sad ladleful of watery meat-slop deposited into a hard, yellow corn shell and topped with iceberg lettuce, flavorless tomato cubes and shredded cheddarjack cheese. If that’s what you’re looking for, though, steer clear of Grills on Wheels. Because these folks serve up soft tacos filled with tender, juicy, delicious (did we say that already? Because it bears repeating: these things are delicious) meat, topped with salsa, diced onions, cilantro and slices of grilled peppers.

Grills on Wheels

President Clinton Avenue (next to Arkansas Studies Institute) 291-3350 QUICK BITE Ask for some grilled jalapeno slices, they’re tasty. But know that you are venturing into some serious heat territory.

HOURS 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.to 7 p.m.

Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. Sat. OTHER INFO Bring cash; Grills on Wheels doesn’t take plastic.

Oh, and they’re $1.50 each, or $2 served on a slightly larger flour tortilla. They’re small, but deceptively filling, so unless you’re a 6’ 6”, 266lb. lumberjack who’s just won a boulder-throwing contest, start off with no more than four.

On our first visit, we opted for two asada (grilled steak), one barbacoa (slow-cooked beef) and one buche (seasoned pork tripe). The asada was

good, but comparable to several other Mexican joints around town. That’s not to knock it — it was still tasty and unlike some places, it didn’t suffer from being overly salty. The real treats were the barbacoa and the buche. If the word “barbacoa” has a familiar ring to it, think barbecued beef. The stuff was moist and fall-apart tender, like good brisket drenched in a savory sauce.

Excellent. Barbacoa is usually made with beef cheeks, which are among the tenderest cuts of the cow.

If you’re squeamish about eating things like intestines or tongues (aka lengua, also available at Grills on Wheels), well, here’s your chance to get over a hang-up that has heretofore kept you from a world of food enjoyment. The pork tripe was tender and tasty, spicy and stained bright red from seasonings. For the uninitiated, the texture can take a bit of getting used to. It’s a bit on the chewy side, but it’s closer to calamari than Swedish fish.

We haven’t gotten around to trying the lengua yet, but if the other offerings at Grills are any indication, it’s probably as good as it is at some of the taquerias around the state.

On the next visit, we tried a burrito. It was a tight little flour-wrapped football filled with meat, beans, rice, tomatoes and lettuce, served with a side of salsa for pouring over the top.

For all menu items, you can choose a combination of up to two meats, so we opted for asada and barbacoa. It’s essentially the same set of flavors as the tacos, with the addition of beans and rice. It was, again, delicious.

On our third trip (hey, we’re trying to be thorough here, OK?), we tried the torta, a Mexican sandwich with mayo, meat, onion, tomato, cilantro, lettuce and pickled jalapenos served on a bun that’s close to brioche. It was really, really good and filling, but it also was a greasy gut-bomb that resulted in some gnarly, persistent heartburn. If you had a wicked hangover and needed something to knock it out and put you down for a nap, this is it. We ordered it with barbacoa and pastor, which is pork that’s slow-cooked with pineapple and spices for a sweet and savory flavor explosion.

Grills on Wheels seems content to stay on President Clinton Ave. for the near term. But wherever it goes, we will follow.

CIAO BACI’S new chef Yolanda Diaz, who comes to the Hillcrest bistro after working as a pastry chef at the Capital Hotel, has created a new dinner menu. It includes a Chorizo Matador, flavored with cherries and dried figs; seared duck with fennel and potato terrine and a beef noisette, marinated in hazelnut oil and balsamic vinaigrette, doused with a brie and caper cream. Ciao Baci, at 605 N. Beechwood, opens at 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The phone number is 603-0238.

FANS OF HOME-COOKING, rejoice.

Your Mama’s Good Food has reopened in its new, significantly larger location at 215 Center St. Breakfast currently begins at 7 a.m., with lunch running from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The restaurant is open Monday through Friday. The phone number is 372-1811.

DINING CAPSULES

AMERICAN

ADAMS CATFISH CATERING Catering company with carry-out restaurant in Little Rock and carry-out trailers in Russellville and Perryville. 215 N. Cross St. All CC. $-$$. 501-374-4265. LD Tue.-Sat. ALLEY OOPS The restaurant at Creekwood Plaza (near the KanisBowman intersection) is a neighborhood feedbag for major medical institutions with the likes of plate lunches, burgers and homemade desserts. Remarkable Chess Pie. 11900 Kanis Road. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-221-9400. LD Mon.-Sat. B-SIDE The little breakfast place in the former party room of Lilly’s DimSum Then Some turns tradition on its ear, offering French toast wrapped in bacon on a stick, a must-have dish called “biscuit mountain” and beignets with lemon curd. Top notch cheese grits, too. 11121 Rodney Parham Road. Full bar, All CC. $$.

501-716-2700. BL Wed.-Sun. BIG WHISKEY’S AMERICAN BAR AND GRILL A modern grill pub in the River Market with all the bells and whistles: 30 flat screen TVs, boneless wings, whiskey on tap. Plus, the usual burgers, steaks, soups and salads. 225 E. Markham. Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-324-2449. LD daily.

BOBBY’S COUNTRY COOKIN’ One of the better plate lunch spots in the area, with some of the best fried chicken and pot roast around, a changing daily casserole and wonderful homemade pies. 301 N. Shackleford Road, Suite E1.

No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-224-9500.

L Mon.-Fri. BOGIE’S BAR AND GRILL The former Bennigan’s retains a similar theme: a CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

www.arktimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2011 35

CROSSWORD

DINING CAPSULES, CONT.

EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ Across 1 Hanging open 6 Cousin of an ax 10 Near Eastern V.I.P.’s 14 Doesn’t have a second to lose?

15 Boutique fixture 17 Exhibited perfect braking 19 Native Nebraskan 20 Followers of nus 21 “For me? You shouldn’t have …”

22 Nicest room on a ship, probably 27 Toward the back 28 E.T.A.’s for redeyes 29 Here, to Henri 32 Foofaraw 35 Aloe additive?

37 “Heavens to Betsy!”

38 Cashier’s error, as suggested by 17-, 22-, 47- and 58-Across?

41 Henry who made a Fortune?

42 Baby taking a bow?

43 Befuddled 44 Baton Rouge sch.

45 Peace grp. since 1948 46 “___ loves me …”

47 Certain loaf 54 Frigidaire competitor 56 Bumbler 57 Réunion, e.g.

58 Being frugal 63 Strongly praised 64 Goose bumpsproducing, maybe 65 Funnywoman Martha

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE U S U R P S P H I D U H

R E P E A T

I A C S I N A C A P L S E A M C B E S I E T E I T L I N A L A M R OW S N R E A A R E M

B L E A I L R MS B I S E S A B A D E H R A S T T H E E A D E I D F S Y

A M E B L E I R E L I M N U G R E N C E A E W

T A L E N T

H E N A U L E D B O WS

G A P S E P A S P V I E N T S

R I A L

E D N S U L F

B I S S A U

A L T E R S

G L A D E S

66 Actress Naldi of the silents 67 Kickoff Down 1 N.A.A.C.P. part: Abbr.

2 Must, slangily 3 Something to be thrown for 4 Top 40 fare 5 Medium capacity?

6 Contribute to the mix 7 Impurity 8 Eastern state?

9 That, in Tijuana 10 “___ there yet?”

11 Handy IDs in the hood?

12 Unwanted spots 13 Kind of terrier 16 Slows down traffic, say?

18 Sign by stairs, often 23 1,000-foot-deep lake that straddles a state line 24 Many miles away 25 Game with a maximum score of 180 26 Apple offering 30 Zoo keeper?

31 Noodle product?

32 Over the ___ 33 Burden 34 Number of people in a room 35 Numbered thing in the Bible 36 Friendly introduction?

1

2

3

4

6

7

17

18

19

20

22

23

33

25

35

36

42

30

31

51

52

53

43

49

55

50

56 59

60

63 65

29

46

48

58

13

40

45 47

12

37

39

41

11

26

28

34

44

10

21

24

38

54

9 16

27 32

8

15

57 61

62

64 66

67

Puzzle by C.W. Stewart

37 Faster’s opposite 39 Bring in 40 “Yeah, right” 45 Gerald Ford’s birthplace 46 Muslim mystic 48 Theodore Roosevelt, to Eleanor 49 Man of many words?

50 Press conference component, briefly 51 Arena sections 52 Carl’s wife in “Up” 53 Bowling alley button 54 On ___ with (equal to) 55 Sheet mineral

59 “There is no ___ team” 60 Name placeholder in govt. records 61 Many a Fortune profilee, for short 62 “Jeopardy!” whiz Jennings

For answers, call 1-900-285-5656, $1.49 a minute; or, with a credit card, 1-800-814-5554.

Annual subscriptions are available for the best of Sunday crosswords from the last 50 years: 1-888-7-ACROSS. AT&T users: Text NYTX to 386 to download puzzles, or visit nytimes.com/mobilexword for more information.

Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 2,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year).

Share tips: nytimes.com/wordplay.

Crosswords for young solvers: nytimes.com/learning/xwords.

THIS MODERN WORLD

36 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

5

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menu filled with burgers, salads and giant desserts, plus a few steak, fish and chicken main courses. There are big screen TVs for sports fans and lots to drink, more reason to return than the food. 120 W. Pershing Blvd.

NLR. Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-812-0019. D daily.

BUFFALO GRILL A great crispy-off-the-griddle cheeseburger and handcut fries star at this family-friendly stop. 1611 Rebsamen Park Road. Full bar, CC. $$. 501-296-9535. LD daily. 400 N. Bowman Road. Full bar, Beer, All CC. $$. 501-224-0012. LD daily.

CATFISH CITY AND BBQ GRILL Basic fried fish and sides, including green tomato pickles, and now with tasty ribs and sandwiches in beef, pork and sausage. 1817 S. University Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-663-7224.

LD Tue.-Sat. CHEERS Good burgers and sandwiches, vegetarian offerings and salads at lunch and fish specials, and good steaks in the evening. 2010 N. Van Buren. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-663-5937. LD Mon.-Sat. 1901 Club Manor Drive. Maumelle. Full bar, All CC. 501-851-6200. LD daily, BR Sun. CORNERSTONE PUB & GRILL A sandwich, pizza and beer joint in the heart of North Little Rock’s Argenta district. 314 Main St. NLR. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-374-1782. LD Mon.-Sat. DAVE AND RAY’S DOWNTOWN DINER Breakfast buffet daily featuring biscuits and gravy, home fries, sausage and made-to-order omelets. Lunch buffet with four choices of meats and eight veggies. 824 W. Capitol Ave. No alcohol. $. 501-372-8816. BL Mon.-Fri. DOGTOWN COFFEE AND COOKERY Although the down-home name might suggest to some a down-home, meat-and-three kind of place, this is actually an up-to-date sandwich, salad and fancy coffee kind of place, well worth a visit. 6725 John F. Kennedy Blvd. NLR. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-833-3850. BL Mon.-Sun., BLD Fri.-Sat.,.

E’S BISTRO Despite the name, think tearoom rather than bistro — there’s no wine, for one thing, and there is tea. But there’s nothing tearoomy about the portions here. Try the heaping grilled salmon BLT on a buttery croissant. 3812 JFK Boulevard. NLR. No alcohol, All CC. $$. 501-771-6900.

FLIGHT DECK A not-your-typical daily lunch special highlights this spot, which also features inventive sandwiches, salads and a popular burger.

Central Flying Service at Adams Field. Beer, Wine, All CC. $-$$. 501-3753245. BL Mon.-Sat. GREEN CUISINE Daily specials and a small, solid menu of vegetarian fare. Try the crunchy quinoa salad. 985 West Sixth St. No alcohol, CC. $-$$. Serving.

KITCHEN EXPRESS Delicious “meat and three” restaurant offering big servings of homemade soul food. Maybe Little Rock’s best fried chicken.

4600 Asher Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-666-3500. BLD Mon.-Sat., LD Sun. LETTI’S CAKES Soups, sandwiches and salads available at this cake, pie and cupcake bakery. 3700 JFK Blvd. NLR. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$.

501-708-7203. LD (closes at 6 p.m.) Mon.-Fri. L Sat. LYNN’S CHICAGO FOODS Outpost for Chicago specialties like Vienna hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches. Plus, other familiar fare — burgers and fried catfish, chicken nuggets and wings. 6501 Geyer Springs. No alcohol, All CC. $. 501-568-2646. LD Mon.-Sat. MADDIE’S If you like your catfish breaded Cajun-style, your grits rich with garlic and cream and your oysters fried up in perfect puffs, this Cajun eatery on Rebsamen Park Road is the place for you. 1615 Rebsamen Park Road. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-660-4040. LD Tue.-Sat. PHIL’S HAM AND TURKEY PLACE Fine hams, turkeys and other specialty meats served whole, by the pound or in sandwich form. 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-225-2136. LD Mon.-Fri. L Sat. RESTAURANT 1620 Steaks, chops, a broad choice of fresh seafood and meal-sized salads are just a few of the choices on a broad menu at this popular and upscale West Little Rock bistro. It’s a romantic, candlelit room, elegant without being fussy or overly formal. 1620 Market St. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-221-1620. L Mon.-Fri., D Mon.-Sat., BR Sun. SAY MCINTOSH RESTAURANT Longtime political activist and restaurateur Robert “Say” McIntosh serves up big plates of soul food, plus burgers, barbecue and his famous sweet potato pie. 2801 W. 7th Street.

No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-664-6656. LD Mon.-Sat. L Sun. SLICK’S SANDWICH SHOP & DELI Meat-and-two plate lunches in state office building. 101 E. Capitol Ave. 501-375-3420. L Mon.-Fri. SPECTATORS GRILL AND PUB Burgers, soups, salads and other beer food, plus live music on weekends. 1012 W. 34th St. NLR. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-791-0990. LD Mon.-Sat. SPORTS PAGE Perhaps the largest, juiciest, most flavorful burger in town.

Grilled turkey and hot cheese on sourdough gets praise, too. Now with lunch specials. 414 Louisiana St. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-372-9316. L Mon.-Fri. STARVING ARTIST CAFE All kinds of crepes, served as entrees or as dessert, in this cozy multidimensional eatery with art-packed walls and live demonstrations by artists during meals. The Black Forest ham sandwich is a perennial favorite with the lunch crowd. Dinner menu changes daily, good wine list. “Tales from the South” dinner and readings at on Tuesdays; live music precedes the show. 411 N. Main St. NLR. Full bar, All CC. $$.

501-372-7976. L Tue.-Sat., D Tue., Fri.-Sat.

DINING CAPSULES, CONT.

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SUFFICIENT GROUNDS Great coffee, good bagels and pastries, and a limited lunch menu.

122 W. Capitol. No alcohol, CC. $. 501-3721009. BL Mon.-Fri. THE TAVERN SPORTS GRILL Burgers, barbecue and more. 17815 Chenal Parkway.

Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-830-2100. LD daily.

VICTORIAN GARDEN We’ve found the fare quite tasty and somewhat daring and different with its healthy, balanced entrees and crepes.

4801 North Hills Blvd. NLR. $-$$. 501-7584299. L Tue.-Sat.

ASIAN

CHI’S DIMSUM & BISTRO A huge menu spans the Chinese provinces and offers a few twists on the usual local offerings, plus there’s authentic Hong Kong dim sum available. 6 Shackleford Drive. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$.

501-221-7737. LD daily. 17200 Chenal Parkway.

No alcohol, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-821-8000.

FAR EAST ASIAN CUISINE Old favorites such as orange beef or chicken and Hunan green beans are still prepared with care at what used to be Hunan out west. 11600 Pleasant Ridge Drive. Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-219-9399. LD daily.

FU LIN Quality in the made-to-order entrees is high, as is the quantity. 200 N. Bowman Road.

Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-225-8989. LD daily.

HUNAN BALCONY The owner of New Fun Ree has combined forces with the Dragon China folks to create a formidable offering with buffet or menu items. 418 W. 7th. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-666-8889. LD. IGIBON JAPANESE FOOD HOUSE It’s a complex place, where the food is almost always good and the ambiance and service never fail to please. The Bento box with tempura shrimp and California rolls and other delights stand out. 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$. 501-217-8888.

LD Mon.-Sat. KOBE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI Though answering the need for more hibachis in Little Rock, Kobe stands taller in its sushi offerings than at the grill. 11401 Financial Centre Parkway. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$.

501-225-5999. L Mon.-Sat. D daily.

VAN LANG CUISINE Terrific Vietnamese cuisine, particularly the way the pork dishes and the assortment of rolls are presented.

Great prices, too. Massive menu, but it’s user-friendly for locals with full English descriptions and numbers for easy ordering. 3600 S. University Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$.

501-570-7700. LD daily.

BARBECUE

CAPITOL SMOKEHOUSE AND GRILL Beef, pork, sausage and chicken, all smoked to melting tenderness and doused with a choice of sauces. The crusty but tender backribs star.

Side dishes are top quality. 915 W. Capitol Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-372-4227.

BL Mon.-Fri. CROSS EYED PIG BBQ COMPANY Traditional barbecue favorites smoked well such as pork ribs, beef brisket and smoked chicken. Miss Mary’s famous potato salad is full of bacon and other goodness. Smoked items such as ham and turkeys available seasonally. 1701 Rebsamen Park Road. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-265-0000. L Mon.-Sat., D Tue.-Fri. 1701 Rebsamen Park Road. Beer, Wine, All CC. $-$$. 501-227-7427. LD daily.

FATBOY’S KILLER BAR-B-Q This Landmark neighborhood strip center restaurant in the far southern reaches of Pulaski County features tender ribs and pork by a contest pitmaster.

Skip the regular sauce and risk the hot variety, CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

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SEPT. 24, 2011 - FEb. 12, 2012 PRESENTED bY

1200 President Clinton Avenue • Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 • 501-374-4242 • clintonpresidentialcenter.org www.arktimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2011 37

DINING CAPSULES, CONT.

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Little Rock • 501-217-0700

11406 W. Markham St.

Mex-To-Go • 501-217-0647

4511 Camp Robinson Rd.

North Little Rock • 501-771-1604

1524 W. Main St.

Jacksonville • 501-982-0533

1135 Skyline Dr.

Conway • 501-205-1985

Tuesday-Friday 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-2pm 301 N. Shackleford Rd, Ste. D1 Little Rock 501.225.7800 www.rayeandcompanysalon.com

Kids eat free on Thursday at dine-in locations We Cater Too!

mexicochiquito.net

it’s far better. 14611 Arch Street. No alcohol, All CC. $$. 501-888-4998. LD Mon.-Fri. HB’S BAR B.Q. Great slabs of meat with fiery barbecue sauce, but ribs are served on Tuesday only. Other days, try the tasty pork sandwich on an onion roll. 6010 Lancaster. No alcohol, No CC. $-$$. 501-565-1930. L Mon.-Fri. MICK’S BBQ, CATFISH AND GRILL Good burgers, picnic-worthy deviled eggs and heaping barbecue sandwiches topped with sweet sauce. 3609 MacArthur Dr. NLR. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-791-2773. LD Mon.-Sun. SIMS BAR-B-QUE Great spare ribs, sandwiches, beef, half and whole chicken and an addictive vinegar-mustard-brown sugar sauce unique for this part of the country. 2415 Broadway. Beer, CC. $-$$. 501-372-6868. LD Mon.-Sat. 1307 John Barrow Road. Beer, All CC. $-$$. 501-2242057. LD Mon.-Sat. 7601 Geyer Springs Road.

Beer, All CC. $$. 501-562-8844. LD Mon.-Sat.

EUROPEAN / ETHNIC

KHALIL’S PUB Widely varied menu with European, Mexican and American influences.

Go for the Bierocks, rolls filled with onions and beef. 110 S. Shackleford Road. Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-224-0224. LD daily. BR Sun. THE PANTRY Owner and self-proclaimed “food evangelist” Tomas Bohm does things the right way — buying local, making almost everything from scratch and focusing on simple preparations of classic dishes. The menu stays relatively true to his Czechoslovakian roots, but there’s plenty of choices to suit all tastes. There’s also a nice happy-hour vibe. 11401 Rodney Parham Road. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-353-1875. LD Mon.-Fri., D Sat. STAR OF INDIA The best Indian restaurant in the region, with a unique buffet at lunch and some fabulous dishes at night (spicy curried dishes, tandoori chicken, lamb and veal, vegetarian). 301 N. Shackleford. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$. 501-227-9900. LD daily.

TASTE OF ASIA Delicious Indian food in a pleasant atmosphere. Perhaps the best samosas in town. Buffet at lunch. 2629 Lakewood Village Dr. NLR. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-812-4665. LD daily.

TAZIKI’S Gyros, grilled meats and veggies, hummus and pimento cheese. 8200 Cantrell Rd. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$. 501-227-8291. LD daily.

ITALIAN

DAMGOODE PIES A somewhat different Italian/pizza place, largely because of a spicy garlic white sauce that’s offered as an alternative to the traditional red sauce. Good bread, too. 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-664-2239. LD daily. 6706 Cantrell Road. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-6642239. LD daily. 10720 Rodney Parham Road.

Beer, Wine, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-664-2239. LD daily. 37 East Center St. Fayetteville. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 479-444-7437. LD daily.

GUSANO’S They make the tomatoey Chicagostyle deep-dish pizza the way it’s done in the Windy City. It takes a little longer to come out of the oven, but it’s worth the wait. 313 President Clinton Ave. Full bar, All CC. $-$$.

501-374-1441. LD daily. 2915 Dave Ward Drive.

Conway. Beer, All CC. $$. 501-329-1100. LD daily.

LARRY’S PIZZA The buffet is the way to go — fresh, hot pizza, fully loaded with ingredients, brought hot to your table, all for a low price. Many Central Arkansas locations. 1122 S. Center. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-224-8804.

LD daily. 12911 Cantrell Road. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-224-8804. LD daily.

NYPD PIZZA Plenty of tasty choices in the

38 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

obvious New York police-like setting, but it’s fun. Only the pizza is cheesy. Even the personal pizzas come in impressive combinations, and baked ziti, salads are more also are available. Cheap slice specials at lunch. 6015 Chenonceau Boulevard, Suite 1. Beer, Wine, All CC. $-$$. 501-868-3911. LD daily.

PALIO’S Not quite artisan-grade, but far better than the monster chains and at a similar price point. With an appealingly thin, crunchy crust. 3 Rahling Circle. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$. 501-8210055. LD daily.

VESUVIO Arguably Little Rock’s best Italian restaurant is in one of the most unlikely places – tucked inside the Best Western Governor’s Inn within a nondescript section of west Little Rock. 1501 Merrill Drive. Full bar, All CC. $$$.

501-225-0500. D daily.

VILLA ITALIAN RESTAURANT Hearty, inexpensive, classic southern Italian dishes. 12111 W. Markham St. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$.

501-219-2244. LD Mon.-Sat.

MEXICAN

CASA MANANA Great guacamole and garlic beans, superlative chips and salsa (red and green) and a broad selection of fresh seafood, plus a deck out back. 6820 Cantrell Road. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-280-9888. BLD daily 18321 Cantrell Road. Full bar, All CC. $-$$.

501-868-8822. BLD daily 400 President Clinton Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-327-6637.

L Mon.-Sat. CASA MEXICANA Familiar Tex-Mex style items all shine, in ample portions, and the steak-centered dishes are uniformly excellent. 6929 JFK Blvd. NLR. Full bar, All CC. $$.

501-835-7876. LD daily.

EL PORTON (LR) Good Mex for the price and a wide-ranging menu of dinner plates, some tasty cheese dip, and great service as well.

12111 W. Markham St. Full bar, All CC. $$.

501-223-8588. LD daily. 5201 Warden Road.

NLR. Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-753-4630. LD daily. 5507 Ranch Drive. Full bar, All CC. $$.

LD daily.

LAS DELICIAS Levy-area mercado with a taqueria and a handful of booths in the back of the store. 3401 Pike Ave. NLR. Beer, All CC. $. 501-812-4876.

MERCADO SAN JOSE From the outside, it appears to just be another Mexican grocery store. Inside, you’ll find one of Little Rock’s best Mexican bakeries and a restaurant in back serving tortas and tacos for lunch. 7411 Geyer Springs Road. Beer, CC. $. 501-565-4246. BLD daily.

RIVIERA MAYA Typical Mexican fare for the area, though the portions are on the large side.

801 Fair Park Blvd. Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-6634800. LD daily.

SAN JOSE GROCERY STORE AND BAKERY This mercado-plus-restaurant smells and tastes like Mexico, and for good reason: the fresh flour tortillas, overstuffed burritos, sopes (moist corncakes made with masa harina), chili poblano are the real things. 7411 Geyer Springs Road. Beer, CC. $-$$. 501-565-4246.

BLD daily.

SUPER 7 This Mexican grocery/video store/ taqueria has a great daily buffet featuring a changing assortment of real Mexican cooking.

Fresh tortillas pressed by hand and grilled, homemade salsas, beans as good as beans get. Plus soup every day. 1415 Barrow Road.

Beer, No CC. $. 501-219-2373. LD and buffet daily.

TAQUERIA Y CARNICERIA GUADALAJARA Cheap, delicious tacos, tamales and more.

Always bustling. 3811 Camp Robinson Road.

NLR. Beer, All CC. $-$$. 501-753-9991. BLD daily.

The 2nd Friday Of Each Month December 9, 5-8 pm

7th Ever Nog-Off A Friendly Eggnog Competition

Opening reception for Found–Fired–Formed

These venues will be open late.

There’s plenty of parking and a free trolley to each of the locations.

Don’t miss it – lots of fun!

“An Annie Lee Christmas” December 8-10

An Exhibition of Paintings, Figurines, Prints and Gifts

Meet & Welcome Annie Lee to Little Rock Thursday, December 8 5-7pm Previously purchased product signing $10 per signature

Live music by Meshugga Klezmer Band

Friday, December 9 1-3pm – Matinee For The Young At Heart 5-8pm – Artist Reception

Shop local in the Museum Store

“Alley Jazz”

Free Annie Lee Ornament with $50 purchase

Saturday, December 10 10am-2pm - Shopping Extravaganza Free signature with purchase

Gallery Hours: Monday-Friday 9am – 5pm • Saturday 10am – 6pm • Sunday 2pm – 5pm A museum of the Department of Arkansas Heritage

200 E. 3rd St. • 501-324-9351 • www.HistoricArkansas.org

FREE PARKING at 3RD & CUMBERLAND

1001 Wright Ave. Suite C Little Rock, AR 501-372-6822 www.hearnefineart.com

Gourmet.

Your• Way. All Day. 300 Third Tower 501-375-3333 coppergrillandgrocery.com

Featuring works of art from ArtGroup Maumelle.

FREE STREET PARKING ALL OVER DOWNTOWN AND BEHIND THE RIVER MARKET (Paid parking available for modest fee.)

521 President Clinton Ave. River Market District (501) 975-9800

2nd Friday Art Night See Paintings of Arkansas Music Artists

by Patterson & Barnes

Sponsored by Drivers Legal Plan

Hear Live Music

Drivers Legal Plan

The Old State House Museum is a museum of the Department of Arkansas Heritage.

Browse the art galleries in Arkansas Repertory Theatre’s newly-renovated theatre at 601 Main Street from 6-8 p.m.

come ride the free trolley!

Hey, do this!

Food, Music, Entertainment and everything else that’s

Experience the holiday magic at Ballet Arkansas’ The Nutcracker. A beloved Christmas classic, this enchanting tale follows Clara and her nutcracker doll as they embark on a wondrous journey to the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. Delight in the superb choreography, whimsical scenery, elaborate costuming and sublime musical accompaniment by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra. Show times are 7 p.m. on Saturday and 3 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets range from $20-$45 and are available at www.balletarkansas.org.

DEC 3

The Clinton Presidential Center presents Santa at the Center on Dec. 3, 10 and 17 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Great Hall. The holiday event includes free arts and crafts, entertainment and a photograph with Santa. General admission fees apply to tour the Library. For more info, visit www.clintonpresidentialcenter.org.

DEC 25

Make your reservations for the Christmas brunch at the Peabody’s Capriccio Grill. Brunch will be served from 10:30 a.m.2:30 p.m. and will include a variety of dishes from prime rib to honeyglazed ham as well as breakfast items and desserts. The brunch is $39.95 for adults and $14.95 for children.

Call 501-399-8062 for reservations.

DEC 2-4

The Arkansas Craft Guild’s 33rd Annual Christmas Showcase at the Statehouse Convention Center will feature art, jewelry, woodwork, pottery, clothing and more – all by local artisans. Shop for everyone on your Christmas list. Admission is $5 at the door.

Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Friday; 8 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday; and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday. New this year, Saturday morning early bird shoppers receive free admission from 8-10 a.m.

Ballet Arkansas presents The Nutcracker Tea at Trapnall Hall from 2-4 p.m. High tea is provided by Simply the Best and offers a delicious opportunity to spend time with your sugar plum or nutcracker prince. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children and are available at www.balletarkansas. org. n The Old State House welcomes you to its Holiday Open House from 1-4:30 p.m. The museum will be decorated for the season with Christmas carols filling the air and cookies and punch being served. Kids can enjoy fun, hands-on activities such as making holiday cards. Admission is free. Call 501324-9685 for more information. n The River City Men’s Chorus presents its annual holiday concert at Trinity United Methodist Church at 3 p.m. Dec. 4 and at 7 p.m. Dec. 5 and Dec. 8. The church is located at 1101 N. Mississippi in Little Rock. For more info, call 501-377-1080.

Boswell Mourot Fine Art hosts an Animal Art Event from 6-9 p.m., featuring original works of art

by Little Rock Zoo animals. The artwork will be available for purchase through a silent auction. Proceeds will benefit the Little Rock Chapter of American Association of Zoo Keepers. Call 501-664-0030 for details. n Live at Laman, a musical series held every 2nd Thursday of the month at Laman Library in North Little Rock, welcomes Ozark Point Brass in concert. The show begins at 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.lamanlibrary.org.

The legendary Pat Boone will appear in A Holiday Celebration with the Central Arkansas Children’s Choir at Reynolds Performance Hall on the UCA campus at 2 p.m. Tickets are $30-$40 and available online at www.uca. edu/publicappearances/tickets.

The Arkansas Repertory Theatre presents A Christmas Carol, The Musical. The musical version of the Charles Dickens’ classic, this popular production is a holiday must-see. The New York Times calls it “spirited entertainment.” Preview performances are Wednesday, Nov. 30 at 7 p.m. and Thursday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. and include a pre-show discussion at 6:15 p.m.

Opening night is Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. and includes a post-show reception with complementary champagne and light hors d’oeuvres. The show runs through Dec. 25. For ticket information, call 501-378-0405 or visit www.therep.org.

DEC 4

DEC 8

DEC 11

NOV 30-DEC 25

DEC 9

Trans-Siberian Orchestra returns

to Verizon Arena in North Little Rock. The Chicago Tribune has said, “Take the arena-filling production spectacle of KISS, the light show of Pink Floyd, the theatrical rock of Queen then add a Christmas theme. The result is the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.” Choose from two show times: 4 p.m. or 8 p.m. Tickets are $31-$63 and are available through Ticketmaster by phone at 800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

DEC 16-18

The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra presents Happy Holidays. Traditional Christmas tunes as well as a few surprises are guaranteed to warm your heart. All performances take place at Robinson Center Music Hall and begin at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 3 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets range from $20-$65. For tickets, visit www. arkansassymphony.org.

DEC 31

Bring on 2012! The Peabody hosts its New Year’s Eve party, beginning at 9 p.m., with music by Rodney Block and the Real Music Lovers, Tyrannosaurus Chicken, Epiphany and One Night Stand and more. Tickets are $45 in advance or $55 at the door the night of the event. Call 501-399-8059 or visit www. rivertopparty.com for details. Ask about special New Year’s Eve overnight packages.

Dec 17:

Hop on the downtown River Market and Argenta Trolley’s for

Holly Trolley Day from 9 am until

12 Midnight. Ride free, meet Santa at the Trolley Barn and enjoy all the specials and happenings along the route. n Market Street Cinema will be holding,

“Holidays Recycle: An Evening Of Art, Music, Movies & Theater” local

artists, music performers, readings and theater performances. $10 ticket proceeds go to Thea Foundation. marketstreetcinema.net

FUN!

➧

➧ DEC 10-11

DECember DEC 5

Humorist David Sedaris will appear at WordsWorth Books for a book signing at 5 p.m. Admission is free, but a ticket is required. Tickets will be issued upon the purchase of any David Sedaris book at WordsWorth (while supplies last) between now and Dec. 4. Limit one ticket per customer.

For more information, call 501-663-9198.

DEC 10

The Little Rock Zoo hosts Christmas in the Wind at 9:30 a.m. Enjoy Christmas crafts, holiday treats and hot cocoa, then join Santa as he presents gifts to the animals. Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for non-members. RSVP to 501-6617218. This event is also being held on Dec. 17 – so don’t miss it! n Wildwood Park for the Arts presents its Holiday Tour of Homes from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with interior design gurus Tom Chandler and Chris Olsen as your guides. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. A preview party at the fabulous home of Susan and Dr. Ken Martin takes place on Friday, Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. and is $65 per person, which includes admission to Saturday’s tour. Visit www.wildwoodpark.org for more info. n It’s time to enjoy the sweetness of the season at the 5th Annual Sweet Treats tour of B&Bs in Eureka Springs, a self-guided tour of the 1884 Bridgeford House B&B, Heartstone Inn and Cottages, Main Street Inn, 5 Ojo Inn Bed and Breakfast, Rock Cottage Gardens B&B, 1908 Ridgeway House Bed and Breakfast, 1881 Crescent Cottage and Red Bud Manor. While on the tour, enter to win a $100 gift certificate towards a future stay at one of the inns. Contact any of the participating locations for tickets or further information. n Independent Guerilla, Bradley Media, and Market Street Cinema present a double feature on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011. Tuckerman, staring Michael “Doc” Davis and Shelia Stanfield, will be shown at 7:00 PM, followed by IGP’s short feature, The Devil Lives in Hot Springs. The filmmakers will hold a Q&A session and will talk briefly about their upcoming movie project, Haddie. Anyone interested in independent filmmaking is encouraged to attend and participate. Admittance is $10. For more information check out coming attractions at www.marketstreetcinema.net n Centers for Youth and Families is pleased to announce a Holiday Toy Drive to be held Saturday, December 10th from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Market Street Cinema in West Little Rock . Join The Centers and Market Street Cinema for a “high flying adventure” this holiday season. A new toy is your admission to watch the movie Hook, a modern day spin on Peter Pan that captures the spirit of the holidays! Seating is limited, so first come first serve. Call Market Street Cinema at 501-312-8900 for more information.

THROUGH DEC 31

Murry’s Dinner Playhouse presents Not Now, Darling, a hilarious farce by author Ray Cooney that set box office records in London and Paris before coming to Broadway. Tickets range from $25-$31 and include dinner. For tickets, call 501-562-3131 or visit www.murrysdinnerplayhouse.com.

Holiday

T

he countdown is on! With three weeks left to shop for the holidays, you need all the help you can get. Consider the following gift guide our present to you—it’s packed with deals and ideas sure to please.

You’re welcome.

We first hit BOX TURTLE where we find a constellation of gifts. It’s written in the stars that you and yours would look gorgeous in a zodiac necklace. With creative packaging describing the sign, these necklaces make stellar, personalized presents. All signs are available in gold-dipped or sterling silver.

We love Rhea Drug! Rhea offers a unique selection of gifts, many for under $25. You’ll find great stocking stuffers ranging from cocktail napkins to kiddie socks.

Cookbooks and storybooks for kids. If you’re looking for a special teacher’s gift this is the place to go.

Heading vest to VESTA’S, we discover a thrilling holiday sale in progress—50% off shoes from Plenty for Tracy Reese, 30% off coats and 50% off select furniture pieces. Lila Ashmore of Vesta’s tallies the many other perks of shopping there, “Front door parking, beautiful gift wrap, great background music, a ton of fun and no cat fights!”

For all that lies beneath, BARBARA GRAVES INTIMATE FASHIONS has you covered. Every gal needs a bit of support during the holidays, and with SPANX, holiday dressing has never been easier; these body shapers, including bras, make everything fit better. And now is a great time to check out Neon Buddha and sweaters by Elan. For last-minute deals, score the select sale items. Monday, December 19 Barbara Graves will stay open until 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and until 5:00 p.m. on the 24th.

Just call us connected. Residents of Little Rock and North Little Rock know where to go to find fab shoes at super-fab prices. Get your holiday kicks at SHOE CONNECTION, where, for a limited time (until December 18), you can get ½ off a pair of shoes when you buy a pair (second pair must be equal or lesser value.)

Heading downtown to the CLINTON MUSEUM STORE, we find Connie Fails who tells us of a recent discovery. Fails is thrilled to introduce the jewelry of Shea Yetta. Yetta hails from New Orleans but

left after she lost everything in Hurricane Katrina. She now crafts exquisite jewelry made from the metal found in Katrina’s wake, and each piece has a story. Fails is also excited about her new project—crafting fingerless “texting gloves” made from boiled wool jackets and cashmere sweaters. “I’m selling them faster than I can make them!” says Fails.

The ARKANSAS ART CENTER MUSEUM SHOP has long been a go-to for savvy shoppers in search of unique gifts. There’s truly something for everyone.

In addition to their extensive jewelry and ceramics collection, they have a great kids’ section as well as gifts for dads and dudes.

The best part is that AAC members always receive 10% off. Join before you shop and save big for the holidays, and remember, gift-wrapping is always complimentary.

If you have hard-to-buy-for friends and family then Cantrell Gallery is the place to go. You’ll find all sorts of unique art in all sorts of mediums. We highly recommend Judie Bomberger’s whimsical sculptures for something fun and different.

Jewelry made by local artists, with prices beginning at $10 for glass pendants by Judd Mann. Now until December 24, receive 30% off all William McNamara limited edition prints!

This holiday season, we kindly encourage you to put a lid on it. In The Hatterie inside THE GANGSTER MUSEUM OF AMERICA, you will find an assortment of stylish and affordable chapeaus for all occasions and seasons: Fedoras, Godfathers, Panamas, Derbies, Top Hats, Ivys and Newsboys for men and women. Well worth a jaunt to Hot Springs.

Allie Nottingham of THE PAINTED PIG, a pottery studio in the Heights, is fired up about mosaics. “We’re excited

about a new addition to the studio this Christmas—mosaics. They start around $13 or $14. You pick a wood base and then add the glass tiles of your choosing. Picture frames, Christmas trees, snowmen . . . there are lots of options. You take the piece home to grout it, so, unlike with the pottery, there’s no wait.” Perfect for procrastinators.

Nottingham also informs us about this enticing jewelry special: for two days only (December 9, 3-6 p.m., and December 10, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.), receive a discount on the very popular fingerprints in clay silver charms. $48 covers the cost of the charm, chain and gift wrap. Each additional charm is only $26. “Made of 100% recycled silver clay , once it’s fired, it’s pure silver, better than sterling.” Gifts from the kiln for your closest of kin!

Heading over the river, we land at JONES BROTHERS POOL TABLES where we find exciting reindeer games in progress. Jones Brothers is encouraging customers to “Play it your way for the holidays!” For a limited time, customers receive FREE Brunswick merchandise with qualifying purchase. Spend $2500 on Brunswick and/or Contender merchandise, you’ll receive a free contender cue rack or contender play kit. Spend $3500, get a free table tennis conversion top and branded cover or kicker foosball table. Spend $4500, get a free v-force air hockey table. Through Christmas Eve. Jill Clark of KREBS is quite keen on The Emile Henry Pizza Stone, which makes brick-oven style pizzas in ovens and on grills. It heats up in 15 minutes, cleans easily and is surprisingly light-weight. Also from Emile Henry, a Chicken Roaster designed to hold up to an 8lb chicken with room for potatoes and vegetables. Made of ceramic, the chicken roaster cooks your chicken more efficiently, maintaining heat and cooking from the inside. Manufactured in France from Burgundy Clay and other natural products. Ooh fa-la-la!

Should you choose not to do your own cooking, CATERING TO YOU is the clear choice. They’ve been supplying Central Arkansans with gourmet goods since 1989, and are still keeping it fresh after all these years. Their Facebook page has daily specials and the latest deals and sign up for their email list.

There’s nothing more, well, indulgent, than a gift card from INDULGENCES

BY BODY BRONZE. There’s no better time to indulge yourself or someone you hold dear.

To arrive merry and bright, with jingle bells jingling, Dr. Anne Trussell of SEI BELLA MED SPA makes the following suggestion, “Nothing freshens your face better, faster or cheaper than a little Xeomin and a VIPeel.” Sei Bella Med Spa offers a wide range of services, and Dr. Trussell is onsite to offer free consultations.

CHAINWHEEL is in fine fettle at age 40. Reaching this kind of milestone is a rare thing for a small business these days.

Chainwheel knows that finding the right bike shop is as important as finding the right bike. Justin Slarks says, “Fit is everything. The right fit on a bicycle increases your comfort, confidence, efficiency and power—all things that make a great ride perfect.” Have your bike tailor-fitted by a certified specialist at the store. “Our Fit Station incorporates state of the art infrared motion capture technology and a wealth of experience. If you’re going to ride, ride the best bike with the best fit.”

This week, SPOKES is all about apparel. Swing by to outfit the cyclist in your life.

They carry top brands like Louis Garneau, Pearl Izumi, Giro, Mavic available for both men and women. Make sure to grab fall and winter attire to keep you and yours riding all winter long!

Erin Taylor of GO! RUNNING urges runners to be safe and be seen. When running or walking, early or late, make sure that reflective gear is part of your workout outfit. And today there’s some great apparel that not only helps keep you safe but is also trendy, comfortable and lightweight.

Special NightLife apparel is 1500 times brighter than a white shirt, and right now, Go! Running is offering a FREE running cap ($20 value) when you purchase $75 on apparel. Visit Go! Running to check out other in-store specials.

There’s really something for everyone on your list—the fashionista, the athlete and the artiste. So get out there and Go! Shopping!

NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE ARKANSAS TIMES

41

Holiday Arkansas Arts Center Museum Shop Handcrafted by Arkansas artist Rae Ann Bayless, this necklace is a beautiful addition to anyone’s wardrobe. This one-of-a-kind piece is made of faceted agate stones in smoky grey and white neutral tones. Adorned with a large agate pendant that is removable, you will get two looks for the price of one!

Visit the Museum Shop today to find the perfect gift for the fashionista on your list! Happy Shopping!

Indulgences by Body Bronze No-one has time for chipped nails this Holiday Season!

Enjoy a Martini Manicure: Two Week – No Chip Shellac Nail Polish & Your Choice Of Chocolate Mint or Pomegranate Fig $55

42 ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE ARKANSAS TIMES

NOVEMBER 30, 2011

Barbara Graves Make an entrance at your next Holiday party in this lace-up asymmetrical white tunic by Neon Budda. It’s perfect over leggings, jeans or a skirt. Available in black or white, size S-M-L-XL for $78.

Barbara Graves Intimate Fashions has a great selection of well made, affordable casual clothing.

The Gangster Museum of America Stop by The Hatterie this Holiday season and browse their wide selection, specializing in Fedoras, Godfathers, Panamas, Derbies, Top Hats, Ivys, and Newsboys for both men and women. Plush cloche style hats for women have been popular this season...they have them!! With hats by Bailey, Christies, Scala, Biltmore, Sinatra, Tommy Bahama, and Santana that focus on styles that hint at the history in Hot Springs. The Hatterie name has been a part of Hot Springs for over 100 years and is appropriately located inside The Gangster Museum of America. The Hatterie stands by its motto, “If you can’t find a hat in here you need your head examined.” Gift Certificates are available as well.

Holiday

Box Turtle

Chainwheel What’s so important about fit? Everything. The right fit on a bicycle increases your comfort, confidence, efficiency and power - all things that make a great ride PERFECT. Have your bike tailor fit by certified specialists at Chainwheel. Our Fit Station incorporates state of the art infrared motion capture technology and a wealth of experience. Chainwheel has been serving Arkansas for 40 years and has been voted “Best of Arkansas” 14 years running. If you’re going to ride, ride the best bike with the best fit.

It’s written in the stars… we predict you’ll look gorgeous in these zodiac necklaces! This necklace is designed in celebration of all the great things the future holds and destined to be one of your favorite jewels. And – with the creative card packaging describing the person – it’s a sure sign this should be at the top of your gift list. So, grab several to give as gifts or get one for yourself. There’s never been an easier gift to buy – all you need is a birthday! Available gold dipped or sterling silver and in all zodiac signs.

Cantrell Gallery Regular, limited edition prints by Arkansas artist, William McNamara, will be 30% off through December 24.

Stop by and browse original art from over 30 local and regional artists in every style and medium imaginable.

Great gifts for everyone on your listwith prices to fit every budget! Family owned and operated for over 41 years. Stone Jar Hollow: Sale Price $63.

Jones Brothers Pool Tables Play It Your Way For The Holidays!

And Bring Home FREE Brunswick Merchandise with Qualifying Purchase!

Limited Time Offer.

43 NOVEMBER 23, 2011 ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE ARKANSAS TIMES

Sei Bella Med Spa Look and feel Great this Holiday Season with DermaFrac, an extremely popular skin rejuvenation procedure in Europe. DermaFrac uses microchanneling to lay peptides between the epidermis and dermis layers of the face without pain, bleeding or bruising. You can have anti-aging, moisturzing, lightening or anti-acne peptides. There is no downtime, no bleeding, no bruising! Dr. Trussell has the first machine in Arkansas.

NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE ARKANSAS TIMES

43

Holiday

Spokes Spokes is the place to be for outfitting the Bikers in your life. They have clothing brands such as Louis Garneau and Pearl Izumi, along with shoes by Giro, Mavic, and Louis Garneau. All available for both men and women. Their fall and winter attire will keep you riding all winter long!

Clinton Museum Store

Go! Running Stay Visible!

Be SAFE. Be SEEN.

TOMS gives thrice!

1.To you or your lucky recipient.

2. A free pair to a child in need.

3. Our profits support the Clinton Foundation.

Don’t allow darker mornings and evenings to put a damper on your walking and running routine.

Come into Go! Running where our staff will be happy to show you our wide selection of reflective clothing and accessories. Keep yourself, and your loved ones safe by staying visible!

Catering To You Catering To You offers a wide variety of unique gifts and home accessories. When you need a special something for that special someone of any age let us cater it to you!

Come in and find some great affordable serving pieces for yourself or your favorite friend! These platters make great hostess gifts too!

Krebs Brothers

The Emile Henry Pizza Stone makes brickoven style pizzas in ovens and on grills. Heats up in 15 minutes. Cleans easily. Light weight.

The Emile Henry Chicken Roaster is designed to hold up to an 8lb chicken with room to put potatoes and vegetables around the chicken at the base to soak up the delicious juices.

Easy to clean and dishwasher safe! Manufactured in France from Burgundy Clay and other natural products.

Rhea Drug Store

Vesta’s

Rhea Drug has great gifts this holiday season with plenty of options under $25. Come in and shop for your favorite little one or teacher, and pick up some affordable stocking stuffers or hostess gifts! Shop local and save big!

Give the gift of curling up with a great glass of wine with these gifts from Vesta’s.

Barefoot in the Wild throw from “Barefoot Dreams” made of elusive “cozy chic knit”. Limited edition, Jaguar Leopard print. $162

iPad Case $18.50 Serving Spoons $5.75 each Cocktail Napkins $5 Children’s Bloomers $15.50 44 ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE ARKANSAS TIMES

Hand poured candle by “Scentations”. Berries & Balsam. $52 Eat Drink & Be Merry Wine glass by Lenox. $21 NOVEMBER 30, 2011

RETAIL DIRECTORY Arkansas Arts Center Museum Shop: Open 10 am – 5 pm Tuesday – Saturday and 11 am – 5 pm Sunday 9th and Commerce 501.396.0356 arkarts.com

Jones Brothers Pool Tables 309 West Broadway 501.372.0168 jonesbrospooltables.com Krebs Brothers 4310 Landers Rd. North Little Rock 501.687.1331 krebsbrothers.com

Barbara Graves 10301 N Rodney Parham Rd Breckenridge Village 501.227.5537 barbaragraves.com

KREBS BROTHERS SINCE 1933

THE RESTAURANT STORE

KREBS BROTHERS SINCE 1933

THE RESTAURANT STORE

Kitchen Co. Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 12-5pm Pleasant Ridge Town Center 501.663.3338 kitchenco.net

Box Turtle 2616 Kavanaugh Hillcrest 501.661.1167 shopboxturtle.com

Storewide

BOGO Buy 1 Get 1

1/2 OFF

*

The Painted Pig 5622 R St. 501.280.0553 paintedpigstudio.com

Cantrell Gallery 8206 Cantrell Rd. 501.224.1335 cantrellgallery.com

*Second pair must be equal or lesser value. Ends December 11, 2011

Rhea Drug 2801 Kavanaugh Blvd 501.663.4131

Catering To You 8121 Cantrell Rd. 501.614.9030 cateringtoyouinlittlerock.com

Real Prices • Real Savings RHEA DRUG

Sei Bella Med Spa 9501 Lile Drive, Suite 940 501.228.6237 annetrussellmd.com

Chainwheel 10300 Rodney Parham Rd 501.224.7651 chainwheel.com Clinton Museum Store 610 President Clinton Ave. 501.748.0400 clintonmuseumstore.com

Jones Bros.

Pool Tables

Shoe Connection 2806 Lakewood Village Dr North Little Rock 501.753.8700

Clinton Museum 9100 North Rodney Parham Store Little Rock

The Gangster Museum of America 510 Central Ave. Hot Springs 501.318.1717 tgmoa.com Go! Running 1819 N. Grant St. In the Heights 501.663.6800 Open Sun thru Christmas gorunning.com Indulgences by Body Bronze 14524 Cantrell Rd., Suite 130 501.868.8345 indulgencesbybodybronze.com

www.shoecoNNectioNoNLiNe.com 2806 Lakewood ViLLage dr., NLr 501-753-8700 9100 N rodNey Parham, Lr 501-225-6242

Kitchen Co.

What every good cook deserves!

Visit Kitchen Co. for all of your cooking needs. We have professional level cookware and accessories. Shop local with us!

501.225.6242 shoeconnectiononline.com Spokes 1001 Kavanaugh 501.664.7765 spokeslittlerock.com Vesta’s 11525 Cantrell Rd, Suite 610 Pleasant Ridge Town Center 501.375.7820 vestasboutique.com

The Painted Pig Have your child’s fingerprint pressed in pure silver clay for an unforgettable Christmas gift! For two days only you can get one silver charm, a sterling silver chain and gift wrapping all for $48. All orders will be ready in time for Christmas!

December 9th 3-6 pm December 10th 10 am-1 pm

Find the above retailers on Facebook.

45 NOVEMBER 23, 2011 ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE ARKANSAS TIMES

NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE ARKANSAS TIMES 45

Sick, also tired

I

don’t know about you but I’m sick and tired of all the squabbling over whether it was the Knights of Columbus or the Minnesota Vikings who discovered America.

I’m sick and tired of people who it’s always about them.

I’m sick and tired of smug. A whole lot of the discourse now is trying to outsmug one another.

Smug often finds outward expression in a smirk, and I’m sick and tired of that.

I’m sick and tired of those who try to find stature by standing on the shoulders of dwarves.

I’m sick and tired of presidential candidates who know so little about history that they aren’t even doomed to repeat it.

I’m sick and tired of not being asked to join any organization that wouldn’t have me as a member anyway.

I’m sick and tired of trying to remember whether I walked to school or carried my lunch.

I’m sick and tired of hero status being extended to anybody who ever put on a uniform or pinned on a Charles Bussey badge.

I’m sick and tired of the allegation that freedom is not free.

It’s not free to us entitlement drudges, but as far as the Koch McDucks who have

moved beyond the indignity of obligatory taxation, it doesn’t cost them a dime.

I’m sick and BOB tired of being told LANCASTER that if I’ll just be patient enough one of these Christmases Santy will find room in the sleigh for the Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200Shot Range Model Air Rifle that I first ordered the Christmas Lumpy got the u-glu-it scale model of the Enola Gay. I’m sick and tired of plutocrats and congressmen sniffing one another’s uranuses.

I’m sick and tired of “White Christmas” knowing the inevitable performer got off on chronic child abuse.

I’m sick and tired of every Christmas some heathen yegg making off with Manger Boy out of some provincial creche, outraging the yeomanry and leaving the Kings of Orientar to shake their heads. It’s bad, yes, but it’s just a stupid doll. Or is it? Sick and tired of such Capra snatches too.

I’ve been sick and tired of country music since the ballad with this old boy crooning to his gal how he’d like to take a walk through the wildflowers with her and then pick the ticks off’n her after they got back

home. The song’d be only marginally better if he went on then and ate the ticks.

I’m sick and tired of hermaphrodite deer.

I’m sick and tired of Christmas ham. Do we do that just to hooraw Jews, or what?

I’m sick and tired of Muslims being such soreheads. Have you ever heard one of them tell a joke? Draw a cartoon of the Prophet and they’ll cut your head off. Tell them laughter is the best medicine and they’ll cut somebody else’s head off that you probably don’t even know. Henny Youngman probably runs their Hell.

I’m sick and tired of being stuck with the gizzard every visit to the bird colonel or Popeye the Sailor Man. I’m sick and tired of them that think making lame lists like this is easier, specialed vo-tech type construction work compared to their fartsy fancy-boy ruminations on their tater-hole lint.

I’m sick and tired of everybody dissing the repo guys. Just because of the way they look and the work that they do and one of them with what looks like a two-inch roofing nail sticking sharp end forward through her lower lip.

I’m sick and tired of all these places like St. Petersburg, Russia, changing their name back and forth every time some new dictator comes along and kills another 40 million people.

I’m sick and tired of them what can ever get enough.

I’m sick and tired of weasels, sick and tired of goobers, and now they’ve crossbred into weabers and goosels that God help us if a lot more regular sane people don’t get a lot sicker and tireder of it in a hurry.

I’m sick and tired of being red-bellied as a wussy because I don’t nuke deers and then eat their sausage raw.

I’m sick and tired of people who either beat the tar out of their offspring for misbehaving in public or just throw their hands up and let the little dickenses run wild. A custody change is in order either way – to parental units who remember what manners are, and know how, without cruelty or knuckling under at crunch time, to see that they are minded. Must be an awful problem for retailers.

I’m sick and tired of Wolf Blitzer’s beard. It’s unchanged from the time when he subbed for one of the Smith Brothers in their cough-drop ad, so who knows what evil lurks under there. My guess is, it’s not George Clooney.

I’m sick and tired of all these illegalimmigrant polar bears taking over the best bar pits.

Sick and tired of trying to beat mysterious little gnome who sets the Vegas ballgame betting lines. Over and under. Taking points and giving them. You can edge him out on occasion, even have a short prosperity run, but long-term big-time capella woes if you lag back into the Bill Bennett/ Lu Hardin debit range.

ARKANSAS TIMES CLASSIFIEDS Employment Paid In Advance! Make $1,000 a Week mailing brochures from home! Guaranteed Income! FREE Supplies! No experience required.

Start Immediately! www.homemailerprogram.net (AAN CAN) Software Engineers: Research, analyze, design & develop Database and Web based applications using Oracle, SQL, PL/SQL, Java, XML, ETL, UNIX and Shell Scripts Req. MS in Comp. Scie. Or Engr. Or related & 6 months of exp.

Send resume to Pearlsoft Solutions Inc. 1429 Merrill Dr., Ste # 6, Little Rock, AR 72211. This position will involve working in unanticipated locations

❤Adoption❤

Art classes to Zoo trips, Everything inbetween, 1st baby will be our King/Queen. Expenses paid.

Business Opportunities ANY Car/Truck. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Call For Instant Offer: 1-888-4203808 http://www.cash4car.com (AAN CAN)

Education DIPLOMA! HIGH SCHOOL Graduate in just 4 weeks!!! FREE Brochure. Call NOW! 1-800-5326546 Ext. 97 http://www.continentalacademy.com/ (AAN CAN)

Miscellaneous FREE Groceries! Receive $2000 in Grocery Savings! Grocery Stimulus Program provides $2000 savings to participants of shopping survey. ALL MAJOR AND LOCAL supermarkets!

Call now 877-301-1691

1-800-990-7667

Adoption & Services

DOG GROOMER WANTED

PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Talk with caring agency specializing in matching Birthmothers with Families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions 866-413-6293 (Void in Illinois) (AAN CAN)

Local pet-supply retailer looking to expand grooming dept. Must have experience, knowledge of all breeds, pay attention to detail, and be a team player. Let’s trim up Little Rock’s posh pups together!

501-412-7767

46 November 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES 46 NOVEMBER 30, 2011 ARKANSAS TIMES

Legal Notices DISTRICT COURT OF WASHINGTON COUNTY OF CLARK In re Petition of: MELANIE NORRIS, Petitioner, for the Change of Name of: AVERI MADISON THOMAS, Minor Child. SERVICE BY PUBLICATION RE PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME OF MINOR CHILD STATE OF WASHINGTON ) : SS. County of Clark) You are hearby notified that Melanie Norris has filed a petition for name change of Averi Madison Thomas, a minor child, in said court which will come on to be heard at December 1, 2011, at 9:00 a.m. in Clark County, State of Washington, and unless you appear and then and there object to your consent to said name change of minor child to Averi Madison Norris then petition for name change of said minor may be granted. LAURA L. MANCUSO,PO Box 54, Vancouver, WA 98666. WSBA #27128 Of Attorneys for Petitioner

Automotive CASH FOR CARS: Any Car/Truck.

Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Call For Instant Offer: 1-888-420-3808 www.cash4car. com

Happy Hour Genius.

Download our free happy hour app.

Find the nearest happy hour any time.

Hundreds of places to choose from!

Search for “Arkansas Times” in the app store.

ARKANSAS TIMES

Restaurants with changes, corrections or for more information email cocktailcompass@arktimes.com Presented by your drinking buddies at

ARKANSAS TIMES

FLIPSIDE

FREE l % tai 5 e 7 R ff O

Fall is heRe!!!

so are the Bats, squirrels, Rats, Raccoons…

Prima Outlet Sale

• Wall Décor • Pottery • Table and Floor Vases

AnimAl P.i. Removal

Clean-up Repair.

!

STUDIO1 P

H

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501.650.1806

O

G

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MOVING TO MAC

www.movingtomac.com

Y

www.studio-1-photo.com

cindy@movingtomac.com • 501-681-5855

"I don't trust anyone with my valuables but National Pawn Shop"

National Gold & Silver Exchange

70 Years of Gold Buying Experience

Females, ages 12-16, with or without a history of abuse or assault. Receive monetary compensation and a CD of your brain.

Easy Central Location • Free Parking Fast Customer Service Don't wait by your mailbox for a check.

Get your cash today at National Pawn.

375-6789 or 374-3331

3010 Dugan Drive, Little Rock brenda@primadesignsource.com

Pet of the Week

Levi

100 E. Washington, NLR www.nationalpawn.com

Call Sonet: 501-526-8386

http://psychiatry.uams.edu/birc_studies

Pet of the Week

HANK

He is a full-blood German Shepherd. 4 years old and came to us in VERY bad condition. He has been in an amazing foster home and is now back and READY for his forever home...is that you? Come by and meet him!

11-D569

Hank is a heeler mix. He is so smart and would be a wonderful addition to your family. Please come by and meet him. 11-D594

Sherwood AnimAL ServiceS

6500 North Hills Blvd, Sherwood, Ar 501-834-2287

SHerwood ANimAl ServiceS

6500 north hills Blvd, Sherwood, Ar 501-834-2287

UneedaMaid Cleaning ServiCeS inC.

dependable and Professional House Cleaning licensed, insured, & Bonded let Us get Your House ready For The Holidays Serving our Customers Since 2004 Free eSTiMaTeS

501-952-1580 www.uneedamaid.net

• Data Recovery • Hardware Installs • Hard drive installation & memory expansion • Organize photos, music, movies & email

Call Cindy Greene - Satisfaction Always Guaranteed

NOW THROUGH THE END OF NOVEMBER

501.244.2195

501-628-4682

• Aid in choosing the right Mac for you and your budget • iMac, MacBook, iPad, iPhone • Troubleshooting • Wireless internet & backup

BOOK A SESSION, WE’LL DOUBLE THE TIME

Saturday, December 3 8am-2pm

Humane, professional, eco-friendly. Warranty. locally oWned.

Macximize

Learn to get more from your Mac at home or office.

1999 Monark 261 Sunspa 26 ft pontoon with a mercruiser 140 HP inboard. Boat is in good shape, I never have time to use it. Low hours on the motor. New prop. Hard top awning, updated stereo system, sink, bbq grill, tables, ac/dc converter, as is with trailer, life vests, oar, first aid kits, etc. Have titles for boat and trailer in hand. would consider trade for small older model sports car. Boat blue books` at $10,500.00 without the trailer, am asking $9000.00 firm on price. Call 501-350-7172

I CAN HANDLE ALL OF YOUR ALTERATIONS “Your Personal Cleaners”

501-223-5700 • 7616 T St. at Cantrell

ADVERTISE YOUR

Holiday Events

CALL CHALLIS

HERE

375-2985

www.arktimes.com NOvember 30, 2011 47

from Here

Retirement looks good

“

We take retirement living to new heights !

”

– Beth Ward

• Nightly Dining Prepared By Our Executive Chef • “Happy Half-Hour” Nightly Before Dinner • 24 Hour Controlled Access • Large Apartments With Balconies • Scheduled Transportation Available • All Utilities Paid • Weekly Housekeeping & Linen Service

WOODLAND

• Small Pets Welcome • Indoor Heated Saltwater Pool & Whirlpool • Emergency Pull-Cords • Billiards & Game Room • Beauty Salon & Barber Shop • Fitness Room, Exercise Classes & Activities/Fitness Director • Close To Four Of Arkansas’Best Medical Facilities

8700 Riley Drive

|

Little Rock, AR

H E IG H TS

Call Christy Tucker to schedule your tour today! 501.224.4242

B

reathtaking views of the surrounding hills, deluxe modern amenities and more – the

luxurious high-rise residences of Woodland Heights take retirement living to a whole new level. Tucked away in the serenity of nature yet only minutes from the bustle of the city, you’ll love life from our point of view.

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woodlandheightsllc.com