NEWS + POLITICS + ENTERTAINMENT + FOOD / JANUARY 28, 2016 / ARKTIMES.COM
300,000 Lives Our 2015 Arkansan of the Year: The legions of newly insured adults in the state, including George Coleman of North Little Rock, whose life-saving asthma medication keeps him behind the wheel. BY BENJAMIN HARDY
WHO WILL TAKE ROUND ONE? IN THE 2016 ARKANSAS TIMES MUSICIANS SHOWCASE
JAN 28
8PM CALEB VELASQUEZ 9PM A ROWDY FAITH 10PM SOULUTION 11PM DEFRANCE ROUND TWO, FEB 4 ROUND FOUR, FEB 18 8PM 9PM 10PM 11PM
SEA OF ECHOES GALAXY TOUR GUIDES COLLIN VS. ADAM SEANFRESH & THE NASTYFRESH CREW
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TREY JOHNSON & JASON WILLMON ODDY KNOCKY LOVE AND A REVOLVER THE UH HUHS
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SATTAKOTA JAY JACKSON VINTAGE PISTOL THE WHOLE FAMN DAMILY
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ASK FOR THE “SHOWCASE” DRINK SPECIAL Judging Process: Three (3) regular judges plus one (1) guest judge will score each band on the following criteria - Songwriting (1-30 points), Musicianship (1-30 points), Originality (1-30 points), Showmanship (1-10 points) for a total of 100 possible points per judge. The lowest overall judge’s score is dropped. A crowd vote (based on a percentage) is also added to each bands’ final score from the judges. 2
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VOLUME 42, NUMBER 21 ARKANSAS TIMES (ISSN 0164-6273) is published each week by Arkansas Times Limited Partnership, 201 East Markham Street, Suite 200, Little Rock, Arkansas, 72201, phone (501) 375-2985. Periodical postage paid at Little Rock, Arkansas, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ARKANSAS TIMES, 201 EAST MARKHAM STREET, SUITE 200, Little Rock, AR, 72201. Subscription prices are $42 for one year, $74 for two years. Subscriptions outside Arkansas are $49 for one year, $88 for two years. Foreign (including Canadian) subscriptions are $168 a year. For subscriber service call (501) 375-2985. Current single-copy price is 75¢, free in Pulaski County. Single issues are available by mail at $2.50 each, postage paid. Payment must accompany all single-copy orders. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents without the written consent of the publishers is prohibited. Manuscripts and artwork will not be returned or acknowledged unless sufficient return postage and a self-addressed stamped envelope are included. All materials are handled with due care; however, the publisher assumes no responsibility for care and safe return of unsolicited materials. All letters sent to ARKANSAS TIMES will be treated as intended for publication and are subject to ARKANSAS TIMES’ unrestricted right to edit or to comment editorially.
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COMMENT
Campaign finance reform needed Six years ago the Supreme Court struck down campaign finance regulations that opened federal, state and local elections to increased political spending and less disclosure. Since the Supreme Court’s decision in Citizens United, politicians from both major parties have increasingly relied on contributions from super PACs and organizations that spend undisclosed money on elections. According to reports by the New York Times, half of all early spending in the 2016 race has come from just 158 families and the corporations they control. Fortunately, actions are being taken across the country to combat the problems that Citizens United raised and with broad based support. One study from Bloomberg illustrated that 80 percent of Republicans and 83 percent of Democrats opposed the decision. It makes sense that sixteen states and over 600 communities nationwide have called for an amendment to overturn Citizens United. In Arkansas, there have been attempts to curtail the power of Citizens United with ethics and finance reform at the state level. Despite making it onto the ballot and passing legislation, we have yet to see effective reforms to our campaign finance system. For these reasons, I would not be surprised to see a much needed attempt to restructure Arkansas’s campaign finance laws in the next election. It would be nice to see 2016 be the year our democracy is “of the people, by the people, and for the people” once again. Kent Strickland Little Rock
From the web: In response to last week’s cover story, “A bigger, better Arkansas Arts Center”: It would feel better if the Arts Center and its affiliates were connected to the community within which it exists. I personally used to hang out around McArthur Park until they got tired of looking at black kids hanging around their upscale venue and replaced us with the dog park. I would say let the dog owners pay for it, but since my grandchildren visit the center from their school across town I’ll leave that for later. depthtaz “To be a member of the Arts Center Board of Trustees — a city commission — you’ve got to come up with a yearly donation of $5,000 and another $5,000 ‘give or get.’ ” Same folk pushing the destruction of 4
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downtown by interstate expansion. A favorite quote and truism: “LR is run out of the men’s locker room at the Country Club of Little Rock.” Diogenes The Committee for Arts and History has zero, much less “total transparency.” To wit, its pathetic, thoughtless website (forartsandhistory.com) fails to list the “nearly 400” “honorary co-chairs” or any “fundraising and expenses” — all of which is also omitted from its Facebook page. Instead of being “transparent” via informative links to such Com-
mittee basics, its unattractive website restricts visitors to a single link: “Join.” Duh. An incestuous, in-grown city and state that persist as civic bottom-feeders, not leaders. djordan In response to Ernest Dumas’ Jan. 21 column, “Learning to love the Donald”:
No-Freeze Zone!
Many will be surprised that Trump will turn out to be a fantastic president. Clem Hooten
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Bernie Sanders is telling the truth. He’s the only candidate who wants to do something besides manage the problems that this country faces. He wants to solve them. In order to solve them they first have to be identified. Bernie Sanders is doing that, and the truth is catching on. Vanessa I must have missed the speech where Bernie said he hated rich people. He does have a disdain for the extreme income inequality in this nation. No one needs to hate anyone to dislike income inequality that has arisen since Reagan, became worse under Clinton and really concentrated under Bush and grew some more under Obama. eLwood
No-Freeze Zone! No-Freeze Zone!
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In response to Gene Lyons’ Jan. 21 column, “Rainbow stew”:
Great? Only when monkeys fly out your
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ass. Cruz and most of the other candidates all have potential ranging from good to average. Only Trump can ruin the country and not only get us in a war without allies, but could lose the war as he bankrupts the country. Then he will retire in the south of France and laugh at all the tools, fools and idiots who supported him. Steven E
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If Sanders was interested in winning at all costs, he’d tack to the center. He would also take corporate donations and Super PAC money. He has done none of those things because, unlike Hillary, he is not willing to sell his soul to win. Hillary, on the other hand, will pander wherever she needs to and say and do anything that she thinks will get her ahead. She’ll take Wall Street money, no matter what strings are attached. I had a higher opinion of Gene Lyons, but he has proven to just be another establishment Clinton apologist with this hit piece on Sanders. Am I really supposed to believe that Gene doesn’t know the difference between Marxism and socialism? The Democratic Party establishment is afraid, and they have every reason to be. That’s why they’re unleashing these attacks on Bernie. The real left is coming for you, because they’re sick of your empty promises and mediocrity. You’re about to feel the Bern. I just spent an evening at Bernie’s HQ right down the way from the Clinton Library with a room full of people that are ready to take the fight to Hillary. I didn’t see any hippies or VW vans down there. I saw working people that are fed up and ready to do something about it. KEET
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EYE ON ARKANSAS
WEEK THAT WAS
“Lawmakers … have no right forcing physicians to provide medically inaccurate information. Abortion providers in Arkansas are forced to tell their patients that there may be a way to reverse the effects of the [medical] abortion drugs. This claim was made by one U.S. physician without studies, research or evidence, and our lawmakers have forced me to lie to my patients. For all other doctors in the state and country, lying to, deceiving or misinforming patients is an act with legal, financial and careerchanging ramifications. For abortion providers, there is a clear and obvious double-standard. They try to discredit us … and their ultimate goal is to convince women to remain pregnant by using my voice to misinform.” — Dr. Stephanie Ho, a Fort Smith physician who delivered the keynote address at the sixth annual Rally for Reproductive Justice over the weekend at the state Capitol. Ho was referring to a bill passed in 2015 that requires abortion providers to give patients advice about supposed “abortion reversal” treatment. About 250 attended the rally.
The caucuses cometh Here we go. On Monday, Iowa will hold its first-in-the-nation nominating contest for the presidential election, and all is chaos. With their dual nightmare visions of America, Donald Trump and Ted Cruz vie for dominance among Iowa voters, polling at 34 percent and 27 percent respectively as of Jan 26. The second tier of supposedly more serious Republicans — Jeb Bush, Marco Rubio, John Kasich and Chris Christie — are too busy sticking knives in each other’s backs to cohere around a viable establishment alternative. The New York Times reported Tuesday that those four candidates and their associated PACs have spent about $35 million attacking one another, rather than Trump and Cruz. (Meanwhile, Mike Huckabee is stuck somewhere in the third tier, polling at around 2 percent.) Among the Democrats, Bernie Sanders is polling neck-and-neck with Hillary 6
JANUARY 28, 2016
ARKANSAS TIMES
BRIAN CHILSON
Quote of the Week
AT SOUTH ON MAIN: Jazz great Victor Goines and the Victor Goines Quartet played Jan. 21 at the SoMa music venue as part of the Oxford American jazz series.
Clinton in Iowa and leads significantly in New Hampshire, where the primaries will be held the following week. What can you do but take a deep breath, sit back and enjoy the show?
The devil made me do it Arkansas Secretary of State Mark Martin received a Freedom of Information Act Request from the First Amendment rabble-rousers at the Satanic Temple, who continue their efforts to place a goat-headed “Baphomet” statue next to a planned Ten Commandments monument at the state Capitol. Permission to install the Ten Commandments on state government grounds was granted by the legislature in 2015 (it has not yet been done) and the Satanists and other groups want to join the party. They’ve been denied so far. “If we find that the 10 Commandments request has received preferred treatment over other monument requests, every organization offer-
ing an alternative monument to the 10 Commandments in AR may be able to file a discrimination claim,” the Satanic Temple said in a press release.
AFP against buses The Arkansas branch of Americans for Prosperity, the conservative advocacy group founded by right-wing billionaires Charles and David Koch, has trained its sights recently on an instance of tyrannical government overreach right here in Pulaski County: A proposed quarter-cent sales tax to fund Rock Region Metro, the public transit agency. AFP has been distributing door hangers warning that “life in Pulaski County will cost more” if the tax is approved by voters on March 1. If passed, the measure would produce about $18 million for improved buses countywide, including more frequent service and shuttles to Maumelle, Jacksonville and Sherwood.
New adventures in grandstanding from Cotton Speaking of the Koch brothers, there’s one political issue they’re on the right side of: criminal justice reform. Along with liberal advocacy groups, the Kochs and other libertarians want to scale back federal mandatory minimum sentencing requirements, especially in regards to drug-related offenses. A number of key congressional Republicans are on board with legislation to do just that, as is President Obama. Guess who’s leading the fight against it: Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton, of course. “It would be very dangerous and unwise to proceed with the Senate Judiciary bill, which would lead to the release of thousands of violent felons,” he told Politico this week. Actually, the bill would simply allow judges to review sentences on a caseby-case basis. But that wouldn’t make such a good talking point for a young man in a hurry.
OPINION
For Hillary
I
n my estimation, there’s only one presidential candidate in 2016 fully capable of doing the job, and she’s anything but a natural. As Hillary Clinton has also been the target of maybe the longest-running smear campaign in American history — including roughly a dozen partisan investigations and a six-year leak-o-matic “independent counsel” probe led by the fastidious Kenneth Starr — it’s no wonder some voters mistrust her. Overcoming that suspicion is her biggest challenge. Republicans have predicted her imminent indictment for 20 years. You’d think by now they’d have made something stick, if there was anything to it. But it didn’t happen then, and it’s not going to happen now for an obvious reason: In a democracy, political show trials endanger the prosecution as much as the defense. Anybody who watched Hillary’s onewoman demolition of Rep. Trey Gowdy’s vaunted Benghazi committee should understand that. Meanwhile, one of the best things about Sen. Bernie Sanders’ presidential
strikes me as improved since 2008. A person needn’t be “inauthentic” (punditspeak for “bitch”) to be uncomfortable in front of an audience. campaign is his As for authenticity, few Democrats unwillingness to could work a crowd like North Carolina Sen. John Edwards. smear his opponent. Too bad many pasPresident Obama nailed it during a sionate supporters recent Politico interview: Hillary does aren’t so fastidious. better with “small groups” than big ones, GENE With Iowa’s makehe observed, before putting his thumb LYONS or-break moment heavily on the scale. He described Hillary approaching for Sanders, it’s getting nasty as a fighter, who’s “extraordinarily experienced — and, you know, wicked smart out there. It’s not so much the tiresome attacks and knows every policy inside and out — on anybody who disagrees with them as a [and] sometimes [that] could make her corrupt sellout. (My corporate overlords, more cautious, and her campaign more of course, dictated that sentence.) It’s the prose than poetry,” he said. Even so, she came closer to defeating seeming belief that people can be browbeaten into supporting their guy. Obama in 2008 than Republicans have. Some are a bit like Trump supporters “Had things gone a little bit different in — although normally without the threats. some states or if the sequence of primaThat too may be changing. Recently a guy ries and caucuses been a little different,” visited my Facebook page saying people the president said, “she could have easlike me deserve “to be dragged into the ily won.” Indeed. As non-endorsements go, the street and SHOT for … treason against not only our country and our people, but the president’s remarks couldn’t have been ENTIRE [BLEEPING] WORLD.” more complimentary. “She had to do My response — “Settle down, Beavis” everything that I had to do, except, like — sent him into a rage. Ginger Rogers, backwards in heels,” he But no, Hillary’s not an instinctive added. performer, although her stage presence Obama wisely said nothing critical
If Trump, Bernie are nominees
H
ere’s a puzzler: What happens if the major parties nominate Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders for president? Trump, after all, is the runaway leader in Republican polling, and the media are gleefully celebrating Sanders’ steady rise as a sign that Hillary Clinton will collapse and give the Democratic left its first standard-bearer since George McGovern in 1972. What a hoot of an election that would be. While you might find it painful to contemplate for the future of the country, for sheer theater you couldn’t beat it. Bernie Sanders won’t make it or even come very close, but simply to entertain the idea is to feast upon the central narrative of this political era: the fierce pressure to shove each party to its polar extremity. Trump and Sanders would just about achieve that, although on ideology alone the Republican field has more extreme candidates, notably Ted Cruz. But on the authoritarian-democratic yardstick,
Trump and Sanders are at the poles. Despite huge dissimilarities in both style and substance, Trump and ERNEST Sanders weirdly DUMAS share some of the same instincts on the burning issues of the day, like universal health insurance, their disdain for meddling in the fratricidal politics of the Middle East as the Bush presidents did, and their (somewhat distant) past agreement on social issues like abortion and guns. As these contests ultimately do, a Trump-Sanders race surely would focus the candidates on the big issues of the day. When you’re running against your teammates, who disagree only at the margins on nearly everything, promising to be meaner, louder and tougher is all that you can do. But when you are running against the other party’s candidate, even
Donald Trump will be forced to engage specifically on the big issues. Which are? The biggest would be Obamacare. Since the summer of 2009, nothing has so absorbed the public mind in volume and intensity, like Obamacare. The House and the Senate have voted collectively more than 60 times to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Knowing a presidential veto would render each vote meaningless, none of the repeal resolutions ever proposed a system to replace it. Newt Gingrich, the former speaker whose pacesetting presidential run ended in Iowa in 2012, said if they ever had to get serious the Republicans — their presidential nominee and their Congress — would have to posit something to replace Obamacare. By Election Day, no more than 19 states representing less than a fifth of the uninsured population of the country will be refusing the Medicaid expansion authorized by Obamacare. Close to 20 million Americans who never had health insurance or had lost it will be insured, and hospitals and other medical institutions in those states will be even more desperate for the program. For states like Arkansas that are now run by Republicans, the prospect of losing Obamacare and seeing their budgets wrecked and their tax cuts
about Bernie Sanders, but nothing particularly warm either. “Bernie came in with the luxury of being a complete long shot and just letting loose,” he observed. The president said he understood the appeal of Sanders “full-throated … progressivism.” Well, Mr. Hopey-Changey (as Sarah Palin calls him) certainly should. Seven years of trench warfare with congressional Republicans, however, have brought out the president’s inner pragmatist. Which Democrat is best positioned to consolidate the Obama legacy and move it forward? First, one who stands a good chance of being elected. Look, there’s a reason Karl Rove’s Super-Pac is running anti-Hillary TV ads in Iowa. Bernie Sanders “radical” past makes him a GOP oppo-research dream. Never mind socialism. Did you know he once wrote a column claiming that sexual frustration causes cervical cancer? That in the 1970s, he called for nationalizing oil companies, electric utilities, and — get this — TV networks? Asked about it, he alibis that Hillary once supported Barry Goldwater. Yeah, when she was 16. Bernie was in his mid-30s when he called for confiscating the Rockefeller family fortune. How most Americans hear that is: If he can take away their stuff, he can CONTINUED ON PAGE 39
rendered catastrophic, just condemning Obamacare or fence-straddling would no longer be an option. So what would a health-care debate look like if it were between Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders, who both favor scrapping Obamacare and implementing a single-payer, government-guaranteed insurance program for everyone? Every Republican candidate has pledged to repeal Obamacare but none has laid out what he or she would do to replace it, though several have hinted they would keep parts of it that are popular. In fact, if you ask people about the distinct parts, almost every part of it polls favorably. It’s just the notion of Obamacare they don’t like. But vague though he is, Trump is more specific than any of his foes. He would cover every single person, whether they work or not, and the government would pay for everything. But he might, he says, use private insurance carriers like Obamacare does. While Obamacare subsidizes the premiums for people with low incomes, Trump would pay it all for them. How would the government pay for it? Higher taxes obviously, but Trump won’t say, now. Over on the Democratic side they are having that debate. The example doesn’t CONTINUED ON PAGE 39 www.arktimes.com
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Full of interesting voices and colorful portraits of 17 Little Rock and North Little Rock neighborhoods, this book gives an intimate, block-by-block, native’s view of the place more than 250,000 Arkansans call home. Created from interviews with residents and largely written by writers who actually live in the neighborhoods they’re writing about, the book features over 90 full color photos by Little Rock photographer Brian Chilson.
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A big vote on a small tax
D
espite the melting snow, it’s election season. From Little Rock’s vote on a bond program to expand the Arkansas Arts Center on Feb. 9 to votes for president and important state and local judgeships on March 1, voters across Pulaski County have opportunities to vote on a number of important matters in the coming five weeks. However, the vote that will determine the most about the shape of Central Arkansas’s future will be the last item on that March 1 ballot: a proposal to increase the county sales tax by a quarter-cent for Central Arkansas’s transit system. That vote will determine whether the newly renamed Rock Region Metro will become a source of transportation that folks across the county can count on and, because of importance of public transportation to the health of cities, whether there will be additional fuel for revitalization of the county’s urban core. The current funding scheme for Rock Region Metro is inadequate, uncertain and inflexible. With about three-quarters of its overall budget coming from local governments, the transit system is overwhelmingly dependent upon the county and municipalities in Pulaski County for its funding. If a municipality’s annual budget comes up short, an attractive place to cut is in its contribution to transit. Moreover, as part of a longstanding agreement, the service miles within the system match the share of funds provided by the locality. Without other sources of funds, this makes it impossible for the system to add additional routes or more frequent buses in those parts of the county — the hearts of Little Rock and North Little Rock — where bus travel makes the most sense and ridership is highest. In short, the current funding scheme undermines any innovations in the system. Over the years, Rock Region Metro has done a lot with a little, developing a system where the buses — a lifeline for thousands of residents wholly reliant upon them to get to work, school and doctor’s appointments — show up on time. Over recent months, Rock Region Metro has rebranded itself and modernized its fleet with sleeker, energy efficient, Wi-Fi enabled buses. These changes have provided a needed face-
lift to the system, but more fundamental alterations are necessary for the system to be a transportation JAY source for those BARTH who ride buses not out of necessity, but by choice. Rock Region Metro has developed a strategic plan that makes sense, including the addition of Bus Rapid Transit on crosstown corridors in Little Rock and North Little Rock that would serve as a backbone of the system, enhanced frequencies on the most traveled routes, and community shuttles in Sherwood, Maumelle, Jacksonville and West Little Rock. That plan can only begin to take shape if the system gets the $18 million annually that the quarter-cent sales tax would produce while maintaining most or all of the funding from local governments. These major alterations to the system would not yet create a truly comprehensive system, but would establish a solid foundation for the type of public transportation found in the most vibrant mid-sized U.S. cities where folks regularly mix buses, bikes and walking as their modes of transportation. Last week, both proponents of the increased tax (The Committee to Connect) and opponents (the Arkansas chapter of Americans for Prosperity) kicked off their campaigns. The AFP opposition centers on a simple antitax message that has won more often than not across the last two generations in American politics. The proponents made a more multifaceted argument: A healthy transit system is an environmentally conscious investment that makes it easier for seniors to remain independent, for college students to travel cheaply to campus and for those who are reliant upon bus travel to remain productive workers. But the most compelling argument focuses on the fact that the workers in a 21st century economy increasingly wish to live in places with healthy public transportation systems. Turnout will likely determine which argument prevails. While some conservatives nationally have seen the light on the value of a healthy transit system in 21st century communities, most Republican voters in Pulaski County are emphatically anti-tax. (Indeed, the
Bart Calhoun
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JANUARY 28, 2016
ARKANSAS TIMES
ry to wrap your minds around January’s basketball results at the University of Arkansas, and it will quite possibly have you in the psych ward within minutes. Let’s not neglect the Razorback women in this discussion, and in fact, we’ll lead Pearls with an extended mention of second-year coach Jimmy Dykes’ squad because that group swung the pendulum violently from one end to the next within a matter of days. Three days into the new year, the women’s team went to No. 2 South Carolina, saddled with a poor 5-8 record already, and got positively thumped by a garish 85-32 score that looks even worse when you consider that it was all square at 9-9 after the first 10-minute quarter. The Gamecocks simply picked on the fourth-youngest team in the nation from there, with a 35-9 second period followed by another lopsided third. It could’ve been utterly deflating. Go figure, the Hogs returned home and four days later claimed a rather unthinkable upset win over No. 13 Texas A&M. Another rout on the road followed — Mississippi State, another Top 10 team, was overwhelming in a 25-point coasting at Starkville — but Dykes’ bunch again patched all those leaks with two impressive home wins. First they overcame brutal first-half shooting and a major size disadvantage to upend the once-iconic Tennessee program. Then they used balanced scoring and a major free-throw edge to put No. 24 Missouri away by a dozen points. They followed with a road win at LSU, then took Auburn to overtime before succumbing. All told, this team is a ragged 9-11 overall but well positioned in the conference ledger at 4-3. They have been led by junior forward Jessica Jackson, a proficient veteran scorer, but are still trying to establish consistency from a sizable but wholly untested supporting cast. Freshman point guard Jordan Danberry of Conway has had some great moments from time to time as she adjusts to the college game, and sophomore Devin Cosper is improving as a second option. The youth movement that Dykes has attempted to implement is clearly the proper way to retool a program that has underperformed regularly. I voiced bewilderment at the hiring of Dykes, who seemed way more rahrah than real-talk in his delivery, but he’s at least earning the opportunity to press forward with his project. Can I say the same for Mike Anderson at this point? Debatable.
On the men’s side, Anderson’s team has reverted to bad habits after a three-game winning streak cataBEAU pulted them up WILCOX the standings. The road loss to LSU was, truth be told, one of the more forgivable and excusable defeats the program has had in recent years. It was followed by two games that were unpardonably bad. First, Kentucky came to Bud Walton for a Thursday night primetime game that had some pregame buzz about it for a change. One, this Wildcat team was scuffling by comparison with John Calipari’s prior-year bunch of NBA rentalsin-waiting, with four losses and a lack of cohesion. Two, Arkansas was still humming along despite the LSU loss, and three, Calipari hasn’t fared terribly well in Fayetteville. It all changed quickly and emphatically. The Cats harassed the Hogs’ shooters all night, so the three-point shooting that was heretofore a weapon became a fast liability. Even as Dusty Hannahs and Anthlon Bell adjusted to pour in some second-half points, the supporting cast disappeared and Tyler Ulis, Jamal Murray and Skal Labissiere piled up 54 combined points and got better help along the way. The 80-66 final margin wasn’t even that close, and suddenly the Hogs needed a major resuscitation within 48 hours to keep their season afloat. Going to Georgia wasn’t the worst option, but once again Mark Fox has a team that is equal parts unremarkable and tenacious. And Arkansas, after building a lead early, couldn’t stay composed long enough to fend off the Bulldogs. The Hogs wasted the best night of Anton Beard’s season and a 24-point outing by Hannahs by basically neglecting Bell — a 17-point scorer shooting as confidently as he ever has — the entire night. It was a function of bad game management that really plagued them. So two weeks ago, when we got a little excited about this team surging to 9-7, 3-1, we now have this sinking feeling that they are, in the immortal words of Dennis Green, who we thought they were at 9-10, 3-4. Two teams with similar records seem to be moving toward disparate fates. Dykes is confidently at the controls of a program in a critical phase of construction; Anderson, on the other hand, seems to be losing grip just before an infusion of junior college talent arrives.
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THE OBSERVER NOTES ON THE PASSING SCENE
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T
he Observer has a far-flung friend named Amy, who followed her dreams awhile back to a spot halfway around the world. She is currently living and teaching in Abu Dhabi; that tall, thin, southerndrawly girl from good ol’ White Hall, shipwrecked on the endless, oceanless beach. On her vacation year before last, she went to Venice. This year, she scooted on over to Nepal, and sent us photos she took of Everest, out the window of a circling plane. Later, she walked the streets of the fabled Katmandu, likely while humming Bob Seger’s song of the same name, God help her. Pretty good for somebody who used to sling pulled pork and 40-ounces at Sims Bar-B-Que. Back in the day, before she joined the international jet set, Amy used to live up the street from The Observatory, a long-time friend — befriended when she worked a semi-thankless job at the Arkansas Times even further back in the day — who became a neighbor zany enough to qualify for sitcom sidekick glory. When the snow flew on Maple Street, she would inevitably bundle up and traverse the slick and treacherous hill to our little domicile, to shelter in place with box wine, macaroni and cheese and Netflix for at least part of the day. She’s a card, not to mention damn charming when she’s tipsy, and filled those days with laughter. These days, she sends us postcards and knickknacks, all her envelopes and shipping boxes decorated with lovely postage stamps featuring stony-faced rulers and proud falcons. It makes The Observer feel very small to know that a house key to The Observatory is likely rattling around on Amy’s keyring, somewhere in the desert on the other side of this blue/brown marble we all call home. Very small indeed. When snow came again to Maple Street last week, The Observer was
delighted to open a message on Dr. Zuckerberg’s Fantabulous Book of Face and find a desert dream from our old friend. She keeps up with us, as we all keep up with each other, via the Internet, periodically letting us have a glimpse of her strange and sweltering life, long enough in that strange land now that she is a stranger no more. These days, she qualifies as an expat. Somehow, our friend has remade herself into a child of the world. From the tone of her message of last week, however, dare we say she was homesick for snow? It’s a possibility, we suppose, though the older we get the less we like it. Starve us of what meteorologists inevitably get around to calling “The White Stuff” for a few years, though, and The Observer would likely come to enjoy it very much. Here’s the message Amy of Arabia wrote to us on our snow day: “I see the Ice Man Cometh and I think of the time I went to see you on one of those days. I walked and fell. I gave myself sustenance from the teat of box wine as I rested in the aftermath of a particularly harrowing fall, some preteens on cardboard boxes sledding past not even giving a fare thee well to the blonde middle aged woman become Michelin tire man who had temporarily succumbed. I came, after a bit of travail, with roasted nuts, Velvetta and the rest of the box wine, only five glasses lacking. You opened your doors, welcoming this zany traveler into your home: Mr. Kitty and pretty Lisa and reclusive Sam. I drank and talked and passed the hell out on the couch. Happy Ice Day from Ruwais.” Like we said: wacky, zany, a neighbor worthy of “Three’s Company” or “Seinfeld.” Only difference these days is she’s a neighbor who lives on the other side of the planet. We can always use more of those.
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Arkansas Reporter
THE
More highway robbery? Governor’s plan avoids making drivers pay. BY BENJAMIN HARDY
G
ov. Asa Hutchinson unveiled his long-awaited plan for highway funding at a press conference last Tuesday in which he made the case for an approach that would rely on general revenue and surplus money — but no new taxes — to fill holes in Arkansas’s road budget. Understanding why this matters requires a little explanation about how state finances actually work before digging into the details. At its most basic, revenue flows into state coffers as taxes are collected, then flows out as the government spends money. But not all tax revenue goes into the same pot. Taxes collected on gasoline, diesel and certain vehicle-related transactions are used to directly fund the operations of the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department. Most other taxes collected by the state — such as income taxes and sales taxes — go into Arkansas’s general revenue fund, which is used to pay for K-12 education, health and human services, jails and prisons, higher education and other government services. This means AHTD traditionally has been kept separate from the other major functions of the state. In a sense, it’s selfsufficient: The means of paying for the roads are taxes on those who use the roads. That’s also why AHTD is set up to be constitutionally independent from other state agencies, with an appointed 12
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director and five commissioners administering the department largely outside the legislative scrutiny and direct executive oversight applied to the Education Department, the Department of Human Services and so forth. But Arkansas’s gas tax rate has stagnated at 21.5 cents per gallon since 2001, while inflation has increased the cost of road construction and repair. Vehicles have also grown more efficient, a fact that’s great for the environment but means less revenue from fuel taxes. The Highway Department can’t meet its own bottom line unless taxes on drivers are bumped up — or money is taken from elsewhere in state government. Enter the governor’s funding plan. Hutchinson wants to allocate an additional $46.9 million to highways in FY2017 (the fiscal year that begins this summer), rising to an estimated $81.1 million by FY2021. Most of it comes from using the state’s budget surplus, along with some funds that currently flow into general revenue. None of it is from higher fuel taxes, which the governor ruled out as a possibility. “This plan should act as a catalyst for [economic] growth by allowing us to increase our investment in highways without placing an unnecessary burden on Arkansas taxpayers,” he said last Tuesday. “I am pleased to say that it accomplishes both objectives.”
If general revenue is used to pay for highways, though, that means other programs will inevitably get less money. Hutchinson claimed increased efficiency measures would make up much of the difference, though he wasn’t specific about where exactly he’d want to see cuts, adding that he would be negotiating with the legislature over priorities. The governor acknowledged that this would be the “first time in history we’ve made a contribution to highways from general revenue.” He said he’d asked the Highway Department and its commissioners to “be responsive to increased legislative oversight in light of the transfer of general revenues to the Highway program” and would push for more transparency from the traditionally cloistered AHTD. When a reporter asked Hutchinson if he was worried about “leaving the barn door open,” in regards to eroding the wall between AHTD and the rest of state government, he replied, “that’s a barn door that is not sacrosanct.” However, the nonprofit Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families argued that the governor’s plan would inevitably drain money from other services. “How will we handle the unprecedented withdrawal of general revenue funds, which are already taking a beating from the most recent two rounds
of tax cuts?” Arkansas Advocates asked in a blog post responding to Hutchinson’s announcement. “If the state fails to replace the funds taken out of general revenue — and there is no guarantee that they can or will be able to do so — the list of critical services that could be on the chopping block is long and alarming. Think of programs that protect abused and neglected children, kids in pre-k or afterschool and summer programs, public defenders and firefighters.” The solution offered by the nonprofit is a simple one: “We need to modestly raise Arkansas’ gas and diesel taxes and index them to inflation as well as fuel efficiency. Starting off with just a 2.5 cent per gallon increase (which will cost about 37 cents extra every time you fill up your 15 gallon tank) will more than meet the governor’s first year highway funding totals.” As for concerns about that extra expense hurting low-income families, Advocates recommends an earned-income tax credit for the bottom 20 percent of earners in the state, offsetting the higher gas tax. It’s not just Arkansas Advocates. When the governor’s own Working Group on Highway Funding delivered four different propositions for increasing AHTD funding in December, higher fuel taxes were a big part of several of its proposals. But that appears to be off the table — an especially frustrat-
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ing fact considering the cost of gas has plummeted, due to rock-bottom global oil prices that economists predict will be around for some time. The largest chunk of Hutchinson’s proposed spending comes from surplus funds. This year, the governor will allocate $20 million from his “rainy day” discretionary fund and ask the legislature to kick in another $20 million in unobligated surplus. (That’s about half of both pots of money, said Duncan Baird, Hutchinson’s budget chief.) In future years, under the governor’s plan, the legislature will allocate 25 percent of surplus dollars in the General Improvement Fund toward highways. The GIF transfer would work out to about $48 million per year, he estimates, based on the average annual budget surplus over the last 10 years. This, too, requires some background to understand. Since state revenue is dependent on economic performance, predicting the tax haul for a given year takes professional expertise and not a little guesswork. Arkansas tends to make very conservative budget forecasts, meaning there’s often a surplus once tax receipts are actually collected. Much of the surplus goes into the GIF, which the legislature and governor then allocate toward local projects around the state (some worthy, others less so). But is a surplus still a surplus if 25 percent of it is automatically directed toward a core function of state government? Should budget priorities depend on surplus funds? Advocates also raises the point that surpluses “naturally go up and down. Sometimes they are in the hundreds of millions, a lot of times they are zero. If we could perfectly predict them, they wouldn’t exist. It’s hard to imagine a fund as huge as the highway department’s rolling the dice on federal match dollars year after year.” Part of the urgency in devising a highway funding plan is that new federal money is available for roads, but only if Arkansas kicks in a match. Hutchinson said the state could be forfeiting an average of $200 million per year in federal money, or $2 billion over the next decade, if it doesn’t come up with an average of $50 million annually in matching funds.
THE
BIG PICTURE
Other Arkansans of the Year These people also stood out.
Rep. Justin Harris The Arkansas Times reported on how Harris (R-West Fork) used his influence as a legislator to gain custody of two girls in state care, only to send them to live with another family, where one of them was sexually abused. Our reporting brought Harris heaps of negative publicity and led him to step down from key committee assignments and announce his intention not to seek reelection. Yet no Republican has publicly condemned Harris; he continues to draw a salary as a state legislator; and he and his wife continue to run a daycare that receives 90 percent of its funds from the state and federal governments.
Gov. Asa Hutchinson He oversaw a massive purge of eligible recipients of Medicaid. He managed the public relations disaster of Arkansas lawmakers’ push to legalize discrimination against LGBT people by talking nice, but doing little. He created a glut of task forces and study groups. He pushed through tax cuts for everyone in Arkansas except for the working poor. He welched on his promise to end pork barrel spending.
Eliza Borné The Little Rock native was named editor-in-chief of the Oxford American, the national literary magazine based in Little Rock. Under her leadership, the magazine was recently nominated for a National Magazine Award for General Excellence. She’s the magazine’s third editor and the first from Arkansas.
Arkansas Supreme Court This normally august body, usually composed of nearly anonymous justices, drew attention for its transparent efforts to delay ruling on samesex marriage and churlish infighting. Even in death, former Chief Justice Jim Hannah wasn’t spared from lingering bitterness among some of his former colleagues, who issued tepid statements about his legacy only after media attention.
Tommy Norman The North Little Rock Police Officer went viral this year after rapper Killer Mike cited him as an example of a law enforcement officer “doing something right” on CNN. Norman’s Instagram (@tnorman23) is a testament to his commitment to community policing. “If you’re going to go visit a neighborhood, visit a group of kids, you’ve got to do that day in and day out, every day, every month, every year,” he told KTHV, Channel 11 earlier this year. “And if that happens consistently, then you’ll win the community over.”
Mary Steenburgen The 62-year-old Newport native and actress had one of the best years of her decorated career. She was all over the place in 2015, notably appearing in TV’s “Last Man on Earth,” “Justified,” “Orange Is the New Black” and “Togetherness.”
www.arktimes.com
JANUARY 28, 2016
13
ARKANSAN O F THE YEAR
KAT WILSON
GOD BROUGHT THEM TO ARKANSAS: Where Anita Bacon, shown here with her husband, Cory, could be covered by the Medicaid expansion.
The newly insured Arkansan What the Affordable Care Act means to the people who need it the most. BY BENJAMIN HARDY
O
ver the past two years, Arkansas has seen the country’s largest decline in its per capita number of uninsured residents. In mid-2013, according to a Gallup poll, 22.5 percent of adults in Arkansas were uninsured, the nation’s second-highest rate after Texas. In mid-2015, Gallup found that only 9.1 percent of Arkansans over age 18 still lacked health insurance. That’s a 60 percent drop. The majority of those folks haven’t had their lives saved by their new coverage. For most people, the immediate value of insurance is in peace of mind, 14
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ARKANSAS TIMES
access to exams and routine doctor visits. Still, sooner or later, they’ll need their insurance for something serious, because sooner or later, almost everybody does. Then there are those Arkansans for whom getting insurance — for the first time ever, in many cases — has genuinely transformed their lives. It’s meant cancer screenings that have caught tumors while they were still manageable. It’s meant necessary surgeries and treatment for mental illness. It’s meant an end to rationing essential medication for asthma or arthritis or multiple sclerosis or hundreds of other ailments with
sky-high prescription drug costs. That’s why our Arkansan of the Year for 2015 isn’t any one person, but the estimated 300,000 citizens in this state who have gained health insurance since 2013. The ongoing sea change is the result of the Affordable Care Act. Or call it Obamacare, if you prefer. In addition to an array of other reforms, mandates and incentives, the 2010 law created two distinct means of helping Americans get insurance. First, for lower- to middle-income people, it made available a sliding scale of subsidies (in the form of tax credits) to help defray the cost
of buying private insurance on a newly created marketplace, or exchange. Second, for individuals at the bottom of the income ladder, it expanded eligibility for Medicaid. In 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court said that states, which administer Medicaid programs, had the power to reject this second piece if they wished. Eager to take a stand against Obamacare, every Southern state did just that, with two exceptions: Arkansas and Kentucky (which has seen the nation’s second highest drop in the uninsured). Thanks to former Democratic Gov. Mike Beebe
ARKANSAN O F THE YEAR
and a group of pragmatic Republicans in the state legislature, the Arkansas Medicaid expansion was authorized in 2013. The state took a novel approach, using the federal money to buy private insurance policies for most beneficiaries rather than covering them with Medicaid directly. The private option, as the policy became known, was the subject of rancorous fights among Arkansas Republicans in 2013 and again in 2014, when the legislature reauthorized its funding by the narrowest of margins. In 2015, though, the reauthorization passed easily, and it now seems likely it’s here to stay. Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson may not have approved the Medicaid expansion if he had been sitting in the governor’s office in 2013, but he’s inherited the private option and now wants to keep it in place. Taking away insurance from hundreds of thousands of Arkansans would be politically treacherous, to put it mildly. Also, shutting down the flow of federal Medicaid dollars would blow a hole in the state budget: According to a consultant hired by the legislature, the private option will save Arkansas $438 million between 2017 and 2021, on net. Hutchinson wants to make the private option more conservative, with more cost sharing from beneficiaries and punitive measures if people don’t make their co-pays. (He’s also striving to rebrand things: It’s not “the private option” anymore, but “Arkansas Works.”) Last summer, his administration kicked tens of thousands of people off their insurance as part of an errorridden and unnecessarily harsh process to redetermine eligibility. Such changes matter, and the Times will continue to follow them in detail in the coming months. However, it’s equally important to step back from the policy machinery and take a look at the larger triumph: Piece by piece, bit by bit, lower income Arkansans are gaining access to health care. Here are a few of their stories.
ANIT A B AC ON Anita Bacon grew up on a dairy farm in the Appalachian foothills of the northeast corner of Alabama, 23 miles from the Tennessee line. That may be why she and her husband, Cory, decided on a
whim to settle down in Madison County while passing through Arkansas nine years ago. “Basically, God brought us here,” the 40-year-old mother of one said recently. “Led to come and led to stay. My husband fell in love with the place, and how can you not? Right in the middle of the Ozark Mountains and you’ve got a creek running through your property.” He worked as a carpenter, she cleaned houses, and six years ago they opened a restaurant called Backwoods BBQ, in the remote hamlet of St. Paul, pop. 113. But by that point, Bacon’s health had started to fail, with one ominous diagnosis arriving after another. First she discovered she had rheumatoid arthritis, then ulcerative colitis, a severe autoimmune disorder of the gastrointestinal tract, akin to Crohn’s disease. “The insurance plans that my husband and I looked at were well above our budget,” Bacon said. “Between working, buying our own food and paying our own way, we lived week to week with hardly any savings, like most Americans.” A few years ago, a free clinic in Fayetteville discovered precancerous polyps in her colon, news that demanded further tests of her gastrointestinal tract. The clinic performed a lower GI series — a diagnostic exam of the large intestine — but Bacon and her husband had to pay out of pocket for the upper GI series. “You had to give them $800 down,” she recalled. “And, you know, it’s just something to me when someone is bleeding on the inside and they’re saying, ‘You got to give me $800 first.’ You got to go and try to make that money, and try to eat Pepcid and Tums and PeptoBismol, and you’re vomiting, and you can’t even hold down water. And ... you go to the ER to get hydrated. And you get a $1,500 bill. It’s a circus. “I begged and made payments and got a lot of threatening letters. I ate less and tried to work a little more.” Even so, when Bacon was told she would be eligible for Medicaid, she was reluctant to enroll. “I was dead set against it. I was!” she said with a chuckle. “I’d heard all this bad stuff. But then when I researched it myself ... I had to weigh it at that point.” Karen Reynolds, a nurse practitioner who runs a clinic in Elkins and who is Bacon’s primary care provider, helped to convince her otherwise. “Karen does a
notch above to help,” Bacon said. “She’s taken her own time to help me — to help me find medication, to find referrals.” The free clinic in Fayetteville also encouraged her. “The doctors were like, ‘You need it. There ain’t no shame in it. You’ve worked your whole life.’ ” Which was true, she realized. “I’ve had to work dairy farming seven days a week for 10 years. I started out when I was 15 years old. I’ve worked my whole life and I’ve paid in, you know? And I’ve never walked on a line of trying to have any help. I just wasn’t brought up that way. You work two jobs if you couldn’t make it. … I watched my daddy work three jobs and die with hardly nothing. … And that’s hard to swallow, you know? “Life is tough. You shell out all your money, and you go through days of excruciating pain to try to make it, and all the doctors want to do is give you a prescription and move on. … Pain pills and antibiotics and all that. … They won’t do any testing on you unless you have insurance.” Bacon signed up for Medicaid a year ago, in January 2015. (Because of her chronic conditions, she was routed into the traditional Medicaid program, rather than a private plan.) “I know people have different opinions [on the health care law],” she said, “but the insurance overall has been a blessing to me and my husband. … I was just able to have an upper and lower GI done. I had to have an ultrasound done on my stomach. I’ve had some procedures done that I would never have had done before.” Between illness and various losses in her family life, Bacon has struggled with depression and anxiety; fortunately, the insurance pays for mental health care. “I’ve been able to get help for that, too.” It’s the drug coverage, though, that’s made the biggest difference. Before she got insured, she said, “the prescriptions for the rheumatoid arthritis — at Harp’s [Pharmacy] they’d run me a tab. … It’s the only way we could do it. It was $200 a month, and I could only buy five pills at a time. Then I’d skip two days and go buy five more. I did that a lot, and I cried a lot. But we got through it. “I think we went through the bad to get here. And everything ain’t just great and dandy and dandelions growing, you know, but I’m grateful. I am. … You may not have everything you want, but you have everything you need.”
Along with the prescriptions and procedures, Bacon says, she tries hard to lead a healthy lifestyle to manage her conditions. “You walk and juice and you do all these things to try to get better. ... I try to keep myself at a weight that’s easier on my joints and stuff. So I’m very aware of my part in this whole ordeal.” “It’s been a hard road,” she said, her voice breaking slightly. “I didn’t even have to take a Tylenol till I was 23 years old. I was never sick. I worked hard.” She has no doubt the insurance has been a great help , but she’s still not sure what to make of the bitter political debate around health care reform, which seems so disconnected from the reality of her day-to-day struggle. “I don’t know if everything is right or wrong about this situation. You can’t even really talk about this to people, ’cause they’ll start arguing with you. … But, I think, I can jump in there and say, ‘If you need help, this is what I did.’ It’s tough when you’re a person with no insurance. “But, I’d rather have no insurance and be healthy, to be honest with you.”
GEOR GE COL EM A N On Jan. 25, 2012, George Coleman lay in bed in his North Little Rock home, preparing himself for death. He was in the grip of an asthma attack, but that in itself was nothing new. Coleman said his chronic respiratory problems date back to the 16 years he spent working at a now-shuttered plant in North Little Rock called Chicopee Inc., where his regular duties included sweeping out the ventilation system on an industrial oven. What made this time different was that he’d run out of medicine: To clear his lungs, Coleman
I think it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. It’s probably saved my life, to be honest with you. —George Coleman www.arktimes.com
JANUARY 28, 2016
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ARKANSAN O F THE YEAR
BRIAN CHILSON
COLEMAN: The taxi driver says the Affordable Care Act “is the greatest thing since sliced bread. It’s probably saved my life.”
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depends on Symbicort, a prescription inhaler that can cost over $300 for a month’s supply. He’d been out for several weeks at that point. “When you don’t have any oxygen in your body, you can’t even move. You’re froze. You’re paralyzed,” Coleman said. “I had pretty much accepted the fact that my time on this earth wasn’t long. “I’m a spiritual person, and I asked God for just enough time for me to make my will out. Give me the opportunity to tell my mama I love her just one more time. It felt like at that moment I was given that extra measure of strength to get up and go work enough to buy this medicine. But I thought it was over. I did.” For a decade and a half, Coleman, now 55, has made his living driving a cab. He went without insurance for years, paying for medication out-ofpocket, but it was a tenuous situation. “I was just showing up enough to pay for the cab and make a little money to buy medicine,” he recalled; he relied on his savings to pay other living expenses. “It was becoming difficult to even get a doctor to respond to my phone calls when I needed a prescription filled.” In 2013, Coleman managed to get insured through his employer. Coverage was dropped, but around the same time, in January 2014, the private option kicked in. Coleman was one of the first in line to sign up. “I think it’s the greatest thing since sliced bread. It’s probably saved my life, to be honest with you,” he said. Opponents of the Affordable Care Act often caricature Obamacare beneficiaries as idle welfare recipients in search of a handout. Coleman’s story shows that narrative isn’t just wrong-
headed — in many cases, it’s exactly backward. Access to health care can allow people to work who otherwise would have been driven out of the labor force by illness. “My spirits lifted up because I felt like I would be able to still be part of the working class. It’s in my blood to work,” Coleman said. “I have been working since I was 11 years old. I grew up in the heart of Lonoke County, on a farm on [Highway] 232. … I chopped cotton, I baled hay, I hauled wood for four different families in the wintertime. I washed cars, raked leaves, cut grass. … My parents picked the check up and used it to support the family.” Health insurance wasn’t an option back then. “My daddy was paid $90 a week and my mama was paid $15 a week. There were six of us in that house, plus my mom and my dad. My daddy, he didn’t get past grade school, and neither did my mother. … It’s not that we’re not hard-working people, but the system hadn’t progressed or advanced enough so that families like mine could be covered. There was no way in the world my father could have covered us on $90 a week. “I’ve never been fired from a job, and I’ve had some real tough jobs in my life. … I’ve been working for 44 years, and my body is beginning to show the wear and tear of working. And you know, I love this country as much as anybody, and I’m as proud of this country as much as anybody, but … to live in a country where I have to choose between living and dying, because my medicine is too expensive to afford? To me, it’s just troubling. Disturbing. I don’t understand how people don’t want other people to be treated like they want to be treated.”
Three days after that asthma attack in 2012, on Jan. 28, Coleman’s youngest grandson was born. “If someone had told me I had four more years to live right then? Man, I would’ve done anything … . Thank God for this medicine.” The past four years, he said, “were probably the best of my life.” He’s since been able to resume full-time work. Lately, he’s facing a new wrinkle. Coleman’s insurance carrier, BlueCross BlueShield, says it will no longer pay for Symbicort. Though BCBS will cover a similar asthma drug called Advair, Coleman is worried that it won’t work as well. “They’ve switched medicines before, and they don’t act the same,” he said. “I’ve got enough [Symbicort] to last me for about another three months.” Before that supply runs out, he’s looking into switching carriers; the thought of facing another asthma attack without his trusted medication is too grim. “There’s nothing worse than not being able to breathe. Nothing. I’ve had broken bones, pneumonia, chest pains, back pains, toothaches, you name it — there’s nothing worse. I pray to God all the time that when I die, it’s not from my asthma.” For Coleman, it’s a reminder that the Affordable Care Act hasn’t fixed everything wrong with the U.S. health care system. “The thing about America is — this is the one country that doesn’t negotiate with [drug manufacturers] to the point where they can make sure the prices don’t get out of hand,” he said. Indeed, according to a 2013 New York Times report, a month’s supply of Advair in the U.S. costs seven times as much as it does in France, where the government caps wholesale phar-
maceutical prices. Meanwhile, talk about rolling back Obamacare unnerves him. “I don’t see how you can be the leader of the free world and not provide health care. If that’s the direction our politicians want to go in, I feel like you are putting the American public at risk.” “Martin Luther King used to quote John Donne: ‘No man is an island unto himself.’ You know, what affects you affects me. … I think many people are starved as far as their understanding about how mankind should try to treat mankind. We’re all in this thing together. And I think this health care plan is a step in the right direction.”
CR Y ST A L B L ES The average high school senior isn’t too worried about insurance coverage, but for Fairfield Bay native Crystal Bles, it was a priority. When Bles began studying welding last fall at the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton, she was on the verge of aging out of ARKids, the state’s program covering low- to middle-income children. (ARKids is mostly paid for with federal dollars, but the funding streams are distinct from those fueling Obamacare.) While many young adults now rely on their parents’ insurance to stay covered until age 26 — thanks to another change created by the Affordable Care Act — Bles’ parents were uninsured. “When I turned 18, I had to pay for certain prescriptions,” Bles told the Times. “And then they sent me another letter in the mail when I turned 19, and said, hey, at this date
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ARKANSAN O F THE YEAR
BRIAN CHILSON
BLES: The 19-year-old aged out of ARKids coverage, but as a welder needed insurance. The private option made that possible.
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you’re kicked off of your insurance.” She “most definitely” knew she needed coverage, she said, given her chosen area of study. “In welding, people tend to get injured.” A problem arose with her application for private option coverage — Bles said she’s not sure what went wrong — and she was initially denied. But in December, she sought help from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. With the assis-
tance of UAMS, she enrolled in a plan that covers her ongoing prescription needs (an inhaler, allergy medications and birth control) and also allowed her to get a minor but necessary surgery taken care of. Now recovered from surgery, she’s back in school full time and has resumed working part time at the Walmart in Conway. After graduating from Morrilton’s one-year welding program this spring, Bles plans to continue studying the
PO I NT E YOUR FAMILY IN A BRIGHTER DIRECTION
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“TRICARE” is a registered trademark of the TRICARE Management Activity. All rights reserved.
trade in Omaha, Neb. “I’ve always been kind of hands-on and artistic, and, well, I’ve always been told artists can’t make very much money. So I figured that if I went into welding I could make a good living and still be able to do art with it — making furniture or rails, or gates, or sculpture,” she said. What would she have done without the program? “I probably would have been one of those people who would have gone without [insurance], because I really don’t think I could have afforded it,” she said. One thing for Bles to consider, then: Nebraska, like 18 other states as of January 2016, has not expanded Medicaid to cover low-income adults as the Affordable Care Act envisioned. Last spring, the Nebraska legislature considered a bill that would have created a modified expansion program much like Arkansas’s private option, providing insurance to some 54,000 Nebraskans. It was defeated. For young Arkansans like Bles, the private option has already become a fact of life — a vital government ser-
vice, funded by taxpayers and provided for taxpayers, just like public schools and food stamps, highways and Pell grants, law enforcement and libraries. Unlike so many other Southern and Western states that have refused to expand Medicaid, Arkansas has guaranteed that most of its young people exiting ARKids at age 19 will have access to health insurance if they can’t otherwise obtain it. Assuming the Affordable Care Act remains substantially intact — itself an open question that depends on the results of this November’s elections — the days in which being uninsured was the rule rather than the exception in many Arkansas communities may be coming to an end. Sometimes there seem to be a thousand reasons to be angry, appalled or just plain saddened by Arkansas and its politics. The fact of the Medicaid expansion — or the private option, or Obamacare, or whatever one calls it — gives about 300,000 reasons to have some sense of pride in what the state, under the right circumstances, can actually accomplish.
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1/12/16 7:59 AM
Arts Entertainment AND
COMING OF AGE THROUGH VINYL An excerpt from “Soul Serenade.” BY RASHOD OLLISON
L
ittle Rock native Rashod Ollison is author of “Soul Serenade: Rhythm, Blues, & Coming of Age Through Vinyl” (Beacon Press, 2016), a new memoir about growing up gay in a volatile family — and how music provided a sort of salvation. Ollison, a graduate of Sylvan Hills High School and an Arkansas Times Academic All-Star, is the pop culture critic for The Virginia-Pilot. Previously, he was a staff critic at the Dallas Morning News, the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Journal News in Westchester, N.Y. and 20
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the Baltimore Sun. Excerpted from “Soul Serenade: Rhythm, Blues, & Coming of Age Through Vinyl” by Rashod Ollison (Beacon Press, 2016). Reprinted with permission from Beacon Press. Clara Mae was daddy’s girlfriend. She lived in a white house with two front doors — one opened to the living room, the other to the front bedroom. The white clapboard house faced
a grassy lot, where a large pool of water sat for days after a heavy rain. Daddy and I visited Clara Mae sometimes on the weekends in Malvern, about 45 minutes from our home in Hot Springs. He turned the white Buick onto the quiet street where Clara Mae lived alone. “Your mama ask where we been, tell her we was at Big Mama’s or Aunt Geneva’s. Got that, Dus-Dus?” I grinned when Daddy called me his variation of Dusty, my nickname. I nodded. “I don’t hear you, my man.” “OK.” Daddy turned off the car in front of Clara Mae’s and reached over my legs to the glove compartment, where he kept his half pint of Seagram’s gin. He stared at her high, leaning porch for a moment before clearing his throat. Then he unscrewed the cap and took a quick swig. “Oooooweee!” I cracked up when Daddy threw back the first taste. His reaction was always the same. In my 6-year-old world, he was a big ebony clown. He tossed the bottle back into the glove compartment.
THE AUTHOR: Rashod Ollison, whose book is about how music was his salvation.
“C’mon, son.” The narrow steps to Clara Mae’s porch had no railing on either side. I wondered if anybody ever fell off. I wondered how Daddy negotiated the steps without falling. At home, he was anything but graceful. He tripped over toys, skates, board game pieces — things my sisters and I left around. It also didn’t help that he was usually drunk, stepping in hours after he’d left work at the Reynolds aluminum plant. Mama stood there when the door flew open — hand on hip and lips looking like a slash in her face — ready to cuss him out. But at Clara Mae’s, Daddy was
ROCK CANDY Check out the Times’ A&E blog arktimes.com
A&E NEWS THE ARKANSAS TIMES FILM Series will continue Tuesday, Feb. 16, with a screening of Steven Spielberg’s “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” $7.50. The screening will be held at Riverdale 10 Cinema on Cantrell (featuring electric recliners and reserved seating). An awe-struck and hypnotic sci-fi epic about obsession, the film was nominated for eight Academy Awards and has been called, by critic Jonathan Rosenbaum, “the best expression of Spielberg’s benign, dreamy-eyed vision.” Starring Richard Dreyfuss, Francois Truffaut, Melinda Dillon and Teri Garr, with music by John Williams. GRAND OPENING EVENTS for Pulaski Technical College’s Center for Humanities and Arts will be held Feb. 2-5. Two highlights: Pulitzer Prize-winning author Douglas A. Blackmon (“Slavery by Another Name: The Re-Enslavement of Black Americans from the Civil War to World War II”) will speak at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 4, free; and gospel legend Mavis Staples, whose new album “Livin’ On A High Note,” will be released in February, will perform at 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 5. Tickets are available are pulaskitech.edu/charts.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR AN EVENING WITH
MAVIS STAPLES FRIDAY, FEB. 5 / 8 P.M.
Pulaski Technical College Center for Humanities and Arts 3000 West Scenic Drive • North Little Rock, Arkansas Join us for an evening with one of America’s greatest musical treasures. Mavis Staples is a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, NEA National Heritage Fellow, 2016 Grammy nominee and named one of Rolling Stone’s Top 100 Greatest Singers of All Time. Sponsored by
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ADVANCE TICKETS ARE NOW available for the 12th annual Valley of the Vapors Independent Music Festival in Hot Springs (March 18-22), featuring performances by Kelley Deal (of The Breeders), Gus Unger-Hamilton (of altJ), Water Liars, Dikki Du & The Zydeco Krewe and Juiceboxxx. For more information visit valleyofthevapors.com. LITTLE ROCK’S THICK SYRUP Records (founded by Travis McElroy) has joined forced with Fast Weapons Records (founded by Nathan Howdeshell); most artists on the former label will continue recording for the latter. A new online store is forthcoming this month (featuring tapes, shirts, art projects and more), and the new-and-improved Fast Weapons will launch a monthly limited edition vinyl series, kicking off with a release by cult favorites Half Japanese, to be followed by original material by Sonic Youth’s Lee Ranaldo.
Questions? Talk to a human: (501) 260-7998
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COMING OF AGE THROUGH VINYL, CONT. gentlemanly, despite the gin coursing through his veins. He patted his hair and adjusted his clothes before knocking on the door. Clara Mae answered with a wide smile accented with a goldrimmed front tooth. I’d overheard Daddy tell his buddies, “You know how I like ’em, man: light, bright, and almost white.” With her custard complexion, Mama was close enough. But Clara Mae didn’t pass Daddy’s brown-paper-bag test. She was the color of Big Mama’s homemade sweet tea, and Clara Mae couldn’t have been more than five feet tall, with features that seemed too large for her face. Her stringy, rust-colored Jheri curl was in desperate need of a few more sprays of activator. Clara Mae may not have been a beauty queen from the neck up. But south of her collarbone, she was a petite brick house with generous hips and a have-mercy bubble ass. It was the same figure Mama had before she started to pack on pounds after Reagan and I were born. Clara Mae’s physical attributes and honeysuckle-sweet disposition, the opposite of Mama’s no-nonsense ways, must’ve been what hooked Daddy. “Looka there,” she said, feigning surprise at the sight of me and unlocking the screen door. It was as though I were a gift she found on that raggedy-ass porch. “Just gettin’ big and fine! Come on in here.” Clara Mae’s ornately decorated living room couldn’t have been more dissimilar to ours. Nothing was ever out of place: no stray shoes, no toys on the floor. No used dish or cup left for hours on the coffee table. At Clara Mae’s, oldlady bric-a-brac adorned polished side tables. Plastic covered two wide, triangular lamp shades, and white doilies draped the arms of a faded floral couch and love seat. The stuffy decor belied Clara Mae’s age. She was only in her thirties. The scent of something savory and heavily seasoned sometimes thickened the air. Clara Mae cooked for us a few times. Her collard greens and hot-water cornbread nearly rendered Mama’s irrelevant. Most times, though, her house smelled of vanilla and cigarette smoke. She and Daddy puffed on Viceroys. Her living room was dominated by a long, handsome console stereo. Albums lined the front of it and flanked the sides. Her 45s stood in three brass racks. My eyes lit up at the sight of 22
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all that music. “Go on, look through them records,” Clara Mae said. “You know you want to.” “Don’t mess ’em up, son,” Daddy said, reclining on the couch as though he paid bills there. On my knees, I flipped through the LPs, stopping at images that caught my eye: Patrice Rushen with long braids adorned with beads and feathers; Betty Wright sporting a globular ’fro, one hand on her hip, the other holding a microphone; Al Green in a dove-white suit sitting cross-legged in a wicker chair that matched his outfit. I held up an album. “Look, Daddy, this lady got her tongue out.” Clara Mae plucked the LP out of my hand. “This ain’t for you.” “Can I hear it?” I asked. Daddy spoke up. “Who’s that, Clara Mae?” “Millie Jackson.” They laughed as if they were in on a private joke. “Can I hear it?” I asked again. “Boy, you don’t know nothin’ ’bout this,” Clara Mae said. “Go ’head and put it on.” “Raymond, this boy ain’t got no business listenin’ to no Millie Jackson.” “Put it on. Boy pro’ly hear worse over at Teacake’s,” Daddy said, referring to my profane grandmother, who sold brown liquor and homemade fried pork skins out of her house. Clara Mae shook her head and placed the album on the automatic turntable. It fell and the needle slid into the first groove. An ominous bass line, overlaid with billowing strings and woodwinds, boomed
‘RUNNING OUT OF LIES’: Like Johnnie Taylor sings.
from the speakers. Frayed around the edges, the husky female voice brought to mind the smoky, lowdown atmosphere at Mama Teacake’s. Millie sang of fires burning deep down inside, of love wheels turning that rendered one helpless and open to doing just about anything. I looked at Daddy, grinning at the sound of the record I’d picked. He smiled, nodding to the groove. “Like that, Dus-Dus?” I nodded my head the way he did. “Yep.” Clara Mae and Daddy laughed then looked at each other. “Hey,” Daddy said, rising off the couch. “Sit here and listen to that record, hear? Don’t go touchin’ nothin’. Just let the record play.” Clara Mae turned the volume up as Millie broke down the meaning of an all-the-way lover. She sounded like the free-spirited women who sat gap-legged in Mama Teacake’s living room and cussed in coarse voices. Daddy followed Clara Mae into the bedroom, which was next to the living room, and closed the door. As the album played, I heard an occasional thud on the other side of the wall. I had no idea what was going on in there — and didn’t care. Millie was great company. The needle played side A again. As Millie sang for the second time about fires burning deep down inside, Daddy emerged from the bedroom. His ARETHA shirt was buttoned FRANKLIN wrong. Clara Mae
soon followed. Her dry Jheri curl was flat on one side. *** Much of the down-home soul I remember hearing from my childhood explored the joys and pains of outside love. It was a popular lyrical theme in R&B in the early ’70s, the newlywed period for my parents. I didn’t come along until 1977, when disco thumped everywhere but not in the Ollison household. Blues-suffused soul and traditional gospel sparked good vibes and sustained us through bad times. The come-hither croon of Eddie Kendricks and the symphonic love letters of Barry White were the soundtrack to the early years of my parents’ marriage. But by the time I was in kindergarten, their union had cracked and the songs darkened. Just about all of the records Daddy dug had something to do with cheating. And he certainly wasn’t the only one listening. Just about everybody I knew had half-brothers and -sisters, “outside babies,” as folks called them. Clara Mae wasn’t Daddy’s only sidepiece, but she was the only one whose house I knew and whose food I ate. During my parents’ marriage, two women bore children with strong Ollison features: thick eyebrows with high arches, full lips, and bulbous noses. Mama, who was a few months pregnant with me, read the baby announcement for the first one in the morning paper. The baby’s name, Antonio Ramon Ollison, stopped her because she had initially picked it for me. Apparently,
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COMING OF AGE THROUGH VINYL, CONT. Daddy liked the name enough to suggest it to the baby’s mother, a young Malvern woman barely out of high school. Mama forgave him after Daddy promised he’d never do it again. But he lied just as Johnnie Taylor did in “Running Out of Lies.” It was “getting hard to think of an alibi.” Barely two years after my youngest sister, Reagan, was born, another woman in Malvern had another son. Mama had had enough. Before he moved out of our house on Garden Street, Daddy spent hours playing those baby-I-didn’t-mean-it songs in the living room in the dark: a cold Miller in one hand and a Viceroy burning in the other. He’d chuckle at a verse. But mostly, he stared straight ahead as an anguished voice on the stereo crooned how trying to love two sure ain’t easy to do. *** As the shattered pieces of the marriage settled around her, Mama knelt at the altar of Aretha. She played “Amazing Grace,” the legend’s landmark 1972 gospel double LP, seemingly every waking hour during the turbulent years of the marriage, the only years I remember. The album often played on Sunday mornings as we got ready for church. The fiery, holy sounds of Aretha shouting the good news, shadowed by the Southern California Community Choir, sometimes filled the house well into the night. Daddy wasn’t home much during the last two years of the marriage. Some of his things (his shoes, his clothes, many of his albums) disappeared. I didn’t know where he stayed. Clara Mae’s? Big Mama’s? Whenever he showed up, he and Mama fought. Daddy, as usual, was drunk and the first to lay hands, shoving Mama against a wall, on the couch, on the floor. But she always fought back: kicking, scratching, and biting. She clocked him in the head once with a phone. Her nostrils flaring, Mama set it down, carefully placing the receiver back on the base. Then she looked at us as we stood there scared and shocked. “Y’all get somewhere and sit down,” she said, stepping over Daddy, as he moaned and writhed on the floor, holding his head. But whenever Aretha was on, order seemed restored. Her majestic voice grounded us, especially Mama. After she came home from her job at Coy’s restaurant, where she prepared fancy salads 24
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all day, Mama often reached for Aretha. The songs she played indicated her mood. If “Respect” or “(Sweet, Sweet Baby) Since You’ve Been Gone” rocked the house, her spirits were up; soaring ballads such as “Angel” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” meant she was reflective; moody cuts like “Ain’t No Way” and “Do Right Woman, DoRight Man” meant she didn’t want to be bothered. So we tiptoed around her. Even as a child I gathered that Aretha’s music, especially her classic Atlantic recordings, was an extension of church. The air changed. A sense of reverence rained down as her voice soared from the speakers. I straightened up and listened. Coupling the skyripping strength of Aretha’s voice with Mama’s warrior-woman presence, I felt protected in Daddy’s absence. So much of Mama’s life was reflected and refracted in Aretha’s lyrics: the longing, the loss, the hope, the faith, the perseverance. In 1967, the year of the singer’s pop breakthrough, Mama turned 17. She entered womanhood with the Queen of Soul as a cultural guidepost. Aretha was the natural woman/ genius from down the block, worldweary and accessible, nappy edges and all on full display. She mingled the muddy funk of the Delta with the cosmopolitan sleekness of the North. And in her music, Mama seemed to always find a home. She admired other dynamic black female singers of her generation and played their music often. Diana Ross and Gladys Knight come to mind. But her reaction to their songs wasn’t the same as when Aretha sang. Mama swayed and rocked. She waved her hand in the air, the way she did in church. Sometimes she cried. In 1983, her marriage fell in sharp glittering pieces all around her. My oldest sister, Dusa, was 14; Reagan, the youngest, was 5; and I was 6. Garden Street was bleak, save for the aural sunbeam of Aretha singing through the surface noise of well-worn vinyl, assuring us that God would take care of everything. *** In the summer of ’83, a few months before my parents’ divorce was final, we moved into the housing projects over on Omega Street. The apartment felt like a step up from our place on Garden. That house, a small white one with three bedrooms, had been built sometime in the 1920s, with a wide front porch and not much of a yard in the front or the back. It faced the old National Baptist Hotel,
at that time an abandoned building my sisters and I thought was haunted. Decades before, the majestic red-brick hotel attracted every major black performer who came to Hot Springs. The building, which took up a block, included a bathhouse, a performance venue, a conference center, a gym, and a beauty parlor. The neighborhood surrounding the National Baptist Hotel had been a glorious one in the years before integration. Black doctors, lawyers, teachers, and other professionals lived in the stately homes, some of which were teetering on dilapidation just before we moved out. Reagan and I rode our Big Wheels up and down the hill in front of our house. Drunks staggering out of the dives and liquor stores on Malvern Avenue, the main drag that ran perpendicular to Garden Street, were mostly nice. Some were even parental, telling us to be careful on our Big Wheels and to stay out of the street. We were all happy to leave that old white house, which was also home to mice and roaches. I remember once going into the kitchen and seeing a mouse swimming around in the cold, greasy dishwater left overnight in the sink. I almost pissed myself. Daddy’s absence hung over everything. I missed our clandestine trips to Clara Mae’s; to the liquor store on the street directly behind the house, where he bought me Guy’s potato chips and Dr Pepper; to the homes of his drinking buddies, where I was treated like one of the fellas. I wasn’t given beer to drink, though occasionally Daddy gave me a quick sip of his and laughed his wheezing laugh as I frowned and gagged at the acrid taste. I sat among his ragtag friends and absorbed their tall tales peppered with “bitch” this and “muthafucka” that. For the longest time, I thought my name was “Lil’ Mafucka.” As I followed Daddy into smoky backrooms, a grinning drunk man with a beer in his hand knelt down to rub my head and say, “Hey there, lil’ mafucka.” I remember the last time Daddy darkened our front door on Garden Street. It was a Saturday morning, and Mama was at work. Dusa was in charge, sitting on the couch talking on the phone, as usual. Reagan and I were glued to the TV, eating cereal and watching “The Smurfs,” when the door opened and in walked Daddy. We rushed him, hugging his legs. I couldn’t remember the last time he had been home.
He hugged us and went into the bedroom he shared with Mama. We followed him, pelting him with questions: “You come home, Daddy? You stayin’, Daddy?” “Y’all go on back in the living room now,” he said. “Go on.” We went back into the living room, giddy that he was home at last. After he was in the room for a while, I snuck in. He sat on the edge of the bed crying, something Daddy often did when he was drunk. So this wasn’t an unusual sight. He looked up, saw me, and sobbed. “Your mama don’t love me no more,” he said. I saw the luggage at the foot of the bed. “I wanna go,” I whined. “Nah, you can’t,” he said, lifting himself off the bed. He picked up his suitcases and headed out of the room. As he walked through the living room, Reagan jumped from her spot in front of the TV. “Daddy, where you goin’?” She was in tears. “I’ll be back,” he said, hugging us both. He looked over at Dusa, who was still on the phone. Daddy had been a father to her longer than he had been to us, and yet she seemed indifferent to his departure. “Tell your mama I’ll call later,” Daddy said to Dusa, who just nodded and said, “Okay.”’ “Y’all be good,” Daddy said as he closed the door. We didn’t realize that Uncle Alvin, the husband of Daddy’s sister Stella, had been outside the entire time waiting in the car. From the living room window, I saw Daddy load his things and get in. He and Alvin sat there for what seemed like a long time before leaving. Daddy haunted every room on Garden Street. He lived barely an hour away in Malvern. But he may as well have been across two oceans because he didn’t come around. In the new room I shared with Reagan on Omega Street, I kept a stack of 45s he’d bought me — music that connected us.
Ride the ARKANSAS TIMES
BLUES BUS APRIL 16, 2016
TO THE JUKE JOINT FESTIVAL IN CLARKSDALE, MS
IT'S ALL ABOUT
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Enjoy small stages with authentic blues during the day and at night venture into the surviving juke joints, blues clubs and other indoor stages. Reserve your seat by calling 501.375.2985 or emailing Kelly Lyles at kellylyles@arktimes.com BUS TRANSPORTATION PROVIDED BY ARROW COACH LINES
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Round-trip bus transportation Live blues performances en route Adult beverages on board Lunch at a Delta favorite Wristband for the nighttime events
BUS LEAVES AT 9 A.M. FROM IN FRONT OF THE PARKING DECK AT 2ND & MAIN STREETS IN DOWNTOWN LITTLE ROCK AND RETURNS LATE NIGHT.
The Arkansas Times Blues Bus is a related event and not affiliated with Juke Joint Festival or the non-profit Clarksdale Downtown Development Association. www.arktimes.com
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THE TO-DO
LIST
BY WILL STEPHENSON
THURSDAY 1/28
2016 ARKANSAS TIMES MUSICIANS SHOWCASE 8 p.m. Stickyz. $5.
Thursday night marks the return of the Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase, wherein bands from around the state perform before a panel of judges in semifinal rounds (held over the next few Thursdays) before proceeding to the finals, which will be at Revolution on Friday, Feb. 26. This week’s semifinalists: Little Rock’s deFrance, who specialize in bluesy Southern rock stomps and bar-band licks — indebted, they happily admit, to Tom Petty and Neil Young — and who released their debut, “HOME,” last September; SOULution, whose name should be taken literally and who play wild, propulsive neo-soul; A Rowdy Faith, the singersongwriting duo of Little Rock’s Cate Davison and Alisyn Reid, who play a kind of eclectic, coffee-house Americana; and local Caleb Velasquez, who plays moody solo indie-folk. Judges this year will include Rwake’s Christopher Farris Terry (CT), Bad Match’s Sarah Stricklin, Low Key Arts’ Bill Solleder, Shoog Radio’s Aaron Sarlo, Ghost Bones’ Bobby Missile and more. The winning band will receive a prize package that includes headlining spots at Valley of the Vapors, the Arkansas State Fair, Riverfest and Legends of Arkansas; gift certificates to Jacksonville Guitar, Blue Chair Studios, State of Mind Clothing and Trio’s Restaurant; a photo shoot with the Times’ Brian Chilson; and a celebration party and personalized drink courtesy of Stickyz and Revolution. There will also be a ticket giveaway for the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival; enter during the semifinal rounds for a drawing on the night of the finals. 26
JANUARY 28, 2016
ARKANSAS TIMES
LOVE & HIP-HOP: R&B singer K. Michelle comes to Power Ultra Lounge at 9 p.m. Friday, $30.
FRIDAY 1/29
K. MICHELLE
9 p.m. Power Ultra Lounge. $30.
K. Michelle was groomed for R&B stardom from an early age, and — oddly, as this sort of thing doesn’t typically pan out — it worked. Born in Memphis, she studied as a child with voice-teacher/impresario Bob Westbrook, who also gave Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears their earliest vocal lessons. By 2009, when she was either 23, 24, 25 or 27 — depending on which poorly vetted web publication you trust — she’d signed with Jive Records and released the
single “Fakin’ It,” featuring Missy Elliott. As is now typical for the industry, it took her four years and a reality show gig to convince a major label to release her first album. And as is also now typical, her official output generally pales in comparison to her mixtapes, where she’s funnier, looser, more sonically adventurous — see 2014’s compulsively listenable “Still No Fucks Given,” on the opener of which she sang, “I’m not your average R&B singer; I can act a damn fool,” adding, “I can’t help it.” Of course, as she put it in an interview
with The FADER, “It’s almost impossible to break as an African-American woman right now without TV.” Accordingly, she built a national profile on the strength of her role in “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta,” on which she detailed her experience with domestic abuse and emerged as a brilliant, if esoteric insult-comic. Off-screen, she’s sung hooks for Gucci Mane and Usher, appeared regularly on the Billboard 200, toured with Robin Thicke and Keyshia Cole, and starred in a VH1 R&B opera directed by Idris Elba.
were casualties. Emil Jannings was a towering icon once, but his German accent was too heavy; he went home after the advent of sound. The great comedian Harold Lloyd— rarely heard from again. Lillian Gish returned to the stage. Gloria Swanson disappeared. Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford threw in the towel. The idea of synced dialogue was considered not only absurd, but crass. It was the unraveling of a great art form, which had developed decades of conventions around
its silence — conventions which were disrupted haphazardly. Hitchcock said that “silent pictures were the purest form of cinema,” deriding the new wave as “photographs of people talking.” According to the renowned critic Viktor Shklovsky, “Talking film is as little needed as a singing book.” Sometimes I think they were right. But without sound we wouldn’t have “Singin’ in the Rain,” one of the best, funniest and most unpredictable musicals of the ecstatic MGM era.
SATURDAY 1/30
‘SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN’
7 p.m. Ron Robinson Theater. $5.
I tend to like movies about movies. Hollywood may not be very reliable on the subject of geopolitics or female friendships or archeology or animal consciousness or outer space, but Hollywood does know about movies — about its own industry, which is the subject of Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly’s “Singin’ in the Rain.” It’s about the transition from silent cinema to talkies, a violent war of attrition. There
IN BRIEF
THURSDAY 1/28
SATURDAY 1/30
ALL THINGS BOWIE: A TRIBUTE TO DAVID BOWIE 9:30 p.m. Revolution. $10.
Like everyone else, I was caught off guard pretty profoundly by the death of David Bowie two weeks ago. Especially because I rarely thought of him as a person who was alive. My understanding of his music was always essentially posthumous — he seemed to belong to a very different cultural context (or two, or three) than any I’d known — and so hearing that he’d died was most shocking for the implication that he’d been
living this whole time, living through the Bush and Obama administrations like the rest of us. When I picture Bowie, I first picture his decadent Berlin period, probably because I once read a dull book about the making of his 1977 album “Low.” I picture him holed up in Kreuzberg with Iggy Pop, subsisting off milk and cocaine, a depressed former celebrity immersing himself in Krautrock and leaving his artistic decisions to chance, in the form of Brian Eno’s “Oblique Strategies” — a deck of cards that provides vague, abstract advice to artists who find themselves stuck. (Sam-
ples: “Only a part, not the whole”; “Do nothing for as long as possible”; “The most important thing is the thing most easily forgotten.”) Listen to his song “Warszawa,” and you’ll hear the sound of addiction and writer’s block collapsing under the weight of pure energetic invention. He was impressive for many reasons, not the least being his ability to bounce back from boredom and inertia and creative dead-ends. This weekend’s tribute show features Little Rock’s own Charlie Askew, “American Idol” veteran. Maybe he’ll pull it off. Another oblique strategy: “Emphasize the flaws.”
The Museum of Discovery’s night for adults, Science After Dark, returns this week with a “Star Wars” theme, featuring beer by Stone’s Throw Brewing and pizza from Damgoode Pies, 6 p.m., $5. Eli N. Evans, author of “The Provincials: A Personal History of Jews in the South,” will give the 2016 Sanders Distinguished Lecture at Ron Robinson Theater, 6:30 p.m., free. Local country singer-songwriter Bonnie Montgomery performs at Southern Gourmasian, 6:30 p.m. Comedian Dan O’Sullivan is at the Loony Bin at 7:30 p.m., $7 (and at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, $10). Rappers Colonel Loud and singer Ricco Barrino are at Envy (formerly Elevations) with Lil Ronny Motha F and Fat Pimp, 9 p.m. Tyrannosaurus Chicken, Sound of the Mountain and Jamie Lou & The Hullabaloo play a benefit for Bernie Sanders at the White Water Tavern, 9 p.m., $5.
FRIDAY 1/29 The concert series Arkansas Sounds presents the two most recent winners of the Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase, Ghost Bones and Mad Nomad, at the Ron Robinson Theater, 7 p.m., $10. Dubstep DJ Designer Drugs play at Revolution, 9 p.m., $10-$15. Louisville punk band The Foxery plays at Vino’s with Secret Stuff and I Was Afraid, 8 p.m., $8. Alt-country favorites Mulehead play at the Afterthought with Paul Shafer, 9 p.m., $7. Bluegrass group Urban Pioneers are at Maxine’s in Hot Springs, 9 p.m., $5. Memphis reggae band Chinese Connection Dub Embassy plays at Stickyz, 9:30 p.m., $5. Nashville two-piece garage rock band Blackfoot Gypsies are at White Water with American Lions, 9:30 p.m., $7. Country-rockers Good Time Ramblers play at South on Main, 10 p.m., $10.
SATURDAY 1/30 INFERNAL DANCE: The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra performs Stravinsky's "The Firebird" ballet suites at the Maumelle Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday.
SATURDAY 1/30-SUNDAY 1/31
ARKANSAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, ‘FIREBIRD SUITE’
7:30 p.m. Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Maumelle Performing Arts Center. $19-$58.
Stravinsky. About his childhood, he once admitted, “I never came across anyone who had any real attraction for me.” He married his first cousin and lived mostly off the largesse of rich patrons. He had an affair with Coco Chanel, and was a fan of Mussolini. He prayed daily. With his most famous work, “The Rite
of Spring,” he said his intention was “to send them all to hell.” (You’ve heard of the riots that broke out at the premiere, but did you know that almost immediately afterward, Stravinsky ate a plate of bad oysters, from which he contracted typhoid?) He lived in Hollywood longer than he lived anywhere else. As sketched by his friend Picasso, he was aloof and thin, with a triangular face, slick hair and thick hands. His other good friends included Aldous Huxley, Dylan Thomas and W.H. Auden. He was once threat-
ened with arrest by Boston police after he added a dominant seventh chord to his arrangement of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” In his memoir, he claimed that “music is, by its very nature, essentially powerless to express anything at all.” I think I disagree, probably, though I don’t really know. “The Firebird” was his breakthrough. It’s about a prince facing off against a magician, who sustains his immortality by stashing his soul in a magic egg. There’s also a Firebird involved.
The 1968 British children’s classic “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” (scripted by Roald Dahl, from a book by Ian Fleming) screens at Ron Robinson Theater at 2 p.m., $5. Hot Springs indie rock band The Federalis plays at Stickyz with Recognizer, 9 p.m., $5. R.I.O.T.S. plays at Vino’s with Iron Tongue, Bad Match and Lollygadget, as part of a benefit for The Van, 9 p.m., donations. Funk and soul group TP & The Feel plays at the Afterthought, 9 p.m., $10.
SUNDAY 1/31 Mel Brooks’ western comedy classic “Blazing Saddles” screens as part of the classic movie series at Cinemark Colonel Glenn 18 (formerly Rave), 2 p.m. (and 2 and 7 p.m. Wed.), $5.25.
www.arktimes.com
JANUARY 28, 2016
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 email the listing and all pertinent information, including date, time, location, price and contact information, to calendar@arktimes.com.
www.littlerocksalsa.com. Ted Ludwig Trio. Capital Bar and Grill, 8 p.m., free. 111 W. Markham St. 501-370-7013. www. capitalbarandgrill.com. Upscale Friday. IV Corners, 7 p.m. 824 W. Capitol Ave. Urban Pioneers. Maxine’s, 9 p.m., $5. 700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. www.maxinespub.com.
THURSDAY, JAN. 28
COMEDY
MUSIC
COMEDY
DANCE
BRIAN CHILSON
2016 Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase. Featuring deFrance, SOULution, A Rowdy Faith and Caleb Velasquez. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 8 p.m., $5. 107 River Market Ave. 501-372-7707. www.stickyz.com. Bonnie Montgomery. The Southern Gourmasian, 6:30 p.m. 219 W. Capitol Ave. 501-313-5645. www.thesoutherngourmasian.com. Chris Henry. Afterthought Bistro & Bar, 9 p.m., $5. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www. afterthoughtbistroandbar.com. Colonel Loud & Ricco Barrino, Lil Ronny Motha F, Fat Pimp. Envy, 9 p.m. 7200 Colonel Glenn Road. 501-562-3317. Dylan Scott, Travis Denning. Revolution, 8:30 p.m., $10 adv., $15 day of. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. www.rumbarevolution.com/ new. Foul Play Cabaret. The Joint, 8 p.m., $10. 301 Main St. No. 102, NLR. 501-372-0205. thejointinlittlerock.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. Jim Dickerson. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com. Karaoke. Zack’s Place, 8 p.m., free. 1400 S. University Ave. 501-664-6444. Live music. No cover charge Sun.-Tue. and Thu. Ernie Biggs. 307 President Clinton Ave. 501-3724782. littlerock.erniebiggs.com. Open Jam. Thirst n’ Howl, 8 p.m. 14710 Cantrell Road. 501-379-8189. www.thirst-n-howl.com. Open jam with The Port Arthur Band. Parrot Beach Cafe, 9 p.m. 9611 MacArthur Drive, NLR. 771-2994. Ted Ludwig Trio. Capital Bar and Grill, 8 p.m., free. 111 W. Markham St. 501-370-7013. www. capitalbarandgrill.com. Tragikly White (headliner), Ben Byers (happy hour). Cajun’s Wharf, 5:30 and 9 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-375-5351. www.cajunswharf. com. Tyrannosaurus Chicken, Sound of the Mountain, Jamie Lou & The Hullabaloo. A benefit for Bernie Sanders. White Water Tavern, 9 p.m., $5. 2500 W. 7th St. 501-375-8400. www.whitewatertavern.com.
Dan O’Sullivan. The Loony Bin, 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m., $10. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501228-5555. www.loonybincomedy.com. “Little Rock and a Hard Place.” An original production by The Main Thing. The Joint, 8 p.m., $22. 301 Main St. No. 102, NLR. 501-372-0205. thejointinlittlerock.com.
SHOWCASE REDUX: The concert series Arkansas Sounds presents the two most recent winners of the Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase, Ghost Bones (pictured) and Mad Nomad, at the Ron Robinson Theater, 7 p.m. Friday, $10.
1-800-880-6475. www.amod.org.
LECTURES
Dan Visconti. Sturgis Hall, noon, free. 1200 President Clinton Ave. 501-683-5200. clintonschool.uasys.edu. Eli N. Evans. The author of “The Provincials: A Personal History of Jews in the South” and “Judah P. Benjamin: The Jewish Confederate.” Ron Robinson Theater, 6:30 p.m., free. 1 Pulaski Way. 501-320-5703. www.cals.lib.ar.us/ron-robinson-theater.aspx.
SPORTS
Horse Racing. Oaklawn: 1:30 p.m., $2.50-$4.50. 2705 Central Ave., Hot Springs. 501-623-4411. www.oaklawn.com.
FRIDAY, JAN. 29
MUSIC
All In Fridays. Envy. 7200 Colonel Glenn Road. 501-562-3317. Blackfoot Gypsies, American Lions. White Water Tavern, 9:30 p.m., $7. 2500 W. 7th St. 501-3758400. www.whitewatertavern.com. Charlotte Taylor (headliner), Richie Johnson (happy hour). Cajun’s Wharf, 5:30 and 9 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-375-5351. www.cajun-
Dan O’Sullivan. The Loony Bin, 7:30 p.m. , $7. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501-228-5555. www.loonybincomedy.com.
NOW TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS LITTLE ROCK • NORTH LITTLE ROCK
EVENTS
#ArkiePubTrivia. Stone’s Throw Brewing, 6:30 p.m. 402 E. 9th St. 501-244-9154. Beginner Trout Fishing Clinic. The Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center, 6 p.m., free. 602 President Clinton Ave. 501-907-0636. www. centralarkansasnaturecenter.com. Science After Dark: Star Wars Science. Museum of Discovery, 6 p.m. 500 Clinton Ave. 396-7050, 28
JANUARY 28, 2016
swharf.com. Chinese Connection Dub Embassy. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 9:30 p.m., $5. 107 River Market Ave. 501-372-7707. www.stickyz.com. Designer Drugs. Revolution, 9 p.m., $10-$15. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. www. rumbarevolution.com/new. The Foxery, Secret Stuff, I Was Afraid. Vino’s. 923 W. 7th St. 501-375-8466. www.vinosbrewpub.com. Ghost Bones, Mad Nomad. Ron Robinson Theater, 7 p.m., $10. 1 Pulaski Way. 501-320-5703. www.cals.lib.ar.us/ron-robinson-theater.aspx. Good Time Ramblers. South on Main, 10 p.m., $10. 1304 Main St. 501-244-9660. southonmain. com. K. Michelle. Power Ultra Lounge, 9 p.m., $30. 220 W 6th St. 501-374-5100. Live music. No cover charge Sun.-Tue. and Thu. Ernie Biggs. 307 President Clinton Ave. 501-3724782. littlerock.erniebiggs.com. Mulehead, Paul Shafer. Afterthought Bistro & Bar, 9 p.m., $7. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www.afterthoughtbistroandbar.com. Route 66. Agora Conference and Special Event Center, 6:30 p.m., $5. 705 E. Siebenmorgan, Conway. Salsa Dancing. Clear Channel Metroplex, 9 p.m., $5-$10. 10800 Col. Glenn Road. 501-217-5113.
ARKANSAS TIMES
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Contra Dance. Park Hill Presbyterian Church, 7:30 p.m., $5. 3520 JFK Blvd., NLR. arkansascountrydance.org.
EVENTS
LGBTQ/SGL weekly meeting. 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 501-2449690 or search “DYSC” on Facebook. LGBTQ/ SGL Youth and Young Adult Group, 6:30 p.m. 800 Scott St.
SPORTS
Horse Racing. Oaklawn: 1:30 p.m., $2.50-$4.50. 2705 Central Ave., Hot Springs. 501-623-4411. www.oaklawn.com.
SATURDAY, JAN. 30
MUSIC
All Things Bowie: A Tribute to David Bowie. Revolution, 9:30 p.m., $10. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. www.rumbarevolution.com/ new. Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, “Firebird Suite.” Maumelle High School, 7:30 p.m., $19$58. 100 Victory Drive. 501-851-5350. The Federalis, Recognizer. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 9 p.m., $5. 107 River Market Ave. 501-372-7707. www.stickyz.com. Karaoke at Khalil’s. Khalil’s Pub, 7 p.m. 110 S. Shackleford Road. 501-224-0224. www.khalilspub.com. Karaoke. Zack’s Place, 8 p.m., free. 1400 S. University Ave. 501-664-6444. Casa Mexicana, 7 p.m. 7111 JFK Blvd., NLR. 501-835-7876. Karaoke with Kevin & Cara. All ages, on the restaurant side. Revolution, 9 p.m.-12:45 a.m., free. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. www.rumbarevolution.com/new. K.I.S.S. Saturdays. Featuring DJ Silky Slim. Dress code enforced. Sway, 10 p.m. 412 Louisiana. 501-492-9802. Live music. No cover charge Sun.-Tue. and Thu. Ernie Biggs. 307 President Clinton Ave. 501-3724782. littlerock.erniebiggs.com. Pickin’ Porch. Bring your instrument. All ages welcome. Faulkner County Library, 9:30 a.m. 1900 Tyler St., Conway. 501-327-7482. www.fcl.org. R.I.O.T.S., Iron Tongue, Bad Match, Lollygadget. A benefit for The Van. Vino’s. 923 W. 7th St. 501375-8466. www.vinosbrewpub.com. Rustenhaven. Cajun’s Wharf, 9 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-375-5351. www.cajunswharf.com. Ted Ludwig Trio. Capital Bar and Grill, 8 p.m.,
free. 111 W. Markham St. 501-370-7013. www. capitalbarandgrill.com. TP and the Feel. Afterthought Bistro & Bar, 9 p.m., $10. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www.afterthoughtbistroandbar.com.
COMEDY
Dan O’Sullivan. The Loony Bin, 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m., $10. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501228-5555. www.loonybincomedy.com. “Little Rock and a Hard Place.” An original production by The Main Thing. The Joint, 8 p.m., $22. 301 Main St. No. 102, NLR. 501-372-0205. thejointinlittlerock.com.
EVENTS
Falun Gong meditation. Allsopp Park, 9 a.m., free. Cantrell and Cedar Hill Roads. Hillcrest Farmers Market. Pulaski Heights Baptist Church, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. 2200 Kavanaugh Blvd. Historic Neighborhoods Tour. Bike tour of historic neighborhoods includes bike, guide, helmets and maps. Bobby’s Bike Hike, 9 a.m., $8-$28. 400 President Clinton Ave. 501-613-7001. Pork & Bourbon Tour. Bike tour includes bicycle, guide, helmets and maps. Bobby’s Bike Hike, 11:30 a.m., $35-$45. 400 President Clinton Ave. 501-613-7001.
FILM
“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.” Ron Robinson Theater, 2 p.m., $5. 1 Pulaski Way. 501-320-5703. www.cals.lib.ar.us/ron-robinson-theater.aspx. “Singin’ in the Rain.” Ron Robinson Theater, 7 p.m., $5. 1 Pulaski Way. 501-320-5703. www.cals. lib.ar.us/ron-robinson-theater.aspx.
SPORTS
Horse Racing. Oaklawn: 1:30 p.m., $2.50-$4.50. 2705 Central Ave., Hot Springs. 501-623-4411. www.oaklawn.com.
SUNDAY, JAN. 31
MUSIC
Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, “Firebird Suite.” Maumelle High School, 3 p.m., $19$58. 100 Victory Drive. 501-851-5350. Indie Music Night. Revolution, 8 p.m., $10. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. www.rumbarevolution.com/new. Irish Traditional Music Session. Hibernia Irish Tavern, 2:30 p.m. 9700 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501-246-4340. www.hiberniairishtavern.com. Karaoke with DJ Sara. Hardrider Bar & Grill, 7 p.m., free. 6613 John Harden Drive, Cabot. 501-982-1939. Live music. No cover charge Sun.-Tue. and Thu. Ernie Biggs. 307 President Clinton Ave. 501-3724782. littlerock.erniebiggs.com.
EVENTS
Artist for Recovery. A secular recovery group for people with addictions. Quapaw Quarter United Methodist Church, 10 a.m. 1601 S. Louisiana.
FILM
“Blazing Saddles.” Carmike Colonel Glenn 18 + Xtreme, 2 p.m., $5.25. 18 Colonel Glenn Plaza Drive. 501-687-0499.
SPORTS
Horse Racing. Oaklawn: 1:30 p.m., $2.50-$4.50.
2705 Central Ave., Hot Springs. 501-623-4411. www.oaklawn.com.
MONDAY, FEB. 1
#
MUSIC
Live music. No cover charge Sun.-Tue. and Thu. Ernie Biggs. 307 President Clinton Ave. 501-3724782. littlerock.erniebiggs.com. Monday Night Jazz. Afterthought Bistro & Bar, 8 p.m., $5. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www.afterthoughtbistroandbar.com. Open Mic. The Lobby Bar. Studio Theatre, 8 p.m. 320 W. 7th St. Richie Johnson. Cajun’s Wharf, 5:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-375-5351. www.cajunswharf. com.
TUESDAY, FEB. 2
MUSIC
Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, Mozart and Mendelssohn. William J. Clinton Presidential Library, 7 p.m., $23. 1200 Clinton Avenue. 501374-4242. www.clintonlibrary.gov. Gil Franklin & Friends. Holiday Inn, North Little Rock, first Tuesday, Wednesday of every month. 120 W. Pershing Blvd., NLR. The Hooten Hallers, The Whole Famn Damily. White Water Tavern, 9:30 p.m. 2500 W. 7th St. 501-375-8400. www.whitewatertavern.com. Jeff Ling. Khalil’s Pub, 6 p.m. 110 S. Shackleford Road. 501-224-0224. www.khalilspub.com. Jim Dickerson. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com. Karaoke Tuesday. Prost, 8 p.m., free. 322 President Clinton Blvd. 501-244-9550. willydspianobar.com/prost-2. Karaoke Tuesdays. On the patio. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 7:30 p.m., free. 107 River Market Ave. 501-372-7707. www.stickyz.com. Live music. No cover charge Sun.-Tue. and Thu. Ernie Biggs. 307 President Clinton Ave. 501-3724782. littlerock.erniebiggs.com. Music Jam. Hosted by Elliott Griffen and Joseph Fuller. The Joint, 8-11 p.m., free. 301 Main St. No. 102, NLR. 501-372-0205. thejointinlittlerock.com. Scott H. Biram, Strahan, The Good Neighbors. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 8 p.m., $10 adv., $12 day of. 107 River Market Ave. 501-3727707. www.stickyz.com. Tuesday Jam Session with Carl Mouton. Afterthought Bistro & Bar, 8 p.m., free. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www.afterthoughtbistroandbar.com.
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COMEDY
Stand-Up Tuesday. Hosted by Adam Hogg. The Joint, 8 p.m., $5. 301 Main St. No. 102, NLR. 501372-0205. thejointinlittlerock.com.
EVENTS
Trivia Bowl. Flying Saucer, 8:30 p.m. 323 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-8032. www.beerknurd. com/stores/littlerock.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 3
MUSIC
Acoustic Open Mic. Afterthought Bistro & Bar, 8 p.m., free. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www.afterthoughtbistroandbar.com. Brian and Nick. Cajun’s Wharf, 5:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-375-5351. www.cajunswharf.
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AFTER DARK, CONT. com. Drageoke with Chi Chi Valdez. Sway. 412 Louisiana. Eternal Sleep, Cross Me. Vino’s. 923 W. 7th St. 501-375-8466. www.vinosbrewpub.com. Gil Franklin & Friends. Holiday Inn, North Little Rock, first Tuesday, Wednesday of every month. 120 W. Pershing Blvd., NLR. Jim Dickerson. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com. Karaoke at Khalil’s. Khalil’s Pub, 7 p.m. 110 S. Shackleford Road. 501-224-0224. www.khalilspub.com. Karaoke. MUSE Ultra Lounge, 8:30 p.m., free. 2611 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-6398. Live music. No cover charge Sun.-Tue. and Thu. Ernie Biggs. 307 President Clinton Ave. 501-3724782. littlerock.erniebiggs.com. Open Mic Nite with Deuce. Thirst n’ Howl, 7:30 p.m., free. 14710 Cantrell Road. 501-379-8189. www.thirst-n-howl.com. The Steepwater Band, deFrance. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 8 p.m., $10. 107 River Market Ave. 501-372-7707. www.stickyz.com.
COMEDY
The Joint Venture. Improv comedy group. The Joint, 8 p.m., $7. 301 Main St. No. 102, NLR. 501372-0205. thejointinlittlerock.com.
DANCE
Little Rock Bop Club. Beginning dance lessons for ages 10 and older. Singles welcome. Bess Chisum Stephens Community Center, 7 p.m., $4 for members, $7 for guests. 12th and Cleveland streets. 501-350-4712. www.littlerockbopclub.
FILM
“Blazing Saddles.” Carmike Colonel Glenn 18 + Xtreme, 2 and 7 p.m., $5.25. 18 Colonel Glenn Plaza Drive. 501-687-0499.
7 P.M. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16
$7. 5 0
RIVERDALE 10 VIP CINEMA 2600 CANTRELL RD
POETRY
Wednesday Night Poetry. 21-and-older show. Maxine’s, 7 p.m., free. 700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. 501-321-0909. maxineslive.com/shows. html.
ARTS
THEATER
“Elvis Lives!.” Reynolds Performance Hall, UCA, Thu., Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m., $27-$35. 350 S. Donaghey, Conway. “The Lobby Bar: A Play.” The Studio Theatre, Jan. 29-31, 7 p.m., $15-$20. 320 W. 7th St. “Peter and the Starcatcher.” Arkansas Repertory Theatre, through Feb. 14: Wed., Thu., Sun., 7 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 8 p.m.; Sat., Sun., 2 p.m., $45. 601 Main St. 501-378-0405. www.therep.org. Standing on Ceremony: The Gay Marriage Plays. A collection of monologues and short stories about the fight for LGBT marriage rights. The Weekend Theater, through Jan. 30: Fri., Sat., 7:30 p.m., $12-$16. 1001 W. 7th St. 501-374-3761. www.weekendtheater.org. “Thirteen Clocks.” A children’s play by James Thurber. Arkansas Arts Center, through Feb. 14: Fri., 7 p.m.; Sat., Sun., 2 p.m., $12.50. 501 E. 9th St. 501-372-4000. www.arkarts.com.
501.296.9955 | RIVERDALE10.COM ELECTRIC RECLINER SEATS AND RESERVED SEATING 30
JANUARY 28, 2016
ARKANSAS TIMES
NEW GALLERY EXHIBITS, EVENTS ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER, MacArthur Park: Architecture and Design Network lecture by Neil
Denari, 6 p.m. Feb. 2, reception at 5:30 p.m.; “Life and Light: “Nathalia Edenmont: Force of Nature,” 10 large-scale photographs, through May 1; “Photographic Travels through Latin America with Bryan Clifton,” through Feb. 14. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. 372-4000. GALLERY 26, 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd.: Recent works by Mindy Lacefield and Brian Madden, through March 12. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tue.Sat. 664-8996. PULASKI TECHNICAL COLLEGE, 3000 W. Scenic Drive: “Merging Form and Surface,” sculpture by Robyn Horn and Sandra Sell in the Windgate Gallery, Center for the Humanities and Arts, opens with reception 5:30-7:30 p.m. Feb. 3. 812-2324. CONWAY UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS: “Finding Shelter: An Exhibition of Contemporary Fiber Art,” through Feb. 18, gallery talk by exhibition artists Ann B. Coddington and Jo Stealey 6 p.m. Jan. 28, McCastlain lecture hall; “Maggie Steber: ‘Madje Has Dementia,’ ‘Rite of Passage’ ”; “Mike Jabbur: Point/Counterpoint,” all through Feb. 18, Baum Gallery. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.Wed., Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Thu. 501-450-5793. FAYETTEVILLE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS: “Treachery of Objects,” clay objects and video by Brian Bress, William Cobbing, Jennifer Ling-Datchuk, Julia Haft-Candell, Brian R. Jones, Kristen Morgin, Michael Jones McKean and Thomas Müller, Jan. 29-Feb. 28, Fine Arts Center gallery, lecture by curator Margaret Meehan 5:30 p.m. Jan. 28, Giffels Auditorium. JONESBORO ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY: “Delta National Small Prints Exhibition,” 55 prints by 55 artists in all printmaking techniques, Bradbury Art Museum, opens with reception 5 p.m. Jan. 28, show through Feb. 28. 870-972-2567.
NEW MUSEUM EXHIBITS, EVENTS MOSAIC TEMPLARS CULTURAL CENTER, 9th and Broadway: “It’s in the Bag: Lunch and Learn Series,” on African Americans in the arts, with poet Chris James, filmmaker Brian Lee and executive Thersa Timmons-Shamberger, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Feb. 2; permanent exhibits on African American entrepreneurship in Arkansas. 683-3610.
CALL FOR ENTRIES The Arkansas Arts Center is accepting entries to the 58th annual “Delta Exhibition,” open to artists in Arkansas and contiguous states. Entry forms are at ArkansasArtsCenter.org/delta. Deadline is March 11. The exhibition runs June 10-Aug. 28. For more information call 372-4000. The Arkansas Historic Preservation Program and the Arkansas Humanities Council are sponsoring a filmmaking contest for high school students. Films must be between five and 15 minutes long and be about an historic site (including archeological sites, buildings, or other places with historic significance at least 50 years old or older) for AETN’s “Student Selects: A Young Filmmakers Showcase.” Winning films will be screened in May 2016 at the Ron Robinson Theater. Deadline is March
18. Find more information at www.aetn.org/ studentselects. The Historic Arkansas Museum will hold a log cabin repair and restoration workshop March 14-18 with Joseph Gallagher of the Campbell Center for Historic Preservation Studies. Tuition is $935 before Feb. 15 and $985 after. Register online at www.campbellcenter.org, at the course list link. The South Arkansas Arts Center is taking entries for its 2016 Student Show and Competition to be on exhibit Feb. 9-27. Deadline to enter is Feb. 1; entry fee is $5. For more information, go to www.saac-arts.com.
ONGOING GALLERY EXHIBITS
ARKANSAS CAPITAL CORP., 200 River Market Ave., Suite 400: “Printmakers Under 30,” work by Ben Watson, Daniella Napolitano, Catherine Kim, Kristin Karr and Regan Renfro. www. arcapital.com. BOSWELL MOUROT FINE ART, 5815 Kavanaugh Blvd.: “Drawing Value,” trompe l’oeil charcoal drawings by Trevor Bennett, 20 percent of sales benefit the Friends of Contemporary Craft. 664-0030. BUTLER CENTER GALLERIES, Arkansas Studies Institute, 401 President Clinton Ave.: “Earth Work: Photographs by Gary Cawood”; “Arkansas Pastel Society National Exhibition,” both through Feb. 27; “Photographic Arts: African American Studio Photography,” from the Joshua and Mary Swift Collection. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Sat. 320-5790. CANTRELL GALLERY, 8206 Cantrell Road: “Illustrating the Ephemeral,” paintings by Nathaniel Dailey, through March 5. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat. 224-1335. CHROMA GALLERY, 5707 Kavanaugh Blvd.: Work by Robert Reep and other Arkansas artists. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat. 664-0880. DRAWL, 5208 Kavanaugh Blvd.: “The Flatlander,” depictions of the Delta by Norwood Creech. 240-7446. GALLERY 221, Second and Center streets: New works by Kasten McClellan Searles, through Feb. 27; also work by Tyler Arnold, Kathi Couch, EMILE, Greg Lahti, Sean LeCrone, Elizabeth Nevins, Cedric Watson, C.B. Williams, Gino Hollander, Siri Hollander and jewelry by Rae Ann Bayless. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. 801-0211. GALLERY 360, 900 S. Rodney Parham Road: “Ice Box II,” work by Shane Baskins, Mathew Bivens, LONER, Madeline Long, Rayna Mackey, Vaughn Mims, RobotBlood, Derek Simon, Kesha Stovall and Allison Traylor, through Feb. 19. GINO HOLLANDER GALLERY, 2nd and Center: Paintings and works on paper by Gino Hollander. 801-0211. GREG THOMPSON FINE ART, 429 Main St., NLR: “Charles Harrington — The Journey,” landscapes, extended through Jan. 30. 6642787. HISTORIC ARKANSAS MUSEUM GALLERIES, 200 E. Third St.: “Art. Function. Craft: The Life and Work of Arkansas Living Treasures,” works by 14 craftsmen honored by Arkansas Arts Council. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun. 324-9351. L&L BECK ART GALLERY, 5705 Kavanaugh Blvd.: “Landscapes,” by Louis Beck, January show. 660-4006. LAMAN LIBRARY ARGENTA BRANCH, 420
Main St., NLR: “Form in Fiber,” mixed media work by Barbara Cade, Jane Hartfield, Marianne Nolley, Sofia Gonzalez, Deborah Kuster, Lilia Hernandez, Louise Halsey, Randi Curtis and Amanda Linn, through Feb. 5. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Sat. 687-1061. LOCAL COLOUR, 5811 Kavanaugh Blvd.: Rotating work by 27 artists in collective. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat. 265-0422. MATT MCLEOD FINE ART GALLERY, 108 W. Sixth St.: Work by McLeod, J.O. Buckley, Taimur Cleary, Kathy Strause, Alice Andrews, Max Gore, James Hayes, Harry Loucks and Angela Davis Johnson. 725-8508. MUGS CAFE, 515 Main St., NLR: “The Art of Gum Bichromate,” photographs by Joli Livaudais and students. RED DOOR GALLERY, 3715 JFK, NLR: New work by Matt Coburn, Paula Jones, Theresa Cates and Amy Hill-Imler, new glass by James Hayes, ceramics by Kelly Edwards, sculpture by Kim Owen and other work. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. 753-5227. STEPHANO AND GAINES FINE ART, 1916 N. Fillmore St.: Carved wood sculpture by actor Tony Dow, through Feb. 8; work by gallery artists. 563-4218. UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT LITTLE ROCK, 2801 S. University Ave.: “Jobbers, Heels and Faces — Robert McCann,” paintings, Gallery I, through March 3, lecture by the artist 5:30 p.m. March 4; “Awakened by These Dreams,” paintings by Douglas Bourgeois, through Feb. 26, Maners/Pappas Gallery, Fine Arts Building. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, 2-5 p.m. Sun. 569-3182. ARKADELPHIA HENDERSON STATE UNIVERSITY: “125th Anniversary Alumni Art Exhibition,” work by Beverly Buys, Jonathan Cromer, Carey Roberson, David Dahlstedt, Meghan Hawkes, Sara Dismukes, Nicole Brisco, Lana Taliaferro, Chrystal Seawood and V.L. Cox, Russell Fine Arts Gallery. 870230-5000. BATESVILLE BATESVILLE AREA ARTS COUNCIL, 226 E. Main St.: “Small Works on Paper,” juried show of work by 37 Arkansas artists, through Jan. 29. 870-793-3382. BENTON DIANNE ROBERTS ART STUDIO AND GALLERY, 110 N. Market St.: Work by Dianne Roberts, classes. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. 860-7467. BENTONVILLE CRYSTAL BRIDGES MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART, One Museum Way: American masterworks spanning four centuries in the permanent collection. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon., Thu.; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Wed., Fri.; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat.-Sun., closed Tue. 479-418-5700. CALICO ROCK CALICO ROCK ARTISAN COOPERATIVE, 105 Main St.: Paintings, photographs, jewelry, fiber art, wood, ceramics and other crafts. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tue.-Thu., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri.-Sat., noon-4 p.m. Sun. calicorocket.org/artists. EL DORADO SOUTH ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER, 110 E. 5th St.: “Nature and Still Life,” paintings by Judy Falkoff, “Photography by Del Pagan,” both through Feb. 5. 870-862-5474. www.arktimes.com
JANUARY 28, 2016
31
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
WHAT’S COOKIN’ KBIRD, THE HILLCREST authentic Thai restaurant at 601 N. Tyler, will reopen for lunch and, with extended hours, dinner on Monday, Feb. 1. It’s been closed since late last year, for the holidays and for owner Richard Glasgow to visit Thailand. The Little Rock Planning Commission and City Board have approved Glasgow’s petition to extend the restaurant’s evening hours. New hours are 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Monday through Friday and 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday (for February at least, Glasgow said he would be closed on Friday evening to adjust to the new schedule). The lunch menu will be more streamlined than in the past to reduce wait time, while the dinner menu will include more regional and specialty items. Glasgow said on Facebook he wants to “encourage folks (whether for take-away or eating in) to eat Thai-style/familystyle, with groups sharing a number of different dishes.” NO EXCUSES FOR COMPLAINING when an inferior restaurant wins a category of our annual Readers Choice restaurant survey: You’ve still got time to make your picks in dozens of categories in Little Rock and around the state. Vote at arktimes.com/restaurants16. The poll closes on Jan. 31.
DINING CAPSULES
AMERICAN
1515 CAFE This bustling, business-suit filled breakfast and lunch spot, just across from the state Capitol, features old-fashioned, buffetstyle home cookin’ for a song. Inexpensive lunch entrées, too. 1515 W. 7th St. No alcohol. $-$$. 501-376-1434. L Wed.-Fri., D Mon-Sat. 4 SQUARE CAFE AND GIFTS Vegetarian salads, soups, wraps and paninis and a broad selection of smoothies in an Arkansas products gift shop. 405 President Clinton Ave. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-244-2622. D Mon.-Sat., L Sun. ANOTHER ROUND PUB Tasty pub grub. 12111 W. Markham. Full bar, CC. $-$$. 501-313-2612. D Mon.-Thu., LD Fri.-Sun. APPLE SPICE JUNCTION A chain sandwich and salad spot with sit-down lunch space and a vibrant box lunch catering business. With a wide range of options and quick service. Order online via applespice.com. 2000 S. University Ave. No alcohol, all CC. $$. 501-663-7008. L Mon.-Fri. (10 a.m.-3 p.m.). ARKANSAS BURGER CO. Good burgers, fries and shakes, plus salads and other entrees. Try the cheese dip. 7410 Cantrell Road. Beer and wine, CC. $-$$. 501-663-0600. LD Tue.-Sat. BELLWOOD DINER Traditional breakfasts and plate lunch specials are the norm at this lostin-time hole in the wall. 3815 MacArthur Drive. NLR. No alcohol, No CC. $. 501-753-1012. BL 32
JANUARY 28, 2016
ARKANSAS TIMES
Zaffino’s by Nori
2001 E. Kiehl Ave., Sherwood 834-7530 zaffinosbynori.com QUICK BITE Just a few weeks ago Zaffino’s by Nori began serving lunch. The menu is relatively small, but there are a few salads, soup, eight pastas and both eggplant and chicken parmesan. The main courses range from $7.99 to $9.99. HOURS 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9: p.m. Friday, 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. Saturday. OTHER INFO Beer and wine, credit cards accepted.
MAKING THE MOST OF MARSALA: Zaffino’s Italian Sausage and Mushrooms dish.
Nori knows Italian And her loyal customers, too.
O
ne of the keys to the 19-year success of Zaffino’s by Nori is Nori. The owner greets all diners warmly, her accent making it clear she’s an Italian immigrant. She seems to know many more people than not, and she works the room unobtrusively. Lori, Nori’s daughter-in-law, was our waitress on a recent Wednesday evening, and she told us many nights every table is occupied by regulars. Loyalty is a must if you expect to stay in business for nearly two decades in the ultracompetitive restaurant business, and Nori surely is responsible for engendering much of that loyalty. That said, folks wouldn’t keep coming back unless the food was top-notch, and every dish we had during a long, relaxed dinner was excellent. We started with Bruschetta Romano ($9), a straightforward version of the classic appetizer — tomatoes, garlic, basil and lots of melty mozzarella atop toasted Italian bread,
artistically drizzled with a balsamic reduction and garnished with a bit of fresh parsley. Our only suggestion would be using a little higher-quality bread — from Arkansas Fresh Bakery, perhaps. Our entrees came with a choice of soup or salad. We were a little surprised to hear chicken noodle was one of the choices (not exactly Italian), but it was not standard-issue chicken noodle. It had plenty of shredded white meat chicken with lots of pieces of a short cylindrical pasta we think might have been ditalini. It was nicely al dente and worked well with the carrots and celery. The minestrone had lots of tomatoes and celery in a rich broth. We didn’t realize until our main courses came that we had ordered very similar dishes — Veal Marsala ($17.99) and Italian Sausage and Mushrooms ($17) — the similarities owing to the Marsala sauce, delightfully and simultaneously rich and sweetened by the
cooked-down wine. The Veal Marsala featured several tender floured and pan-sauteed medallions over a bed of al dente spaghetti. The many small slices of Italian sausage were more sweet than spicy and highlighted our other main course, which had sizable mushroom slices, all served over penne. Both the pasta and the mushrooms were al dente. The menu touted cream, but if it was there it wasn’t prominent. Both dishes came in small bowls — not huge portions but certainly ample and reasonably priced given they’re served with soup or salad. All five of Zaffino’s desserts are homemade, and the quality shone through in both the dark chocolate creme brulee and the cinnamon bread pudding we tried. The dark chocolate made for a rich brulee. Zaffino’s take on bread pudding was a huge portion that was lighter and less dense in texture than most bread puddings and bold with the cinnamon. We loved it. Zaffino’s by Nori is a comfortable place. Tables feature red tablecloths. There’s a nice Italian mural scene on the short wall, and black-and-white photos of Italian scenes on the longer wall. The only decor anomaly is an Eiffel Tower screen by the bathrooms that hides a service area. Our only suggestion beyond upgrading the bread is addressing the weak wine list. Sherwood isn’t a wine mecca, but a few more selections and some slightly upper-scale choices would be appreciated. Otherwise, Zaffino’s by Nori is an absolute winner. And Nori is a big reason why.
BELLY UP Check out the Times’ food blog, Eat Arkansas arktimes.com
DINING CAPSULES, CONT. Mon.-Fri. THE BLIND PIG Tasty bar food, including Zweigle’s brand hot dogs. 6015 Chenonceau Blvd. Full bar, CC. $-$$. 501-868-8194. D Wed-Fri., LD Sat. BONEFISH GRILL A half-dozen or more types of fresh fish fillets are offered daily at this upscale chain. 11525 Cantrell Road. Full bar, all CC. $$$. 501-228-0356. D Mon.-Fri., LD Sat-Sun. BONEHEADS GRILLED FISH AND PIRI PIRI CHICKEN Fast-casual chain specializing in grilled fish, roasted chicken and an African pepper sauce. 17711 Chenal Parkway. Beer and wine, CC. $-$$. 501-821-1300. LD daily. BOULEVARD BISTRO AND BAR Fantastic casual fine dining with nightly specials. The gnocchi is divine. Great sandwiches and breakfast, too. 1920 N. Grant St. Full bar, CC. $$-$$$. 501-663-5949. BL daily, D Mon.-Sat. BRAVE NEW RESTAURANT Chef/owner Peter Brave was doing “farm to table” before most of us knew the term. His focus is on fresh, highquality ingredients prepared elegantly but simply. Ordering the fish special is never a bad choice. His chocolate crème brulee sets the pace. 2300 Cottondale Lane. Full bar, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-663-2677. LD Mon.-Sat. BRAY GOURMET DELI AND CATERING Turkey spreads in four flavors — original, jalapeno, Cajun and dill — and the homemade pimiento cheese are the signature items at Chris Bray’s delicatessen, which serves sandwiches, wraps, soups, stuffed potatoes and salads, and sells the turkey spreads to go. 323 Center St. Suite 150. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-353-1045. BL Mon.-Fri. BUFFALO WILD WINGS A sports bar on steroids with numerous humongous TVs and a menu full of thirst-inducing items. The wings, which can be slathered with one of 14 sauces, are the starring attraction and will undoubtedly have fans. 14800 Cantrell Road. Full bar, all CC. $$. 501-868-5279. LD daily. BY THE GLASS A broad but not ridiculously large wine list is studded with interesting, diverse selections, and prices are uniformly reasonable. The food focus is on high-end items that pair well with wine — olives, hummus, cheese, bread, and some meats and sausages. Happy hour daily from 4-6 p.m. 5713 Kavanaugh Blvd. Beer and wine, all CC. $$. 501-663-9463. D Mon.-Sat. CAFE BRUNELLE Coffee shop and cafe serving sweets, tasty sandwiches and Loblolly ice cream. 17819 Chenal Parkway. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-448-2687. BLD daily. CAFE@HEIFER Serving fresh pastries, omelets, soups, salads, sandwiches and pizzas. Located inside Heifer Village. 1 World Ave. No alcohol, all CC. $. 501-907-8801. BL Mon.-Fri. CAPITAL BAR AND GRILL Big hearty sandwiches, daily lunch specials and fine evening dining all rolled up into one at this landing spot downtown. Surprisingly inexpensive with a great bar staff and a good selection of unique desserts. 111 W. Markham St. Full bar, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-370-7013. LD daily. CAPITOL BISTRO Serving breakfast and lunch items, including quiche, sandwiches, coffees and the like. 1401 W. Capitol Ave. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-371-9575. BL Mon.-Fri.
CATCH BAR AND GRILL Fish, shrimp, chicken and burgers, live music, drinks, flat-screens TVs, pool tables and V.I.P. room. 1407 John Barrow Road. Full bar. 501-224-1615. BLD daily. CATERING TO YOU Painstakingly prepared entrees and great appetizers in this gourmetto-go location, attached to a gift shop. Caters everything from family dinners to weddings and large corporate events. 8121 Cantrell Road. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-614-9030. Serving meals to go: LD Mon.-Sat. CIAO BACI The focus is on fine dining in this casually elegant Hillcrest bungalow, though excellent tapas are out of this world. The treeshaded, light-strung deck is a popular destination. 605 N. Beechwood St. Full bar, all CC. $$$. 501-603-0238. D Mon.-Sat. CRAZEE’S COOL CAFE Good burgers, daily plate specials and bar food amid pool tables and TVs. 7626 Cantrell Road. Full bar, all CC. $-$$. 501-221-9696. LD Mon.-Sat. CUPCAKE FACTORY About a dozen cupcake varieties daily, plus pies, whole or by-the-slice, cake balls, brownies and other dessert bars. 18104 Kanis Road. No alcohol, all CC. 501-8219913. L Mon.-Fri. CUPCAKES ON KAVANAUGH Gourmet cupcakes and coffee, indoor seating. 5625 Kavanaugh Blvd. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-664-2253. LD Mon.-Sat. DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE Chain specializes in steak and upscale pub food. Try the crab cake. 17707 Chenal Parkway. Full bar, CC. $$-$$$. 501-448-2631. LD Mon.-Sat., BR Sun. DEMPSEY BAKERY Bakery with sit-down area, serving coffee and specializing in gluten-, nutand soy-free baked goods. 323 Cross St. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-375-2257. Serving BL Tue.-Sat. DOE’S EAT PLACE A skid-row dive turned power brokers’ watering hole with huge steaks, great tamales and broiled shrimp, and killer burgers at lunch. 1023 W. Markham St. Full bar, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-376-1195. LD Mon.-Fri., D Sat. DOUBLETREE PLAZA BAR & GRILL The lobby restaurant in the Doubletree is elegantly comfortable, but you’ll find no airs put on at heaping breakfast and lunch buffets. 424 W. Markham St. Full bar, all CC. $$. 501-372-4371. BLD daily. EJ’S EATS AND DRINKS The friendly neighborhood hoagie shop downtown serves at a handful of tables and by delivery. The sandwiches are generous, the soup homemade and the salads cold. Vegetarians can craft any number of acceptable meals from the flexible menu. The housemade potato chips are da bomb. 523 Center St. Full bar, all CC. $-$$. 501-666-3700. LD Mon.-Fri., BR Sun. FIVE GUYS BURGERS & FRIES Nationwide burger chain with emphasis on freshly made fries and patties. 2923 Lakewood Village Drive. NLR. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-246-5295. LD daily. 13000 Chenal Parkway. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-225-1100. LD daily. FLYING FISH The fried seafood is fresh and crunchy and there are plenty of raw, boiled and grilled offerings, too. The hamburgers are a hit. It’s counter service; wander on through the screen door and you’ll find a slick team of cooks
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JANUARY 28, 2016
33
MOVIE REVIEW
DINING CAPSULES, CONT.
A RUGGED TALE OF SURVIVAL: Leonardo DiCaprio as Hugh Glass, a man driven by revenge.
Beautiful, brutal, tiresome ‘The Revenant’ unrevealing. BY WILL STEPHENSON
I
n 1823, while employed as a scout for a fur-trading expedition, the Pennsylvania-born trapper Hugh Glass was savagely mauled by a grizzly bear in the wilds of present-day South Dakota. His party, fearing inclement weather, dwindling resources and attacks from neighboring Arikara Indians, left him behind. Glass was presumed dead, but like his peers in the pantheon of great 19th century mountain men, he had developed a rugged, hard-won imperishability. He crawled and scraped and dragged himself hundreds of miles through the woods — treating his wounds with maggots, shrouding himself in bear hide, scavenging roots and berries — and miraculously found his way back to his group’s home fort. His motivation, according to the historical record, was revenge. The Glass story was immortalized in Frederick Manfred’s 1954 novel “Lord Grizzly,” and was also filmed in 1971 as “Man of the Wilderness,” starring Richard Harris and John Huston. In 2002, Michael Punke, who moonlights as a novelist when he isn’t fulfilling his duties as U.S. ambassador to the World Trade Organization, published a novel about Glass titled “The Revenant: A Novel of Revenge.” (A “revenant” is a ghost.) This is the source material for Mexican direc34
JANUARY 28, 2016
ARKANSAS TIMES
tor Alejandro González Iñárritu’s muchvaunted new film, which is visceral and severe and exhausting. It’s often said of Martin Scorsese’s “Raging Bull” that it modernized boxing movies by putting the camera inside the ring; rather than a wide-shot, we were thrust into the desperate subjectivity of the fighters, where we could feel their speed and sweat. With “The Revenant,” Iñárritu might have aimed to do something similar for the Western. We are often looking over DiCaprio’s shoulder — as disoriented as he is — or nestled up uncomfortably close to his face, as he’s being brutally injured in one of a thousand ways. The audience tends to find itself in the middle of the action, except when we don’t, in which case we’re given gorgeous, hyperchromatic landscapes, as vibrant as Hudson River School paintings. There’s something essentially admirable about this — about taking a lost chapter of American history (represented, for many of us, by a couple of textbook illustrations of Lewis and Clark and maybe a Davy Crockett hat) and rendering it with vivid, jarring intensity. To remind us that life in America was relatively impossible then, that it was dank and unhappy and ludicrously dangerous,
seems like an artistically serious project. In this sense it reminded me of Terrence Malick’s “The New World.” Who’s to say this sort of thing isn’t exactly what Hollywood does best? When Cinemascope was introduced — with its preposterously wide frame — Billy Wilder famously joked that the format would be ideal for filming “the love story of two dachshunds.” He might have also mentioned bear attacks. But there just isn’t much to it, finally. Where “The New World” was tactile and dreamlike, granular in its revisionism — and the same could be said of Jim Jarmusch’s “Dead Man,” another acidWestern death-march into the early American frontier — “The Revenant” is kind of a one-dimensional experience. Considering its budget and scope, you can’t help but be surprised by its lack of ambition, by how little it asks of us. DiCaprio has been celebrated for his performance, but I don’t think I noticed one. He certainly didn’t seem to be enjoying himself, but if athletic masochism is our metric, I’ve seen worse. (Steve-O jumped into the ocean with a fish-hook through his cheek in “Jackass 2”; where was his Golden Globe?) The film’s flashes of magical realism are perfunctory and repetitive, and the revenge plot — a narrative engine so primal that Iñárritu clearly hoped it could sustain our attention on its own — feels overly manipulative and eventually becomes dwarfed by Glass’ more immediate obstacles. The stakes are high, in other words, but they are also tiresome. Midway through, I realized I’d have to suspend all character identification, or even to actively root against Glass’ survival, to finish the thing. By the time it was over, I’d already begun to forget it.
and servers doing a creditable job of serving big crowds. 511 President Clinton Ave. Beer and wine, all CC. $$. 501-375-3474. LD daily. FLYWAY BREWING A popular pico brewery that also serves up quality pub food and snacks. 314 Maple St. NLR. Beer, CC. $$. 501-350-8868. L Fri.-Sun., D Wed.-Sun. GINO’S PIZZA AND PHILLY STEAK You can get a pretty good Philly steak here in the wee hours. 8000 Geyer Springs Road. No alcohol, CC. $. 501-562-0152. LD daily. THE GRAND CAFE Typical hotel restaurant fare. 925 S. University Ave. Full bar, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-664-5020. BD daily. GREEN LEAF GRILL Cafeteria on the ground floor of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield building has healthy entrees. 601 S. Gaines. No alcohol, CC. 501-378-2521. GRUMPY’S TOO Music venue and sports bar with lots of TVs, pub grub and regular drink specials. 1801 Green Mountain Drive. Full bar, all CC. $-$$. 501-225-3768. D Mon.-Sat. GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN The best fried chicken in town. Go for chicken and waffles on Sundays. 300 President Clinton Ave. Beer, CC. $-$$. 501-372-2211. LD daily. 400 N. Bowman. Beer. $-$$. 501-400-8745. LD daily. HERITAGE GRILLE STEAK AND FIN Upscale dining inside the Little Rock Marriott. Excellent surf and turf options. 3 Statehouse Plaza. Full bar, all CC. $$$. 501-399-8000. LD daily. HOMER’S Great vegetables, huge yeast rolls and killer cobblers. Follow the mobs. 2001 E. Roosevelt Road. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-374-1400. BL Mon.-Fri. 9700 N. Rodney Parham. Full bar, all CC. $$. 501-224-6637. BLD Mon.-Sat., BL Sun. IRA’S PARK HILL GRILL Inventive and toothsome fine dining in a casual setting. 3812 JFK Blvd. NLR. Full bar, CC. $$-$$$. 501-771-6900. L Tue.-Fri., Sun.; D Tue.-Sat. BR Sun. IRONHORSE SALOON Bar and grill offering juicy hamburgers and cheeseburgers. 9125 Mann Road. Full bar, all CC. $. 501-562-4464. LD daily. J. GUMBO’S Fast-casual Cajun fare served, primarily, in a bowl. Will surprise you. 12911 Cantrell Road. Beer, all CC. $-$$. 501-916-9635. LD daily. JERKY’S SPICY CHICKEN AND MORE Jerk chicken, Southern fried chicken, Southern fried jerk chicken, along with burgers, sandwiches, salads. 521 Center St. No alcohol. $-$$. 501-246-3096. LD Mon.-Sat. JIMMY ’S S E R IO US S AN DWICHE S Consistently fine sandwiches, side orders and desserts for 30 years. Chicken salad’s among the best in town, and there are fun specialty sandwiches such as Thai One On and The Garden. Get there early for lunch. 5116 W. Markham St. No alcohol, CC. $-$$. 501-6663354. LD Mon.-Fri., L Sat. JOUBERT’S TAVERN Local beer and wine haunt that serves Polish sausage and other bar foods. 7303 Kanis Road. Full bar, CC. $-$$. 501-664-9953. D Mon.-Sat. K. HALL AND SONS Neighborhood grocery store with excellent lunch counter. The cheeseburger is hard to beat. 1900 Wright Ave. No alcohol, CC. $. 501-372-1513. BLD Mon.-Sat. (closes at 6 p.m.), BL Sun. KILWINS Ice cream, candies, fudge and sweets galore made in-house and packaged for eat-itnow or eat-it-later. 415 President Clinton Ave. No alcohol, CC. $-$$. 501-379-9865. LD daily. LAZY PETE’S FISH AND SHRIMP Southern and Cajun pub grub. 200 N. Bowman Road. Beer, CC. $$. 501-680-2660. LD daily.
LE POPS Delicious, homemade iced lollies (or popsicles, for those who aren’t afraid of the trademark.) 5501 Kavanaugh Blvd. Ste. J. No alcohol, CC. $. 501-313-9558. LD daily. LOBLOLLY CREAMERY Small batch artisan ice cream and sweet treats company that operates a soda fountain inside The Green Corner Store. 1423 Main St. No alcohol, CC. $-$$. 501-3969609. LD Mon.-Sat., L Sun. LOCA LUNA Grilled meats, seafood and pasta dishes that never stray far from country roots, whether Italian, Spanish or Arkie. “Gourmet plate lunches” are good, as is Sunday brunch. 3519 Old Cantrell Road. Full bar, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-663-4666. BR Sun., LD Mon.-Fri., D Sat. LOST FORTY BREWING Brewery and brewpub from the folks behind Big Orange, Local Lime and ZAZA. Good food options to accompany the popular craft beers. 501 Byrd St. Beer and wine, all CC. $$. 501-319-7335. LD Wed.-Sun. LOVE FISH MARKET Part fish market, part restaurant. Offering fresh fish to prepare at home or fried catfish and a variety of sides. 1401 John Barrow Road. No alcohol, CC. $-$$. 501-224-0202. LD Mon.-Sat. LULAV A MODERN EATERY Bistro-style menu of American favorites broken down by expensive to affordable plates, and strong wine list, also group-priced to your liking. Great filet. Don’t miss the chicken and waffles. 220 W. 6th St. Full bar, CC. $$$. 501-374-5100. LD Mon.-Fri., D Sat. LULU’S CRAB BOIL Cajun and Creole fare from the Chi family. The crab fingers and po’ boys are standouts. 5911 R St. Full bar, CC. $$-$$$. 501-663-2388. LD daily. THE MAIN CHEESE A restaurant devoted to grilled cheese. 14524 Cantrell Road. Beer and wine, CC. $-$$. 501-367-8082. BLD Mon.-Sat. MILFORD TRACK Healthy and tasty are the key words at this deli/grill that serves breakfast and lunch. Hot entrees change daily and there are soups, sandwiches, salads and killer desserts. Bread is baked in-house, and there are several veggie options. 10809 Executive Center Drive, Searcy Building. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-223-2257. BL Mon.-Fri., L Sat. NEXT BISTRO AND BAR Live music, on the outdoor patio in nice weather, and bar with specialty drinks like house sangria. No cover 2611 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar, all CC. 501-6636398. ONE ELEVEN AT THE CAPITAL Inventive fine dining restaurant helmed by Jöel Attunes, a James Beard award-winning chef. 111 Markham St. Full bar, all CC. $$$. 501-370-7011. BD daily, L Mon.-Fri, BR Sun. THE OYSTER BAR Gumbo, red beans and rice (all you can eat on Mondays), peel-andeat shrimp, oysters on the half shell, addictive po’ boys. Killer jukebox. 3003 W. Markham St. Beer and wine, all CC. $-$$. 501-666-7100. LD Mon.-Sat. OZARK COUNTRY RESTAURANT A longstanding favorite with many Little Rock residents, the eatery specializes in big country breakfasts and pancakes plus sandwiches and several meat-and-two options for lunch and dinner. Try the pancakes and don’t leave without some sort of smoked meat. 202 Keightley Drive. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-663-7319. BL daily. PANERA BREAD This bakery/cafe serves freshly baked breads, bagels and pastries every morning as well as a full line of espresso beverages. It also offers a full menu of sandwiches, hand-tossed salads and hearty soups. 314 S. University Ave. No alcohol, all CC. 501-6646878. BLD daily. 11525 Cantrell Road. No
alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-227-0222. BLD daily. 1050 Ellis Ave. Conway. 501-764-1623 10701 Kanis Road. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-9547773. BLD daily. PLAYTIME PIZZA Tons of fun isn’t rained out by lackluster eats at this $11 million, 65,000-squarefoot kidtopia near the Colonel Glenn 18 theater. While the buffet is only so-so, features like indoor mini-golf, laser tag, go-karts, arcade games and bumper cars make it a winner for both kids and adults. 600 Colonel Glenn Plaza Loop. All CC. $-$$. 501-227-7529. D Mon.-Wed., LD Thu.-Sun. POTBELLY SANDWICH SHOP Tasty, affordable sandwiches from fast-casual chain. 314 S University Ave. No alcohol, CC. $-$$. 501-6604441. LD daily. PURPLE COW DINER 1950s fare — cheeseburgers, chili dogs, thick milk shakes — in a ‘50s setting at today’s prices. 8026 Cantrell Road. Full bar, all CC. $$. 501-221-3555. LD daily, BR Sat.-Sun. 11602 Chenal Parkway. Full bar, all CC. $$. 501-224-4433. LD daily, BR Sat.-Sun. 1419 Higden Ferry Road. Hot Springs. Beer, all CC. $$. 501-625-7999. LD daily, B Sun. RACK’UM SPORTS BAR AND GRILL Burgers, pub food and free Wi-Fi. 2817 Cantrell Road. Full bar. 501-603-0066. D daily. THE RELAY STATION This grill offers a short menu, which includes chicken sandwiches and hamburgers. 12225 Stagecoach Road. Full bar, all CC. $-$$. 501-455-9919. LD daily. THE ROOT CAFE Homey, local foods-focused cafe. With tasty burgers, homemade bratwurst, banh mi and a number of vegan and veggie options. Breakfast and Sunday brunch, too. 1500 S. Main St. Beer, all CC. $-$$. 501-414-0423. BL Tue.-Sat., BR Sun. SANDY’S HOMEPLACE CAFE Specializing in home-style buffet, with two meats and seven vegetables to choose from. It’s all-you-can-eat. 1710 E. 15th St. No alcohol, No CC. $. 501-3753216. L Mon.-Fri. SCALLIONS Reliably good food, great desserts, pleasant atmosphere, able servers — a solid lunch spot. 5110 Kavanaugh Blvd. Beer and wine, all CC. $-$$. 501-666-6468. BL Mon.-Sat. SCOOP DOG Drive up or dine in at this North Little Rock dog and soda stand. It’s frozen custard instead of ice cream here (the difference being eggs along with the sugar and cream) and the specialty sundaes are all named after dogs. 5508 John F. Kennedy Blvd. NLR. No alcohol, No CC. 501-753-5407. LD daily. SHAKE’S FROZEN CUSTARD Frozen custards, concretes, sundaes. 12011 Westhaven Drive. No alcohol, all CC. $. 501-224-0150. LD daily. SHORTY SMALL’S Land of big, juicy burgers, massive cheese logs, smoky barbecue platters and the signature onion loaf. 11100 N. Rodney Parham Road. Full bar, all CC. $$. 501-224-3344. LD daily. SKINNY J’S There is something for everyone on the mind-blowingly large menu — 17 appetizers and 15 burger choices, for example — but the good news is this is the same menu that has been a hit in Jonesboro and Paragould, and the kitchen seems to have everything down pat. 314 Main St. NLR. Full bar, CC. $$-$$$. 501-9162645. LD Mon.-Sat. SLIM CHICKENS Chicken tenders and wings served fast. Better than the Colonel. 4500 W. Markham. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-9070111. LD daily. 301 N. Shackleford Road. No alcohol, CC. $-$$. 954-9999. LD daily 7514 Cantrell Road. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-2465791. LD daily. SONNY WILLIAMS’ STEAK ROOM Steaks,
January is... Win Little Rock Trojans basketball tickets, support the Arkansas Foodbank and win cool prizes all month – just by enjoying a meal at any North Little Rock restaurant. #EatNLR NLRRestaurantMonth.com 501-758-1424
425 West Capitol Ave. #300 Little Rock, AR 72201 501.375.3200 flakeandkelley.com
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(501) 324-1414 117 East Broadway, North Little Rock www.regenerationfitnessar.com Email: regfit@att.net www.arktimes.com
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OXFORD AMERICAN AND SOUTH ON MAIN present these excellent shows in February: FEBRUARY 4, 2016 HAYES CARLL 8:00 PM—Oxford American is excited to welcome Hayes Carll to the South on Main stage for an acoustic show on Thursday, February 4 at 8:00 PM. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with dinner and drinks available for purchase at that time. BUY TICKETS FEBRUARY 18, 2016 NORA JANE STRUTHERS & THE PARTY LINE [AMERICANA SERIES] 8:00 PM—The Oxford American magazine is excited to welcome Nora Jane Struthers & The Party Line to the South on Main stage! This is the third show of our Americana Series. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with dinner and drinks available for purchase at that time. This series is made possible by our presenting sponsor, Ben E. Keith Foods Mid-South Division, and in part by the generosity of The Summer Foundation.
FEB 10
Wine and cheese will always be a classic combo, but wine and chocolate pairings are becoming more popular. Colonial Wines & Spirits is partnering once again with Cocoa Rouge for a WINE AND CHOCOLATE EVENT from 4-7 p.m. Sample some delicious chocolates and learn the ideal wine to pair with them. You might even find the perfect Valentine’s Gift. Colonial Wine & Spirits is located at 11200 West Markham Street in Little Rock.
Hey, do this!
FEBRUARY
JAN 28-20 SUSAN ERWIN performs at the piano at Nashville Rockin’ Grill at 8 p.m. Like the bar and grill on Facebook for upcoming events.
JAN 28-FEB 18
The lineup has been revealed for the 2016 ARKANSAS TIMES MUSICIANS SHOWCASE with the first round beginning this Thursday, Jan. 28; round two takes place Feb. 4; round three will be on Feb. 11 and the final round will be held on Feb. 18. All semifinal rounds are at Sticky Fingerz and start at 8 p.m. Four acts will perform 30 minutes of original music. The winning act from each round secures a spot in the finals, Friday, Feb. 26 at Rev Room.
FEB 10-13
O’Looney’s is having a champagne event. All bottles of sparking wine is 20% off. See the ad in this week’s paper for the #everydaysommelier featured items.
FEB 12
UCA Public Appearances presents “AN EVENING WITH SINBAD.” For nearly three decades, Sinbad has been entertaining audiences on TV and in film. He’s also a master at stand-up comedy. Here’s your chance to catch him live for one night only at Reynolds Performance Hall on the UCA campus in Conway. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $30-$40. To purchase online, visit uca.edu/publicappearances.
FEB 19-21
Join author REBECCA WELLS at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre for her new one-woman show based on her New York Times bestselling novel, The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood. The show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at therep.org. n Leapin’ Lizards! Celebrity Attractions is proud to present the new U.S. NATIONAL TOUR OF ANNIE. Directed by original lyricist and director Martin Charnin, this production of Annie is a brand new physical incarnation of the iconic Tony Award-winning original. Annie takes the stage at the Maumelle Performing Arts Center Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are on sale now and are priced at $32, $52 and $67. Tickets are available by phone at 244-8800 or online at ticketmaster.com. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more by calling 492-3312.
FEB 5
Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer MAVIS STAPLES performs at Pulaski Tech’s Center for Humanities and Arts Theater. Show starts at 8 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. with cash bar available. For tickets, visit pulaskitech.edu/mavis.
FEB 12-20
The Argenta Community Theater’s continues its awardwinning theatrical shows with the musical BRIGADOON. The show opens on Friday, February 12 and runs through Saturday, February 20. Previews are February 10 and 11 with a special Valentine’s Day matinee on Sunday, February 14. This is a beautiful story of two Americans on a hunting trip to Scotland who get lost and happen upon a blessed village where romance, drama and chaos ensues. Directed by Vincent Insalco and choreographed by Allison Stodola Wilson, this performance is not to be missed. For tickets, call 501-353-1443.
THROUGH FEB 14
Don’t miss PETER AND THE STARCATCHER at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre. A swashbuckling prelude to J. M. Barrie’s fantasy classic, Peter Pan, this imaginative, breathtaking adventure is filled with theatrical panache and will delight the young and old and those who will never grow up. For show times and tickets, visit therep.org.
FEB 25
The Arkansas Arts Center hosts a member lecture and preview for DOROTHEA LANGE’S AMERICA and CHARLES BURCHFIELD’S BLACK IRON. Guests will enjoy a lecture by Ann Prentice Wagner, Ph.D. Curator of Drawings, and view the exhibitions before the public opening. The event is free for members and $15 for nonmembers. For more info, call 501-372-4000.
FEB 27-28
FEB 16
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ARKANSAS TIMES
FUN!
THROUGH FEB 6
There’s still time to catch MOONLIGHT & MAGNOLIAS at Murry’s Dinner Playhouse. It’s the mostly true and completely hilarious story behind the writing of the classic movie, Gone with the Wind. On February 9, Opal’s Husband opens. The follow-up to Everybody Loves Opal runs through March 12. For show times and tickets, visit murrysdp.com.
FEB 9
Iconic rock band DEF LEPPARD appears live in concert at Verizon Arena in North Little Rock supported by Styx and Tesla for an epic night of music. Def Leppard’s influential career includes numerous hit singles and two of the bestselling albums of all time, Pyromania and Hysteria. Tickets are $53.50-$119 and available at ticketmaster.com.
FEB 12
Hop on the free trolley, and see where 2ND FRIDAY ART NIGHT takes you. From 5-8 p.m., pop into participating locations like the Historic Arkansas Museum, Gallery 221, Cox Creative Center, Butler Center Galleries and Copper Grill. Like 2nd Friday Art Night on Facebook to keep up with the happenings.
As part of its Classic Movie Series, Riverdale 10 screens CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND at 7 p.m. Kick back in the new reclining seats, and enjoy a glass of wine or cold beer at the only theater in Arkansas to allow you to do so. Visit riverdale10.com for all movie listings and events.
FEB 16-MAY 15
WILLIAM ADOLPHE BOUGUEREAU’S ADMIRATION: A SPECIAL LOAN will be on display as a special exhibition at the Arkansas Arts Center. This great neoclassical painting of ladies admiring Cupid, the Roman god of love, comes from the San Antonio Museum of Art. For more info, visit arkansasartscenter.org.
FEB 26
Arkansas Sounds pays tribute to two of Arkansas’s most highly acclaimed African American classical composers with a screening of THE CAGED BIRD: THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF FLORENCE B. PRICE at 7 p.m. at the CALS Ron Robinson Theater. Performances of Florence B. Price’s and William Grant Still’s compositions by members of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra (ASO) and the ASO Youth Orchestra will follow. The film’s length is approximately one hour. This event is free and open to the public. Seating is first come, first served.
THE ARKANSAS GLASSHOPPERS will host their 30TH ANNUAL DEPRESSION ERA AND VINTAGE GLASS SHOW and Sale at the Hall of Industry on the State Fairgrounds. The show features 24 vendors from 14 states with more than 175 tables of vintage glassware, pottery and kitchen items. Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $5 and is good for both days. Parking is free.
n
Food, Music, Entertainment and everything else that’s
FEB 17
Movies at MacArthur takes place the third Wednesday of every month MacArthur Museum of Military History in downtown Little Rock. Free and open to the public, this month’s feature is FREEDOM FLYERS OF THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN. For a complete schedule of films, stop on by the museum 503 E. Ninth Street, or call 501376-4602 for more info.
FEB 26-MAY 8
INDUSTRIAL BEAUTY: CHARLES BURCHFIELD’S BLACK IRON opens at the Arkansas Arts Center and celebrates the acquisition of this powerful 1935 watercolor of the same name, a gift from Hope Aldrich in honor of her father, John D. Rockefeller III. For more info, visit arkansasartscenter.org. n This exhibition of photographs by DOROTHEA LANGE and her fellow New Deal photographers are on display at the Arkansas Arts Center. Lange’s poignant portraits, including the iconic “Migrant Mother,” show unemployed and underemployed farm workers coping with the worst of times. For more info, visit arkansasartscenter.org.
FEB 6
High noon: Arkansas Times and The Root’s BEARD GROWING CONTEST. At Bernice Gardens
ART NOTES
TWINS: Their dolls did not reflect their own race.
THE COLLECTORS: Mary and Joshua Smith with the first two portraits they purchased.
Swift Collection of photos creates portrait of an era BY LESLIE NEWELL PEACOCK
I
t’s likely that the photographs now on exhibit in the Arkansas Studies Institute’s Concordia Hall are unlike any that most folks have seen. These post-Civil War and early 20th century portraits of African Americans collected by Joshua and Mary Swift of Little Rock are part photography, part drawing. Some add details to enhance the image — a frilly frock on a baby that may have not had such a gown, a necklace on a woman. The photographs were, Joshua Swift said, “the first say-so they had over how they wanted to be presented.” There are no mammies here with white babies, nor denigrating pictures, nor scenes of horror. They are, instead, “society” pictures, as Mary Swift put it, pre-Jim Crow portraits of people who thought that emancipation would bring equality. The Swifts began collecting the photographs around 1980, when Mary Swift found a couple in a garage (literally) sale in North Little Rock. The photos were of two dapper young men. “We knew they were a rare item” from “an era gone by.” They began looking for more photographs, and today have 89 such photos in their collection.
DINING CAPSULES, CONT.
The photographs, with just a few exceptions, are of unidentified people. Because many of the photographs in the collection were found in Arkansas at estate sales and antique shops, they are likely of Arkansans. One photograph, however, the Swifts know to be a Rev. Wright, who was associated with the Mosaic Templars fraternal organization. Another, a 19th century photograph, identifies its subject, Georgian Washington, on the photo itself. The photo came from Louisiana. Joshua Swift, who is retired from Alcoa, said the exhibition is meant to show the works as a particular art form, thanks to the era and style, but he hopes visitors to the gallery may be able to identify some of their ancestors on the wall. The Swifts believe that many of the photographs — none of which were taken past 1940 — were shot by itinerant photographers put out of work by the end of the Civil War. Some are enlargements of tintypes, and have an ethereal quality, but the photographer has carefully drawn in the fuzzier details, outlining hands and feet and adding bits of color here and there. The adult subjects are dignified, backs straight,
solemn-faced; “I like the propriety” of the poses, Mary Swift said. The babies are winsome. There is a photograph of two children standing amid tall flowers; brush strokes of watercolor give the photograph the appearance of a Carroll Cloar painting. Many of the photographs are in their original frames, but the Swifts have found several that were unframed; buyers apparently only wanted the frames and left the photographs behind. Other photographs are behind domed glass, which the Swifts have not been able to replace. One may be of Harriett Tubman, the Swifts believe; they found a photograph in an antique mall in Little Rock and a matching tintype in Pine Bluff. One photograph is of twin young girls in matching pinafores holding their dolls. The dolls match one another: both are white. There were black dolls in the late 19th and early 20th century, the Swifts said, but they were French and German and very expensive. There is one painting in the show, though it may have used a photograph as a basis. It places a man’s portrait within a peach. It was symbolic, Joshua Swift explained. The man was a peach farmer? a reporter asked. No, Swift said, it’s a reference to his skin tone, a source of pride. The Swifts also have photographs of their own ancestors included in the show, including Joshua Swift’s greatgrandparents, Annie and Moses Peters, made in Scott, Ark., and Mary Swift’s grandfather, Isom Springfield, taken in 1861. The exhibition, “Photographic Arts: African American Studio Photography from the Joshua and Mary Swift Collection,” runs through March 26.
chicken and seafood in a wonderful setting in the River Market. Steak gets pricey, though. Menu is seasonal. 500 President Clinton Ave. Full bar, all CC. $$$. 501-324-2999. D Mon.-Sat. SOUTH ON MAIN Fine, innovative takes on Southern fare in a casual, but well-appointed setting. 1304 Main St. Full bar, CC. $-$$. 501-244-9660. L Mon.-Fri., D Tue.-Sat. STAGECOACH GROCERY AND DELI Fine po’ boys and muffalettas — and cheap. 6024 Stagecoach Road. Beer and wine, all CC. $-$$. 501-455-7676. BLD Mon.-Fri., BL Sat.-Sun. SWEET SOUL Southern classics by the proprietors of the late, great Haystack Cafe in Ferndale: Chicken fried steak (just about perfect), catfish, collards, cornbread, black-eyed peas and fried chicken. 400 President Clinton Ave. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-374-7685. L Mon.-Fri. TABLE 28 Excellent fine dining with lots of creative flourishes. Branch out and try the Calamari “Schnitzel” and Quail Bird Lollipops. 1501 Merrill Drive. Full bar, CC. $$$. 501-2242828. D Mon.-Sat. TERRI-LYNN’S BBQ AND DELICATESSEN High-quality meats served on large sandwiches and good tamales served with chili or without (the better bargain). 10102 N. Rodney Parham Road. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-227-6371. L Tue.-Fri., LD Sat. (close at 5 p.m.). @ THE CORNER Salads, burgers and other sandwiches. Try the poutine, made with homemade french fries and tasty brown gravy. 201 E. Markham. No alcohol, CC. $$. 501-400-8458. BL Tue.-Sat. WEST END SMOKEHOUSE AND TAVERN Its primary focus is a sports bar with 50-plus TVs, but the dinner entrees (grilled chicken, steaks and such) are plentiful and the bar food is upper quality. 215 N. Shackleford. Full bar, all CC. $$. 501-224-7665. L Fri.-Sun., D daily. WHICH WICH AT CHENAL Sandwiches in three sizes, plus cookies and milkshakes, online or faxed (501-312-9435) ordering available. Also at 2607 McCain Blvd., 501-771-9424, fax 501-7714329. 12800 Chenal Parkway, Suite 10. No alcohol. 501-312-9424. WING LOVERS The name says it all. 4411 W. 12th St. $-$$. 501-663-3166. LD Mon.-Sat. WING SHACK Wings, catfish and more. 6323 Colonel Glenn Road. No alcohol. 501-562-0010. WINGSTOP It’s all about wings. The joint features 10 flavors of chicken flappers for almost any palate, including mild, hot, Cajun and atomic, as well as specialty flavors like lemon pepper, teriyaki, Garlic parmesan and Hawaiian. 11321 W. Markham St. Beer, all CC. $-$$. 501-224-9464. LD daily.
ASIAN
A.W. LIN’S ASIAN CUISINE Excellent panAsian with wonderful service. 17717 Chenal Parkway H101. Full bar, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-8215398. LD daily. BIG ON TOKYO Serviceable fried rice, teriyaki chicken and sushi. 400 President Clinton Ave. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-375-6200. BLD Mon.-Sat. CHINA PLUS BUFFET Large Chinese buffet. 6211 Colonel Glenn Road. Beer and wine, all CC. $-$$. 501-562-1688. LD daily. CHINESE KITCHEN Good Chinese takeout. Try the Cantonese press duck. 11401 N. Rodney Parham Road. No alcohol, CC. $-$$. 501-2242100. LD Tue.-Sun. HANAROO SUSHI BAR One of the few spots in downtown Little Rock to serve sushi. With an expansive menu, featuring largely Japanese fare. Try the popular Tuna Tataki bento box. 205 W. Capitol Ave. Beer and wine, all CC. $$. www.arktimes.com
JANUARY 28, 2016
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DINING CAPSULES, CONT.
BETH HALL
THEATER REVIEW
A PREQUEL: Garrett Houston (Ted), Faith Sandberg (Molly Aster), Steve Pacek (Boy/Peter) and Nathaniel Stahlke (Prentiss) in The Rep’s production of “Peter and the Starcatcher.”
A modern Pan “Peter and the Starcatcher” adds a modern flair to the Peter Pan story. BY JAMES MURRAY
O
ver the years, the only thing that’s really stuck with me about the Peter Pan story is how we grapple with the need to maintain childlike wonder and innocence when time sullies purity and makes the past joys of youth enviable. It was always hard, knowing that Wendy Darling had grown up and had a daughter of her own while Peter lost track of time in Neverland, remaining a child in perpetuity. Fortunately, the Arkansas Repertory Theatre’s production of “Peter and Starcatcher,” billed as the prequel to the story of the boy who refused to grow up, provides a bit more levity. I’m sure that fact that is was cowritten by one of the country’s preeminent humorists, Dave Berry, had something to do with that. London, 1885: Queen Victoria commissions Lord Aster (Marc Carver) to deliver a chest of magic material known as “starstuff” to the island of Rundoon on a ship called the Wasp. Following him on a different ship are Aster’s precocious daughter Molly (Faith Sandberg) and her alliterative spewing nanny, Mrs. Bumbrake (Bruce Warren), on a ship called the Neverland. Things aren’t as they seem. For instance, Molly has no idea that her vessel actually contains the coveted magic dust. And the starstuff isn’t the only unanticipated cargo aboard. Three orphan boys are also in tow, one of whom, simply named Boy 38
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ARKANSAS TIMES
(Garret L. Whitehead), is bound to become the flying, frolicsome Peter Pan. In other areas of the high seas, the Wasp has been hijacked by Blackstache (Hugh Kennedy) and his crew, who make a beeline for the Neverland in pursuit of its riches. Molly and the boys must now protect the precious granules from the future Captain Hook and company. “Resourceful” may be an understatement when describing the various creative ways in which the Rep uses props in this production. With a minimalist approach, blue sheets become oceans waves and ladders are arranged ever so slightly to become the bows of ships; actors with their backs turned to the audience become doors, while bannered flags become crocodile teeth. The costumes are what one would expect for late 19th century England, particularly when it comes to Peter and the boys, who resemble urchins straight out of a Dickens novel. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the mermaid outfits. They are colorful and glitzy, made of household items and worn by male actors in tightfitting bikini tops and horribly positioned wigs. Sure, a cross-dressing mermaid number in a play is funny, but with all the fourth-wall-breaking and constant, back and forth quips, the characters gives the impression of an improv show at times. And given that the production
casts actors in multiple, disconnected roles, it feels like a variety show — particularly in a scene that finds Peter and Blackstache battling it out in a makeshift boxing ring that appears out of nowhere, with Molly serving as the ring girl. The silliness of it all was not lost on me. How could you not find 19th century references to Cadillac Escalades funny? While the origin story of Peter’s arrested development is entertaining, Captain Hook’s backstory is far more appealing, though he does fall into the irritating trope of the effeminate heavy. Originally distinguished only by his ridiculous handlebar mustache, Blackstache loses his hand when he closes a chest door on it. The scene has him belting out an exhaustive “Oh my god!” in a range of cadences, a bit that is commendable mostly because of the actor’s impressive ability to jump an octave. In general, Blackstache is arrogant and far too prescient of the fact that a great rivalry between he and Peter lies ahead. It’s disappointing that Peter doesn’t fly in the play, and not even the presence of an oversized flying cat can make up for that. With all its anachronistic references, (e.g. to Michael Jackson), slapstick humor, malapropisms and witty banter, “Peter and the Starcatcher” is a play all too aware of its role in laying the groundwork for well-known characters by imposing aspects of contemporary culture so that we might better understand them. But not to worry: The enduring power of its themes — fear of adulthood, longing to return to one’s youth — isn’t threatened by lines like, “And I bet your milkshake brings all the boys to the yard!”
501-301-7900. L Mon.-Fri., D Mon.-Sat. NEW CHINA A burgeoning line of massive buffets, with hibachi grill, sushi, mounds of Chinese food and soft-serve ice cream. 4617 John F. Kennedy Blvd. NLR. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-753-8988. LD daily. 2104 Harkrider. Conway. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-764-1888. LD Mon.-Sun. OISHI HIBACHI AND THAI CUISINE Tasty Thai and hibachi from the Chi family. 5501 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-603-0080. LD daily. PHO THANH MY It says “Vietnamese noodle soup” on the sign out front, and that’s what you should order. The pho comes in outrageously large portions with bean sprouts and fresh herbs. Traditional pork dishes, spring rolls and bubble tea also available. 302 N. Shackleford Road. No alcohol, all CC. $$. 501-312-7498. LD daily. WASABI Downtown sushi and Japanese cuisine. For lunch, there’s quick and hearty sushi samplers. 101 Main St. Full bar, all CC. $-$$. 501-374-0777. L Mon.-Fri., D Mon.-Sat.
BARBECUE
CHIP’S BARBECUE Tasty, if a little pricey, barbecue piled high on sandwiches generously doused with the original tangy sauce or one of five other sauces. Better known for the incredible family recipe pies and cheesecakes, which come tall and wide. 9801 W. Markham St. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-225-4346. LD Mon.-Sat.
EUROPEAN / ETHNIC
ARBELA MIDDLE EASTERN GRILL Excellent Middle Eastern fare. Try the falafel. 323 Center St. No alcohol, CC. $-$$. 501-374-2633. L Mon.-Fri. CREGEEN’S IRISH PUB Irish-themed pub with a large selection of on-tap and bottled British beers and ales, an Irish-inspired menu and lots of nooks and crannies to meet in. Specialties include fish ‘n’ chips and Guinness beef stew. Live music on weekends and special brunch on Sunday. 301 Main St. NLR. Full bar, all CC. $$. 501-376-7468. LD daily. ISTANBUL MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT This Turkish eatery offers decent kebabs and great starters. The red pepper hummus is a winner. So are Cigar Pastries. Possibly the best Turkish coffee in Central Arkansas. 11525 Cantrell Road. No alcohol, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-223-9332. LD daily. KEBAB HOUSE Turkish-style doners and kebabs and a sampling of Tunisian cuisine. Only place in Little Rock to serve Lahmijun (Turkish pizza). 11321 W Markham St. No alcohol, CC. $-$$. LD Mon.-Sat. LAYLA’S GYROS AND PIZZERIA Delicious Mediterranean fare — gyros, falafel, shawarma, kabobs, hummus and babaganush — that has a devoted following. All meat is slaughtered according to Islamic dietary law. 9501 N. Rodney Parham Road. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-227-7272. LD daily (close 5 p.m. on Sun.) 6100 Stones Road. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-868-8226. LD Mon.-Sat. SILVEK’S EUROPEAN BAKERY Fine pastries, chocolate creations, breads and cakes done in the classical European style. Drop by for a whole cake or a slice or any of the dozens of single serving treats in the big case. 1900 Polk St. No alcohol, all CC. $$. 501-661-9699. BLD daily.
ITALIAN
CAFE PREGO Dependable entrees of pasta,
DUMAS, CONT. pork, seafood, steak and the like, plus great sauces, fresh mixed greens and delicious dressings, crisp-crunchy-cold gazpacho and tempting desserts in a comfy bistro setting. Little Rock standard for 18 years. 5510 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-663-5355. LD Mon.- Fri, D Sat. CIAO ITALIAN RESTAURANT Don’t forget about this casual yet elegant bistro tucked into a downtown storefront. The fine pasta and seafood dishes, ambiance and overall charm combine to make it a relaxing, enjoyable, affordable choice. 405 W. 7th St. Full bar, all CC. $$. 501-372-0238. L Mon.-Fri., D Thu.-Sat. GRADY’S PIZZA AND SUBS Pizza features a pleasing blend of cheeses rather than straight mozzarella. The grinder is a classic, the chef’s salad huge and tasty. 6801 W. 12th St., Suite C. Beer and wine, all CC. $-$$. 501-663-1918. LD daily. IRIANA’S PIZZA Unbelievably generous handtossed New York-style pizza with unmatched zest. Good salads, too; grinders are great, particularly the Italian sausage. 201 E. Markham St. Beer and wine, all CC. $-$$. 501-374-3656. LD Mon.-Sat. U.S. PIZZA Crispy thin-crust pizzas, frosty beers and heaping salads drowned in creamy dressing. 2710 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-663-2198. LD daily. 5524 Kavanaugh Blvd. Beer and wine, all CC. $$. 501-664-7071. LD daily. 9300 North Rodney Parham Road. Beer and wine, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-224-6300. LD daily. 3307 Fair Park Blvd. Beer and wine, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-565-6580. LD daily. 650 Edgewood Drive. Maumelle. Beer and wine, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-851-0880. LD daily. 3324 Pike Avenue. NLR. Beer and wine, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-758-5997. LD daily. 4001 McCain Park Drive. NLR. Beer and wine, all CC. $$-$$$. 501-753-2900. LD daily. ZAFFINO’S BY NORI A high-quality Italian dining experience. Pastas, entrees (don’t miss the veal marsala) and salads are all outstanding. With a more affordable lunch menu. 2001 E. Kiehl Ave. NLR. Beer and wine, all CC. 501-8347530. LD Tue.-Fri., D Sat.
LATINO
BAJA GRILL Food truck turned brick-andmortar taco joint that serves a unique MexiCali style menu full of tacos, burritos and quesadillas. 5923 Kavanaugh Blvd. CC. $-$$. 501-722-8920. LD Mon.-Sat. CANON GRILL Tex-Mex, pasta, sandwiches and salads. Creative appetizers come in huge quantities, and the varied main-course menu rarely disappoints, though it’s not as spicy as competitors’. 2811 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar,
all CC. $$. 501-664-2068. LD daily. CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL Burritos, burrito bowls, tacos and salads are the four main courses of choice — and there are four meats and several other options for filling them. Sizes are uniformly massive, quality is uniformly strong, and prices are uniformly low. 11525 Cantrell Road. All CC. $-$$. 501-221-0018. LD daily. CILANTRO’S GRILL The guac, made tableside, margaritas and desserts standout at this affordably priced traditional Mex spot. 2629 Lakewood Village Plaza. NLR. Full bar, CC. $-$$. 501-812-0040. LD daily. COTIJA’S A branch off the famed La Hacienda family tree downtown, with a massive menu of tasty lunch and dinner specials, the familiar white cheese dip and sweet red and fieryhot green salsas, and friendly service. 406 S. Louisiana St. Full bar, all CC. $$. 501-244-0733. L Mon.-Fri. EL CHICO Hearty, standard Mexican served in huge portions. 8409 Interstate 30. Full bar, all CC. $-$$. 501-562-3762. LD daily. HEIGHTS TACO & TAMALE CO. Throwback Southern-style tamales, taco plates, enchiladas and more, all doused with a generous helping of cheese and chili. Hits just the right balance between nostalgia and fresh flavors. 5805 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar, all CC. $-$$. 501-313-4848. LD daily. LA REGIONAL A full-service grocery store catering to SWLR’s Latino community, its small grill in a corner became so popular that the store added a full-service restaurant on the east end of the building. The menu offers a whirlwind trip through Latin America, with delicacies from all across the Spanish-speaking world. Bring your Spanish/English dictionary. 7414 Baseline Road. No alcohol, all CC. $-$$. 501-565-4440. BLD daily. LAS AMERICAS Guatemalan and Mexican fare. Try the hearty tamales wrapped in banana leaves. 8622 Chicot Road. $-$$. 501-565-0266. BLD Mon.-Sat. RIVIERIA MAYA Tasty, cheap Mexican food. Try the Enchiladas con Chorizo. Lunch special fajitas are fantastic. 801 Fair Park Blvd. Full bar, all CC. $-$$. 663-4800. LD daily. TAQUERIA KARINA AND CAFE A real Mexican neighborhood cantina from the owners, to freshly baked pan dulce, to Mexican-bottled Cokes, to first-rate guacamole, to inexpensive tacos, burritos, quesadillas and a broad selection of Mexican-style seafood. 5309 W. 65th St. Beer, No CC. $. 501-562-3951. BLD daily. TAQUERIA SAMANTHA II Stand-out taco truck fare, with meat options standard and exotic. 7521 Geyer Springs Road. No alcohol, No CC. $. 501-744-0680. BLD daily.
LYONS, CONT. take away mine. Sure, many people went off the rails during the ’70s. Most aren’t running for president. Bernie strikes me as a fine senator and a decent man. However, the current U.S. Congress has voted 60 times to repeal Obamacare. And he’s going to give us single-payer “Medicare for all?” No, he’s not. Assuming he could find a sponsor, it’d never get out of committee. I doubt I’ll live to see single-payer health insurance in the USA. And I’m
younger than Bernie. A complete retrofitting of American health care simply isn’t in the works. The votes just aren’t there, and they won’t materialize by repeating the magic word “revolution.” President Obama says Hillary represents the “recognition that translating values into governance and delivering the goods is ultimately the job of politics, making a real-life difference to people in their day-to-day lives.” Hard-won reality, that is, as opposed to fantasy.
recommend itself to Republicans and it suggests the pickle that Trump will find himself in, whether he faces Sanders or Hillary Clinton. Clinton defends Obamacare and will continue it, with some tweaks — as she should, since Obama borrowed it from her 2008 campaign for president. She, of course, borrowed it from congressional Republicans who proposed it to counter her ill-fated health plan in 1993. She attacks Sanders for wanting to raise taxes on the middle class to help pay for expanding Medicare to cover everyone. Clinton has been as disingenuous in attacking Sanders as the Republicans have been in attacking Obamacare. While it is true that Sanders’ plan, based on the bill he introduced in 2013, would mean about $850 billion a year in new taxes, much of it on the middle class, Clinton doesn’t balance the new taxes with the household savings. No one would pay any medical expense. There would be no co-pays,
no deductibles and no exemptions like dental or vision care. Politifact’s analysis is that the Sanders plan would save average households, after the taxes, a net of $505 to $1,823 a year. Sanders says people would save between $3,855 and $5,173 a year. But imagine a presidential candidate talking openly in any context about raising nearly everyone’s taxes, not just the wealthy’s. If Sanders and Trump meet this fall that debate will have to happen. Trump’s plan, by the way, would be more expensive, demanding even greater taxes, if he writes the insurance industry into the universal plan. Taxpayers would have to pay for the industry’s overhead and a modicum of profit. And if it is Donald and Hillary, not Bernie, that debate will be particularly one-sided, with Hillary hammering the Republican for imposing gargantuan taxes on the American people. Bring it on.
BARTH, CONT. placement of the issue on the ballot came on a nearly party-line vote of the Pulaski County Quorum Court.) Pulaski County’s electorate does skew Democratic, creating an electorate for the tax vote more open to its proponents’ arguments. There is little doubt, however, that the GOP race for President will remain sharply contested on March 1, tilting primary turnout a bit more Republican than is typical. The key question is whether
the Democratic presidential contest remains in doubt on March 1, pulling the Democratic base and young voters to the polls. This would buttress the transit advocates’ efforts significantly. Thus, oddly enough, Bernie Sanders’s performance in Iowa’s caucuses and New Hampshire’s primary may be important to the outcome in the important vote on transit’s future here in Central Arkansas.
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HOT SPRINGS HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY 3
Spa City Blues Society Blues Jam @ the Big Chill 8-12 p.m. www.spacityblues.org.
FEBRUARY 5
Gallery Walk. 5-9 p.m. Local Art Galleries.
FEBRUARY 5&6
Tommy Akers Band, 10p.m.-2a.m. Silks Bar & Grill. www. oaklawn.com
FEBRUARY 7
$7500 Oaklawn Bowl. Watch the big game Sunday, Feb 7th. www.oaklawn.com.
FEBRUARY 9
4th Annual Bourbon Street Bash 5-10 p.m. Enjoy Fat Tuesday, Feb. 9 from 5-10 p.m. at Oaklawn. www.oaklawn.com
FEBRUARY 9
Symphony Guild Valentine Dinner Dance, 6 p.m. Coronado Community Center. 150 Ponderosa Lane. Hot Springs Village. Tickets are $30. www.hsvoa.org.
FEBRUARY 10
FEBRUARY 11
Low Key Arts presents the only Arkansas performance by the influential indie rock band, LOW. 118 Arbor in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Tickets available online at www.prekindle.com. All ages welcome. www.lowkeyarts.org.
FEBRUARY 12
Valentine’s in the Village. Stardust Big Band. 7:30 p.m. Woodlands Auditorium. Tickets are $15. www.hsvoa.org.
FEBRUARY 12,13&14
Pamela K. Ward and the Last Call Orchestra Band, 10p.m.2a.m. Silks Bar & Grill. www.oaklawn.com
FEBRUARY 12&13
The Spa City Sweethearts Revue returns to Low Key Arts on February 12 and 13. Doors open on both nights at 8:00PM, Show at 8:30. Tickets are $10 in advance ($15 day of show) and are available online at www.prekindle.com or at Kollective Coffee. For ages 18 and up only. www.lowkeyarts.org.
FEBRUARY 13
American Heart Association Heart Ball. Hot Springs Convention Center.
JANUARY 28, 28, 2016 2016 JANUARY
ARKANSAS TIMES ARKANSAS TIMES
FEBRUARY 16
Surf’s Up Concert, 7:30 p.m. Woodlands Auditorium. Tickets are $27. www.hsvoa.org.
FEBRUARY 17
Spa City Blues Society Blues Jam @ the Big Chill 8-12 p.m. www.spacityblues.org.
FEBRUARY 19&20
Nerd Eye Blind, 10p.m.-2a.m., Silks Bar & Grill. www.oaklawn.com
FEBRUARY 21
Hot Springs Jazz Society Annual Meeting and Birthday Party. 3:30-6 p.m. Clubhouse of Forest Lakes Garden Home. www. hsjazzsociety.org.
FEBRUARY 26&27
Moxie, 10p.m.-2a.m., Silks Bar & Grill. www.oaklawn.com
FEBRUARY 29
$12,000 $12 000 LEAP YEAR EXTRAVAGAN EXTRAVAGANZA NZA
There will be no better place to watch the big game Sunday, Feb 7 with $7,500 Oaklawn Bowl. Come enjoy an appetizer trio special and $2 draft beer in Silks Bar & Grill from 5 – 10 p.m. There will also be a $2,500 Gridiron Challenge, $2,500 prize giveaway from 5 – 9 p.m. and the $2,500 Pre-Game Reel Tournament beginning at 2 p.m.
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Susan Erwin. 5-9p.m. Pop’s Lounge. www.oaklawn.com
$12,000 Leap Year Extravaganza . Oaklawn celebrates Leap Year with the $12,000 Leap Year Extravaganza Monday, Feb. 29th. www.oaklawn.com.
Jazz Society’s American Art Form Series. Garland County Library.
OAKLAWN $7, 500 OAKLAWN BOWL
FEBRUARY 14
ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT
4TH ANNUAL BOURBON ST. ST BASH BASH 5-10 P.M. PM Why go all the way to New Orleans when the 4th Annual Bourbon Street Bash is happening at Oaklawn on Fat Tuesday, Feb. 9 from 5 – 10 p.m. Guests are invited to come enjoy the spirit of Mardi Gras with a $5,000 prize giveaway, $4.99 Cajun dinner in Lagniappes and $2 draft beer and Hurricane drink specials.
Leap years don’t happen very often so Oaklawn is taking full advantage with the $12,000 Leap Year Extravaganza Monday, Feb. 29. Come enjoy a $2 Lily Pad drink special while participating in the $5,000 Free Play Tournament beginning at 7 p.m. There will also be a $7,000 Free Play Drawing throughout the night from 5 – 10 p.m. and two lucky people will walk away with $2,900 in Free Play at 10 p.m.
FEBRUARY LINEUP SUSAN�ERWIN�
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As long as there are horses running, there are people wanting to try their luck at “the ponies�.  Historically, Arkansas was the only state in this region that offered any gambling until casinos opened in nearby Mississippi. Even with more gambling options available to people in Central Arkansas, the tradition of Oaklawn continues, with many Arkansas corporations, clubs, groups and families traveling together to spend the day eating famous corn beef sandwiches, and enjoying an Arkansas tradition over 100 years old. “ Our 25 passenger buses fill a niche. They are the perfect size and price for most groups�, said Jana Cohen, President of Arkansas Destinations, Inc.  “Finding 20 people to join in on a day trip is easier than 50�. So many people think they need 40-50 friends to rent a bus and spend the day in Hot Springs. By renting one of our mini-coaches for about $25  a person, a group can start the party before ever walking through Oaklawn’s door, and continue it when they leave. Usually though, the ride back is a good way to start “sobering up� before
getting back home!�. In 2000 Arkansas Destinations, Inc. was formed to plan tours, transportation, meetings and events, and Oaklawn has always been part of the business mix.  “We started purchasing mini-coaches because no other transportation company was addressing this market�, said Cohen. A fleet of sedans, vans, mini coaches and trolley buses now roll through the streets of Arkansas, and all because of one entrepreneur’s need for vehicles that didn’t exist
for rent in the Little Rock market. “As soon as January begins, our phones start ringing with requests for trips to Oaklawn,� said Cohen. We are happy to have such a unique, popular attractions less than an hour away from Little Rock, filled with tradition and fun.�  To rent a mini bus for $600, or for any other transportation needs, contact Arkansas Destinations at (501) 603-0113 or jana@ardestinations.com
LOW Low Key Arts is proud to announce the only Arkansas performance by the influential indie rock band, LOW. The concert will take place on Thursday, February 11, 2016 at Low Key Arts, 118 Arbor in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The music of LOW is characterized by slow tempos and minimalist arrangements. Mimi Parker and Alan Sparhawk’s striking vocal harmonies represent perhaps the group’s most distinctive element; critic Denise Sullivan writes that their shared vocals are “as chilling as anything Gram and Emmylou ever conspired on—though that’s not to say it’s country-tinged, just straight from the heart.� LOW recently released their 11th studio record entitled “Ones and Sixes� on Sub Pop Records. Tickets for this very special small venue concert with LOW can be purchased at www.prekindle. com/or in person at Kollective Coffee, 110 Central in Hot Springs. For more information contact Low Key Arts, 118 Arbor Street in Hot Springs at 501282-9056. All ages welcome.
The Heart of Historic Hot Springs National Park
Race to The Arlington Racing, Gaming & Thermal Bathing
Thermal baths and spa A national park outside any door. Venetian Dining Room and Lobby Lounge with weekend entertainment. Private beauty and facial salon Championship golf courses.
Make The Arlington your home for thoroughbred racing season.
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JANUARY 28, 28, 2016 2016 JANUARY
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ZORAN ORLICK
ARKANSAS DESTINATIONS TRAVELS TO ONE OF ARKANSAS’ MOST POPULAR DESTINATIONS
ARROW COACH LINES Interested in having a company day at the races? Arrow Coachlines can get you to, and from, Hot Springs safely and in stylish comfort. You can customize a package for any day that Oaklawn races. Arrow has a range of buses that can accommodate groups large and small. Call them for a quote at (501) 663-6002.
THE ARLINGTON RESORT HOTEL & SPA “The Arlington, what some consider the heart of Hot Springs; The Arlington is a self-contained resort with all of the ambiance and hospitality of a traditional, grand old Southern hotel. Established in 1875, it features full spa service, which was recently named in the top 100 spas in the country by Healthy Living and Travel and some outstanding restaurants with award winning Sunday brunch and a Friday Night Seafood Feast. The Arlington’s Lobby Bar was recently rated in the top 15 bars of the world (#6) by Refinery 29 and has live entertainment Thursday, Friday & Saturday nights. The hotel Veranda is a perfect place to relax with your favorite cocktail. During the racing season, a handicapper will review the day’s races every Saturday morning in the Lobby for hotel guests. Guests may swim year-round in the twin cascading pools or relax in the hot tub on the mountainside pool deck. 239 Central Ave., (501) 623-7771.”
RIDE IN STYLE TO OAKLAWN RACING AND GAMING IN HOT SPRINGS! Only $600 to charter a 25-passenger mini coach for you and your friends to ride to and from in comfort, fun and safety. We’ll pick you up anywhere in Central Arkansas and take you right to the door.
LET US DO THE DRIVING WHILE YOU HAVE THE FUN
THE SPA CITy SWEETHEARTS BURLESQUE REVUE The art of burlesque, with roots extending to the late 1800’s, is enjoying a revival in modern day America. Hot Springs is no exception to the current fascination with classical, theatrical strip tease. Beautiful women, in elaborate costumes, often hand-made are timeless high entertainment. “The Spa City Sweethearts Burlesque Revue.” features over two dozen performers, who performed to sold out audiences at Low Key Arts for the last five years, making it the largest annual fundraiser for The Valley of the Vapors Music Festival. Expect to see the sultry sauntering of Ms. Ruby Lead, Doris Night, Rosa Lee Bloom, Violet D’Vine, Lady Dragonwing and so many more! The Spa City Sweethearts Revue returns to Low Key Arts on February 12 and 13. Doors open on both nights at 8:00PM, Show at 8:30. Tickets are $10 in advance ($15 day of show) and are available on-line at www.prekindle.com or at Kollective Coffee, 110 Central in Hot Springs. For more information contact Low Key Arts, 118 Arbor Street in Hot Springs at 501-282-9056. For ages 18 and up only.
A Low Key Arts Fundraiser Purchase tickets online or $15 at the door. General admission seating is first come first served.
Doors open at 8:00 301 Pepper Avenue, Little Rock • 501.603.0113 • www.ardestinations.com
arktimes.com
Must be 18 years of age or older
118 Arbor St Hot Springs www.lowkeyarts.org www.arktimes.com JANUARY ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT www.arktimes.com JANUARY 28, 28, 2016 2016 43
love is in the air
2016 Valentine’s Day Gift Guide
With Valentine’s Day only a few weeks away, we’ve found some great gifts and where to buy them locally. Whether it sparkles and shines or is practical and functional, the ideas on the next pages will get you prepared for the most romantic day of the year.
Be Jeweled
Head over to Bella Vita Jewelry to find the perfect gift for your Valentine like one of these lockets (new and vintage), available in several styles. Or, peruse all their jewelry designs to find something unique to your special someone. No worries if jewelry isn’t right for your sweetie, they also carry Belgian chocolates, letter-pressed cards and more. Custom orders are available until February 13. Orders that require shipping must be placed by February 10 to receive by Valentine’s Day.
VeuveClicquot Brut Yellow Label Non-Vintage Sparkling Wine from Champagne, France, $66.99
Share the Love
Pop the Cork
Bubbles are always welcome any day but they’re especially tasty at Valentine’s Day! Pick up a bottle of Veuve Clicquot from Colonial Wine & Spirits for a special treat. The predominance of Pinot Noir provides a structure that is so typically Clicquot, while a touch of Pinot Meunier rounds out the blend. Chardonnay adds the elegance and finesse essential in a perfectly balanced wine to celebrate your favorite Valentine.
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ARKANSAS TIMES ARKANSAS TIMES
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Need a Valentine’s Gift that you can enjoy too? First, go to Krebs Brothers for wine’s new love, BRIX® Chocolate for Wine. It’s available in different varieties – each with a suggested wine pairing. While there, pick up a Cork Pops wine opener (makes opening the bottle a breeze!) to go along with the chocolate. Then, bundle all those goodies with a nice bottle of wine and you have the perfect gift for the both of you to share!
Te Amo
Toast your love Spanishstyle with a nice bottle of cava (Spanish sparkling wine). Warehouse Liquor has Freixenet Spanish Cava in both Cordon Negro and Carta Nevada varietals on special for $9.99. While in store, check out the other fantastic pricing on all varietals of the Stella Rosa Italian Moscata.
HeARTworks
Original art is always a fantastic gift for any season. For the art lover, give art that celebrates the heart! We’re especially fond of this joyous and colorful acrylic painting we found among several new pieces at South Main Creative.
“Untitled” by SoMa artist Perrion Hurd/Hurdwired Studios
Perfectly Practical Cuteness For a gift that keeps on giving, this infinity scarf from The Southern Fox is a winner. It has a hidden pocket that holds a passport or ID, a few credit cards, lipstick, cell phone, hotel room key and loose bills. It’s the perfect gift for the frequent traveler in your life or, for someone who would love a date night without having to worry about a heavy purse.
A la carte grits products Artist Ben South T-Shirts, Aprons, & Prints Leggings, Tunics, Boot Socks, Ponchos Leggings, Tunics, Boot Socks, Ponchos Tory-Burch-like Jewelry Tory-Burch-like Jewelry Camille Beckman Bath & Body Products & More Lollia Bath & Body Products & More
304 MAIN ST. • ARGENTA ART DISTRICT
Inside Galaxy WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/THESOUTHERNFOXNLR Furniture • 304 Main St. • Argenta Art District
Pink Bubbly Since red and pink are the signature colors of Valentine’s Day, why not embrace that tradition when it comes to toasting your love? Treat your sweetie to the exquisite Schramsberg Mirabelle Brut Rosé available at O’Looney’s Wine & Liquor. It’s a specially crafted blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Schramsberg’s select cool-climate vineyards in Carneros, Anderson Valley, and the Sonoma and Marin coastal areas of Northern California. The multi-vintage Mirabelle Rosé is delicious on its own, but also pairs well with everything from grilled salmon to barbecued chicken and simple pastas. Be sure to ask O’Looney’s knowledgeable staff about other wines and spirits for your everyday needs as well as their #everydaysommelier specials.
YOUR NEXT BOWL OF PASTA JUST MIGHT NOT BE PASTA AT ALL VEGETABLE SPIRALIZER A SNEAKY WAY TO EAT MORE VEGGIES 4310 Landers Road • North Little Rock, AR 72117 (501) 687-1331 www.krebsbrothers.com • M-F 8-5 Sat. 9-5 ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT www.arktimes.com www.arktimes.com
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2016 VALENTINE’S GIFT GUIDE Since Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday this year, it’s important to have a plan for dining out with your sweetie. Lots of restaurants are opening specifically for Valentine’s Day, some have special menus for the entire weekend and others are doing the usual. Here are the happenings at some of our favorites.
A Rosa for your Rose
Year-round Whimsy
We love the bottle for the Banfi Rosa Regale we saw at Springhill Liquor almost as much as we love what’s inside it. We think your sweetheart will agree! A special price of $19.29 for Valentine’s Day is easy on the pocketbook too.
This whimsical garden spinner from Rhea Drug will bring a smile to anyone’s face. We like that it’s a token of love that can be enjoyed on Valentine’s Day and beyond.
Faded Rose 1619 Rebsamen Rd. 663.9734 This neighborhood favorite is the place to be on Valentine’s Day. Enjoy the same great food, drinks and service they provide every day. No reservations are needed.
Buy it! Find the featured items at the following locations:
upscale
downtown day–Saturday
Piano Bar Tues
e Bar
Martini & Win
ening 5-10pm! Open Valentine’s Ev Menu. Special Valentine’s Regular Menu. ons now! Make your reservati
In The River Market District 501.324.2999
sonnywilliamssteakroom.com Free Valet Parking
BELLA VITA JEWELRY Inside the Lafayette Building 523 S. Louisiana St., Ste. 175 479.200.1824 bellavitajewelry.net COLONIAL WINE AND SPIRITS 11200 W. Markham St. 223.3120 colonialwineandspirits.com KREBS BROTHERS RESTAURANT STORE 4310 Landers Rd., NLR 687.1331 krebsbrothers.com WAREHOUSE LIQUOR 1007 Main St. 374.0410 860 E. Broadway, NLR 374.2405
THE SOUTHERN FOX In Historic Argenta 304 Main St., NLR 454.4570 O’LOONEY’S WINE & LIQUOR Rahling Road @ Chenal Pkwy., 821.4669 olooneys.com RHEA DRUG 2801 Kavanaugh Blvd. 663.4131 facebook.com/rheadrug SPRINGHILL WINE AND SPIRITS 4281 McCain Blvd., NLR 945.5153
SOUTH MAIN CREATIVE 1600 Main St. 414.8713
Valentine’s Day Gifts for All!
Rhea
Graffiti’s 7811 Cantrell Rd. 224.9079 As casual as it is stylish, Graffiti’s serves creative and seasonal dishes with a modern California flare. With a menu featuring Northern Italian food such as fettuccini, tortellini, steak pastas and chicken pastas, Graffiti’s is the perfect place to bring your love to Graffiti’s for a Valentine’s dinner. They will be open for Valentine’s weekend including Sunday for Valentine’s dinner. Friendly waitstaff and attentive service also make it a great choice for treating your sweetie. Call early to make reservations. Nashville Rockin’ Grill 10840 Maumelle Blvd., NLR 812.0095 For a fun Valentine’s weekend, head over to Nashville Rockin’ Grill. A date night with entertainment is always a great time. Listen to live music, play pool and have a great meal during Valentine’s weekend. Reservations aren’t required so make plans to get there early. Sonny Williams 500 President Clinton Ave. 324.2999 Join Sonny Williams’ Steak Room on Valentine’s evening for downtown dining. They will have a special Valentine’s menu plus regular menu items will also be available. They will be open all weekend from 5-10 p.m. including on Sunday for Valentine’s Day. Reservations are being accepted now.
CANDLELIT. ARTSY. NEIGHBORLY. Open all weekend, Fri, Sat & Sun featuring our regular menu with specials. Make your reservations today!
Drug Store
A Traditional Pharmacy
with eclectic Gifts. Since 1922
2801 Kavanaugh Little Rock 501.663.4131 46 46
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PRIVATE PARTY ROOM AVAILABLE • 7811 Cantrell Rd #6 • Little Rock (501) 224-9079 • www.littlerockgraffitis.net
Libertycom, LLC has openings for the following positions:
SAP Analyst (LIB16101) with Associates degree in Computer Science/Applications, Technology, Any Analytical Science or related and 3 yrs of exp. to assist in analyzing existing business processes and compare the given business requirements for SAP finance software implementation. Understand the SAP business requirements, analyze the requirements, identify the solutions and resolving the issues in SAP implementation, communicate the status of the assigned project tasks to the business users and manager. Preparation of requirement specifications, review, edit the requirements, business processes and solutions to the proposed solution. Prepare test environment for SAP Unit testing, integration testing and Business testing. Resolve daily support issues related to SAP system functionality, performance and efficiency while implanting and during post implementation support. Participate in workshops with customers in SAP Software environment during entire Project implementation and related support. Participate SAP end user support and training. Senior Software Engineer (LIB16102) with Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering(any),Technology or related and 5 yrs of exp. to work on design ,development & support of software components that enhance or extend the reach of our client software development initiatives. Contributes to the development, delivery and maintenance of technology based solutions. He/She must be skilled in designing, coding, testing and implementing configuration changes to software applications to meet both functional and technical requirements. Programmer (LIB16103) with Associates degree in Computer Science, Computer Applications, Commerce or related and 3 yrs of exp. to assist full life cycle development including requirements analysis, design, prototyping, coding, unit testing and test. Design, development, implementation, maintenance software development work. He/she work with the technical team and interfaces directly with external vendors to define data requirements and resolve data integrity; prepare project status reports and make formal presentations to management as necessary. Sr. SAP Analyst (LIB16103) with Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Business Administration, Engineering(any),Technology or related and 5 yrs of exp. to develop the Project plans based on business requirements , review project plans, identify and resolve issues in SAP implementation, prepare test environment for SAP Unit testing , integration testing and Business testing. Work location is Little Rock, AR with required travel to client locations throughout the USA. Please mail resumes to 303 West Capitol, Suite # 270 & 325, Little Rock, AR 72201 USA or email to info@libertycom.com
ARKANSAS TIMES ADVERTISING SALES
The SPECIAL PUBLICATIONS division of the ARKANSAS TIMES has a position open in Advertising Sales with opportunity for advancement to management. If you have sales experience and enjoy the exciting and crazy world of advertising then we’d like to talk to you. We publish 4 publications: SAVVY, AR WILD, FOOD & FARM and SHELTER as well as corresponding websites and social media. What does all this translate to? A high-income potential for a hard working advertising executive. We have fun, but we work hard. Fast paced and selfmotivated individuals are encouraged to apply. If you have a dynamic energetic personality, we’d like to talk to you. PLEASE SEND YOUR RESUME AND COVER LETTER TO ELIZABETH AT: ELIZABETHHAMAN@ARKTIMES.COM EOE.
ARKANSAS TIMES
MARKETPLACE LEGAL NOTICE
In the matter of name change for Jazmyne Yvonne Weber Commissioner Michael Barth 125 W Washington ST Courtroom 005 Phoenix, AZ 85003 February 11th, 2016 at 10:00am
❤ ADOPTION ❤
Adoring Financially Secure Family, Outdoor Adventures, Travel, Music, Unconditional LOVE awaits first baby. Expenses paid.
1-800-775-4013
DELIVER THE NEW TELEPHONE DIRECTORIES IN THE LITTLE ROCK AREA.
EARN EXTRA MONEY!!! Flexible Routes Short Term Commitment!!! Starting January 21st
The more books you deliver, the more $$$ you’ll earn. It’s that simple!!! If interested, go to:
DRIVER NEEDED Driver position open for a CLASS A CDL driver. OTR with experience of at least a year. Contact Gentry or Leah Dean @
501-310-1753
CLIFTON WAREHOUSE LEASING Located at 1301 E. 8th St. North Little Rock, AR 72114
Call 1-888-693-0092
for more information. Monday – Friday 8am – 4:00pm Must be over 18, have current driver’s license, insurance and vehicle WWW.DELIVERYELLOW.COM
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PULASKI COUNTY, ARKANSAS PROBATE DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MCCLENNON JACKSON, DECEASED CASE NO.: 60PR-16-25 Name of dependents:Lucy Drogba-Jackson, widow Jacqueline Jackson, daughter Last known address:1008 Anemone North Little Rock, AR 72117 Date of Death: November 16, 2015 On January 5, 2016, an affidavit for collection of small estate by distributee was filed with respect to the estate of, McClennon Jackson, deceased, with the clerk of the probate division of the circuit court of Pulaski County, Arkansas, under Ark. Code Ann. § 28-41-101. On January 19, 2016, an amended affidavit for collection of small estate by distribute was filed with respect to the estate of, McClennon Jackson, deceased, with the clerk of the probate division of the circuit court of Pulaski County, Arkansas, under Ark. Code Ann. § 28-41-101. The legal description of the real property listed in the affidavit is as follows: S-T-R: 06-1N-10, Lot/Block: 222/, Subdivision: FAULKNER CROSSING PH 4, Parcel Number: 14N9000522200 Also known as: 1008 Anemone, North Little Rock, AR 72117 All persons having claims against the estate must exhibit them, properly verified, to the distributee’s attorney within three (3) months from the date of the first publication of this notice or they shall be forever barred and precluded from any benefit of the estate. The name, mailing address, and telephone number of the distributee’s attorney is: Theodis N. Thompson, Jr. THOMPSON LAW FIRM, PLLC 415 N. McKinley St. Suite 280M Little Rock, AR 72205 501.503.5095 This notice first published January 28, 2016.
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(C) Publication of this notice shall be as provided in §§28-1112 (b)(4) and 28-40-111(a)(4).
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Woodland HeigHts RetiRement living would like to announce
Assisted Living & Memory Care COMING IN 2016 Woodland HeigHts offers: • Nightly fine dining • Happy hour • Large apartments with balconies/patios • All utilities paid • Weekly housekeeping & linen service • Small pets welcome • Scheduled transportation available • 24-hour controlled access
• 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’s best medical facilities
NO BUY-INS!
For more information, please call
(501) 224-4242
WOODLAND H E I G H T S
...because everyone deserves great care!
8700 Riley Dr • Little Rock, AR 72205 • woodlandheightsllc.com A Compass Pointe Healthcare System Community 48
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