Arkansas Times

ARKTIMES.COM / FEBRUARY 6, 2013 / NEWS+ POLITICS + ENTERTAINMENT

Sen. Jason Rapert and colleagues attack abortion.

BY LESLIE NEWELL PEACOCK PAGE 14

Need Equipment Financing?

ARKANSAS’S SOURCE FOR NEWS, POLITICS & ENTERTAINMENT 201 East Markham Street 200 Heritage Center West P.O. Box 34010, Little Rock, Arkansas 72203 www.arktimes.com arktimes@arktimes.com @ArkTimes www.facebook.com/arkansastimes PUBLISHER Alan Leveritt

♦ Lease or Finance ♦ 100% Financing ♦ Fixed Rate ♦ Conserve Capital ♦ Tax Advantages ♦ Flexible Payment

Options Talk to a leasing expert before you buy.

Jerry Wilson Regional Manager

EDITOR Lindsey Millar MANAGING EDITOR Leslie Newell Peacock CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Mara Leveritt

501.375.2822 • 888.700.1414 400 West Capitol Ave #1718 www.efsolutionsinc.com

Bob Lancaster, David Ramsey, Doug Smith ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Robert Bell EDITORIAL ART DIRECTOR Kai Caddy

SINCE 1933

THE RESTAURANT STORE

KEasy REBS BROTHERS THE RESTAURANT STORE ChoppEr

by NEmCo SINCE 1933

SENIOR EDITOR Max Brantley

ASSOCIATE EDITORS Cheree Franco, David Koon,

KREBS BROTHERS

Saves Time and Labor While Cutting Consistently

4310 Landers Road • North Little Rock

(501) 687-1331

krebsbrothers.com • M-F 8-5 Sat. 9-5

PHOTOGRAPHER Brian Chilson ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR Mike Spain ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR Patrick Jones

Road WaRRioR?

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Rafael Méndez, Bryan Moats DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING Phyllis A. Britton SPECIAL PROJECTS Michelle Miller, Manager SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Tiffany Holland ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Katherine Smith Daniels, Sarah DeClerk, Darielle D’Mello, Angie Wilson CLASSIFIED SALES EXECUTIVE Victoria Keith ADVERTISING TRAFFIC MANAGER Roland R. Gladden ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Kelly Carr PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Tracy Whitaker SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Kelly Ferguson SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Rose Gladner IT DIRECTOR Robert Curfman CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Anitra Hickman CONTROLLER Weldon Wilson BILLING/COLLECTIONS Linda Phillips OFFICE MANAGER Angie Fambrough RECEPTIONIST Kelly Lyles PRODUCTION MANAGER Ira Hocut (1954-2009)

association of alternative newsmedia

VOLUME 39, NUMBER 23 ARKANSAS TIMES (ISSN 0164-6273) is published each week by Arkansas Times Limited Partnership, 201 East Markham Street, 200 Heritage Center West, P.O. Box 34010, Little Rock, Arkansas, 72203, phone (501) 375-2985. Periodical postage paid at Little Rock, Arkansas, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ARKANSAS TIMES, P.O. Box 34010, Little Rock, AR, 72203. Subscription prices are $42 for one year, $78 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.

©2013 ARKANSAS TIMES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP FOR SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE CALL: (501) 375-2985

Do you or your staff overnight on a daily, weekly or monthly basis? How much are you spending on hotels and lodging?

I bet it’s too much!

F

or over 42 years MSI lodging has been saving companies like yours money on overnight lodging. We work with all major hotel

brands throughout North America. Today, more than ever, every dollar counts towards the bottom line. If you, your sales team, your drivers, or your crews are on the road and staying in a hotel you owe it to yourself to call and see if we can save you money.

We save our clients on average 25 to 35 percent on all lodging costs. Give us a call and lets see how much we can save you.

MIssy Penor

MsI Lodging 501-666-4800 ext 117

Cell: 501-517-3923 mpenor@catlettcorp.com www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

3

COMMENT

Impact of guns in church real The Arkansas legislature is supposedly giving pastors means to protect their parishioners by allowing congregations to decide for themselves about whether guns are allowed in their churches. What could be wrong with that? To be honest, even though I believe our culture has a troubling trust in the power of firearms, I tend to resist giving churches special treatment legislatively. Taken in the abstract, I could almost be convinced that if it’s legal to carry guns elsewhere it should be legal to carry them into church. Life, however, is not an abstraction.

I happen to be the pastor of a church in downtown Little Rock, a city that I love, but the stats suggest that it is also one of the most violent cities in America. At Christ Church we’re used to opening our doors to the homeless and indigent on our streets.

Most of these people are gentle and kind, just looking for a place to say their prayers.

Some of them show up high, many suffer from mental illness. We give them a seat.

We invite them fully into our worship. We have also grown wise as serpents and gentle as doves, knowing when it might be time to draw a boundary or even call the police if need be. In nearly 8 years here I’ve seen plenty, but I’ve never wished I had a gun.

Last Sunday, an usher saw what looked like a pistol butt poking from the bulging pocket of a visitor’s pants — a clean, respectable looking visitor, mind you.

Now, is there a sane person among you who thinks that the usher’s first thought was, “Praise be! We’re all a little safer here today because this pleasant fellow whom I’ve never seen before is packing heat”? Of course not. The armed hero of our dreams tends to be someone we know and trust.

The usher rushed anxiously to another priest and reported her very understandable concern.

• Local, Long Distance & Overseas Moving & Storage • Residential, Offices, Industrial, Trade Shows • Expert Packing & Crating • Special Handling for Antiques 4

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

We did not confront the visitor. I’d met him before some months ago on one of his very infrequent visits. I doubt that he was actually carrying a firearm. But the response of that usher was rational and responsible, because our state legislators had recently put the idea of carrying a gun into churches on the front page of nearly every newspaper in the state. Thanks for that, honorable sirs and madams.

Now, of course we have the “freedom” to post “No Firearms” or “Gun Free Zone” signs around the church. This strikes me a lot like putting up bars on windows and barbed wire on fences, which then become de facto announcements and self fulfilling prophecies that this is the kind of place where bad things happen. Fear begets fear begets fear. My faith tradition teaches that perfect love is what casts out fear.

Our legislature has spent time and effort on a symbolic bill repealing a ban that I’d wager has rarely if ever been enforced in Arkansas. Although I can imagine the original ban being useful to some frightened pastor who could tell an unstable parishioner that it wasn’t the pastor’s idea, but the law says you’ve just got to leave your gun at home. Confrontation mercifully averted.

The legislature’s action has already impacted our ministry at Christ Church.

It’s given us one more hurdle, one more fear to deal with as we try to do our Christian duty and welcome a stranger into our midst as if he or she were Christ himself.

Its impact is not hypothetical. It is real.

Loving our neighbor just got a little harder.

Scott Walters Little Rock

Promote policies that make life richer We recently celebrated or mourned the 40th anniversary of Roe v. Wade. The annual protest vigil in our nation’s capi-

tal has taken place. And, not surprisingly, Arkansas’s new Republican majority in our state’s Senate has wasted no time trying to limit women’s rights with an ALEC-inspired anti-abortion bill. Sadly, those who are obsessed over embryos and fetuses before birth seem ambivalent and often hostile toward the quality of life after birth. Rather than take away a woman’s right to control her own body, why not promote policies that would provide incentives for her to bring new life into this world?

Rather than decreasing cost-of- living increases to those on Social Security, as has foolishly been suggested, either leave them as they are now or raise them to something closer to reality. Set the early retirement age to 60 instead of 62. Set full retirement at 62 instead of 66. Most will have worked 40 to 44 years by age 62. Many have worked at subsistence or poverty wages for much of that time. The sooner seniors leave the workforce the more full-time jobs will be available to younger workers.

Instead of irresponsibly increasing the age of eligibility for Medicare, lower it to 62. Allow Medicare to negotiate the price of prescription drugs. The Veterans Administration can do it; why not Medicare? This country is not broke, and it’s shameful for the richest nation in the world to claim it can’t afford to do this.

If Medicare for everyone is not acceptable, then at least quit fighting the Affordable Care Act. We should have been doing something like that ever since WWII. Being the only developed nation in the world that hasn’t done it before now has been embarrassing!

Quit pretending that climate change is not caused from our proliferation of greenhouse gases and do something about it. Stop opposing regulations that will improve air and water quality and thereby

Guaranteed price, service and a reputation of excellence Serving Central Arkansas Since 1965

Brandon Moving & Storage

(501) 228-5757 • 1-800-227-6461 10505 Maumelle Blvd. www.brandonmoving.com

improve our own health and keep down health costs. Those born today will soon be asking why we waited so long when we knew the overwhelming evidence existed.

Support increasing the minimum wage to a living wage. No one receiving the minimum wage or less can get out of poverty or provide for his or her family without assistance, like food stamps.

What if your child turns out to be gay or lesbian? Oppose state and federal laws and constitutional amendments that discriminate against your son or daughter. Fight for equal rights under the law for everyone.

Demand government action today to promote full employment and get to work on current essential needs: roads, bridges, dams, Interstate 69, public schools, national parks, energy grids, et al., need to be built or upgraded. This will get the economy moving now and keep it growing into the foreseeable future.

With full employment we can eventually deal with the long-term national debt but not before. Our children need to be confident about their employability and their nation’s infrastructure.

If I were cynical, I would suspect that the primary reason for opposing Roe v.

Wade is to promote overpopulation and high unemployment to keep wages at the lowest possible levels. I would also suppose that another reason was to prevent white, Protestant women from having abortions to slow down the changes in ethnic demographics. However, I would prefer to think that most anti-choice advocates sincerely care for the unborn. But wouldn’t they have a much better case against abortions if they also cared for babies, children, young adults, middle-agers, seniors, and the environment as well? The future of the planet and the future of those yet born depend on it.

David Offutt El Dorado

Ask About Our

• Firm Price Quotes • Reliable Pick-up & Delivery Schedules • Full Value Loss/Damage Protections Option

ORVAL

Ark Times Print_Layout 1 1/22/13 9:57 AM Page 1

Feb. 22-24 Statehouse Convention Ctr Little Rock

501-821-4000 Argardenshow.org Proceeds fund scholarships.

• Come hear P. Allen Smith & Chris Olsen.

Platinum sponsor

• Shop at more than 90 vendors.

Gold sponsors

• Take in gardening tips & trends.

• Tour inspiring display gardens.

Clark Trim & Henrik Thostrup Dr. Steve & Merilyn Tilley Media Sponsors

Bronze sponsor

Carol & Allan Mendel www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

5

EDITORIAL

EYE ON ARKANSAS

We’re gaining

Fetuses rule

O

n social issues too, Michigan is becoming more like Arkansas. A news item: “Tax Breaks for Fetuses But Not for Kids — Michigan lawmakers proposed an amendment to the state’s income tax code that would allow pregnant women to claim their 12-week or older fetuses as dependents. These same Republican legislators pushed to eliminate a tax credit that applies to actual children.”

In Arkansas, the extensive anti-abortion legislative package includes a bill by Sen. Jason Rapert, R-Bigelow, that would prohibit an abortion if the fetus has a heartbeat. A fetal heartbeat generally can be heard after six weeks; most abortions are performed later than that. The heartbeat is commonly detected with a vaginal probe about 9 inches long, inserted into the uterus. Reportedly, an amendment is on the way that would require the probe be inserted by a legislator. A male legislator. A male Republican legislator.

Rapert’s in the running for the award, but the national Anti-Abortionist of the Year trophy may have to go to U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais, R-Tenn. Although he campaigns as a “consistent supporter of pro-life values,” it’s been revealed that he also supported his ex-wife in her decisions to have two abortions, and that he urged an abortion on one of several patients he was sleeping with. He admits to error; he says God has forgiven him.

6

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

KEITH NEWTON

S

mall, Southern, unwealthy, Arkansas has long been looked down on by the more prosperous states of the upper Midwest. Now the gap is closing. As we’ve reported previously, Michigan has copied Arkansas’s anti-union “right to work” law, virtually assuring that per capita income in the peninsular state will drop to Arkansas levels. Welcome, Wolverines.

Familiarize yourself with the food stamps.

Arkansas already has surpassed once-proud Wisconsin in the compensation of football coaches.

The new Razorback coach, Bret Bielema, who came to Arkansas from the University of Wisconsin for a salary of $3.2 million, says that getting higher pay for his assistants too was one of the key reasons he changed jobs.

Bielema said that after Wisconsin defeated Nebraska in the Big 10 championship game, some of his assistants had approached him about job offers from other schools. “They were talking money that I can’t bring them at Wisconsin. Wisconsin isn’t wired to do that at this point. I just felt that for me and my future and my life and what I want to accomplish in the world of college football, I needed to have that ability to do that and thankfully I’ve found that here at Arkansas.”

So unwired Wisconsin has the cheese, but Arkansas has the coaches. Both states have school teachers. Up to now, Wisconsin’s have made considerably more money, but with an anti-union governor and legislature working to drive down teachers’ pay, Wisconsin educators may not be much better off than Arkansas’s before long. Although, there’s an anti-teacher group in Arkansas that’s hard at work too. If anybody can keep Arkansas teachers on bottom, the Billionaire Boys Club can.

WHERE IN ARKANSAS?: Know where this slice of life in Arkansas is? Send along the answer to Times photographer Brian Chilson and win a prize. Once a month in this space, we’ll post a shot from a relatively obscure spot in Arkansas for Times readers to identify. We also invite photographers to contribute submissions of both mystery and other pictures to our eyeonarkansas Flickr group. Write to brianchilson@arktimes.com to guess this week’s photo or for more information.

Women’s rights, water at risk

D

eadline rolls around and it’s hard to know which provocation should demand the most attention.

• WAR ON WOMEN: The Arkansas legislature is in a headlong rush to federal court. Rep. Andy Mayberry’s bill, awaiting Senate approval, would prevent abortions at 20 weeks or later except to save the life of a mother or prevent near-death physical damage.

Similar laws have been passed in other states and are under court challenge. They represent roughly a fourweek advancement in the limits of Roe v. Wade and an enormous erosion in women’s medical autonomy, once a bedrock in the law.

• WAR ON WOMEN II: Mayberry’s bill would be but a historical footnote if Sen. Jason Rapert’s bill becomes law. It would make a crime of an abortion performed after a fetal heartbeat has been detected, something that can occur when the fetus is not even six weeks old, the size of a bean. The mortal assault on women’s rights would carry the additional insult of forced submission to the insertion of a nine-inch wand in a woman’s vagina. It is the only way to detect a fetal heartbeat in the earliest stage of pregnancy, the time when most women seek abortions. Twenty years after Roe v. Wade established an absolute right to pregnancy up to the point of viability of the fetus, another Supreme Court ruling reiterated a woman’s right to choose abortion. The opinion said the state’s “previability interests are not strong enough to support an abortion prohibition or the imposition of substantial obstacles to the woman’s effective right to elect the procedure.”

Rapert’s bill would prohibit abortion well before viability and present substantial obstacles to a woman seeking an abortion earlier. The legislators who support this bill are re-enacting another civil rights resistance in the 1950s and 1960s when Southern legislators flouted the rule of law with expensive consequences. They’ll be expensive now, too, not to mention send an unmistakable message to women about their diminished value.

• GUNS: As a constitutional matter, you could argue that the existing state ban on guns in church verged into a constitutional gray area. That’s not why it was repealed this week in favor MAX of a law allowing churches to BRANTLEY decide whether guns should be maxbrantley@arktimes.com allowed on premises. The bill is sloppily written. Backers contend that, though the same law requires businesses to post a sign that guns are not allowed, churches may set rules and post no notice. The unwitting public must guess whether they’re entering a packing or non-packing congregation. I’d prefer to know clearly which churches don’t feel safe without guns on premises. I feel safer in the others.

• CLOSER TO HOME: Lobbyists for clean water paid a call to urge a kind word for the pending land use and zoning ordinances before the Pulaski Quorum Court Feb. 26. The process of devising rules to protect Lake Maumelle, the main water supply for Central Arkansas, has been fought for eight years. It began with developer Deltic’s attempt to pre-empt protective rules through state legislation. Deltic battles on, aided now by the Koch Bros. lobbying team. Deltic could have subdivided its property long ago to be grandfathered outside subdivision rules, but didn’t want to do it because then it would have had to pay taxes on its vast holdings as real estate property, rather than as cheap timberland. The land use ordinances are less stringent than environmentalists would like and friendly to existing landowners, who could build additions on their property with little cost or hassle. Lobbyists are working mightily, including some employed to target minority members of the 15-member Quorum Court.

Central Arkansas Water will bear the cost of the new regulation. Tougher zoning will come eventually as the city grows. In the meanwhile, without rules, environmental disasters will occur. Ask your justice of the peace to vote for clean water. The alternative is hazardous to your pocketbook and health.

KEITH NEWTON

OPINION

Guns in God’s house

O

f all the ideas floated by the gun forces after the Connecticut school murders, the most incongruous and the one with the silliest history but probably the least harmful is to encourage worshipers to pack heat when they go to church or the synagogue.

Naturally, it’s one of the first laws enacted by the first Republican legislature in Arkansas since 1874. By lopsided margins, both legislative houses passed the Church Protection Act of 2013, which repeals the state’s ban on guns in houses of worship and leaves it up to each church or synagogue to decide if it wants lethal weapons and, if so, how many and in whose hands — the preacher’s, the deacons’, the best marksman’s, or everyone’s.

Having gotten the fear of God at a country Baptist church, I think I would not have wanted anyone armed when certain subjects came up at Sunday evening worship, like infant immersion, the baptism of the Holy Ghost or glossolalia.

Feelings could run high. Those matters, I’m told, are no longer much contended, having been replaced by how Jesus might have felt about gays and Muslims and whether He might have admired or hated

gunplay.

The last is what makes guns in church so incongruous. The sanctuary of peace ERNEST armed to kill? Sure, DUMAS there’s the verse in Matthew where Jesus says “For I did not come to bring peace, but a sword” — a passage loved by the NRA — but flustered ecclesiastics have said that, in context, the verse should not be interpreted as Jesus advocating violence. After all, look at all of Jesus’ teachings about peace and his rebuke to Peter when a disciple drew his sword and whacked off the ear of the high priest’s envoy who came to arrest Jesus.

“Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.”

I frankly don’t know what He meant either time.

The plainest thing about arming people in church is that it will not make church any safer. Homes have not been made safer by the presence of guns. Studies have shown that people in homes where guns are kept are far more likely to be injured

My neighbor, Jason Rapert

F

or as long as I’ve lived in Arkansas, most of my adult life, people like the now famous state Sen. Jason Rapert have made most of the noise and lost most of the elections.

Now they’ve come to power, courtesy of Southern Republicans’ cult-like rejection of President Obama and large infusions of corporate campaign cash.

And with the state legislature in session, the tragi-comedy is under way.

It’s happening all across the South.

Sample news story: “Representatives approved a bill titled ‘The Church Protection Act of 2013’…85-8, to permit concealed handguns in churches and other houses of worship.”

Because Jesus, of course, was all about smiting them dead before thou art smitten.

Anyway, “famous” may be an exaggeration with regard to Rapert. But a YouTube clip of the man haranguing a 2011 Tea Party gathering about his anger at “minorities” running the country has gotten Arkansas lots of unfavorable national attention. Meanwhile, his indignant, if not particularly honest, denials have succeeded only in generating more ill will and bad feeling.

Full disclosure: This same Jason Rapert is also my neighbor in rural Perry County, Ark. He invited us to a Memorial

Day Picnic three years ago where his bluegrass band provided the entertainment. He’s a genial host and a GENE terrific country fidLYONS dler and guitarist.

His wife graciously dropped off a CD the band had recorded a few days later. She pretended not to mind when my horse left deep hoof prints in their yard. The couple has two lovely young daughters.

However, the same fellow is also a stone religious crank who’s absolutely certain that God agrees with every one of his opinions; also that everybody who disagrees with God and him is going straight to hell. Jason’s not shy about telling you about it, either. He once advised me to leave the U.S. on account of supporting Obamacare. I reminded him that my side had won the 2008 election. (And good luck finding a country without “socialist” health care and with indoor plumbing.)

But I’d never have suspected him capable of the kind of insidious rhetoric he displayed for the Tea Partiers. The video, first unearthed by Lee Fang in The Nation, captures Rapert in full revivalist mode. No, his speech wasn’t “racist” in

or killed than in homes where they are absent. Guns are fired far more often in accidents, domestic murders and suicide attempts than are fired in self-defense.

If people had carried concealed weapons in the suburban Kansas church where the antiabortion madman Scott Roeder put a bullet through the head of Dr. George Tiller while he was ushering worshipers to their seats, would Roeder have been stopped? Suspicion that people in a church are armed won’t deter people who go there to kill and die, like the young man at Sandy Hook, Conn.

The Second Amendment, was enacted to protect Southern states’ right to keep militias to put down slave rebellions and runaway slaves and, after the Civil War, to punish uppity black men or keep them from voting. If the Arkansas legislature is serious about church safety, it should follow that example. To be helpful, here is a template: South Carolina’s law, enacted shortly before the Revolution, which required all white men to go to church on Sunday and at Christmas armed with a long rifle, powder and a pair of horse pistols, and fined them heftily if they did not.

this province against the insurrections and other wicked attempts of negroes and other slaves within the same, we humbly pray his most sacred majesty that it may be enacted, and be it enacted by the Hon. William Bull, Esq., lieutenant-governor and commander-in-chief over his majesty’s province of South Carolina, by and with the advice and consent of his majesty’s honorable Council, and the Commons House of Assembly of this province, that every white male inhabitant of this province (except travelers and such persons as shall be above 60 years of age) who, by the laws of this province, is liable to bear arms in the militia of this province, either in times of alarm or at common musters, who shall, on any Sunday or Christmas day in the year, go and resort to any church or any other place of divine worship within this province, and shall not carry with him a gun or a pair of horse-pistols, in good order and fit for service, with at least six charges of gunpowder and ball, and shall not carry the same into the church or other place of divine worship, every such person shall forfeit and pay the sum of twenty shillings, current money, for every neglect of the same ...

Whereas, it is necessary to make further provisions for securing the inhabitants of

Note to bill drafters: Insert Governor Beebe’s name where it alludes to “His Majesty,” King George II.

the simplistic way liberals often charge.

I’m confident he’d vote for Condoleezza Rice, for example.

It’s not President Obama’s color that offends Rapert’s sensibilities — although I’m less sure about his audience’s. It’s everything else about the man that makes him suspect from a paranoid, neo-nativist perspective.

Delivered in a countrified drawl that’s more his preacher’s voice than the one he uses in his daytime job as an investment advisor, Rapert’s speech hits all the conspiratorial high spots: Obama’s supposedly missing birth certificate; his sympathy with gay rights; also, most ominously, his secret belief in the wrong God. Anyway, here’s the business end of Rapert’s speech: “You’ve got to change the hearts and minds of the people that live around you.

You’ve gotta pray. It says ‘Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.’ And I wonder sometimes when they invited all the Muslims to come into the White House and have them a little Ramadan supper, when our president could not take the time to go attend a National Prayer Breakfast — I wonder what he stands for.

“You know what, what they told us is …what you do speaks so loudly that what you say I cannot hear. I hear you loud and clear, Barack Obama. You don’t represent the country that I grew up with. And your

values is not goin’ to save us. We’re gonna try to take this country back for the Lord.

We’re gonna try to take this country back for conservatism. And we’re not going to allow minorities to run roughshod over what you people believe in.”

Does it help to know that President George W. Bush never missed a Ramadan dinner? Nor has President Obama skipped a National Prayer Breakfast.

New York magazine posted photos of him presiding at every single one.

What’s most alarming isn’t Rapert’s racial views, but his continuing indifference to the truth and his disdain for religious liberty. His views are scarcely distinguishable from those of the KnowNothing party of the 1850s. Then it was German and Irish Catholics who were suspect; today, it’s Muslims.

Over time, it’s a losing strategy. Eventually, Americans come around to supporting the First Amendment and rejecting religious bigotry.

How things will play out in the shorter term is harder to say. It’s one thing to dislike Obama, quite another to embarrass an entire state, region and political party. Arkansans in particular have been touchy about their image dating back to “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” and beyond.

If politicians like Rapert don’t learn to moderate their tone, even in the South their ascendancy could be a short one. www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

7

PEARLS ABOUT SWINE

A new era

Y

Next Wednesday Night!

e l t t i l ck ro

robinson center music hall February 13 • ticketmaster.com • select Walmart locations • • in person at celebrity attractions • 501-244-8800 • 800-745-3000

8

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

ou do not have to be steeped “two-year pass” means accordin wizardry or any kind of advanced science to understand ing to Razorback that Arkansas football is being purilexicon. Frank fied from the roots up.

Broyles may Recent happenings on the Hill have been in the BEAU revealed the dichotomy of the regimes business of givWILCOX that terminated and commenced in ing grace periods the past few weeks. The Sporting to coaches; Jeff Long clearly isn’t. He News, apparently looking for some certainly didn’t offer probation to kind of tardy scoop, published a story Paul’s older brother, right? last week wherein John L. Smith, Paul And then there is the contrast that Petrino and Paul Haynes all gave the presented itself late Monday night, university a retroactive middle finger when the new coaching staff’s dogged for not granting them adequate secupursuit of a top-flight, once-commitrity in their jobs as stopgap head coach, ted running back named Alex Collins offensive coordinator and defensive paid off with an announcement that coordinator, respectively. There’s no he was leaving the confines of home to point in rehashing the comments that develop his burgeoning relationship each made, because it only serves to with Bret Bielema, Charlie Partridge, remind us just how awful the 2012 Joel Thomas and Co. The developseason ended up ment was, for Hog being, but let’s not fans, so shocking that just casually pardon it seemed inauthenThere is something these would-be jilted tic: A coveted extramaterially exes, either. territorial prospect encouraging about Smith, Petrino chose Fayetteville a head coach who and Haynes all over something more pledges to treat somehow parlayed familiar. Just last assistants well and their shoddy workfall, when the rangy build constructive manship this past Dorial Green-Beckrelationships with fall into shiny new ham seemed like a players, then secure bet to leave head coaching jobs. actually goes out Granted, Smith Missouri behind, he stepped way down stayed home at the and demonstrates to take the reins of a last moment. that commitment Division II school in Not to cast asperand sees it Colorado that didn’t sions on the former rewarded. win a game last year, coaching unit (even but there’s no quesif they don’t have tion he’s fortunate to the same misgivings), be employed at all given his age and but would the ballyhooed “DGB” have his missteps over the past few months. gravitated toward Bielema and his But Petrino and Haynes went north, support like Collins did? It’s worthfiguratively and literally, to take top less conjecture, no question. But there jobs at Idaho and Kent State, and are is something materially encouraging thereby getting that rare opportunity about a head coach who pledges to to show that whatever happened in treat assistants well and build conFayetteville was an anomaly born out structive relationships with players, of player attrition and injury. then actually goes out and demonThe oddity of this ex post facto strates that commitment and sees it rewarded. Bielema, whose penchant complaining is not that Haynes and Petrino are necessarily wrong. Sure, for tweeting has been the source of the 10-month contract extended to some amusement, didn’t waste time the staff was a backfire for many giving a stamp of satisfaction after reasons. But it’s galling to hear two Collins committed: “Great night to younger men with newfound pastures be a Razorback,” he offered.

And it was indeed, even if it was making that perfunctory observation.

At what point does the lamenting of just another pledge from another a lost campaign turn into backbiting? player. As the Bobby Petrino era sigIt was Petrino who crassly said naled a new dimension of football the coaches should’ve either been in Arkansas, so goes the prologue of given a two-year window or walking Bielema’s career here. His swagger papers. He should have done some is admirable, but the follow-through looks even stronger. homework about what the proverbial

Lake Maumelle The best-tasting water in America doesn’t happen by accident.

avoid the Peak!

During the Lawn and Garden Season!

C

entral Arkansas Water and the Watershed Management Staff want you to get out and enjoy one of Central Arkansas’s most treasured resources…The Lake Maumelle Watershed!

The Lake Maumelle Watershed includes all the land and streams that drain into Lake Maumelle, which provides cities and communities in Central Arkansas with some of the purest drinking water in America.

G

Although we are fortunate to have an abundant water supply in the metropolitan area, customers are encouraged to be good stewards of our water sources by practicing efficient outdoor water use.

Customers are asked to alter timing of outdoor watering patterns to avoid the peak time of day demand during the hot summer months and to avoid operating sprinkler systems

o sailing, take your kayak for between a spin or 5:30 do a little fishing. Bring a backpack and take a day hike through the Ouachita National Recreation Trail or stretch your legs for a short jaunt on the Farkleberry Trail.

Pack a picnic, take in the view and enjoy the wildlife but remember to enjoy the outdoors responsibly.

a.m. and 7:30 a.m.

W

Learn more about the Sprinkler e understand Smart Program at carkw.com, the delicate uaex.edu, or by balance calling between honoring property 501.340.6650 owner rights and acting

as good stewards to the community. Unrestricted Current water quality carkw.com land development conditions in Lake Maumelle around Lake Maumelle are very good, but the can result in degrading ability to protect and our water supply with maintain these conditions is sediment and fertilizer CAW Ark Times Avoid The Peak Ad.indd 1 potentially threatened. runoff.

Clean water adds to quality of life.

For more information on Lake Maumelle and the Watershed Management program, check us out online at www.carkw.com 7/24/12 10:25:38 AM under the public information tag.

This is your drinking water. Get out and enjoy it.

W O RDS

Chicks and spikes February 24, 2013

Join us at The Embassy Suites Hotel in Little Rock to walk the red carpet and celebrate a night of great films and advocacy for a one-of-a-kind, once-a-year black tie event that helps support a very important place of hope.

SponSorShipS available Presenting: 20K Platinum: 10K Gold: 5K Silver: 3K Bronze: $1,750 Bronze Elite: $600

10 Tickets: $1,500 • Individual Seats: $150 Sponsors & VIP Pre-party Starts At 5:30 All proceeds benefit the Wolfe Street Foundation, Inc.

Make reServationS now!

Please visit us online at www.wolfestreet.org or call us at 501.372.5662 the only event in arkanSaS Sanctioned by ©a.M.p.a.S.® “The Wolfe Street Foundation saves lives; offering a solution to families suffering from the effects of alcoholism.”

Co-chairs: Kathy C. Swanson & Karen Holderfield

Roosters and chickens and fowl, oh my: “Damien Thompson feeds pizza to roosters and chickens at the Dunbar Community Garden in Little Rock after collecting eggs Monday.”

I’m glad both the roosters AND the chickens got fed. It’ll make for better relations between them. That said, I have to admit I had no idea that roosters and chickens eat pizza. I wonder what kind they like best. And whether they get beer with it.

“After sliding with his spikes up toward Ed Reed’s groin in the AFC Championship Game, Tom Brady was fined $10,000.”

The last time I was in a football uniform the forward pass hadn’t yet been invented.

Apparently there’ve been other changes since then too, in either gear or terminology. In the old days, only baseball players wore spikes and went sliding spikes up into unfortunate infielders. Really mean ballplayers like Ty Cobb were said to sharpen their spikes before games. The things football players had on the bottoms of their shoes for traction were called “cleats.” (You still hear TV football announcers refer to someone as having been “decleated” — that is, blocked or tackled so hard as to be knocked out of one’s shoes.)

“From his humble roots in rural Lawrence County, Arkansas, he achieved the greatest of sucDOUG cesses by foraging SMITH long and meaningdougsmith@arktimes.com ful relationships throughout the state and beyond.” I guess we’ve all foraged for relationships from time to time, but in this case, I think the writer intended to say that his subject had forged long and meaningful relationships.

For our continuing series Not Quite the Right Preposition, Michael Klossner submits “By removing the French presence from North America, the war deprived Native Americans from an ally they needed to combat Anglo-American settlers who were determined to expand westward.” Deprived of is the norm.

Another entry: “The Sporting News article said Haynes, Petrino and Smith said they didn’t hold any grudges with Long or with Arkansas’ administration and that they were treated well by the school.” Grudges generally are held against, not with.

WEEK THAT WAS

It was a good week for…

KOCH INTERESTS DIVIDED. It was revealed this week that Koch Industries has committed $60 million to the Big River Steel “super project” in Mississippi County that Gov. Mike Beebe has asked the Arkansas legislature to support, through approval of $125 million in financing.

Koch Industries is owned by billionaire brothers Charles and David Koch, who are active in right-wing and libertarian political causes. They’ve spent heavily to oppose environmental regulation, fight taxes of all sorts and universal health care, and work to elect Republicans who incessantly champion “free enterprise” and attack “government handouts.” Ironically, the Koch-funded political advocacy group, Americans for Prosperity, says it does not support subsidies for the steel mill.

THE MEDICAID SHORTFALL. New budget estimates from the Department of Human Services project a shortfall of $61 million for Arkansas Medicaid next fiscal year. That’s a $77 million improvement from the earlier forecast of a $138 million shortfall after the governor’s recommendation for putting $90 million in new money and $70 million from reserves into the program.

10

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

KELLY RODGERS. The North Little Rock School District named Rodgers, formerly superintendent of the Terrell Independent School District in Terrell, Texas, as its new superintendent of schools.

A NEW BRIDGE. The Pulaski County Quorum Court voted 10 to 5 in favor of Pulaski County Judge Buddy Villines’ proposal to devote $20 million of road and bridge money toward a new Broadway Bridge. We’ll see if that means the bridge will be adorned with Villines’ proposed red, white and blue color scheme.

It was a bad week for…

COLLECTION PLATE THIEVES. As predicted in this space last week, a bill to allow concealed weapon permit holders to carry a handgun in church by Sen. Bryan King (R-Green Forest) sailed through the House. The governor has said he’ll sign the bill, though he may ask for more legislation to clarify matters of liability.

WOMEN. See this week’s cover story.

Rep. Andy Mayberry’s unconstitutional ban on abortions after 20 weeks passed the House and Sen. Jason Rapert’s ban on abortion once a fetal heartbeat is detected passed the Senate.

Join us for a reading, audience Q & A, and book signing by

Poets Carolyn Guinzio and Davis McCombs Tuesday, February 19

THE OBSERVER NOTES ON THE PASSING SCENE

The Golden Nose THE OBSERVER IS GENERALLY saddled with horrific sinus issues, due to what the best otolaryngologist in the state once called, and we’re quoting here, “tiny nose holes.” That was after he’d stuck a lighted magnifier up The Observer’s red and inflamed nose and immediately said: “Oh, gosh!” — which is, pound for pound, maybe the most disconcerting thing a highly-trained specialist can say while staring into one of your orifices with a light and a magnifying glass.

Our tiny nose holes mean our sinuses are usually a wreck due to improper drainage, but at the same time we were diagnosed with TNH, we were also told that because of the miniscule interior diameter of our nugget mine, surgery would probably do more harm than good. We hear there’s some kind of new procedure where they basically blast those puppies open with a stiff balloon, but until we work up the nerve to even inquire about that level of agony, we’re stuck with them.

Maybe once a year, our normally jacked sinuses turn from gross to “Oh, gosh!” and we trudge to the doctor for a weapons-grade antibiotic and a steroid shot. After that, we’re right as rain for a while, able to scoop in great, cool lungfuls of air through both faceports simultaneously like a wide-nostriled llama on a chilly mountaintop. For a few, lovely weeks, it’s glorious. Then it’s back to feeling like our head is stuffed with chunks of sofa cushion.

We came off an antibiotic a few weeks back, so we’re in the midst of one of those mountaintop llama moments right now, loving the feel of air filling our sizable head with wind even as we write this.

One side effect to that is less delicious, however. Because our nose is stuffed up most of the time, when it becomes unstuffed, The Observer can smell everything. As in: “nose like a pregnant bloodhound” everything.

In case you hadn’t noticed — the world is not always a pleasant-smelling place.

Sure, walking through the grocery store, you get peanut butter in the jars, baked bread, apples, pears and roast chicken.

But we can also smell raw meat, spoiled milk in the dairy case, vegetables on their way to going bad. In the morning, we can smell our own morning breath. We can smell goop in the dark eye of the sink drain.

Walking to work through the River Market, we can smell stale beer and old vomit.

We can smell people walking by on the street, people in elevators, hair products.

Sitting at our desk, we can smell our own feet. Perfume is assault with a deadly bouquet, men’s cologne a Sex Panther mauling. It’s probably the reason dogs hang their head out of car windows. They just want some gatdang fresh air every once in a while.

Might sound like we’re complaining, but we’re really not. The alternative is to smell nothing like we usually do, and in almost every circumstance, we’ll take too much over nothing hands down. Too, as superpowers go, being The Golden Nose ain’t all bad. Now, if you’ll excuse us, we need to adjourn to the Sinus Cavern, where we’ll be sitting by the Schnozo-Phone in case Commissioner Gordon needs to identify a certain brand of mustard from a baddie’s sandwich.

DOWN IN HOT SPRINGS last weekend, The Observer and family almost got rear-ended. A pedestrian stepped into the crosswalk, a car stopped ahead of us and so did we. Glancing into the rearview mirror, we saw the full-size truck barreling our way, grille big as a billboard. We saw the young woman at the wheel looking down at God knows what instead of at the brake lights of our Honda.

The Observer had time to say aloud to the mirror: “Look up.” We had time to consider options — the sidewalk, prayer, to yell “Brace! Brace! Brace!” like sailors do on submarines just before a collision.

And then, thankfully, she looked up, terror dawning in her eyes, both hands darting to the wheel as she stood on the brakes. No rubber moan and tire smoke, not in this age of anti-lock technology. Instead, the pickup’s front bumper made a silent curtsy at the road, tailgate rising, the rig slowing, slowing, still too fast, the girl gritting her teeth and squeezing her eyes almost shut, white knuckled, still too fast, inevitable, but finally lurching to a stop three feet from our back bumper, a miracle of modern engineering but close enough that we wound up with the adrenaline shakes.

Be careful out there, folks. Pay attention. The life you save may be The Observer’s, and we like it here. A lot.

Young Adult Nonfiction Writer Carla Killough McClafferty Thursday, March 28

Both events are at 6 p.m.

Free and open to the public R.J. Wills Lecture Hall

Campus Center Second Floor Pulaski Technical College Main Campus 3000 West Scenic Drive North Little Rock

For more information, contact Sandy Longhorn at slonghorn@pulaskitech.edu www.bigrockreading.blogspot.com

(501) 812-2200 www.pulaskitech.edu Find us on Facebook.

This project is supported in part by a grant from the Arkansas Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities.

STOP

HAIR LOSS TODAY! 501.271.8100 1701 Centerview Drive, Ste. 302, Little Rock www.hairclub.com • www.hairclubreviews.com www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

11

Arkansas Reporter

THE

IN S IDE R

Backroom politicking has begun on a potential alternative solution to the effort by the Billionaire Boys Club, a combine of wealthy businessmen, to strip the state Board of Education of regulatory authority over charter schools.

A lobby group funded by Jim Walton, the Walmart heir, and other wealthy Arkansans, including Democrat-Gazette publisher Walter Hussman, has been working to elect legislators friendly to their “school reform” issues, which includes legislation to take regulatory power from the education board and put it in the hands of a committee appointed by legislators friendlier to their cause.

A coalition of school administrators, teachers and other public school advocates rallied to oppose the billionaires’ legislation and rounded up enough votes to block the charter school bill in House committee.

That, in turn, led this week to talks between Gov. Mike Beebe and Walton. Matt DeCample, the governor’s spokesman, said the result should not be called a compromise.

“They agreed on two things: 1) we do not need to create another bureaucracy to oversee charter schools, and 2) because of the growth of interest in charter schools, the state board spends the majority of its time dealing with charter schools.” So Tom Kimbrell, at “the governor’s behest,” is putting together legislation that would have charter school decisions made first at the staff level in the department.

The state Board of Education would then essentially be used as an appeals panel if someone was unhappy with the staff decision. He said details were still being worked out.

Sen. Joyce Elliott of Little Rock, who’s been leading the coalition against the billionaires’ legislative package, was wary.

“What was [first] proposed was so onerous and lacked such judgment, how can you assume they’d deal in good faith and do something else that’s not as off the chart? How do you take them seriously considering the first proposal?”

School advocates were riled particularly by a pep rally staged by the billionaires’ Arkansans for Education Reform organization, headed by a six-figure lobbyist, Luke Gordy, who once served on the education board.

Gordy said those opposing his employers’ bill were interested only in themselves, not school children. It made veteran school people furious.

They hastened to point out that CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 12

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

STEPHEN MASKER/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Charter maneuverings

ANTONIN SCALIA: Still causing trouble at 76. There’s no age limit for federal judges.

Judges want age limit removed They say voters, not statutes, should decide if judge is too old.

BY DOUG SMITH

S

ince 1965, Arkansas judges have been strongly — almost irresistibly — encouraged to retire at 70.

They hope to abolish that semi-mandatory retirement age with a bill now before the legislature.

Present law says that any judge who has already qualified for retirement benefits and has reached the age of 70 loses those benefits if he seeks re-election. A 70-year-old judge who has not yet qualified for retirement benefits can run again. Since the law was enacted, only one judge has chosen to forfeit his retirement benefits so he could continue serving.

The Arkansas Judicial Council, composed of all the state judges and retired judges, is backing SB 201 by Sen. Bill Sample of Hot Springs to remove the age limit. Circuit Judge David F. Guthrie of El Dorado is one of the primary proponents of the bill. He notes

that there is no similar maximum-age limit for the executive and legislative branches of government. The Arkansas Constitution sets the qualifications for all three branches, in fact, and the legislature cannot directly overrule the Constitution. But the legislature controls the purse, and in the case of the judges it used that power to indirectly set a maximum age. (It probably should be mentioned that judges work fulltime.

Legislators do not. Both legislators and executives are limited in the number of terms they can serve.) There is no age limit for federal judges, and many serve long past 70.

Guthrie said he’d been told that the age-70 limit for Arkansas judges was adopted because lawyers in a certain town wanted to get rid of a certain judge. “I don’t know whether that’s true or not.” He’s looked through legislative records and found no report, no

study of the matter. Seventy is strictly an arbitrary age, he said; voters should decide whether a judge is too old.

Guthrie also said that the state Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission now has authority to remove judges from office if they’re unable to do the job adequately. That option wasn’t available in 1965.

Former Judge P.K. Roberts of the 10th Judicial Circuit in Southeast Arkansas was the judge who chose to continue judging past 70 and forfeit his retirement benefits. But Guthrie said he understood that legislators later made an exception and reinstated Roberts’ benefits. The amounts of judges’ pensions vary. In some cases, a multiplier is used to determine the amount. In other cases, the pension is 60 percent of the salary. Circuit judges make $136,257 a year. Members of the Court of Appeals make $140,732. Justices of the Supreme Court make $145,204.

Guthrie said that one of the judges in his circuit, the 13th, was near being forced out by the existing law, and that was part of Guthrie’s motivation, but he refused to say which judge it was.

Besides Guthrie, the judges in the 13th Circuit are Hamilton H. Singleton, Michael R. Landers, Edwin A. Keaton, Robin J. Carroll and Larry W. Chandler.

Chandler, of Magnolia, apparently is the one about to be forced out.

STEPHEN MASKER/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

LISTEN UP

THE

BIG PICTURE

IS JASON RAPERT A BIGOT? YES. A LIAR? YES. A RACIST? YOU DECIDE. Sen. Jason Rapert (R-Conway), seen on our cover this week for his role in leading the crusade to control women’s reproductive rights, drew national attention last week for something else — a two-year-old speech he delivered to a Tea Party rally at the Arkansas State Capitol. The Nation’s website dredged up video of a portion of the speech, which seemed to include racially inflammatory comments. Rapert defenders were quick to point to an earlier portion of the speech that they said provided context that explained away the controversial comments. Judge for yourself. Or see a link to video of the full speech at arktimes.com/rapertvideo.

When we first began to hear about this up-and-coming state senator from the state of Illinois, who decided he wanted to be president, we began to find out about who he was, or at least who we thought he was — we still don’t have the birth certificate, though I’m not getting near any of that deal. You know what? I pretty much say what strikes me: Folks if you’ve got the birth certificate, just present the birth certificate! I mean, why are you making everybody fight about it?

Well, I’ve probably gotten in trouble four times already now that I’ve spoken here today. But we began to think about this man, and he begins to talk about hope and change and promises, and this guy got elected, folks, here in the United States of America. Now, he came out and made a bunch of promises, and he’s made good on some of them. He’s gotten rid of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell in the military. He’s came out now and he’s told you, flat out, he’s for homosexual marriage. Delaware just passed it by the way. Here in Arkansas we tried to do something about our values on that. We said, well, you know what, if we’ve got foster children, we want them to be in a good home with a mommy and a daddy. Y’all think that’s all right? Well, right over here the other day, a bunch of your Supreme

Rapert told Max Brantley in an email, “You know full well my comments were not about race or religion.”

Court justices just struck it down.

Said your vote don’t count. I’m here to tell you that we’re a people that’s ruled by majority in this country, and I’m tired of minority interests that are running roughshod over you and me.

••• Folks it’s serious. I told you one thing that’s important tonight: You’ve got to change the hearts and minds of the people around you.

You’ve got to change the hearts and minds of the people around you.

You’ve got to pray. It says blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.

I wonder sometimes, when they invited all the Muslims to come into the White House, and have them a little Ramadan supper, when our president could not take the time to go attend a National Prayer Breakfast. I wonder what he stands for.

They told me that what you do speaks so loudly that what you say I cannot hear.

I hear you loud and clear, Barack Obama. You don’t represent the country that I grew up with.

And your values is not going to save us. We’re going to try take this country back for the Lord.

We’re going to try to take this country back for conservatism. And we’re not going to allow minorities to run roughshod over what you people believe in!

About 10 minutes pass between mentions of “minorities,” during which time Rapert talks about the likes of the debt ceiling, bailouts and the holy spirit, but he never again brings up judicial or political forces overturning the majority will. In fact, his only other mention of the courts is the opposite of a populist protest of judicial activism: a plea for the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Congress (Obamacare).

As New York magazine first pointed out, Obama has attended the National Prayer Breakfast every year he’s been elected. It also noted that President George W. Bush held a Ramadan dinner in the White House every year he was in office. Obama has not held a White House event to commemorate the National Day of Prayer, a fact Rapert has pointed to in defending himself, but according to Politifact, neither did Clinton, and Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush only held one each. George W. Bush held one annually.

Via FiddlingRapert.tumblr.com.

As David Ramsey pointed out on the Arkansas Blog, “Even if we view this as charitably as possible and assume no racial element, it’s clearly an attack on religious minorities. It goes to show the tenuous place that American Muslims find themselves in that to really illustrate the point, you have to analogize: Imagine the uproar if Rapert gave the same speech but said ‘Jews’ and ‘Shabbat.’ ”

Tune in to the Times’ “Week In Review” podcast each Friday.

Available on iTunes & arktimes.com

INSIDER, CONT. Gordy’s wife, Dr. Donna Gordy, who heads a private consulting company, Elbow-2-Elbow, makes money by selling services to public school districts to help improve the student academic performance. They also noted that, though Gordy claimed no conventional public schools had been punished for academic deficiencies, several had in fact been taken over by the state. They noted that the rule allowing the state to act had been stiffened considerably from the looser rules in force when Gordy was on the state board.

Walton and Rapert A group that targets Walmart and its billionaire heirs turns its attention to Arkansas politicians again.

The Walmart 1 Percent is dedicated to providing information about how the Walton family is “dismantling middle class jobs, distorting our democracy, and leading a campaign to undermine public education.”

The Waltons have spent millions, with more to come, to elect people who’ll reliably ratify their agenda — in Arkansas, currently, the chief project is an attack on real public schools in favor of quasi-private charter schools and, eventually, pure voucher programs.

The Waltons must bed down with some pretty loathsome partners to accomplish this mission.

Sometimes too loathsome even for Walton aims. You’ll recall that Jim Walton asked for — and received — his campaign money back from Loy Mauch, one of a trio of extremist neo-Confederates who were expected to be part of the Republican takeover of the Arkansas legislature. Thanks to attention here and elsewhere to the group dubbed the Three Stooges, the Republican House majority was the slimmest possible, 51 members.

Now we have an addition to the Three Stooges. (Shemp, as Talk Business’ Michael Cook has suggested.) That would be Sen. Jason Rapert, whose extremism has hardly been secret since he joined the legislature. But thanks to newly uncovered video of an incendiary antiObama speech he gave to a Tea Party group (left) and his proposal to force probes into the vaginas of women seeking abortions (see page 14), his extremism is getting new attention. The Walmart 1 Percent is calling on Walton to repudiate Rapert as he repudiated Mauch.

With Rapert now a solid pro-Walton vote, we don’t think anyone should hold their breath.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 21 www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

13

FINALLY WINNING MAYBERRY

THE WAR RAPERT

BRIAN CHILSON

ON WOMEN WILKINS

Anti-abortion bills sail through this year’s Republican-dominated legislature.

BY LESLIE NEWELL PEACOCK 14

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

I

n testimony before the state House Committee on Public Health, Welfare and Labor, obstetrician/gynecologist Dr. Janet Cathey sought to explain to legislators why a bill ostensibly drawn up to prevent fetal pain would, besides requiring women to carry babies sure to die at birth to term, subject the fetus and infant to more pain. She described what happens when, in one example, the amniotic fluid that nourishes and protects a fetus leaks out: The uterus begins to constrict, so that the arms and legs of the fetus become contracted, and the lungs, deprived of fluid, fail to develop properly. If the fetus does not die in utero and is carried to term, it will suffocate after birth.

Yet the “Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act,” by Rep. Andy Mayberry (R-Hensley), which would prohibit abortion after 20 weeks with no exceptions for fetal anomalies, rape, incest or mental health and which is based on iffy science rejected by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists that the embryo at 20 weeks feels pain, was passed by the House on Monday with 75 yeas, 20 nays and 5 not voting. Why? Conway Republican Sen. Jason Rapert’s bill that would prevent abortion after six weeks, when a probe inserted into a woman’s vagina can detect a heartbeat, and prosecute doctors who performed abortions after the heart-beat cut-off with a Class D felony, passed the Senate 28-6.

(The House health committee on Tuesday voted to table Rapert’s heartbeat bill on a motion by chairman Rep. John Burris.)

Given that Rapert’s and Mayberry’s bills are unconstitutional, since the U.S. Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision has said that the ability of the fetus to live outside the mother — generally considered to be 23 or 24 weeks — is the standard under which an abortion may be prevented, and that they will cost the state many tax dollars for the court fight the state ACLU promises, why?

The full House passed on Monday a bill by Rep. Butch Wilkins (D-Bono) that would prohibit policies offered under a health insurance exchange from covering non-elective abortions.

The federal health care law governing the insurance exchange already prohibits federal dollars from being spent on abortion, thanks to an amendment

W

hy is the war on women’s rights — which nationally figured into the defeat of a couple of Republican congressional candidates — being waged so successfully in Arkansas?

Testimony before House and Senate committees suggests several possible reasons why Arkansas’s legislators are embracing bad law.

1. They want to codify in state law their interpretation of God’s law.

Lawmakers and those who have testified for their bills often invoke God’s name and what they believe to be His will. Julie Mayberry, testifying for her husband’s bill, said it was God’s plan that her child be born with spina bifida. Mayberry, after the hearing, told a reporter that if a woman chose to have an abortion despite counseling and being told that she was “going against God’s word,” she was immoral.

The logical extension of this line of thought is that if all abortion is made illegal, and women die as a result of back alley abortions — once the number one killer of women of child-bearing age — that the Arkansas legislature seems to have forgotten, that, too, is God’s will.

In arguing his bill before the House, Mayberry said to legislators “who consider yourself Christian” to remember the Book of Deuteronomy, 30:19, in which Moses exhorts rebelling Israelites to follow God’s law and so “choose life.”

2. Misogyny. All of the anti-abortion

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

BRIAN CHILSON

♦♦♦

bills deny the right of a woman to control her own body, and so are by definition anti-woman. They are also insulting, indifferent and dangerous.

“These bills reflect utter disregard for women’s life, health and well-being,” ACLU of Arkansas director Rita Sklar said. “That is why it is such an emotional issue — because they attack the legitimacy of women as people, as equal human beings.”

Rapert’s bill would require all women seeking an early-term abortion to have a probe inserted into the vagina, the only way to detect a fetal heartbeat at six weeks. The probe isn’t the main problem. The main problem is the fact that the bill would prohibit a woman who has missed only one menstrual period (if at all) and may not even suspect that she could be pregnant from obtaining a legal abortion. But the invasive vaginal probe — an unnecessary procedure in legal abortion — is undeniably symbolic of what the legislature is doing to women’s rights.

Mayberry’s bill not only makes no exception for rape or incest it breaks new unconstitutional ground by specifically excluding emotional and psychological health or a diagnosis that a woman will commit suicide if the pregnancy were to continue.

Rep. Greg Leding (D-Fayetteville) asked Mayberry why he did not include exceptions for rape or incest: “Can you envision a child of 12 or 13 who has been raped and afraid to come forward until after 20 weeks …” “I don’t care to envision that,” Mayberry said.

There were a couple of instances of legislators being rude to women witnesses. Sen. Missy Irvin (R-Mountain View) asked a nurse practitioner, Lori Williams, who was testifying against Rapert’s bill if, when a woman miscarried, whether doctors tested for fetal anomalies. Dissatisfied with Williams’ answer (no) to what seemed like a strange question, Irvin, a doctor’s wife, was dismissive, suggesting the witness wasn’t qualified to answer. In a hearing on Wilkins’ proposed insurance restriction, Victoria Leigh, a lawyer who plans to join the exchange and who was testifying against the bill as a consumer, could not understand a poorly worded question put to her by Mayberry and asked, “I don’t understand. Am I missing something?” “I think you’re probably missing quite a bit, but that’s OK,” Mayberry responded, prompting Democratic Rep. Frederick Love to object and ask that legislators treat the witnesses with respect.

Julie Mayberry entreated the House

DR. JANET CATHEY: Testifies against requiring women to carry fetuses with fatal anomalies.

BRIAN CHILSON

by Nebraska Sen. Ben Nelson. Should Wilkins’ bill become law, women who are insured through the exchange won’t be able, with their own money, to cover the potentially enormous hospital bills that result from a medically necessary abortion. Is that what legislators intended?

Another bill, by Sen. Justin Harris (R-West Fork), would define a fetus as a child under the state’s Child Maltreatment Act and require all health care professionals who suspect a pregnant mother has been abusing alcohol or drugs to turn her in to the child abuse hotline. If they didn’t, they could be charged with a felony. It has been passed over a couple of times by the House health committee, so maybe the bill, which could keep a pregnant woman with substance abuse problems from seeking prenatal care or confiding in her physician, will die a quiet death.

VAGINAL ULTRASOUND: The only way to detect a pregnancy at 5-6 weeks.

www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

15

ake LL iquor

Since 1966

Over 12,000 sq. ft. Of Inventory Great Deals On Wines & Spirits Everyday!

Drop In Located right by the MauMeLLe-Morgan exit on i-40 froM LittLe rock, turn Left off MauMeLLe-Morgan exit

Shop Cupid’s For The Largest Selection of Lingerie in Central Arkansas and So Much More!

2013 Arkansas Custom Knife Show

Feb 16 & 17 • Sat 10-5, Sun 10-3 Robinson Center Exhibit Hall

One of the finest shows in the country featuring some of the best knife makers in the world!

For Show & Sale

North Little Rock, West Little Rock Southwest Little Rock, Cabot, Conway and Hot Springs facebook.com/shopcupids www.ShopCupids.com

{

}

THe king BiscuiT Blues FesTivAl

Paul Thorn G))))))))g FridAy, FeBruAry 15TH in the Malco Theatre in historic downtown Helena, Arkansas.

With special guest The reba russell Band doors Open at 6pm The Edwardian Inn is offering a 10% discount on rooms valentine’s day weekend.

Booking: edwardianinn.com

SEaTIng IS lImITEd. AdvAnce TickeTs:

kingbiscuitfestival.com Produced by sonny Boy Blues society 16

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

BRIAN CHILSON

presents

LEDING: Asked Mayberry to imagine the burden the bill puts on children impregnated by rape or incest.

committee to pass her husband’s bill with this pronouncement: “A no vote on this bill says to me you value one person’s life over another.” A yes vote would do the same.

3. They believe women are neither smart nor moral enough to make their own health care decisions.

Despite Cathey’s testimony that Mayberry’s bill would require women to endure the anguish of carrying to term fetuses with fatal defects, ob/gyn Dr. Richard Wyatt of the evangelical Cornerstone Clinic testified that it was

good for “ladies” to do so. He told the committee that one of his patients whose fetus had such severe spina bifida that it had no brain wanted to have an abortion, but that he talked her out of it: “With a little gentle counseling and guidance she elected to maintain her pregnancy.” The baby lived “11 hours and 13 minutes and she cherished every minute,” he said. Asked by Love if he would always counsel such women to deliver, Wyatt said, “It’s best for she and certainly best for her baby.”

In a phone call Tuesday, Wyatt said a fetus whose amniotic sac has burst

and is being contracted by the uterine muscle — as Cathey described — doesn’t feel pain. He said he was answering for Mayberry.

Mayberry, who characterized his bill as addressing a “moral dilemma,” was also patronizing. Women who choose to have an abortion after 20 weeks “would benefit from a lot of counseling, from someone sitting down and putting their arms around them and saying ‘I love you and I love that child’ and hoping that person would make the right decision.” He said there were “instances where she might not be educated as to what life is and when it begins.”

Mayberry would educate women with information provided by Dr. Emedio Novembre, an osteopath anesthesiologist who is a member of the Christian Medical and Dental Association, that the fetus has receptors needed to feel pain at 20 weeks.

Novembre cites the research of Dr. Sunny Anand, formerly affiliated with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Novembre did not mention that Anand, now a professor of pediatrics, anesthesiology, anatomy and neurobiology at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, has said that, in some circumstances, he is pro-choice.

4. Politics. In 2011, with Democrats in the majority, 10 of 11 anti-abortion bills were defeated. Seven of them died in the House health committee.

The committee’s chair, Rep. Linda Tyler, ran for the Senate last year and lost to Rapert.

Now, with Republicans in the majority, legislators who have taken a pro-choice stand in the past are caving in to the new Republican majority. The reasons they give to abortion rights supporters for throwing women under the bus is that they need to save up their chits for bigger issues, like Medicaid expansion. Others say they are pro-choice, but if they want to be re-elected to vote right on other progressive legislation, they’ve got to vote against their inclinations.

The insurance exchange bill filed

by Wilkins could ruin women financially, Sklar said, because they’ll have to pay out-of-pocket hospital and doctor charges that will run into the tens of thousands of dollars.

“The sad thing about the exchange bill is that it will affect the most expensive abortions, performed on very sick women, women with babies with lethal fetal anomalies or the victims

MUSIC LESSONS Guitar • Bass • Piano • Voice • Drums • Banjo Professional & Degreed Instructors Monthly Jam Sessions & Workshops

Work doWntoWn?

Try Snap FITneSS With 24/7 access for members

FREE Trial Lesson BreckenriDGe VillaGe 501.312.1800 littlerockjams.com

In the Victory Building 1401 W. Capitol

246-8266

snapfitness.com/littlerockdowntown

Making Politics Personal The Story of the Arkansas Travelers

When then-Governor Bill Clinton decided to run for President of the United States, a small group of supporters banded together and set out to travel the country to share their enthusiasm about their governor. Their efforts were substantial and effective during the 1992 and 1996 campaigns. To celebrate their part in history, the Clinton Center welcomes a temporary display created in their honor.

January 27 – June 2, 2013

CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

CLINTONPRESIDENTIALCENTER.ORG • 501-374-4242 www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

17

ROUND 2 Winner Stephen Neeper Band

ROUND 3 Febrary 7

9pm: Freedom Bureau

10pm: Gwendlyn Kay

11pm: The Revolutioners

Midnight: Mothwind

upcoming rounds ROUND 4, Feb 14 Miles Rattz This Holy House Peckerwolf Terminus Tom & Hebron

ROUND 5, Feb 21 Bartin Memberg Sound of the Mountain Knox Hamilton The Midnight Thrills Collin vs Adam

FINALS, Mar 1 Damn Arkansan Stephen Neeper Band TBD TBD TBD

grab a t-shirt at the show!

$10 Men’s & Women’s sizes

arktimes.com/showcase Stickyz - 107 River Market Ave, Little Rock | 501-372-7707 | $5 for 21+ & $10 for 20 & younger

Enter the Bonnaroo ticket giveaway at each show!

WEST LITTLE ROCK’S NEIGHBORHOOD FITNESS CLUB WITH 24/7 ACCESS FOR MEMBERS

BRIAN CHILSON

Bowman Curve 400 N. Bowman 353-0224 snapfitness.com/littlerock

ACLU’S SKLAR: Says bills show disregard for women as equals.

of rape or incest who’ve been afraid to come forward — children mostly.” The numbers will be small, but they exist.

Wilkins introduced the insurance bill in the 2011 legislative session as well (it failed then), but he has been seen as someone who can be relied on to support exclusions for rape and incest. It was hoped he could persuade Mayberry to accept such exclusions as an amendment to his fetal pain bill, but in questioning by Wilkins, Mayberry was adamant that he would not accept such an amendment.

A few legislators have dared to speak against the bills. Democratic Sen. Linda Chesterfield spoke out in a Senate hearing on Rapert’s bill, saying “I don’t want to go back to when women used kerosene and clothes hangers because they didn’t have a choice,” and Sen. Stephanie Flowers, in an exchange paralleling

Leding’s with Mayberry, asked Rapert if he could imagine how women would feel if they were required to have a vaginal probe. “No” was Rapert’s answer. In an interview, the Times’ Max Brantley remarked on the invasiveness of the procedure. Rapert told him sex was invasive.

Leding gave an impassioned plea on the House floor Monday, saying, “It is easier to sit in this room and push a button far removed from the hospital” to decide a woman’s fate than to stand between her and her doctor.

“This is not about elective procedures. So I will vote no today, not out of political ideology or lack of compassion or faith. I regard all life as precious but understand that life is complicated. … I for one believe that agonizing decision should be left to the mother and father with their doctor and their God.”

Feb. 17 4pm-7pm embassy suites

• Soups, breads and desserts from dozens of local restaurants and chefs.

• Live music featuring The Flying Balloon-o Brothers.

• VIP Room featuring Chef Matt Bell, South on Main, demonstrating a signature soup. $50 VIP (tickets include full access to main event).

• $20 for adults ($25 at the door), $5 for kids ages 5-12.

• For tickets: 501-371-9678 or www.aradvocates.org.

Gold SponSor:

Arkansas Children’s Hospital Silver SponSorS: edwards Jones-Kirk Bradshaw/Kevin Kordsmeier olds Foundation United Methodist Foundation of Arkansas Becky and Gary Wheeler www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

19

We want to know...

How would YOU improve central Arkansas?

A. Higher achieving schools B. More job opportunities C. Easier commutes D. Safer neighborhoods E. Something else...

Text your top choice A, B, C, D or E to*:

501-340-0503

Learn more at http://imagineCentralArkansas.org *Standard text messaging rates apply. Your privacy is important to us. Your phone number will not be sold, published or reused. For more, go to http://www.textizen.com/privacy.

The Expand-o-meter Taking the temperature of the Medicaid expansion.

BY DAVID RAMSEY

TODAY’S CHANCES OF PASSING EXPANSION: 38%

R

in the existing system rather than talking about expanding. It certainly feels like this was carefully rolled out last week, as Republicans spread rumors about shocking waste uncovered in the report, then tweeted and re-tweeted reports of those same rumors, then Carter went out of his way to offer a preemptive defense of Legislative Audit.

(Rumors that Carter may run for governor cast another dark cloud on expansion — you probably can’t win a statewide Republican primary unless you’re anti-Obamacare.)

epublican lawmakers went back to their old standby last week to fight Medicaid expansion: Waste! Fraud! Abuse! Get ready to hear some harrowing tales of Medicaid Queens riding around Mountain View in convertibles from Sen. Missy Irvin.

It looked like it would be a slow week for the expansion debate with abortion legislation, the governor’s race and the super project dominating the news but on Wednesday, things got lively in the Legislative Audit committee meeting (there’s a phrase we’re not used to writing). Republican co-chair Sen. Bryan King announced that he’d requested that Legislative Audit release its findings on the Medicaid program on Friday, instead of in March as part of the Arkansas Department of Human Services audit as previously scheduled. Many prominent Republicans were in attendance and began talking up the audit as a game-changer.

Accusations came swiftly that the fix was SEN. BRYAN KING: Wants to rid his system of waste. in, with suggestions that On the plus side for expansion proKing has tried to influence the audit and use it as a political stunt. DHS released ponents, some consensus emerged that a furious response, complaining of a “circuit breaker” would be a poten“alarming flaws,” which wouldn’t surtially powerful tool to avoid sticking the prise us, but also suggests that the audit state with bigger costs than advertised at least looks bad. In the end, the audit’s down the road if the feds change the release was put on hold for now to give match rates (leaving the Republicans time for DHS and Legislative Audit to only with Sen. Cecile Bledsoe’s bizarre hash out their differences. King harlogic: better to never give coverage than rumphed that the delay showed Beebe possibly some day take it away). The administration was playing “D.C. poliearly returns on the Medicaid program’s tics”; Beebe’s spokesman replied that Payment Improvement Initiative look a “tantrum” was a strange response to good, with the shortfall less than half further cooperation between the two of what it once was, suggesting that the agencies. program may be well on the way to cutting costs to offset fears of the costs of The good news is that once released, expansion down the road. we’ll actually have something to debate, instead of unspecified anecdotes of Still, the unified Republican front to waste (a “gut” feeling, as House Speaker change the subject to waste leaves the Davy Carter described it). But politiExpand-o-meter very bearish this week, cally, it almost doesn’t matter whether as we dip below 40 percent. the audit findings are as fishy as DHS says. The conversation will shift, and Republican lawmakers hoping to block For previous entries on the Expand-oexpansion are giddy about poking holes Meter, visit arktimes.com/expandometer.

38

Providing Residents The Skills And Therapy They Need To Return To Their Communities

ROBINSON NURSING and REHABILITATION CENTER LLC

519 Donovan Briley Blvd. • North Little Rock P 501.753.9003 • F 501.753.9146 • robinsonar.com

20

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

INSIDER, CONT.

Opposition brewing against super project

Nucor Steel still hasn’t returned calls from the Times. Nor have its lobbyists. But two people in Mississippi County, plus two political figures active in the deal, tell the Times that lobbying has begun against the $125 million Big River Steel mill subsidy, which the governor has asked the Arkansas General Assembly to approve. The financing would provide a significant leg up to a competitor of Nucor in its own backyard.

Nucor isn’t running at full production currently, nor is the steel industry in the U.S. as a whole, one buyer of Nucor steel tells us.

Feb 12 – March 16

Find Us On Facebook

In this side-splitting comic romp about marriage, career-driven Suzannah Hayden needs a lot more help on the home front than she’s getting from her husband, Gibby.

Enjoy our new chef and menu

www.facebook.com/arkansastimes

Colonel Glenn & University • murrysdinnerplayhouse.com • 562-3131

Bumper sticker tweaks Travs The sun may always shine on the Arkansas Travelers, but the Travs have effectively told one unhappy Traveler fan to put his unhappiness where the sun doesn’t shine, or else.

We’ve written before about John Crow, a Sherwood liquor store owner who’s voiced unhappiness with Traveler management changes instigated by Russ Meeks, who calls most of the shots nowadays for the minor league baseball team. Crow came up with a bumper sticker that says “Take Me(eks) out of the Ballpark,” shown above.

Crow printed 500 bumper stickers to distribute free at a “Hotter Stove” event from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. last week at Reno’s Argenta Cafe. Crow’s event was free. It was a protest of the Travelers’ $20-a-head “Hot Stove” event an hour earlier at Embassy Suites in Little Rock.

The Travelers will NOT be mocked.

Crow has received a cease-and-desist letter for his “unauthorized use” of the Travelers’ mascot on the sticker from Walter M. Ebel III of the Friday, Eldredge and Clark law firm.

“The Arkansas Travelers have been using the Shelly mascot for many years and have a substantial investment in this symbol. It is the Arkansas Travelers’ position that this mascot and its likeness are subject to legal protection from unauthorized use under applicable law. Accordingly, in the event you do not promptly adhere to this request and immediately cease using all likenesses of the Arkansas Travelers’ Shelly mascot, and remove all references to this symbol from all products and materials you are using or proposing to use, we will have no choice but to advise our client to pursue all available remedies to protect its legal rights with respect to its Shelly mascot.”

Crow plans to continue distributing the bumper stickers. He has advice from a lawyer that it’s a “fair use” of the trademark under law as a parody protected under the First Amendment.

Clinton Presidential Center Celebrates Black History Month Free Admission Day Monday, February 18 • 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

In honor of President’s Day, admission and audio tours narrated by President Clinton are free throughout the day.

Jazzing Things Up: Creating America’s Gift to Music* General Public: Thursday, February 21, 2013 · 7 p.m.

School Groups: Thursday and Friday, February 21 - 22, 2013 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. – Noon

Parkview Arts and Science Magnet High School presents “Jazzing Things Up,” a program that tells the story of the African-American influence on jazz and how the genre has influenced musical development throughout the world.

Arkansas Black Hall Of Fame Distinguished Laureate Series* General Public: Wednesday, February 27 • 6:00 p.m.

School Groups: Wednesday, February 27 • 9:30 a.m.

The Clinton Foundation and the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame presents the 2013 Distinguished Laureate Series featuring world renowned physicist Dr. Oliver Keith Baker.

Dr. Baker, a native Arkansan, is at the forefront of nanotechnology and is pioneering research that found Higgs boson, a subatomic particle considered so significant to the understanding of the universe that it has been called the “God particle.”

*Programs are free. However, reservations are required. Call 501-748-0419 to make reservations.

1200 President Clinton Ave. Little Rock, AR 72201 • www.clintonpresidentialcenter.org • 501-748-0419

www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

21

Arts Entertainment AND

THE JUDGES’ TAKE

BRIAN CHILSON

GRAYSON SHELTON “Good transition, great stage show.

You can tell they play a shit-ton of shows. It’s the Stephen Neeper Band, but every musician is solid, great collection of musicians topto-bottom.”

ROUND 2 WINNER: Stephen Neeper Band.

Stephen Neeper Band takes Round 2

MANDY MCBRYDE “Gigantic. These guys are doin’ it right.”

Blues-powered swagger propels the five-piece to the Showcase finals.

BY ROBERT BELL

R

ound 2 of the Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase got under way a bit later than usual, and with only three bands instead of the usual four. Members of Fayetteville’s Tom & Hebron, scheduled to play that evening, had come down with the flu.

Even with three bands, the competition was tight, and the scores were closer all around than they were for Round 1.

That said, the Stephen Neeper Band put on a ragin’ show, advancing to the March 1 finals. More on them shortly.

The evening’s opening slot went to Little Rock quartet The Bad Years, who just might be the youngest band in Showcase history — three of the members are still in high school. But you wouldn’t guess that to hear them play, such is their knack for crafting hook-y pop-punk that pretty much completely ignores the Fallout Boy/Blink 182 years in favor of the Lookout!/Very Small Records canon: early Green Day, Fifteen, Jawbreaker,

22

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

Screeching Weasel, Pinhead Gunpowder. You know, the good stuff. Highlight: a super punchy version of their single “Nowhere in Sight.”

Showcase judge Grayson Shelton wrote: “Don’t let their age fool you... I know a bunch of bands who’d get their asses smoked by these dudes!”

Guest judge Rodney Block noted the group’s “great musical energy” and commitment to their sound, while judge Mandy McBryde wrote that “these guys make me wanna fight for something I believe in and dance around a lot.” Judge CT wrote, “Drummer is a basher!!!

Sounds like Green Day, but early good stuff — the deep-album gems off the first Green Day album.”

Up next was the aforementioned Stephen Neeper Band. It’s hard to convey the extent to which this band has swaggering, blues-steeped Southern rock down cold. And frontman Neeper is a shred-meister extraordinaire. Seriously,

dude can waaaaail on that guit-box. And when you account for the fact that the rest of the band members are stone-cold bad-asses too? Well, that right there is a recipe for a face-melting rock experience.

Closing out the night was Little Rock five-piece Flint Eastwood. It’s fair to say this band’s indie rock/hip-hop hybrid is the most musically eclectic offering in the Showcase.

The young band made a big impression on the judges, especially Mandy McBryde, who wrote, “This sound is so new. I love this band and want to hear so much more of them.”

Grayson Shelton heard similarities with Fayetteville jam/funk ensemble Cadillac Jackson and live hip-hop outfit Hardaway & The Commoners, also of Fayetteville. He noted that he’d like to hear more sounds in the mix, suggesting perhaps horn players or another guitarist, writing, “The point: More toys!”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

CT “Nailed it. Bad-ass. Thank you.”

GUEST JUDGE RODNEY BLOCK “Great outros/intros — love your transitions between one selection to the next. Overall, great stage energy — it counts to make the audience feel like a part of the performance.”

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

A&E NEWS PHOTOGRAPHER ZOIE CLIFT WENT TO SATURDAY NIGHT’S PBR Lucas Oil Touring Pro Series at Verizon Arena. That’s PBR as in Professional Bull Riders, not, you know, the other PBR. Clift was kind enough to share some of her incredible photos with Rock Candy. You can check out Clift’s photos at arktimes.com/bullriding.

Cool thing to note: 2008 Rookie of the Year and Arkansas native Reese Cates was the overall winner last weekend.

ORGANIZERS FOR THE LITTLE ROCK HORROR PICTURE SHOW announced last week that “Roadside,” the new horror thriller by Arkansas filmmaker Eric England, will close this year’s LRHPS, which runs March 22-24.

The film is about a young couple who are held hostage in their car on a remote road by a psychopath with a rifle.

The screening will serve as the U.S. premiere of “Roadside.” England’s first film, the retro-slasher flick “Madison County,” won the audience prize at last year’s LRHPS. THE U.S. POSTAL SERVICE ANNOUNCED LAST WEEK that Arkansas native Johnny Cash will be honored with a U.S. postage stamp, one of the USPS’s “Music Icons” series. Cash, who was born in Kingsland and raised in Dyess in Northeast Arkansas, died in 2003. The release date for the Cash stamp hasn’t been announced.

The Cash stamp will be based on a photograph which was taken for the cover of the 1963 album Ring of Fire: The Best of Johnny Cash. The USPS Music Icons series has previously honored luminaries such as Miles Davis, Edith Piaf and Tejano music star Lydia Mendoza.

Almost makes us want to, you know, write a letter and mail it.

Special

Gyro Sandwich, FrieS & drink $6.65 oFFer expireS 3/6/13

gyros • hummus • tabbouleh • baba ghannouj pizza • calzone • mediterranean salad

fresh, delicious Mediterranean cuisine

LR • Rodney Parham • 227-7272 LR • Ranch Blvd. • 868-8226 Conway • Oak Street • 205-8224

Your next vehicle

is already in the

huge selection at

arkansasautobuyer.com But hurry

!

They don’T around To sTay o long!

THE WES BENTLEY RENAISSANCE CONTINUES. Your Rock Candy staff recently watched a teaser clip for the forthcoming biopic “Lovelace,” starring Amanda Seyfried as “Deep Throat” star Linda Lovelace and Jonesboro native Bentley as her second husband, Larry Marchiano.

The film premiered at Sundance the week before last and was picked up

by Harvey Weinstein, according to the Houston Chronicle.

www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

23

THE TO-DO

LIST

BY ROBERT BELL & DAVID KOON

THURSDAY 2/7

‘A CELEBRATION FOR MASON MAULDIN’ 7 p.m. Revolution. Donations.

CELEBRATING MASON: On Thursday, Revolution hosts a fundraiser concert celebrating the life of Mason Mauldin.

With the passing of Mason Mauldin, Little Rock lost a sharp and funny friend, a thoughtful and serious (without taking himself too seriously) musician, a skilled and enthusiastic pilot and so much more. Those who knew him will always have their memories, and everyone will have his music. His friends created a website (masonmauldin.bandcamp.com) as a growing repository for the music he created and collaborated on. I just listened to an EP of his called “Middle Ground.” In just three songs, it shows off Mauldin’s sophisticated grasp of pop music, his understanding of atmospherics and the breadth of his songwriting abilities. It’s clear how deeply Mauldin loved music. So after Saturday’s beautiful memorial service, what better way to remember him and celebrate his life than with a big, raucous all-ages rock show? His friends in The See, Mad Nomad and Whale Fire will be performing. Donations will be taken at the door, and all proceeds will go towards the Mason Mauldin Aviation Scholarship Fund at Pulaski Technical College. RB

SATURDAY 2/9

ARKANSAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: ‘NIGHT AT THE MOVIES’

8 p.m. Robinson Center Music Hall. $18-$58.

This weekend, the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra has lined up a billing of favorites from the silver screen. As ASO Conductor Philip Mann put it, the production has “everything from the

classics all the way up to new releases.”

Audiences can thrill to sounds from “Titanic,” “West Side Story,” “The Wizard of Oz,” “Harry Potter,” “Indiana Jones” and “The Pink Panther,” among many others. Mann promises the orchestra has some tricks up its sleeve as well. “Hear music for fight scenes, love scenes, car chases — we’ve got it all,” he said. The ASO will perform the show again on Sunday at 3 p.m. RB

SATURDAY 2/9

SOUTH MAIN MARDI GRAS

Noon. SoMa. Free.

So if you’re reading this, odds are better than OK that you won’t be in The Big Easy for Mardi Gras this year.

(If you are going to be there, good for you. Have fun, get a Po’ Boy at Parkway, breakfast at Mother’s and bring some Advil.) For the rest of us, there are still options to be had for Mardi Gras revelry, including the Krewe of Barkus Parade starting at 2 p.m. on Sunday in Argenta (see calendar), and there’s this one on the other side of the river, the South Main Mardi Gras celebration. The parade starts at noon at 24th and Main streets, with beads and music and good times. Be sure to come by Bernice Garden at 12:30, where judging will begin for the first Root Cafe/Arkansas Times BeardGrowing Contest. There’s gonna be 24

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

more hirsute faces than you can shake a razor at, all vying for the win in several categories, including “Most Original” and “Best Abraham Lincoln,” among others. Though there isn’t a category for it, I think there should be some acknowledgment of the “Totally Gnarliest” beard. The judges are KARK anchor Jessica Dean, “Arkansas Cooks” host Mary Twedt and food columnist and blogger Rex Nelson; Nathanael Wills is going to emcee this shindig. Each winner (provided that winner is 21 or older) will receive an engraved flask full of whisky and an individual prize that will vary for each category. There will also be live music courtesy of Mark Currey and Nathaniel Greer. Our own Jeff Borg is in the contest, so while we’re completely impartial and all that, we’d like to wish him luck. RB

TENNESSEEIN’ IS TENNEBELIEVIN’: Tennessee’s Laser Flames on the Great Big News plays at White Water Tavern Saturday.

SATURDAY 2/9

DIRTY STREETS, IRON TONGUE, LASER FLAMES ON THE GREAT BIG NEWS

9:30 p.m. White Water Tavern. $5.

Times readers who have a yen for eardrum-shreddin’ heavy riff-o-rama blastilation are probably well familiar with Little Rock’s Iron Tongue and Memphis trio The Dirty Streets. The bands have shared the stage often and released a killer split 7” EP last summer. They’ll be hitting up the White Water Tavern with Central Tennessee’s Laser Flames on the Great Big News. The Laser Flames have played in Arkansas previously, and released a split CD with Little Rock’s Snakedriver last year on CT’s Mutants of the Monster label. Three of those songs are also

on the band’s “Lambs to the Slaughter” EP, which sounds like nothing else. It’s really cool how nowadays there aren’t any weird rules anymore about what your band can sound like. Remember how it used to be? “Well, we’re a punk band, so we’ve gotta sound like a punk band,” or whatever? And how if you tried to mix it up you got called pretentious? I guess it’s still like that in some quarters, but all that stuffiness and puritanical scene bullshit got thrown out the window at some point. The result is that now, if you want to have a metal band that has heavy riffs and breakdowns and harsh black metal screaming, but also lush harmonies and some viola and some Southern rock and some progrock and some beautiful clean vocals, it’s all good and nobody’s gonna give you a hard time about it. Thank God. RB

IN BRIEF

WEDNESDAY 2/6

WEDNESDAY 2/13

THAT 1 GUY

9 p.m. Stickyz. $10.

If you’re tired of the same old same old in music, Mike Silverman, a.k.a. That 1 Guy, might be worth checking out. A former string bass player from Berkeley, Calif., who felt restricted by the instrument he’d mastered, Silverman decided to try another instrument — one he made himself called “The Magic Pipe,” a sculpture-ific construct of metal, strings, leather and electronics, played with a bow, fingers, feet, knuckles, deft touches and rapid slaps. As seen in videos on YouTube, the result is a sound and performance unlike anything else — dreamy, spacey, electronic, analog, part beat-box, part cello, part steel drum. At one point during a video I watched, Silverman played a plain ol’ cowboy boot (albeit one with a hidden jack in the heel to connect it to the amps) like a drum. Try getting that from The Eagles. Definitely worth the price of a ticket, just for the performance art. DK

WEDNESDAY 2/13

THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE!

7:30 p.m. Robinson Center Music Hall. $49-$60.

WRASSLIN’ TIME: WWE Smackdown comes to Verizon Arena Tuesday, with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson on the bill.

TUESDAY 2/12

WWE SMACKDOWN

7 p.m. Verizon Arena. $17-$97.

Sorry to bust your bubble, dude, but wrasslin’ ain’t for real. That is to say: the performers aren’t actually out there exploiting each other’s’ phobias about spiders, turning each other temporarily gay through hypnotism, running for president on a platform of “Kickin’ Terrorist Asses!” and/or objecting at each other’s weddings in order to start a ruckus. As

for the physicality of wrestling — the jumping, leaping, acrobatic, deathdefying stuff — that part actually is all real, and quite amazing to watch in person. WWE superstar and bona fide actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson headlines a show full of reallife superheroes and super-villains with physiques that push the limits of what seems physically possible.

It’s loads of fun — especially for the kiddos — as long as you don’t take it too seriously. DK

Man, oh, man. How does this reporter love “The Price is Right”?

Let me count the ways. Growing up with a stay-at-home mom, we watched TPIR religiously, and often fantasized about landing on the show, spinning The Big Wheel and shooting it out with some house-frau in the Showcase Showdown. Who knew you could get so much drama out of the price of a box of Brillo pads? In celebration of the show’s 40th anniversary on TV, “The Price is Right” has taken to the road and has brought along all your favorites, including prizes, games, and the chance for audience members to “Come on down!”

They even brought The Big Wheel and the Plinko board. Bob Barker, however, is not along for the ride.

You and your un-neutered pets will just have to muddle through without him. DK

“The Year of the Women” is a panel discussion about the results of a new nonpartisan academic poll conducted by the Clinton School and the Diane D. Blair Center of Southern Politics and Society at the University of Arkansas, Clinton School, noon, free. For an evening of Eastern acrobatics, check out the Golden Dragon Acrobats’ show “Cirque Ziva” at Woodlands Auditorium in Hot Springs Village, 7:30 p.m., $25. Juanita’s has your Wednesday night blues needs covered, with blues guitar virtuoso Eric Gales, with openers Steve Hester and Deja VooDoo, 9 p.m., $13 adv., $15 day of. Blues-jam shredmeisters Joey Farr & The Fuggins Wheat Band play an 18-and-older show at Stickyz, 8:30 p.m., $4. This is the last week to see the Arkansas Repertory Theatre’s “Gee’s Bend,” 7 p.m. WednesdayThursday, 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday and at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday, $25-$40.

THURSDAY 2/7 Local jazz ensemble Handmade Moments (with members of Don’t Stop Please) plays at The Joint, with Geoffrey Myers and Tyler Tradewell, 9 p.m., $7. Tireless swamp-folk/soul singer Adam Faucett is at Maxine’s for a free show, 7 p.m. Up in Fayetteville, George’s Majestic Lounge hosts red-dirt road warriors The Eli Young Band, with opener Backroad Anthem, 8 p.m., $29. Attention, Razorback football faithful: It is Signing Day in the Rock at Verizon Arena. Get an introduction to the new coaches and recruits, 6:45 p.m., $25-$65.

FRIDAY 2/8 Montego Cafe celebrates Bob Marley’s birthday with performances from Changus B, Nicky Parrish, J. White, Bijoux, Michael Walker, 10 p.m., $10. The Good Vibes Music Fest is hosted by Osyrus Bolly and DJ Keylowatt, with Flint Eastwood, Vile Pack, SA, Kwestion, xP, Tho’d Studio Ent., Fresco The Caveman, SJ and Keshawn, and a Beat Battle featuring Nawf, Don Dash Beats, DJ Stylez, Spacecamp, D Trell and King Boom. Downtown Music Hall, 9 p.m., $6-$8. White Water Tavern hosts the alt-country sounds of The Canehill Engagement, with Isaac Alexander (with full band) and Sea Nanners, 9:30 p.m. The Baltimore Consort performs at Christ Episcopal Church, 7:30 p.m., $15-$25. The Weekend Theater’s production of “Ain’t Nothing But a Thang” opens, Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 p.m. through Feb. 23.

SATURDAY 2/9 For another Bob Marley Birthday Bash, Revolution has Yard Squad Band featuring Dynamq, Butterfly, Darril Harp Edwards and A.G. Dynamite, 9 p.m., $15 adv., $20 day of. Discovery has Sex Panther & The Return of Blade, Jeremy Rowlett, Rufio, Jason D, Brandon Peck and more, 9 p.m., $10.

www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

25

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

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 6

MUSIC

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

Brian & Nick. Cajun’s Wharf, 5 and 9 p.m.; Feb. 20, 5 and 9 p.m.; Feb. 27, 5 and 9 p.m., $5 after 8:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-375-5351. www.cajunswharf.com.

Eric Gales, Steve Hester, Deja VooDoo. Juanita’s, 9 p.m., $13 adv., $15 day of. 614 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-1228. www. juanitas.com.

G. Love and Special Sauce, Swear and Shake.

George’s Majestic Lounge, 9 p.m., $24. 519 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-442-4226.

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

120 W. Pershing Blvd., NLR. Jim Dickerson. 7 p.m. Feb. 5-7, 12-14, 19-21, 26-28. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www. sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

Joey Farr & The Fuggins Wheat Band. 18-andolder. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 8:30 p.m., $4. 107 Commerce St. 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 Extravaganza. Includes drink and food specials and cash prizes. Montego Cafe, 9 p.m., $5. 315 Main St. 501-372-1555. www. montegocafe.com.

Karaoke with Big John Miller. Denton’s Trotline, 8 p.m. 2150 Congo Road, Benton. 501-315-1717.

Live Karaoke and Dueling Pianos. Featuring Dell Smith and William Staggers. Montego Cafe, 9 p.m. 315 Main St. 501-372-1555. www. montegocafe.com.

Ricky David Tripp. Rocket Twenty One, 5:30 p.m. 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-603-9208. www. ferneaurestaurant.com.

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

COMEDY

The Joint Venture. Improv comedy group. The Joint, 8 p.m., $5. 301 Main St. No. 102, NLR. 501372-0205. thejointinlittlerock.com.

Ms. Pat. The Loony Bin, 7:30 p.m.; Feb. 8, 7:30 and 10 p.m., $7-$10. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501-228-5555. www.loonybincomedy. com.

Standup Open Mic Night. Hosted by local come­di­ans of the com­edy col­lec­tive Come­di­ ans of NWA. UARK Bowl, 9 p.m., free. 644 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-301-2030. uarkbowl.com.

DANCE

Golden Dragon Acrobats’ “Cirque Ziva.”

Woodlands Auditorium, 7:30 p.m., $25. 1101 De Soto Blvd., Hot Springs Village. 501-9224231. www.hsvwoodlands.com.

Little Rock Bop Club. Beginning dance lessons for ages 10 and older. Singles welcome. Bess

26

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

H TO THE YEAH: Heavy alt-rockers Local H come to Juanita’s, touring for their most recent album, “Hallelujah, I’m a Bum!” Opening the show is Fayetteville’s Lot 44, 9 p.m., $10 adv., $12 day of.

Chisum Stephens Community Center, 7 p.m., $4 for members, $7 for guests. 12th & Cleveland streets. 501-350-4712. www.littlerockbopclub.

EVENTS

Legacies & Lunch: Linda McDowell. To commemorate Black History Month, McDowell will discuss the lives of several prominent and notable Arkansas African Americans. Main Library, noon, free. 100 S. Rock St. www.cals.lib.ar.us.

“The Year of the Women.” Panel discussion about the results of a new nonpartisan academic poll conducted by the Clinton School and the Diane D. Blair Center of Southern Politics and Society at the University of Arkansas. Clinton School of Public Service, noon, free. 1200 President Clinton Ave. 501-683-5239. www. clintonschool.uasys.edu.

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.

CLASSES

Drop-In Drawing. Informal drawing session.

Materials are provided. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, 6 p.m.; Feb. 17, 1 p.m., free.

600 Museum Way, Bentonville. 479-418-5700. crystalbridges.org.

Preschool Art Class: “Creatures of Crystal Bridges.” For children ages 3 to 5 with a caregiver. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, 1:15 p.m.; Feb. 13, 1:15 p.m.; Feb. 20, 1:15 p.m., $30. 600 Museum Way, Bentonville. 479418-5700. crystalbridges.org.

THURSDAY, FEB. 7

MUSIC

2013 Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase Round 3. All-ages, with Freedom Bureau, Gwendlyn Kay, The Revolutioners, Mothwind.

Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 9 p.m., $5 21 and older, $10 20 and younger. 107 Commerce St. 501-372-7707. www.stickyz.com.

Adam Faucett. Maxine’s, 7 p.m., free. 700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. www.maxinespub.com.

“A Celebration for Mason Mauldin.” All-ages, with The See, Mad Nomad, Whale Fire, Poebot.

Revolution, 7 p.m., Donations. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. revroom.com.

Downtown Battle of the Bands Round 3. With Wreckless Endeavor, Iron-E, More than Sparrows, Tides of Anareta. Downtown Music Hall, 7 p.m., $6. 211 W. Capitol. 501-376-1819. downtownmusichall.com.

Eli Young Band, Backroad Anthem. George’s Majestic Lounge, 8 p.m., $29. 519 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-442-4226.

Handmade Moments, Geoffrey Myers, Tyler

Tradewell. The Joint, 9 p.m., $7. 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. 501-907-2582.

Jim Dickerson. 7 p.m. Feb. 5-7, 12-14, 19-21, 26-28.

Sonny Williams’ Steak Room. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

Karaoke. Zack’s Place, 8 p.m. 1400 S. University Ave. 501-664-6444.

Karaoke night. Cornerstone Pub & Grill, 8 p.m.

314 Main St., NLR. 501-374-1782. cstonepub. com.

Karaoke Thursday. Twelve Modern Lounge, first Thursday of every month, free before 9 p.m., $5 after 9 p.m. 1900 W. Third St. 501-301-1200.

Karaoke with Kevin & Cara. MacDaddy’s Bar and Grill, 9 p.m., free. 314 N. Maple St., NLR. Karaoke with Larry the Table Guy. The Afterthought, 8 p.m., free. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www.afterthoughtbar.com.

Krush Thursdays with DJ Kavaleer. Club Climax, free before 11 p.m. 824 W. Capitol. 501-554-3437.

Open jam with The Port Arthur Band. Parrot Beach Cafe, 9 p.m. 9611 MacArthur Drive, NLR. 771-2994.

Rusty White. Thirst n’ Howl, 9 p.m., free. 14710 Cantrell Road. 501-379-8189. www.thirst-n-howl. com.

Smokey. The Tavern Sports Grill, 7 p.m., free.

17815 Chenal Parkway. 501-830-2100. www.thetavernsportsgrill.com.

Ted Ludwig Trio. Capital Bar and Grill, 5 p.m., free. 111 Markham St. 501-374-7474. www.capitalhotel.com/CBG. Third Degree (headliner), Richie Johnson (happy hour). Cajun’s Wharf, 5 and 9 p.m., $5 after 8:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-375-5351. www.cajunswharf.com.

COMEDY

Ms. Pat. The Loony Bin, through Feb. 7, 7:30 p.m.; through Feb. 9, 7:30 and 10 p.m., $7-$10.

10301 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501-228-5555. www.loonybincomedy.com.

EVENTS

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

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

“Hookers & Jokers Mardi Gras Ball.” Cash bar, buffet, costume contest and more. Best Western Inn of the Ozarks, 6 p.m. 207 W. Van Buren, Eureka Springs. 479-253-9768. www. innoftheozarks.com.

Live horse racing. Thu.-Sun. every week until April 13, plus Martin Luther King Day and Memorial Day. Oaklawn, $2. 2705 Central Ave., Hot Springs. 501-623-4411. www.oaklawn.com.

LECTURES

Stephen Moore. Harding University, 7:30 p.m.

900 E. Center Ave., Searcy.

SPORTS

Signing Day in the Rock. Verizon Arena, 6:45 p.m., $25-$65. 1 Alltel Arena Way, NLR. 501975-9001. verizonarena.com.

BOOKS

Three on Three: Arkansas Literary Festival Author Preview. Main Library, 6:30 p.m., free.

100 S. Rock St. www.cals.lib.ar.us.

CLASSES

Children’s Classes: “Discover the Artists of Crystal Bridges.” For children ages 6 to 12.

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Feb. 7, 3:30-5:30 p.m.; Feb. 14, 3:30-5:30 p.m.; Feb. 21, 3:30-5:30 p.m.; Feb. 28, 3:30-5:30 p.m., $80.

600 Museum Way, Bentonville. 479-418-5700. crystalbridges.org.

FRIDAY, FEB. 8

MUSIC

Andy Tanas. The Tavern Sports Grill, 8:30 p.m., free. 17815 Chenal Parkway. 501-830-2100. www. thetavernsportsgrill.com.

The Baltimore Consort. Christ Episcopal Church, 7:30 p.m., $15-$25. 509 Scott St. 501-375-2342.

Bob Marley Birthday Celebration. With Changus B, Nicky Parrish, J.White, Bijoux, Michael Walker. Montego Cafe, 10 p.m., $10.

315 Main St. 501-372-1555. www.montegocafe.com.

The Canehill Engagement, Isaac Alexander, Sea Nanners. White Water Tavern, 9:30 p.m.

2500 W 7th St. 501-375-8400. www.whitewatertavern.com.

Club Nights at 1620 Savoy. Dance night, with DJs, drink specials and bar menu, until 2 a.m.

1620 Savoy, 10 p.m. 1620 Market St. 501-2211620. www.1620savoy.com.

Drew Henderson Band. Denton’s Trotline, 9 p.m., $7. 2150 Congo Road, Benton. 501-3151717.

Friday night at Sway. Sway, 9 p.m. 412 Louisiana.

501-907-2582.

Ghost Town Blues Band. Midtown Billiards, 12:30 a.m., $5. 1316 Main St. 501-372-9990. midtownar.com.

Good Vibes Music Fest. Hosted by Osyrus Bolly and DJ Keylowatt, with Flint Eastwood, Vile Pack, SA, Kwestion, xP, Tho’d Studio Ent., Fresco The Caveman, SJ and Keshawn, and a Beat Battle featuring Nawf, Don Dash Beats, DJ Stylez, Spacecamp, D Trell and King Boom.

Downtown Music Hall, 9 p.m., $6-$8. 211 W. Capitol. 501-376-1819. downtownmusichall. com.

Green Jelly, Wreckless Endeavor, Queen Anne’s Revenge. Juanita’s, 10 p.m., $8 adv., $10 day of. 614 President Clinton Ave. 501372-1228. www.juanitas.com.

Jason Breaux. Cregeen’s Irish Pub, 8 p.m. 301 Main St., NLR. 501-376-7468. www.cregeens. com.

Jason Burnett. Flying Saucer, 9 p.m., $3. 323 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-8032. www. beerknurd.com/stores/littlerock.

Jason D. Williams. Arkansas State University at Mountain Home, 7 p.m., $15. 1600 S. College Ave., Mountain Home.

Joel Ludford & Geoffrey Meyers. Cornerstone Pub & Grill, 8 p.m. 314 Main St., NLR. 501-3741782. cstonepub.com.

The John Sutton Band (headliner), Jenny Dalton (happy hour). Cajun’s Wharf, 5 and 9 p.m., $5 after 8:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road.

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

Lucero, Jimbo Mathus & The Tri-State Coalition. George’s Majestic Lounge, 9 p.m., $24. 519 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-4424226.

Morlee, Abandon Kansas. Vino’s, 9 p.m., $5.

923 W. 7th St. 501-375-8466. www.vinosbrewpub.com.

Reckless Kelly, The Damn Quails. 18-and-

older. Revolution, 9 p.m., $12 adv., $15 day of. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. revroom.com.

Rodney Block & The Real Music Lovers. The Afterthought, 9 p.m., $10. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www.afterthoughtbar.com.

Ronnie Simmons Band. Thirst n’ Howl, 9 p.m., free. 14710 Cantrell Road. 501-379-8189. www. thirst-n-howl.com.

Second Friday Art Night: Dana Falconberry, Chocolate and Valentines. Old State House Museum, 5 p.m., free. 500 Clinton Ave. 501324-9685. www.oldstatehouse.com.

Shannon Boshears Band. W.T. Bubba’s Country Tavern, 9 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501244-2528.

Synergy, DJ Sleepy Genius. Montego Cafe, 8:30 p.m. 315 Main St. 501-372-1555. www. montegocafe.com.

Ted Ludwig Trio. Capital Bar and Grill, 9 p.m., free. 111 Markham St. 501-374-7474. www.capitalhotel.com/CBG. Thomas East. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, Feb. 8-9, 7 p.m.; Feb. 22-23, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

Tuxedo Flamethrower. West End Smokehouse and Tavern, 10 p.m., $5. 215 N. Shackleford.

501-224-7665. www.westendsmokehouse.net.

Vagabond Swing, David Castro Band. Maxine’s, 8 p.m., $5 adv., $7 door. 700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. www.maxinespub.com.

“YOLO.” Featuring four DJs and beach volleyball, 18-and-older. Flying DD, $5. 4601 S. University.

501-773-9990. flyingdd.com.

COMEDY

David Nickerson. UARK Bowl, 8 and 10:30 p.m., $7. 644 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-3012030. www.uarkballroom.com.

The Main Thing: “The Last Night at Orabella’s.”

Original two-act comedic play about the residents of tiny, fictional Dumpster, Ark. The Joint, through April 27: 8 p.m., $20. 301 Main St. No. 102, NLR. 501-372-0205. thejointinlittlerock.com.

Ms. Pat. The Loony Bin, through Feb. 9, 7:30 and 10 p.m., $7-$10. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road.

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

EVENTS

Bear Claw Invitational debate/communications skills competition. University of Central Arkansas, Feb. 8, 3:30 p.m.; Feb. 9, 8 a.m., free.

201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. 501-852-0695. www.uca.edu.

Fantastic Friday. Literary and music event, refreshments included. For reservations, call 479-968-2452 or email artscenter@centurytel.net. River Valley Arts Center, Every third Friday, 7 p.m., $10 suggested donation. 1001 E. B St., Russellville. 479-968-2452. www.arvartscenter.org.

Homeschool Friday Fun: “Celebrate Black History Month.” Two age groups are offered: 5-9 and 10-13. Children learn about African American artists in Crystal Bridges collection and more. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Feb. 8, 2-3:30 p.m.; Feb. 15, 2-3:30 p.m.; Feb. 22, 2-3:30 p.m., $45. 600 Museum Way, Bentonville. 479-418-5700. crystalbridges.org.

LGBTQ/SGL Youth and Young Adult Group.

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

Live horse racing. See Feb. 7.

Mardi Gras Coronation Ball. Formal attire or costume event, with champagne and supper buffet. Call for reservations. Crescent Hotel and Spa, 6 p.m. 75 Prospect Ave., Eureka Springs.

877-342-9766. www.crescent-hotel.com.

Picture the Past. Archeological film and lecture series. Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, 7 p.m., free. 1 Rockefeller Drive, Morrilton. 727-5435. www.uawri.org.

SATURDAY, FEB. 9

MUSIC

The 1 Oz. Jig. Midtown Billiards, 12:30 a.m., $5.

1316 Main St. 501-372-9990. midtownar.com.

Arkansas Symphony Orchestra: “Night at the Movies.” Featuring musical selections from “The Wizard of Oz,” “West Side Story,” “Titanic” and more. Robinson Center, Feb. 9, 8 p.m.; Feb. 10, 3 p.m. 426 W. Markham St. 501-376-4781. www.littlerockmeetings.com/ conv-centers/robinson.

At War’s End, She Breathes Fire, This Tragic Day, Skyline Divide. Downtown Music Hall, 7 p.m., $10. 211 W. Capitol. 501-376-1819. downtownmusichall.com.

Big Shane Thorton. W.T. Bubba’s Country Tavern, 9 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501244-2528.

Bob Marley Birthday Bash. With Yard Squad Band featuring Dynamq, Butterfly, Darril Harp Edwards, A.G. Dynamite. Revolution, 9 p.m., $15 adv., $20 day of. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. revroom.com.

Brothers with Different Mothers. Cornerstone Pub & Grill, 9 p.m. 314 Main St., NLR. 501-3741782. cstonepub.com.

Club Nights at 1620 Savoy. See Feb. 8.

Dave Matthews Tribute Band. 18-and-older.

Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 9 p.m., $8 adv., $10 day of. 107 Commerce St. 501-3727707. www.stickyz.com.

Dirty Streets, Iron Tongue, Laser Flames on the Great Big News. White Water Tavern, 9:30 p.m., $5. 2500 W 7th St. 501-375-8400. www. whitewatertavern.com.

Grand Theft Audio (headliner), Trey Johnson (happy hour). Cajun’s Wharf, 5 and 9 p.m., $5 after 8:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-3755351. www.cajunswharf.com.

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

Karaoke at Khalil’s. Khalil’s Pub, 7 p.m. 110 S. Shackleford Road. 501-224-0224. www.khalilspub.com.

Karaoke. Casa Mexicana, 7 p.m. 6929 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. revroom.com.

K.I.S.S. Saturdays. Featuring DJ Silky Slim. Dress code enforced. Sway, 10 p.m. 412 Louisiana.

501-492-9802.

Local H, Lot 44. Juanita’s, 10 p.m., $10 adv., $12 day of. 614 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-1228. www.juanitas.com.

Lucero, Adam Faucett. George’s Majestic Lounge, 9 p.m., $24. 519 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-442-4226.

Luke Williams Band. Denton’s Trotline, 9 p.m., $6. 2150 Congo Road, Benton. 501-315-1717.

Max Taylor. Thirst n’ Howl, 9 p.m., free. 14710 Cantrell Road. 501-379-8189. www.thirst-n-

howl.com.

The Memphis Dawls, Timbre, Molly Parden.

Maxine’s, 8 p.m., $5 adv., $7 door. 700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. www.maxinespub.com.

Mike Borgia & The Problems. Bear’s Den Pizza.

235 Farris Road, Conway. 501-328-5556. www. bearsdenpizza.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.

Saturday night at Discovery. Featuring DJs, dancers and more. Discovery Nightclub, 9 p.m., $10. 1021 Jessie Road. 501-664-4784. www.latenightdisco.com.

Sex Panther & The Return of Blade, Jeremy Rowlett, Rufio, JAson D, Brandon Peck. Also, Dominique Sanchez & The Disco Dolls with DJ Joseph Huge at 12:30 a.m. and 2:30 a.m.

Discovery Nightclub, 9 p.m., $10. 1021 Jessie Road. 501-664-4784. www.latenightdisco.com.

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

Flying Saucer, 9 p.m., $3. 323 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-8032. www.beerknurd.com/stores/ littlerock.

Singer/Songwriters Showcase. Parrot Beach Cafe, 2-7 p.m., free. 9611 MacArthur Drive, NLR. 771-2994.

Steve Bates, Midas Coven. Cregeen’s Irish Pub, 8 p.m., $5. 301 Main St., NLR. 501-376-7468. www.cregeens.com.

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

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

COMEDY

The Main Thing: “The Last Night at Orabella’s.”

See Feb. 8.

Ms. Pat. The Loony Bin, 7:30 and 10 p.m., $7-$10.

10301 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501-228-5555. www.loonybincomedy.com.

DANCE

Little Rock West Coast Dance Club. Dance lessons. Singles welcome. Ernie Biggs, 7 p.m., $2. 307 Clinton Ave. 501-247-5240. www. arstreetswing.com.

EVENTS

Argenta Farmers Market. Argenta, 7 a.m.-noon.

Main Street, NLR. Bear Claw Invitational debate/communications skills competition. University of Central Arkansas, 8 a.m., free. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. 501-852-0695. www.uca.edu.

Chocolate Lovers’ Festival. Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center, 9 a.m. p.m., $6-$12. 207 W. Van Buren, Eureka Springs.

Eureka Gras Parade. Downtown Eureka Springs, 2 p.m. Downtown Eureka Springs, Eureka Springs.

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

Growing Up in Arkansas – African American Communities. The seminar, featuring speakers from around the state, will take place in Room 171 of the Capitol. Arkansas State Capitol, 9 a.m.:30 p.m., free. 5th and Woodlane. 501-682-6900.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

27

ART NOTES

Bibles, beers, works

by Osage artists At 2nd Friday Art night, other weekend events.

BY LESLIE NEWELL PEACOCK

W

ith President Obama’s second inauguration fresh in our minds, now is a good time to think on the country’s first inauguration, that of George Washington. The Historic Arkansas Museum (200 E. Third St.) helps that along with a two-day exhibition of the first president’s inaugural Bible and a Washington family Bible Friday and Saturday. The Bibles can be seen at the museum 5-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8, during the 2nd Friday Art Night trolley gallery tour, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

The Bibles are part of the museum’s exhibit “Treasures of Arkansas Freemasons, 1838-2013” in the Study Gallery through July 12, coinciding with the 175th anniversary of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Arkansas.

The inaugural Bible is from St. John’s Lodge No. 1 in New York, which loaned it to Washington to use at his first swearing-in, on April 30, 1789. Other presidents who’ve use the Bible in their swearing-in are Warren G. Harding, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Jimmy Carter and George H.W. Bush. The family Bible is on loan from the George Washington Masonic Memorial in Alexandria, Va., and includes notes in Washington’s hand and his signature.

HAM will also open a contemporary art exhibit on Friday, “Phenomena of Change: Lee Cowan, Mary Ann Stafford and Maria Botti Villegas,” sculpture and painting by Arkansas artists.

Continuing with the inaugural theme is the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, which is showing “The Inauguration of Hope,” sculpture by Ed Dwight, and will be open for 2nd Friday Art Night. Other 2nd Friday openings: The Arkansas Society of Printmakers holds its “first annual” exhibition at the Butler Center’s Mezzanine Gallery in the Arkansas Studies Institute (401 President Clinton Ave.). Artists with work in the show include Robert Bean, Win Bruhl, Warren Criswell, Brad Cushman, Sarah Fendley, Melissa Gill, Jorey May Greene, Diane Page Harper, Neal Harrington, Tammy Harrington, Evan Lindquist, Lloyd Litsey, Jesse Perrin, Dominique Simmons, Tom Sullivan, Tod Switch, David Warren and Jane Watson.

“One-man band” Paul Morphis will play guitar, harmonica, kazoo, drum and tambourine. Gallery 221 (2nd and Center) will feature work by Jennifer “EMILE” Freeman as well as other gallery artists and 28

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

‘PEYOTE CLAN WOMAN’: Work by Gina Grey is part of Osage art exhibit at Sequoyah Center.

StudioMain (1423 S. Main) will celebrate its first anniversary. The ArtGroup Maumelle will have work at the Courtyard at the Marriott.

The Old State House Museum will feature live music by Dana Falconberry, chocolates and valentine-making.

The Arkansas Arts Center has opened “Wendy Maruyama: Tag Project/Executive Order 9066,” work inspired by the mass internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, including at Rowher and Jerome in Arkansas. For the tag project, Maruyama, head of the furniture design program at San Diego State University, replicated 120,000 individual ID tags worn by internees. “Executive Order” uses footlockers, suitcases and steamer trunks to express the forced relocation of American citizens in 1942. Maruyama will give a talk about the exhibit at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 7, in the Arts Center lecture hall.

The exhibit is paired with “Edward Weston: Leaves of Grass,” photographs made in the spring of 1941 for an edition of Walt Whitman’s poem. There will be a poetry reading in the gallery March 1.

On Sunday at the Arts Center, painter William Dunlap will give a talk, “William Dunlap’s Confessions of an Itinerant Painter,” a Fine Arts Club program, at 6 p.m. Tickets are $35 or $50 per couple and include dinner afterward. Call 4123768 for reservations. That event follows Saturday’s “Beer, BBQ and Billy Dunlap,” 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Greg Thompson Fine Art (429 Main St., NLR); RSVP at 664-2787.

The Sequoyah National Research Center opens an exhibit of work by contemporary Osage artists on Friday. The paintings, prints and drawings are from the collection of retired UALR professor J.W. Wiggins.

The show runs through March 29 at the center, in University Plaza, suite 500.

AFTER DARK, CONT. Hillcrest Farmers Market. Pulaski Heights Baptist Church, 7 a.m.-noon. 2200 Kavanaugh Blvd.

Hot Springs Jazz Society’s Mardi Gras Party.

With live music, Cajun food, drinks and dancing. Hot Springs Fieldhouse, 6 p.m., $20. 228 Orange St., Hot Springs.

Live horse racing. See Feb. 7.

Made from Scratch: The Romance of Food.

Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, 10 a.m. p.m., $80. 1 Rockefeller Drive, Morrilton. 727-5435. www.uawri.org.

SoMa Mardi Gras Parade. Parade starts at 24th Street and ends at 12th Street, with music, beads and more. South Main Street, Little Rock, noon, free. South Main Street.

“Sweetheart Saturday.” Benefit for Arkansas Hospice River Valley Home, with desserts, snacks and live and silent auctions. Hughes Community Center, 1 p.m., $10 or two for $18. 1000 E. Parkway Drive, Russellville. 479968-1272.

Valentine’s Date Night. Valentine’s painting class for couples. Spirited Art, 6:30 p.m., $60 per couple. 5612 R St. 501-296-9903. myspiritedart.com.

BOOKS

J. Anne Cauthron. The author will sign copies of her book, “The Bottom Line: How to Be an Effective Multi-unit Manager.” Hastings, 1 p.m., free. 1360 Old Morrilton Hwy., Conway.

501-329-1108.

SUNDAY, FEB. 10

MUSIC

Arkansas Symphony Orchestra: “Night at the Movies.” See Feb. 9.

Hungrytown. Faulkner County Library, 2 p.m., free.

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

Justin Patterson. Cregeen’s Irish Pub, 1 p.m. 301 Main St., NLR. 501-376-7468. www.cregeens.com.

Karaoke with DJ Sara. Hardrider Bar & Grill, 7 p.m., free. 6613 John Harden Drive, Cabot. 501982-1939.

Michael Eubanks. Lone Star Steakhouse and Saloon, 7 p.m. 10901 N Rodney Parham Road.

501-227-8898. www.lonestarsteakhouse.com.

Successful Sunday. Featuring live music and DJs. Montego Cafe, 7 p.m. 315 Main St. 501-372-1555. www.montegocafe.com.

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

Trinity Presents: “Three’s Company: All You Need Is Love.” With Mary Ann Robinson, Scott Stern and David Glaze performing works by classical and pop composers. Trinity United Methodist Church, 6 p.m. 1101 North Mississippi St. 501-6662813. www.tumclr.org.

COMEDY

Silly Sunday Comedy Jam. Juanita’s, 8 p.m., $20$30. 614 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-1228. www.juanitas.com.

EVENTS

Crystal Bridges’ Family Sunday Art. Music, artmaking and more. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, noon, free. 600 Museum Way, Bentonville. 479-418-5700. crystalbridges.org.

Eureka Gras Champagne Jazz Brunch. Crescent Hotel and Spa, 11 a.m. p.m. 75 Prospect Ave., Eureka Springs. 877-342-9766. www.crescenthotel.com.

Krewe of Barkus Parade Sunday. Parade starts and ends at the CityGrove Art Park on 5th Street between Main and Maple. Argenta, 2 p.m., free.

Main Street, NLR. “Live from the Back Room.” Spoken word event.

Vino’s, 7 p.m. 923 W. 7th St. 501-375-8466. www.

vinosbrewpub.com.

Live horse racing. See Feb. 7.

“Responses to Childhood Obesity in the U.S..” Part of Policy Solutions Challenge USA, a national competition among students seeking solutions to the most important policy issues facing the country. Clinton School of Public Service, 9 a.m., free. 1200 President Clinton Ave. 501-683-5239. www.clintonschool.uasys.edu.

Valentine’s Open Studio Event. Valentine’s themed painting class for all ages. Spirited Art, 2 p.m., $25 children, $35 adults. 5612 R St. 501296-9903. myspiritedart.com.

FILM

“Transition 2.0.” Film about Transition, a community-led response to climate change and economic crisis that also seeks to build resilience and happiness wherever it starts. StudioMain, 4:30 p.m., free. 1423 S. Main St.

MONDAY, FEB. 11

MUSIC

Irish Traditional Music Session. “SloPlay” begins at 6 p.m. Public session begins at 7 p.m. Hibernia Irish Tavern, Fourth and second Monday of every month. 9700 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501-2464340. www.hiberniairishtavern.com.

Jazz at The Afterthought: KABF Jazz. The Afterthought, Feb. 11, 8 p.m.; Feb. 18, 8 p.m.; Feb. 25, 8 p.m., $5. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501663-1196. www.afterthoughtbar.com.

Reggae Nites. Featuring DJ Hy-C playing roots, reggae and dancehall. Pleazures Martini and Grill Lounge, 6 p.m., $7-$10. 1318 Main St. 501376-7777. www.facebook.com/pleazures.bargrill.

Spoken (album release). George’s Majestic Lounge, 9 p.m., $10. 519 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-442-4226.

EVENTS

Argenta’s Annual Mardi Gras Party. Includes meal, music and more. Starving Artist Cafe, 6 p.m., $35. 411 N. Main St., NLR. 501-372-7976. www.starvingartistcafe.net.

Arti Gras. With special silent auction of handmade Mardi Gras masques. Caribe Restaurant & Cantina, 6 and 9 p.m. 309 W. Van Buren St., Eureka Springs. 479-253-8102.

Diamond Bear beer tasting. Sample five beers and take home a pint glass Guillermo’s Gourmet Coffee, 5:30:30 p.m., $15. 10700 Rodney Parham Road. 501-228-4448. www.g3coffee.com/.

“The Grit of the Griot: HIp Hop as Historiography.” Lecture from Dr. Joseph L. Jones, in the Elders Hall. Philander Smith College, 6 p.m. 900 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive.

BOOKS

UCA’s Arkatext literary festival. Call or email for more information about times and events.

University of Central Arkansas, Feb. 11-15. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. 501-450-3339. www. uca.edu.

CLASSES

Finding Family Facts. Rhonda Stewart’s genealogy research class for beginners. Arkansas Studies Institute, second Monday of every month, 3:30 p.m. 401 President Clinton Ave. 501-320-5700 . www.butlercenter.org.

TUESDAY, FEB. 12

MUSIC

Chili with a Kick Kickoff Party and Silent Auction. With live music from Suburban Legend, drink specials and more. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 8 p.m., $5. 107 Commerce St. 501-372-7707. www.stickyz.com.

AFTER DARK, CONT. Fat Tuesday: DJ Hollywood. Cajun’s Wharf, 5 and 9 p.m., $5 after 8:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-375-5351. www.cajunswharf.com.

Fat Tuesday with Tragikly White. Denton’s Trotline, 7:30 p.m., $10. 2150 Congo Road, Benton. 501-315-1717.

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

Karaoke Tuesday. Prost, 8 p.m., free. 322 President Clinton Blvd. 501-244-9550.

Karaoke with Big John Miller. Denton’s Trotline, 8 p.m. 2150 Congo Road, Benton. 501-3151717.

Lucious Spiller Band. Copeland’s Restaurant of Little Rock, 6-9 p.m. 2602 S. Shackleford Road. 501-312-1616. www.copelandsrestaurantlittlerock.com.

The March Divide. Bear’s Den Pizza. 235 Farris Road, Conway. 501-328-5556. www.bearsdenpizza.com.

Ricky David Tripp. Rocket Twenty One, 5:30 p.m. 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-603-9208. www. ferneaurestaurant.com.

Sevendust, Lacuna Coil. George’s Majestic Lounge, 9 p.m., $24. 519 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-442-4226.

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

UCA Department of Music Jazz Ensemble.

University of Central Arkansas, Snow Fine Arts Center Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m., free. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway.

Wintour 2013. Hosted by Jennifer “Jenncity” Arroyo, with Ionia and St. Diablo. Downtown Music Hall, 6 p.m., $12. 211 W. Capitol. 501376-1819. downtownmusichall.com.

DANCE

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

EVENTS

Krazo 2nd Line Pub Krawl & King Cake Ball.

Cajun dinner, music, cash bar. Reservation only.

Features town’s largest king cake. Followed by ball at St. Elizabeth’s Parish Center. Pied Piper Pub & Inn, 4:30:30 p.m. 82 Armstrong, Eureka Springs. 479-363-9976.

Reed Kroloff. Architect Reed Kroloff presents “Changing the World: One Installation at a Time.” Arkansas Arts Center, 6 p.m., free. 501 E. 9th St. 501-372-4000. www.arkarts.com.

Tales from the South: Shakespeare in the South. Featuring writers Greg Brownderville, Hope Coulter and Jay Jennings. Dinner served 5-6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m. Call for reservations.

Starving Artist Cafe, 5 p.m. 411 N. Main St., NLR. 501-372-7976. www.starvingartistcafe.net.

“The Three Doctors.” Dr. Sampson Davis, Dr. Rameck Hunt and Dr. George Jenkins grew up together on the inner-city streets of Newark, N.J., and made a pact that they would stick together, go to college and become doctors.

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

Trivia Bowl. Flying Saucer, 8:30 p.m. 323 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-8032. www. beerknurd.com/stores/littlerock.

Valentine Tea Party. Learn about the history of tea, types and styles of tea, and proper tea etiquette. Guillermo’s Gourmet Coffee, 5 p.m., $25. 10700 Rodney Parham Road. 501-2284448. www.g3coffee.com/.

WWE Smackdown. Verizon Arena, 7 p.m., $17$97. 1 Alltel Arena Way, NLR. 501-975-9001. verizonarena.com.

FILM

Vino’s Picture Show: “Strangers with Candy.”

SHOWCASE, CONT.

Vino’s, 7:30 p.m., free. 923 W. 7th St. 501-3758466. www.vinosbrewpub.com.

SPORTS

Herman Edwards. A lecture from the NFL analyst and former coach. Reynolds Performance Hall, University of Central Arkansas, 7:30 p.m., $5-$15. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway.

BOOKS

FREEDOM BUREAU

UCA’s Arkatext literary festival. Call or email for more information about times and events.

University of Central Arkansas, through Feb. 15.

201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. 501-450-3339. www.uca.edu.

THIS WEEK IN THEATER

“Ain’t Nothing But A Thang.” This award-winning drama-comedy takes a raw look at the problems that plague an African-American family, including AIDs, illiteracy, self-hate and drug abuse. The Weekend Theater, through Feb. 23: Fri., Sat., 7:30 p.m., $12-$16. 1001 W. 7th St. 501-374-3761. www.weekendtheater.org.

“All the King’s Women.” The King of Rock and Roll, Elvis, is remembered in this captivating look at several women who met him in person, some entralled, some appalled. Lantern Theatre, Feb. 8-9, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 10, 2:30 p.m.; Feb. 15-16, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 17, 2:30 p.m., $12. 1021 Van Ronkle, Conway. 501733-6220. www.conwayarts.org/index.html.

“The Dixie Swim Club.” A comedy that centers around the long-time friendship of five very different Southern women who met on their college swim team. Starring Barbara Morgan, Linda Rickel, Ann Wilson, Mary Currey and Mary Hill. Pocket Community Theater, Feb. 8-9, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 10, 2:30 p.m.; Feb. 15-16, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 17, 2:30 p.m., $5-$10. 170 Ravine St., Hot Springs.

“The Emperor’s New Clothes.” UCA Theatre’s production of the Hans Christian Andersen classic. Seats are not reserved, doors open 30 minutes prior to curtain. Reynolds Performance Hall, University of Central Arkansas, Fri., Feb. 8, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 9, 10 a.m., free. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway.

“Gee’s Bend.” Based on the true story of an isolated rural Alabama community and the interconnected lives of the women who live there and whose quilts are hailed as works of art. Arkansas Repertory Theatre, through Feb. 10: Wed., Thu., Sun., 7 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m., $25-$40. 601 Main St. 501378-0405. www.therep.org.

“I Ought to Be In Pictures.” Neil Simon’s play about a screenwriter whose family past comes back to find him. Murry’s Dinner Playhouse, through Feb. 9, 6 p.m., $15-$33. 6323 Col. Glenn Road. 501-562-3131. murrysdinnerplayhouse.com.

“Memphis.” Tony-winning musical about a white Memphis DJ who falls in love with rock ‘n’ roll and an electrifying black singer. Walton Arts Center, through Feb. 7, 7 p.m.; Fri., Feb. 8, 8 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 9, 2 and 8 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 10, 2 and 7:30 p.m., $49-$73. 495 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-443-5600.

“Murder at American Bandstand.” Includes dinner by Porterhouse Restaurant. With ‘50s costume and dance contest. The Regency, Feb. 8-9, 6 p.m., $40. 714 Central Ave., Hot Springs.

501-623-9126. www.theregencyhall.com.

“The Three Little Pigs and Three Billy Goats Gruff.” Presented by Arkansas Arts Center’s Children’s Theatre. Arkansas Arts Center, through Feb. 10: Fri., 7 p.m.; Sat., 3 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m., $12. 501 E. 9th St. 501-372-4000. www. arkarts.com.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

GWENDLYN KAY

THE REVOLUTIONERS

MOTHWIND

Guest judge Rodney Block appreciated the variety in Flint Eastwood’s set. “Very smooth lyricist,” he wrote of Flint. “Very Kid Cudi-like.” Block too said he’d like to hear more guitar, but overall, he said it was “swank hip-hop music” from “a very precise group of musicians.” Judge CT wrote: “Nice, different, very good. Certain songs really hit hard.”

ROUND 3 LINEUP FREEDOM BUREAU Among other influences, Little Rock’s Freedom Bureau mines a similar vein of scratchy, off-kilter Americana as David Berman’s brilliant Silver Jews did in that band’s early years — shambolic and perfectly out-of-tune, informed in equal measure by folk rock, noise rock and classic rock and unafraid to get weird. The Bureau’s got all that down, friends. Just check out “Gold Mine” for proof.

GWENDLYN KAY Hailing from Shirley (Van Buren County), Gwendlyn Kay offers a smalltown Arkansas take on country that draws from classic performers like Loretta Lynn to contemporary stars like Miranda Lambert. She can do sad as well as sassy. Check out “This is Me Without You,” a gem of a kiss-off, with

wit and country-girl charm to spare.

“No more chili dogs for Thanksgiving dinner / When it comes to real losers baby you are a winner.”

THE REVOLUTIONERS Little Rock’s The Revolutioners combine the ear candy of Top 40 hooks with balls-out rock ’n’ roll bravado. They sound like driving down a lonely state highway on a late summer night in a convertible Mustang at 90 mph with the top down, then stopping for a make-out sesh with your girlfriend. Does that make sense? The band is hella tight and singer Phil Houston (also of Se7en Sharp) has a killer set of pipes. It all adds up to unabashed rawkin’, especially on the AC/DC-esque “Love Punch.”

MOTHWIND In the immortal words of Hawkwind, “Space is Deep.” And as such, it is ripe for exploration, which is exactly what Little Rock trio Mothwind is all about. Like contemporaries such as The Sword, Mothwind is clearly heading for the furthest reaches of the universe of heavy riffage. The band’s lineup — including members of Vore, The Year of the Tiger and Holy Angell — bodes well for such a venture, but if you’re in need of sonic affirmation, check out the track “Exo-Atmospheric Kill Vehicle.” www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

29

Little Rock’s Down-Home Neighborhood Bar 7th & Thayer · Little Rock · (501) 375-8400

Friday, February 8

The Canehill Engagement w/ Isaac Alexander & The Sea Nanners

Saturday, February 9

The Dirty Streets w/ Iron Tongue & Laser Flames On The Great Big News

thurSday, February 14

Winston Family Orchestra w/ Color Club

check out additional shows at

whitewatertavern.com

Don’t Miss Ozark Outdoor Supply’s 15th Annual Winter Clearance

Jackets, Sweaters and Fleece including The North Face, Patagonia, Marmot, Arc’teryx & more.*

Large selection of Sale Footwear 40%-60% OFF!*

5514 Kavanaugh Blvd. | Little Rock 501.664.4832 or toll free 1-877-OZARK30 ozarkoutdoor.com *In stock merchandise only. No special orders.

30

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

MOVIE LISTINGS Market Street Cinema times at or after 9 p.m. are for Friday and Saturday only. Riverdale and McCain Mall showtimes were not available by press deadline. Find up-to-date listings at arktimes.com.

NEW MOVIES Identity Thief (R) — Yeah, real cute Hollywood.

We’ll see how funny it is when somebody steals your debit card number and uses it to buy a bunch of iPads. Breckenridge: 12:50, 4:10, 7:10, 9:50. Chenal 9:11:20 a.m., 1:55, 4:25, 7:20, 10:20.

Rave: 11:45 a.m., 2:30, 5:15, 8:00, 10:55 (XTreme), 10:45 a.m., 1:30, 4:15, 7:10, 9:55, midnight.

Side Effects (R) — Former male stripper Channing Tatum’s wife gets all messed up on pills or something in this pharmacologically-inspired thriller from Steven Soderbergh.

Breckenridge: 1:05, 4:20, 7:30, 10:00. Chenal 9:11:15 a.m., 1:45, 4:15, 7:15, 10:15. Lakewood 8: 11:35 a.m., 2:25, 4:50, 7:30, 9:55. Rave: 10:15 a.m., 12:55, 3:45, 6:30, 9:15, midnight.

Top Gun: An IMAX 3D Experience (PG) — Ol’ Middletooth drives an airplane in this 1986 film about unrequited man-love at high altitudes.

Chenal 9: 11:00 a.m., 1:45, 4:30, 7:15, 10:00.

RETURNING THIS WEEK Anna Karenina (R) — If director Joe Wright (“Pride and Prejudice,” “Atonement”) hates the term “Oscar bait,” maybe he should, you know, stop Oscar-baiting so much. Market Street: 1:45, 4:20, 6:45, 9:15.

Argo (R) — A group of Americans in revolutionary Iran make an improbable escape, based on actual events, from director Ben Affleck.

Breckenridge: 12:50, 7:00. Chenal 9: 11:00 a.m., 1:50, 7:05. Lakewood 8:7:00, 9:50. Rave: 1:00, 6:45.

Bullet to the Head (R) — Rambo’s a vengeanceseeking hitman in this one. Breckenridge: 3:40, 9:40. Chenal 9: 4:35, 10:05. Rave: 10:40 a.m., 1:05, 3:30, 5:55, 8:20, 10:45.

Django Unchained (R) — Another revenge flick from Quentin Tarantino, with Jamie Foxx and the guy from “Titanic.” Breckenridge: 12:35, 4:40, 9:25. Rave: noon, 3:40, 7:20, 11:00.

Flight (R) — Denzel Washington is a pilot with a substance abuse problem, from director Robert Zemeckis. Movies 10: 12:10, 4:00, 7:00, 10:00.

The Guilt Trip (PG-13) — It’s exactly like “The Road,” except with Seth Rogen and Barbara Streisand and the world hasn’t ended yet and it’s supposedly a comedy. Lakewood 8: 7:05, 9:30.

Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters (R) — They’re just running out of ideas, aren’t they? Starring Jeremy Renner. Breckenridge: 4:25, 7:40, 10:10 (2D), 12:20 (3D). Chenal 9: 11:30 a.m., 1:40, 4:00, 7:15, 10:15. Rave: 10:05 a.m., 12:25, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:50 (2D), 11:15 a.m., 1:40, 4:05, 6:30, 8:50, 11:20 (3D).

A Haunted House (R) — All your favorite midto late-2012 pop-culture references, all conveniently stapled onto a single parody of the “Paranormal Activity” flicks. Rave: 2:35, 4:55, 7:15, 9:35, 11:55.

Here Comes the Boom (PG) — “The Zookeeper” star Kevin James is a teacher in this one. Movies 10: 12:25, 2:50, 5:15, 7:40, 10:10.

Hitchcock (PG-13) — Starring Sir Anthony Hopkins as Hitchcock, Dame Helen Mirren as the director’s wife and Scarlett Johansson as Janet Leigh. Market Street: 2:00, 4:30, 7:00, 9:15.

Hotel Transylvania 3D (PG) — Animated kids movie in which Dracula is an overprotective father who hosts a big monster mash, starring

DUDE, WHERE’S MY IDENTITY?: Melissa McCarthy and Jason Bateman star in “Identity Thief,” which makes light of a very serious topic that totally isn’t funny if you’ve ever had your identity stolen. the voice of Adam Sandler, of course. Movies 10: 12:30, 2:40, 4:50, 7:10, 9:30.

Hyde Park on Hudson (R) — In which Bill Murray is FDR. Market Street: 2:00, 4:20, 7:00, 9:15.

The Impossible (PG-13) — Ewan McGregor and Naomi Watts star in this tale of a family that survives the 2004 Asian tsunami. Market Street: Rave: 10:10 a.m., 3:55, 9:40.

Jack Reacher (PG-13) — Cliche-a-thon action thriller starring Tom Cruise and, for some reason, Werner Herzog. Lakewood 8: 11:30 a.m., 2:15, 7:10.

Killing Them Softly (R) — Awesome-looking mafia flick, with Brad Pitt, Ray Liotta and James Gandolfini (!). Movies 10: 12:15, 5:20, 9:55.

Les Miserables (PG-13) — Latest version of Victor Hugo’s classic, starring Anne Hathaway, Gladiator, Wolverine and Borat. Breckenridge: 12:40, 4:05, 7:50. Chenal 9: 11:10 a.m., 2:45.

Life of Pi (PG) — Based on the smash-hit book of the same name, from director Ang Lee. Market Street: 1:45, 4:15, 6:45, 9:15.

Lincoln (PG-13) — Steven Spielberg’s biopic about Abraham Lincoln, with Daniel Day Lewis and Sally Field. Breckenridge: 12:45, 4:15, 7:45.

Rave: 10:10 a.m., 1:35, 5:00, 8:25, 11:50.

Mama (PG-13) — From “Pan’s Labyrinth” helmer, rising star Jessica Chastain confronts a bunch of terrifying something or other. Breckenridge: 1:15, 4:35, 7:35, 9:55. Chenal 9: 7:00, 10:00.

Lakewood 8: 11:55 a.m., 2:10, 4:25, 7:20, 9:40.

Rave: 10:50 a.m., 1:25, 4:00, 6:35, 9:10, 11:45.

Monsters Inc. 3D (G) — Pixar film about a group of monsters contending with a precocious, fearless youngster. Rave: 10:30 a.m., 11:55 a.m., 2:05.

Movie 43 (R) — Probably not as good as “Movie 42,” but most likely better than “Movie 44” will be. Lakewood 8: noon, 2:05, 4:20, 7:25, 10:00.

Oscar Nominated Short Films (NR) — Roughly 90 minutes of Oscar-nominated short films.

Market Street: 2:15, 4:15, 7:15, 9:15.

Parental Guidance (PG) — Boomer grandparents Billy Crystal and Bette Midler are outmatched by their bratty post-millennial grandkids. Lakewood 8: 11:45 a.m., 2:05, 4:35.

Parker (R) — You’d think movie bad guys would learn to never mess with Jason Stratham, but they just keep messing with him. Breckenridge: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 10:00. Rave: 1:00, 3:50, 6:40, 9:30.

Playing for Keeps (PG-13) — Rom-com about a

FEB. 8-9

former pro soccer player who returns home to mend fences with his son, only to be accosted by soccer moms because he’s so studly. Movies 10: 12:05, 2:35, 5:05, 7:35, 10:15.

Red Dawn (PG-13) — Not so much a “remake” as an act of cinematic necrophilia — and an unnecessary one at that. Movies 10: 12:35, 2:45, 4:55, 7:05, 9:35.

Rise of the Guardians (PG) — Animated adventure story about a group of heroes who protect the imaginations of children from an evil spirit who wants to take over the world. Lakewood 8: 11:50 a.m., 2:15, 4:30.

Silver Linings Playbook (R) — Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence star as two dysfunctional yet charming weirdoes who are just trying to make their way in this crazy world, OK? Jeez!

Breckenridge: 12:30, 3:50, 7:25, 10:05. Chenal 9: 11:15 a.m., 2:00, 4:45, 7:30, 10:15. Rave: 11:00 a.m., 1:55, 5:00, 7:55, 10:50.

Skyfall (R) — An aging Bond still can’t be beat.

Movies 10: 12:20, 3:30, 6:45, 9:50.

Stand Up Guys (R) — Al Pacino, Christopher Walken and Alan Arkin are aging gangsters who reunite after a long time apart. Rave: 10:00 a.m., 12:35, 3:05, 5:35, 8:05, 10:35.

Taken 2 (PG-13) — Sequel to the kidnappingbased action film, with Liam Neeson. Movies 10: 12:40, 2:55, 5:10, 7:20, 9:40.

Texas Chainsaw 3D (R) — Heartwarming tale of a misunderstood social outcast who makes friends with people by killing them with a chainsaw. Lakewood 8: 5:00, 9:55. Movies 10: 3:00, 7:45.

This is 40 (R) — Remember how in “Knocked Up” there was that joyless yuppie couple played

by Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann? Here is a movie all about them. Lakewood 8: 11:30 a.m., 9:50.

Vishwaroopam (PG-13) — A young couple’s professional aspirations strain their arranged marriage. Rave: 10:35 a.m., 4:35, 8:10.

Warm Bodies (PG-13) — Pretty much “Twilight,” but with zombies instead of whatever it was “Twilight” had. Breckenridge: 1:10, 4:00, 7:15, 9:45. Chenal 9: 11:10 a.m., 1:35, 4:10, 7:10, 10:10.

Rave: 10:20 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:50, 2:00, 3:20, 4:30, 5:50, 7:00, 8:30, 9:30, 11:00, midnight.

Wreck-It Ralph (PG) — Animated movie about a video game character. Lakewood 8: 2:20, 4:45, 7:15. Movies 10: 1:15, 3:45, 6:15, 8:45 (2D), noon, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 10:05.

Zero Dark Thirty (R) — This is a Major Serious Film that raises Big Important Questions about the implications of … eh, whatever. Let’s just give this the Best Picture Oscar now and call it a day. Breckenridge: 12:30, 4:30, 8:00. Chenal 9: 11:05 a.m., 2:30, 6:00, 9:30. Lakewood 8: 11:40 a.m., 3:00, 7:05. Rave: 11:40 a.m., 3:15, 6:50, 10:25.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Regal McCain Mall 12: 3929 McCain Blvd., 7531380, www.regmovies.com.

MOVIE REVIEW

‘STAND UP GUYS’: Christopher Walken, Alan Arkin and Al Pacino star.

An oldie and (near) goodie “Stand Up Guys” feels authentic.

BY SAM EIFLING

D

espite the flaws of “Stand Up Guys,” and there are several, it achieves the rare and underrated feat of creating a tone all its own.

The aging stars — Al Pacino, Christopher Walken, Alan Arkin — are familiar names with long careers and lives that have lasted more than 220 combined years. They all play retired gangsters with a strange mix of sadness and verve and regret and affection. “Stand Up Guys” hits these varied notes, often in combination, by pacing itself, letting dialogue unspool and taking itself just seriously enough, as a melancholy

crime farce that most people probably won’t care for. Their loss.

Pacino is Val, just paroled after 28 years in prison. Picking him up at the gate is Walken as Doc, another old crook who has quit the life voluntarily, content now to paint sunrises in his modest bachelor apartment. Val, naturally, is ready for the first day on the outside — women, drugs, dancing, steak — but knows that because of the way their last caper went down, the job he took the fall for, a vindictive boss named Claphands (a viperous Mark Margolis) won’t let him live long.

AFTER DARK, CONT. We know early on that it’s Doc who has to do the dirty work on this one, Claphands’ way of twisting the knife in both of them. But the early going in “Stand Up Guys” shuffles along without much purpose. It’s hard to get a movie moving when it’s premised on age, on fatigue. Pacino plays Val, all hedgehog hair and prison tattoos, with a fatalistic aplomb, as the guy at the bar you hope will leave before picking a fight. He overdoses on boner pills and crushes up hypertension meds to snort. He’s not someone you want to watch for 93 minutes.

Then he admits to Doc that he knows he’s doomed, and as that grim thought constricts around them both, the story turns from first night back in the world to last night on earth. They decide to reconnect with their old associate Hirsch, played by Arkin, and chase low adventures, always with at least a twinge of malaise. When Hirsch stumbles out of a cathouse, having fulfilled a longtime supposed fantasy, he looks morose. “I’ve never stepped out on my wife before,” the widower says. Even on the night of their lives, the moment can’t compete against the memory.

“Stand Up Guys” is too juvenile to be high art, and director Fischer Stevens, whose only other feature-length film is “Just a Kiss,” hasn’t exactly reinvented “Goodfellas” here. But it feels curiously authentic. Pacino and Arkin are fine, of course, while Walken, who has been playing retired gangsters at least since 1997’s “Suicide Kings,” brings a strange tenderness to his role. “Stand Up Guys” probably wouldn’t have worked without these three leads, and it’s arguable that it does even with them. But it at least carries a real sense of finality about it. The characters don’t know how they’re going to go, exactly, but they all know it’s soon. The same could be said for guys still working into their 70s and beyond.

GALLERIES, MUSEUMS

NEW EXHIBITIONS, EVENTS

More art listings can be found in the calendar at www.arktimes.com ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER, MacArthur Park: Talk by Wendy Maruyama, 6 p.m. Feb. 7 in conjunction with Wendy Maruyama: Tag Project/Exceutive Order 9066”; “William Dunlap: Confessions of an Itinerant Painter,” Fine Arts Club program with the artist followed by dinner, 6 p.m. Feb. 10, $30 per person or $50 a couple, tickets at www.williamdunlap. eventbrite.com or reserve at 396-0322.

BUTLER CENTER GALLERIES, Arkansas Studies Institute, 401 President Clinton Ave.: “1st Annual Membership Exhibition” by the Arkansas Society of Printmakers, reception 5-8 p.m. Feb. 8, 2nd Friday Art Night with music by Paul Morphis, show through April 27. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Sat. 320-5700.

COMMUNITY BAKERY, 1200 Main St.: “Beauty in the Natural State,” Arkansas landscape paintings by Jeannie Stone, through March 2, artist’s reception 5-8 p.m. Feb. 8.

375-7105.

COURTYARD AT THE MARRIOTT, 521 President Clinton Ave.: “ArtGroup Maumelle,” 5-8 p.m. Feb. 8, 2nd Friday Art Night. 975-9800.

GALLERY 221, 2nd and Center Sts.: “People, Places and Emotions,” work by Jennifer “EMILE” Freeman, through Feb. 28, reception 5-9 p.m. Feb. 8, 2nd Friday Art Night.

11 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri. 801-0211.

GREG THOMPSON FINE ART, 429 Main St., NLR: “Beer, BBQ and Billy Dunlap,” 6-8 p.m.

Feb. 9, RSVP at 664-2787; “18th Anniversary Exhibition,” through March 9. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tue.-Fri., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. 664-2787.

HISTORIC ARKANSAS MUSEUM, 200 E. Third St.: George Washington’s inaugural Bible, Feb. 8-9, reception 5-8 p.m. Feb. 8, 2nd Friday Art Night, part of “Treasures of Arkansas Freemasons, 1838-2013,” Feb. 8-July 12; “Phenomena of Change: Lee Cowan, Mary Ann Stafford and Maria Botti Villegas,” Feb. 8-May 5; “Perfect Balance,” paintings by Marty Smith; “A Collective Vision,” recent acquisitions, through March. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun. 324-9351.

L&L BECK GALLERY, 5705 Kavanaugh Blvd.: “Ducks in Arkansas” 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tue.-Sat. 660-4006.

MOSAIC TEMPLARS CULTURAL CENTER, 9th and Broadway: “The Inauguration of Hope” and “Forty Years of Fortitude,” sculpture by Ed Dwight reception 5-8 p.m.

Feb. 8, 2nd Friday Art Night. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tue.-Sat. 683-3593.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

The Three Doctors Authors of the books The Pact, The Bond and We Beat The Streets, they serve as role models of leadership for anyone who’s been through any kind of life challenge or major hardship

Tues., Feb. 12, 7 p.m.

M. L. Harris Auditorium www.philander.edu Lectures are free and open to the public. For more information call 501-370-5279. No tickets or RSVPs required. www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

31

AFTER DARK, CONT. OLD STATE HOUSE MUSEUM, 300 W. Markham: “Valentine’s Celebration with Music by Dana Falkonberry,” plus chocolates and valentine-making, 5-8 p.m. Feb. 8, 2nd Friday Art Night; “Battle Colors of Arkansas,” 18 Civil War flags; “Things You Need to Hear: Memories of Growing up in Arkansas from 1890 to 1980,” oral histories about community, family, work, school and leisure. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Mon.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun. 324-9685.

SEQUOYAH NATIONAL RESEARCH CENTER, UALR University Plaza Suite 500: “Contemporary Art of the Osages,” J.W. Wiggins Gallery, opening reception 5 p.m.

Feb. 7, show Feb. 8-March 29.

STUDIOMAIN, 1423 Main St.: First year anniversary celebration 5-8 p.m. Feb. 8, 2nd Friday Art Night.

UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT LITTLE ROCK: “John Harlan Norris: Occupants,” portraits, Gallery III, Feb. 12-March 21.

BATESVILLE LYON COLLEGE: “2013 Small Works on Paper,” Kresge Gallery, through Feb. 22, reception 5-7 p.m. Feb. 14. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Mon.Fri. 870-307-7000.

Sat. 664-0880.

ELLEN GOLDEN ANTIQUES, 5701 Kavanaugh Blvd.: Paintings by Barry Thomas and Arden Boyce. 664-7746.

GALLERY 26, 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd.: Mindy Lacefield, Jeff Waddle, Emily Wood, recent works, through March 9. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tue.Sat. 664-8996.

GALLERY 360, 900 S. Rodney Parham: “Bunker Dogs Art Expo Opening,” paintings, drawings, comics and more by Matthew Castellano, X3MEX and Everett Gee, through Feb. 23.

GORRELL GALLERY OF FINE ART, 201 W. 4th St.: Work by established and emerging artists, including Doug Gorrell. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.Fri., noon-4 p.m. Sat. 607-2225.

LAMAN LIBRARY, 2801 Orange St.: “For All the World to See,” the struggle for racial equality 1940s-1970s in photographs, television clips, artifacts, through March 16. 758-1720.

M2GALLERY, 11525 Cantrell: “Holiday Show,” work by Dan Holland, Suzanne Koett, Charles Henry James, Dan Thornhill and Jason Gammel. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tue.-Sat. 225-6257.

PAINT BOX GALLERY AND FRAME SHOP, 705 Main St., NLR: Paintings by Karlyn Holloway.

374-2848.

EL DORADO SOUTH ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER, 110 E. 5th St.: “Beyond Reality,” mixed media by Dan Thornhill, “Pottery by Zach,” ceramics by Zach Graupner, “Painting Dot to Dot,” work by students of Melinda Cameron-Godsey, all through Feb. 27. Artists reception for Thornhill and Graupner 6-8 p.m. Feb. 9. 870-862-5474

BENTON DIANNE ROBERTS ART STUDIO AND GALLERY, 110 N. Market St.: Work by Chad Oppenhuizen, Dan McRaven, Gretchen Hendricks, Rachel Carroccio, Kenny Roberts, Taylor Bellott, Jim Cooper and Sue Moore.

10 a.m.-9 p.m. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. 860-7467.

FAYETTEVILLE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS: Lecture by Dr. Leslie King-Hammond,” director for the Center for Race and Culture at the Maryland Institute College of Art, 6 p.m. Feb. 7, Stella Boyle Auditorium, Fine Arts Building.

BENTONVILLE CRYSTAL BRIDGES MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART, 600 Museum Way: “Abstractions on Paper: From Abstract Expressionism to Post Minimalism,” through April 29, works from the collection of the Arkansas Arts Center by Lee Krasner, Helen Frankenthaler, Ellsworth Kelly and others; permanent collection of American masterworks spanning four centuries. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon., Thu., Sat.-Sun.; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Wed.-Fri. 479-418-5700.

CALL FOR ENTRIES

The Thea Foundation, 401 Main St., North Little Rock, is taking submissions for its 11th annual scholarship competitions for high school seniors. Competition and submission deadlines are Feb. 23 (performance poetry) and April 5 (filmmaking). For more information, go to the theafoundation.org/scholarships or call 379-9512.

CONTINUING EXHIBITS

ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER, MacArthur Park: “Wendy Maruyama: Tag Project/Executive Order 9066,” work inspired by the mass internment of Japanese during World War II, through April 21; “Edward Weston: Leaves of Grass,” 53 gelatin-silver prints, through April 21; “Delta Exhibition,” through March 10; “Museum School Faculty Exhibition: Past and Present,” through March 10. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. 372-4000.

BOSWELL-MOUROT, 5815 Kavanaugh Blvd.: “Exodus of Dreams — Cuba to America,” works

by Ernesto Capdevila, Eloy Perera, Maydelina Lezcano and Lourdes Porrata, show through Feb. 16. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tue.-Fri., 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Sat. 664-0030.

CANTRELL GALLERY, 8206 Cantrell Road: “ELEMENTAL Copper. Zinc. Clay. Wood. Bone.

Stone. Oil. Watercolor,” multimedia work by Bob Crane, through March 2. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Mon.-Sat. 224-1335.

CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 509 Scott St.: “Beating Hooves,” pen and ink drawings by Mary Shelton, through March 4. 375-2342.

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.

32

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

CALICO ROCK CALICO ROCK ARTISTS COOPERATIVE, Hwy. 5 at White River Bridge: 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.

CONWAY UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS: “Swishbone: New Paintings by Julie Evans,” “Under the Influence: New Ceramic Work

by Curt LaCross,” “Alternating Currents: A Mixed Media Art Installation by Mario Marzan,” “Before and After: An Exploration of the Art Conservation Process,” Baum Gallery, through Feb. 24. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Wed., Fri.; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Thu., 1-5 p.m. Sat. 501-450-5793.

FAYETTEVILLE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS, Fine Arts Center Gallery: “Employing Voice, Embracing Agency: Contemporary African American Artists,” works from the collection of Darrell Walker by Radcliffe Bailey, Chakaia Booker, Michael Ray Charles, Willie Cole, Wardell Milan, Demetrius Oliver, Xaviera Simmons, Hank Willis Thomas, Mickalene Thomas and Kara Walker, through Feb. 28, reception and talk by Charles 5 p.m.

Feb. 18; “Amos Kennedy Prints!” letterpress broadsides, exhibition cases, through Feb. 28. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 2-5 p.m. Sun. 479-575-7987.

WALTON ARTS CENTER, 495 W. Dickson St.: “Tectonics,” sculpture by Scott Carroll, through April 14. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri., noon-4 p.m.

Sat. 479-443-5600.

FORT SMITH FORT SMITH REGIONAL ART MUSEUM: “The Secrets of the Mona Lisa.” 479-784-2787.

HARRISON ARTISTS OF THE OZARKS, 124 ½ N. Willow St.: Work by Amelia Renkel, Ann Graffy, Christy Dillard, Helen McAllister, Sandy Williams and D. Savannah George. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Thu.-Sat., noon-4 p.m. Sun. 870-429-1683.

HEBER SPRINGS BOTTLE TREE GALLERY, 514 W. Main St.: Work

by Maeve Croghan, Jonathan Harris, George Wittenberg. 501-590-8840.

HOT SPRINGS BLUE MOON ART GALLERY, 718 Central Ave.: “Steel Creations,” sculpture by Wayne Summerhill, through March. 501-318-2787.

GALLERY CENTRAL, 800 Central Ave.: Tracee Gentry, new paintings. 501-318-4278.

JUSTUS FINE ART, 827 Central A: Paintings

by Donnie Copeland, Robyn Horn, Dolores Justus, Emily Wood and Rebecca Thompson, textiles by Jennifer Libby Fay. 501-321-2335.

TAYLOR’S CONTEMPORANEA SALON, 204 Exchange St.: New work by Warren Criswell, Darrell Loy Scott and others. 501-624-0516.

JONESBORO ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY: 18th annual “Delta National Small Prints,” national juried exhibition, Bradbury Gallery, through Feb. 20. Noon-5 p.m. Tue.-Sat., 2-5 p.m. Sun. 870972-2567.

MONTICELLO UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS: “Pursuing Disegno,” works by Randall M. Good, through March 3, closing reception 1-3 p.m. March 3.

PERRYVILLE SUDS GALLERY, Courthouse Square: Paintings

by Dottie Morrissey, Alma Gipson, Al Garrett Jr., Phyllis Loftin, Alene Otts, Mauretta Frantz, Raylene Finkbeiner, Kathy Williams and Evelyn Garrett. Noon-6 p.m. Wed.-Fri, noon-4 p.m.

Sat. 501-766-7584.

PINE BLUFF ARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER, 701 Main St.: “Women to Watch,” Arkansas chapter of National Museum of Women in the Arts’ exhibition of textiles by Louise M. Halsey, Barbara Cade, Jennifer Libby Fay, Jane Hartfield and Deborah Kuster, through April 13. 870-5363375.

RUSSELLVILLE RIVER VALLEY ARTS CENTER, 1001 E. B St.: Hollis Shadden, photography. 479-968-2452

ONGOING MUSEUM EXHIBITS

ARKANSAS INLAND MARITIME MUSEUM, NLR: Tours of the USS Razorback submarine. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wed.-Sat., 1-6 p.m. Sun. 371-8320.

ARKANSAS SPORTS HALL OF FAME MUSEUM, Verizon Arena, NLR: 10 a.m.4:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat. 663-4328.

CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL MUSEUM VISITOR CENTER, Bates and Park: Exhibits on the 1957 desegregation of Central and the civil rights movement. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily. 374-1957.

CLINTON PRESIDENTIAL CENTER, 1200

President Clinton Ave.: “Making Politics Personal: Arkansas Travelers,” exhibit about supporters who traveled the country to campaign for Clinton; “Tokens of Friendship: Foreign Heads of State Gifts,” through Feb. 24; permanent exhibits on policies and White House life during the Clinton administration.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun. $7 adults; $5 college students, seniors, retired military; $3 ages 6-17. 370-8000.

MacARTHUR MUSEUM OF ARKANSAS MILITARY HISTORY, MacArthur Park: “Korea: The Forgotten War”; “Vietnam, America’s Conflict,” photographs by former Gov. Jim Guy Tucker and Bruce Wesson, wartime photojournalists, and other artifacts; and permanent exhibits. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat., 1-4 p.m. Sun. 376-4602.

MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY, 500 President Clinton Ave.: “Grossology: The Impolite Science of the Human Body,” through May 26; “GPS Adventures,” ages 6 to adult, through April 1; “Wiggle Worms,” science program for pre-K children 10 a.m.-10:30 a.m. every Tue., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun., $10 ages 13 and older, $8 ages 1-12, free to members and children under 1. 396-7050.

THEA CENTER, 401 Main, NLR: 9 a.m.-noon, 1-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 1-5 p.m. Sat. 379-9512.

UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT LITTLE ROCK: “Collecting Prints,” works from the permanent collection, through March 11, Gallery I; “Surface Space (Sundial Face),” paintings by Artist- in- Residence Taimur Cleary, through Feb. 8, Gallery II; “Scholarship Exhibition,” through Feb. 7. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sat., 2-5 p.m. Sun. 569-8977.

WITT STEPHENS JR. CENTRAL ARKANSAS NATURE CENTER, Riverfront Park: Exhibits on wildlife and the state Game and Fish Commission.

CALICO ROCK CALICO ROCK MUSEUM, Main Street: Displays on Native American cultures, steamboats, the railroad, and local history. www. calicorockmuseum.com.

ENGLAND TOLTEC MOUNDS STATE PARK, State Hwy. 165: Major prehistoric Indian site with visitors’ center and museum. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., noon-5 p.m. Sun., closed Mon. $3 for adults, $2 for ages 6-12. 961-9442.

JACKSONVILLE JACKSONVILLE MUSEUM OF MILITARY HISTORY, 100 Veterans Circle: Exhibits on D-Day; F-105, Vietnam era plane (“The Thud”); the Civil War Battle of Reed’s Bridge, Arkansas Ordnance Plant (AOP) and other military history. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun. $3 adults; $2 seniors, military; $1 students. 501-241-1943.

MORRILTON MUSEUM OF AUTOMOBILES, Petit Jean Mountain: Permanent exhibit of more than 50 cars from 1904-1967 depicting the evolution of the automobile. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 7 days. 501-727-5427.

POTTSVILLE POTTS INN, 25 E. Ash St.: Preserved 1850s stagecoach station on the Butterfield Overland Mail Route, with period furnishings, log structures, hat museum, doll museum, doctor’s office, antique farm equipment. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wed.-Sat. $5 adults, $2 students, 5 and under free. 479-968-9369.

Hey, do this!

AUGUST 30-SEPT 20

february F UN!

Vino’s “Backroom” hosts three weeks of band competition on August 30, Sept 6 and 13 with finals on September 20. General public will have a $5 cover at the door per event night. The grand prize is a $1,000 cash prize and a 90-minute set on the 2012 Arkansas State Fair Main Stage on college night, October 17.

For more information, visit Vinosbrewpub.com.

Food, Music, Entertainment and everything else that’s

FEB. 7 THROUGH FEB. 9

Now showing at Murray’s Dinner Playhouse is I Ought to be in Pictures. One of Neil Simon’s best works, the play centers on Herb Tucker, a Hollywood writer who abandoned his New York family 16 years earlier.

His forgotten past reappears in the form of his teenage daughter Libby, who has hitchhiked from Brooklyn with dreams of movie stardom. The show runs through February 9. ‘Til Beth Do Us Part opens on February 12.

There’s a new bud in town. Golden Eagle of Arkansas introduces Budweiser Black Crown, a highly drinkable, golden amber lager with 6% ABV brewed with toasted caramel malt and finished over beechwood chips for a distinctively smooth, flavorful finish. Pick up a 12-pack or two for your next party. Please drink responsibly.

Feb. 9

1ST ANNUAL MARDI GRAS PARTY “DANCE TO THE BEAT ON ORANGE STREET” Dance the night away to the Spa City Stompers, Sweet Mother and Zydeco Stingrays. There will be a costume contest and a and raffle along with tons of Cajun food, BBQ, Beer and Wine. Proceeds from the event will benifit the Hot Springs Jazz Society’s educational programming and the Annual Jazz Fest September. Tickets are$20. Hot Springs High School Field House on Orange Street. Call 501-627-2425 or visit www.hsjazzsociety.org for more information.

FEB. 12

UCA Public Appearances welcomes former NFL head coach turned ESPN sports analyst Herm Edwards to Reynolds Performance Hall. The event begins at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $15. For tickets and a complete schedule of events, visit www.uca.edu/publicappearances. n The Three Doctors, authors of The Pact, The Bond and We Beat the Streets, will lead a lecture on overcoming life’s hardships as part of Philander Smith College’s Bless the Mic series. For the full season schedule, visit http://www.philander.edu.

➧

FEB. 16

FEB. 15-16

The Spa City Sweethearts Burlesque Revue,

a fundraiser for the Valley of the Vapors independent music festival returns to Hot Springs. Enjoy beautiful women in elaborate costumes who have performed in Chicago, New York and many other cities around the US. The art of burlesque, is enjoying a revival in modern day America and Central Arkansas is no exception. Doors open on both nights at 7PM, Show at 8PM. Tickets are $10 and are are available online at www.prekindle.com or at Redbeards Tattoo in The Spa City. For more information contact Low Key Arts at 501-282-9056.

Located on the UCA campus in Conway, the Baum Gallery currently presents Swishbone: New Paintings by Julie Evans;

Under the Influence: New Ceramic Work by Curt LaCross; Alternating Currents: A Mixed Media Art Installation by Mario Marzan; and Before and After: An Exploration of the Art Conservation Process. For more information on the Baum Gallery, visit www.uca.edu/baum or call 501-450-5792.

Mardi Gras in Eureka Springs

It’s everyone’s favorite season of the year:

Let the good times roll in

Oscar season.

Eureka Springs.

➧

The Embassy Suites in Little Rock hosts an exciting Oscar experience with KATV’s Beth Hunt and 103.7 the Buzz’s Pat Bradley as your hosts.

Tickets are $150.

All proceeds benefit the Wolfe Street Foundation, which offers treatment, support, education and prevention of alcoholism and drug dependence. Show up red carpet ready. For tickets, call 501-3725662 or visit www. wolfestreet.org.

Enter into a world of chocolate at the 9th Annual Chocolate Lovers’ Festival in Eureka Springs. Held at the Inn of the Ozarks, the event includes vendors, contests and many opportunities for tastings. Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for children and are available at 888-465-4753. Proceeds benefit several important non-profits in Eureka Springs. For more information, visit http://www.eurekachocfest.org.

NOW THROUGH FEB. 24

Boswell Mourot hosts an opening reception from 6-9 p.m. showcasing the works of Arkansas artist Delita Martin, who will be on hand to discuss her work. In her artist’s statement, the Little Rock artist says she uses her own personal experience as a black woman to speak about women of color in her portraits. For more information, visit www.boswellmourot.com. To view some of Delita Martin’s work, visit www.blackboxpressstudio.com.

FEB. 24

FEB. 9

FEB. 26-28

Experience 100 Years of Broadway

at Robinson Center Music Hall. Celebrity Attractions presents this widely acclaimed musical review of Broadway’s most celebrated shows. For show times and ticket information, visit www.celebrityattractions.com.

FEB. 28-MARCH 3

➧

Cirque du Soleil brings its celebrated, critically acclaimed production Quidam to Verizon Arena for five performances only. Tickets are $37.50-$92.50 and available online at www.ticketmaster.com and by phone at 800-745-3000.

Some of the Mardi Gras festivities include an “Aquarius Eureka”-themed Hookers & Jokers Ball on Feb. 7 at the Inn of the Ozarks at 6 p.m.; a Coronation Royalty Ball on Feb. 8 at the Crescent Hotel’s Crystal Ballroom at 6 p.m.; a Mardi Gras parade on Feb. 9 at 2 p.m.; the Beaux Arts Masquerade Ball on Feb. 9 at the Basin Park Hotel’s Barefoot Ballroom at 8 p.m.; a New Orleans-style Jazz Brunch on Feb. 10 at the Crescent Hotel; and the Mardi Gras Day Krazo “Second Line” Krawl on Feb. 12 at 4:30 p.m.

For a complete schedule of events, visit www.krazo.ureeka.org.

www.arktimes.com

february 6, 2013

33

Dining IN SEPTEMBER, we wrote about Home Fresh Burgers’s plans to occupy the space on Main Street, across from RAO Video. But according to owner Clyde Rhodes, the building required additional construction to meet code, and he wasn’t prepared to cover those costs.

Instead, Home Fresh recently opened in Little Rock, at 7706 Cantrell Road, in the former home of The Hop Drive-In and Hunka Pie. “We will keep an eye on downtown, in hopes of establishing a location there within a year or so,” Rhodes said.

The menu includes hamburgers (including a veggie option), fries and shakes.

Hours are 11 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Monday through Saturday and noon until 6 p.m. Sunday.

DINING CAPSULES

AMERICAN

1620 SAVOY The food is high-quality and painstakingly prepared — a wide-ranging dinner menu that’s sure to please almost everyone. 1620 Market St. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-221-1620. D Mon.-Sat., BR Sun. ALLEY OOPS Plate lunches, burgers and homemade desserts. Remarkable Chess Pie. 11900 Kanis Road. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-221-9400. LD Mon.-Sat. BR Sun. BAR LOUIE Features a something-foreverybody menu so broad and varied to be almost schizophrenic. 11525 Cantrell Road, Suite 924. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$.

501-228-0444. LD daily. 11525 Cantrell Road. 501-228-0444.

BOBBY’S COUNTRY COOKIN’ Some of the best fried chicken and pot roast around, a changing daily casserole and wonderful homemade pies. 301 N. Shackleford Road, Suite E1. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-224-9500. L Mon.-Fri. BOOKENDS CAFE Serving coffee and pastries early and sandwiches, soups and salads available after 11 a.m. Cox Creative Center. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$.

501- 918-3091. BL Mon.-Sat. BUFFALO GRILL A great crispy-off-thegriddle cheeseburger and hand-cut fries star. 1611 Rebsamen Park Road. Full bar, CC. $$. 501-296-9535. LD daily. 400 N. Bowman Road. Full bar, Beer, All CC. $$.

501-224-0012. LD daily.

CATFISH CITY AND BBQ GRILL Basic fried fish and sides and now with tasty ribs and sandwiches in beef, pork and sausage. 1817 S. University Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-663-7224. LD Tue.-Sat. CHICKEN KING Arguably Central Arkansas’s best wings. 5213 W 65th St. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-562-5573.

LD Mon.-Sat. 34

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

BRIAN CHILSON

WHAT’S COOKIN’

FANCY: Beer battered fish tacos at Local Lime.

Posh-Mex Local Lime gives tacos the gourmet treatment.

F

irst pizza, then burgers, now tacos. Chefs Scott McGehee and John Beachboard have a simple and brilliantly effective business plan: Take a popular central Arkansas staple and make the hell out of it. Fresh ingredients, novel twists, careful preparation and presentation. Sprigs of rosemary here and there. Old classics made with gourmet care. Call it fast foodie.

After the wild success of ZaZa’s (fancy pizza!) and Big Orange (fancy burgers!), McGehee and Beachboard — along with Big Orange partner Herren Hickingbotham and longtime protege Ben Brainard — opened Local Lime in November, specializing in Californiastyle street tacos, margaritas and other Mexican favorites.

Located in hoity-toity shopping mecca the Promenade at Chenal, Local Lime is deeply committed to treat-yourself indulgence. It doesn’t just have aqua fresca, it has an aqua fresca of the day. If you’ve been craving lobster in your enchiladas or barbecue pork belly in your tacos, it’s got you covered. The heavy-duty tres leches cake is so rumsoaked that we wondered if younger diners would get carded. Local Lime has more than a dozen boutique margaritas and cocktails, almost all $10 or more, featuring all manner of apricot liqueur, Peruvian bitters, rosemary-

Local Lime

Promenade at Chenal 7815 Chenal Parkway, Suite F-105 448-2316 QUICK BITE Local Lime features one of the most adventurous bars in town, with a rotating variety of intricate and unusual margaritas and cocktails. The house frozen margarita is excellent — one of our guests, a veteran of posh bachelorette parties, considers herself an expert and said they were the best she’s ever had. The Pisco Sour is an absolute knockout, finding a perfect mix of citrus tang and light, foamy egg white.

HOURS 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday.

OTHER INFO All major credit cards. Full bar.

infused honey, etc. The giant, hyperdetailed menu begs you: Eat too much, drink too much, spend too much.

Fitting with this theme, there are six kinds of homemade salsas to choose from with your chips ($2.50, comes with three salsas of your choice). And, of course, they’re self-consciously showy (one includes Sultana raisins, in case you were worried they might use an ordinary raisin). Over the course

of two visits, we sampled them all. The standouts included a terrific creamy zucchini salsa with green chiles and pumpkin seeds and a well-made verde tomatillo. The problem — and this was a problem with Local Lime in general — is that after all the hype and flair, it was a bit of a letdown to find that most of the salsas were merely fine. Having all these unique options to choose from is undoubtedly loads of fun, but in the end we would have been more impressed with one knockout.

The taco choices are similarly lively, each packed with a medley of ingredients, not to mention loaded with words meant to whistle at foodies (crema, slow-roasted, local, shaved). We tried the beer battered fish ($11.50), carnitas ($10.50), barbecue pork belly ($12) and potato zucchini ($10). Other tacos on offer are grilled chicken ($10.50), grilled skirt steak ($11.50), local chorizo ($10.50) and grilled ancho chili shrimp ($11.50). The prices listed are for three small tacos plus two sides — a choice of cilantro lime rice, black beans, jicama jalapeno slaw, drunken beans with bacon or spicy pickled vegetables — but none of them are anything to write home about (the cilantro lime rice is the best of the bunch). It would have been nice if there was a more affordable option for a la carte individual tacos ($3.85 a piece if you go that route).

We should warn taco fanatics: You probably have a memory stored away of your all-time favorite tacos, and it’s hard to avoid thinking of them when you’re at Local Lime. Most likely, you got those tacos on the street, or at some dingy window-shop restaurant you were lucky enough to find. Most likely they cost about a dollar. That is not what you will find at Local Lime.

For all the fussy preparation and hefty prices, the tacos fell short of the addictive magic of their roadside brethren.

Which is not to say they weren’t enjoyable. The tender pork, sharp pickled onions and salty Cotija cheese were a delicious combination in the carnitas tacos; the potato-packed zucchini tacos (our overall favorite) loaded with cheeses, veggies and sauces made for splendid comfort food. The corn and flour tortillas were good, if a bit dry, and less lardy and absorbent of the taco innards than we prefer. Ultimately, there was perhaps an over-business to all of the tacos — one guest suggested

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.

that the trouble with taking the McGehee/Beachboard formula to border food was that it’s the very simplicity of tacos that makes them special.

In addition to tacos, we also sampled the ceviche ($10.50), refreshing though a bit repetitive if you order the mango papaya salsa, and we thought the oily delicacy of the ahi tuna wasn’t the best fit. The chicken mole enchiladas ($12.50), topped with a lovely house-made mole sauce, made us wish for more of that sauce, and in particular that the chicken had been soaking in it rather than tucked away separately. The coastal salad ($7.50) featured healthy portions of avocado and fresh fruit. We’d definitely recommend paying an extra $5 for a large piece of salmon on top, marinated in orange and achiote.

We should note that our verdict — good but not great — is a minority opinion. The place is constantly packed. We once tried to go and gave up when we found out there was a two-hour wait. Surely part of our trouble is overly high expectations, but in fairness, we’re also just not the target audience. Local Lime is a long way from the little bakery in the Heights that galvanized the local scene (Boulevard, founded by McGehee a dozen years ago with his ex-wife; he sold his share in the business to her in 2009).

The ambience and the food have a palpable high-end chain-restaurant vibe.

This is a big restaurant targeted for a big crowd.

What it lacks, for us, is the kind of home run that would justify the inflated prices and the long lines, not to mention the long drive out west to an open-air shopping mall. For all the pizzazz, the tacos were disappointingly safe (we made generous use of the Valentino’s on the table to add some kick). It was almost more fun to read the creative and extravagantly particular menu than taste its offerings.

That said, it is entirely possible that several frozen margaritas in, these critiques will seem petty. Even if there are better places to get tacos, part of what Local Lime is offering is a grand old time. So have one delicious cocktail too many, see and be seen, get stuffed on food that is fresh and inventive, if not unforgettable. After all, tacos and tequila are, most of all, about having fun. Treat yourself.

BELLY UP

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

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

CORNERSTONE PUB & GRILL A sandwich, pizza and beer joint. 314 Main St. NLR. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-374-1782. LD Mon.-Sat. DAVID’S BUTCHER BOY BURGERS Serious hamburgers, steak salads, homemade custard.

101 S. Bowman Road. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$.

501-227-8333. LD Mon.-Sat. 4000 McCain Blvd.

NLR. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-353-0387.

LD Mon.-Sat. E’S BISTRO Try the heaping grilled salmon BLT on a buttery croissant. 3812 JFK Boulevard.

NLR. No alcohol, All CC. $$. 501-771-6900.

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

Beer, Wine, All CC. $-$$. 501-975-9315. BL Mon.-Sat. THE HOP DINER Excellent burgers, onion rings, shakes, daily specials and breakfast. 201 E. Markham. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-2440975.

LASSIS INN One of the state’s oldest restaurants and one of the best for catfish and buffalo fish. 518 E 27th St. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$. 501-372-8714. LD Tue.-Sat. MADDIE’S PLACE If you like your catfish breaded Cajun-style, your grits rich with garlic and cream and your oysters fried up in perfect puffs, this is the place for you. 1615 Rebsamen Park Road. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-6604040. LD Tue.-Sat.

Mudbug Madness Is Coming!

Crawfish Season Begins Tuesday, February 12 at 4pm During Mardi Gras

LITTLE ROCK’S MOST AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANT 1619 REBSAMEN RD. 501.663.9734 • thefadedrose.com

THE LITTLE ROCK FILM FESTIVAL PRESENTS

ARGENTA FILM SERIES ACADEMY AWARD WINNER UNDEFEATED February 21

7pm

Argenta Community Theater

Q&A with special guest Coach Bill Courtney. Moderated by Lindsey Millar.

Admission FREE courtesy of William Laman Library

Seating is limited, RSVP at lrff.eventbrite.com

MASON’S DELI AND GRILL Heaven for those who believe everything is better with sauerkraut on top. 400 Clinton Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-376-3354. LD Mon.-Sat. PACKET HOUSE GRILL An up-to-date take on sophisticated Southern cuisine served up in a stunning environment. 1406 Cantrell Road. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-372-1578. D Tue.-Sat. SIMPLY NAJIYYAH’S FISHBOAT & MORE Good catfish and corn fritters. 1717 Wright Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-562-3474.

LD Tue.-Sat. SPECTATORS GRILL AND PUB Burgers, soups, salads and other beer food. 1012 W. 34th St. NLR. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-7910990. LD Mon.-Sat. STARVING ARTIST CAFE All kinds of crepes, served as entrees or as dessert. The Black Forest ham sandwich is a favorite with the lunch crowd. Dinner menu changes daily. 411 N. Main St. NLR. Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-3727976. L Tue.-Sat., D Tue., Fri.-Sat. SUGIE’S Catfish and all the trimmings. 4729 Baseline Road. No alcohol, All CC. $. 501-5700414. LD daily.

TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFE Smoothies, sandwiches and salads. 10221 N. Rodney Parham Road. No alcohol, All CC. $$. 501-2242233. BLD daily; 400 President Clinton Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-786-6555. LD Mon.-Fri., BLD Sat.; 524 Broadway St. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 246-3145. BLD Mon.-Fri. (closes at 6 p.m.) 10221 N. Rodney Parham Road. No alcohol, All CC. $$. 501-224-2233.

BLD daily 12911 Cantrell Road. No alcohol, All CC. $$. 501-376-2233. BLD daily 400 President Clinton Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-7866555. LD Mon.-Fri., BLD Sat. WAYNE’S FISH & BURGERS TO GO Offers generously-portioned soulfood plate lunches and dinners for $6. 2221 South Cedar St. 501-663-9901.

WHITE WATER TAVERN Excellent, locallysourced bar food. 2500 W 7th St. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-375-8400. D Tue.-Sat.

ASIAN

BENIHANA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE Enjoy the cooking show and make sure you get a little filet with your meal. 2 Riverfront Place.

NLR. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-374-8081.

BLD Sun.-Sat. FAR EAST ASIAN CUISINE Old favorites such as orange beef or chicken and Hunan green beans are prepared with care. 11610 Pleasant Ridge Road. Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-219-9399.

LD daily.

FU LIN Quality in the made-to-order entrees is high. 200 N. Bowman Road. Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-225-8989. LD daily, BR Sun. KIYEN’S SEAFOOD STEAK AND SUSHI Sushi, steak and other Japanese fare. 17200 Chenal Pkwy, Suite 100. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$.

501-821-7272. LD daily.

NEW FUN REE Reliable staples, plenty of hot and spicy options. 418 W 7th St. No alcohol, All CC. $. 501-664-6657. LD Mon.-Sat. VAN LANG CUISINE Terrific Vietnamese cuisine, particularly the way the pork dishes and the assortment of rolls are presented. 3600 S. University Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$.

501-570-7700. LD daily.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

35

CROSSWORD

DINING CAPSULES, CONT.

EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ ACROS S 1 With 71-Across, breakfast choice … or a punny hint to this puzzle’s theme 6 River in a 1957 hit movie 10 SALT topic 14 Singer/actress Luft 15 Boss Tweed lampooner 16 ___ avis 17 Midwest hub 18 Eye 19 Words after “come” or “go” 20 Mark down for a sale, say 22 Model’s path 24 “Lawrence of Arabia” figure 27 Spotted 28 Angel dust, briefly 30 Ore tester 32 “Amo, amas, I love ___” 34 Cut crosswise

38 Slangy affirmative 39 Make scents of?

42 Cry of derision 43 Hot desert wind 45 Yankees manager before Girardi 47 F.D.A.-banned diet pill ingredient 50 Thrice, on an Rx 51 With 35-Down, fictional heroine who says “I am no bird; and no net ensnares me” 53 Augustus ___ 55 Hit for Guy Lombardo in 1937 and Jimmy Dorsey in 1957 57 Jewish or Iranian, e.g.

61 Make 62 Auden or Aiken 65 [Bo-o- oring!]

66 Swarm member 67 Layer of the eye 68 Singers James and Jones

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE A G R A

I N T E R T W I B I O S E R

A I L ME N T

N E O N

L O U D E R

L U C I T E

ME X I C A N ME A L

C A S K

C L A I R A S I D E J A ME S C D O T E I L S C P G E M A R S A I R I ME ME ME ME ME E A N O N O D D S H S E S P E I S E L N I N C O ME C O U N T E M M Y S

C A A ME G L R E E R H M Y O ME P S E C H E ME

A R R O Y O

S L O V E N

I R R I T A T E

G H N A U N E C O N

H O N E S T

D K N Y

BARBECUE

69 Hard thing to carry 70 Meal for a weevil 71 See 1-Across DOWN 1 Dona ___ (1976 Sonia Braga role) 2 Architect Mies van der ___ 3 Like much folklore 4 Things that lead to mergers?

5 Billy Blanks fitness system 6 Small hills 7 Tail movement 8 Talking with one’s hands: Abbr.

9 Roman road 10 Laundry staff 11 Request for group permission 12 Jones once of the Stones 13 Oodles 21 Tikkanen of hockey 23 Newsgroup system since 1980 25 Erik of “CHiPs” 26 Husband, in France 28 “No more!,” e.g.

29 ___ Crunch 31 Bosox nickname of old 32 Sorrowful cries 33 Melodramatic series, in slang 35 See 51-Across 36 Mystery author John Dickson ___

CAPITOL SMOKEHOUSE AND GRILL Beef, pork and chicken, all smoked to melting tenderness and doused with a choice of sauces. 915 W. Capitol Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-372-4227. L Mon.-Fri. CROSS EYED PIG BBQ COMPANY Traditional barbecue favorites smoked well such as pork ribs, beef brisket and smoked chicken. 1701 Rebsamen Park Road. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-265-0000. L Mon.-Sat., D Tue.-Fri. 1701 Rebsamen Park Road. Beer, Wine, All CC. $-$$. 501-2277427. LD daily.

FATBOY’S KILLER BAR-B-Q Features tender ribs and pork by a contest pitmaster. Skip the regular sauce and risk the hot variety, it’s far better.

14611 Arch Street. No alcohol, All CC. $$. 501-888-4998. L Mon.-Wed. and Fri.; L Thu. SIMS BAR-B-QUE Great spare ribs, sandwiches, beef, half and whole chicken and an addictive vinegar-mustard-brown sugar sauce unique for this part of the country. 2415 Broadway. Beer, CC. $-$$. 501-372-6868.

LD Mon.-Sat. 1307 John Barrow Road. Beer, All CC. $-$$. 501-224-2057.

LD Mon.-Sat. 7601 Geyer Springs Road. Beer, All CC. $$. 501-562-8844.

LD Mon.-Sat.

EUROPEAN / ETHNIC

Puzzle by DAVID STEINBERG

37 Everyday article

48 Prom tux, usually

56 Digital book file extension

41 10 sawbucks

49 Japan’s largest active volcano

58 ___-Rooter

44 The Ricardos, to the Mertzes

51 Actress Pflug

40 Morse unit

52 Pianist Claudio

46 Italian city that is 54 Photographer the title setting Adams of a Walpole novel 55 ___ lily

59 Give ___ (care) 60 Gershwin opera heroine 63 Egg head?

64 Fish contained in unadon

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

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

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

Share tips: nytimes.com/wordplay.

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

THIS MODERN WORLD

ALI BABA A Middle Eastern restaurant and grocery. 3400 S University Ave. No alcohol, All CC. 501-570-0577. LD Mon.-Sat. KHALIL’S PUB Widely varied menu with European, Mexican and American influences. Go for the Bierocks, rolls filled with onions and beef. 110 S. Shackleford Road. Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-224-0224. LD daily. BR Sun. THE PANTRY The menu stays relatively true to Czechoslovakian roots, but there’s plenty of choices to suit all tastes. 11401 Rodney Parham Road.

Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-353-1875. LD Mon.-Fri., D Sat. STAR OF INDIA The best Indian restaurant in the region, with a unique buffet at lunch and some fabulous dishes at nigh.. 301 N. Shackleford.

Beer, Wine, All CC. $$. 501-227-9900. LD daily.

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

ITALIAN

DAMGOODE PIES A somewhat different Italian/pizza place, largely because of a spicy garlic white sauce that’s offered as an alternative to the traditional red sauce. 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$-$$$.

501-664-2239. LD daily. 6706 Cantrell Road. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$-$$$.

501-664-2239. LD daily. 10720 Rodney Parham Road. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-664-2239. LD daily. 37 East Center St. Fayetteville. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 479-444-7437. LD daily.

GUSANO’S They make the tomatoey Chicago-style deep-dish pizza the way it’s done in the Windy City. 313 President Clinton Ave. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-374-1441. LD daily. 2915 Dave Ward Drive. Conway. Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-329-1100. LD daily.

VESUVIO Arguably Little Rock’s best Italian restaurant is in one of the most unlikely places – tucked inside the Best Western Governor’s Inn. 1501 Merrill Drive. Full bar, All CC. $$$. 501-225-0500. D daily.

LATINO

CASA MANANA Great guacamole and garlic beans, superlative chips and salsa and a broad selection of fresh seafood. 6820 Cantrell Road. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-280-9888. LD daily 18321 Cantrell Road. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-868-8822. LD daily 400 President Clinton Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. BL Mon.-Sat. ELIELLA You’ll find perhaps the widest variety of street style tacos in Central Arkansas here. 7700 Baseline Road. Beer, All CC. $. 501-5395355. L Mon.-Sat. LA HACIENDA Creative, fresh-tasting entrees and traditional favorites, all painstakingly prepared in a festive atmosphere. 3024 Cantrell Road. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-661-0600. LD daily. 200 Highway 65 N. Conway. All CC. $$. 501-327-6077. LD daily.

LA VAQUERA One of the few trucks where you can order a combination plate that comes with rice, beans and lettuce. 4731 Baseline Road. No alcohol, No CC. $. 501-565-3108. LD Mon.-Sat. LAS DELICIAS Levy-area mercado with a taqueria. 3401 Pike Ave. NLR. Beer, All CC. $. 501-812-4876.

LONCHERIA MEXICANA ALICIA The best taco truck in West Little Rock. 620 S. Bowman. No alcohol, No CC. $. 501-612-1883. L Mon.-Sat. MERCADO SAN JOSE One of Little Rock’s best Mexican bakeries and a restaurant serving tortas and tacos for lunch. 7411 Geyer Springs Road.

Beer, CC. $. 501-565-4246. BLD daily.

MEXICO CHIQUITO Some suggest cheese dip was born at this Central Arkansas staple, where you’ll find hearty platters of boldly spiced. 13924 Cantrell Road. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-217-0700. LD daily.

SAN JOSE GROCERY STORE AND BAKERY Fresh flour tortillas, overstuffed burritos, sopes and chili poblano are the real things. 7411 Geyer Springs Road. Beer, CC. $-$$. 501-565-4246. BLD daily.

36

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

ARKANSAS TIMES

2

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

theperfect

1

Gift

BY JANIE GINOCCHIO PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN CHILSON

F

or a red-hot Valentine’s Day, get your sweetie some lingerie 1 from CUPIDS LINGERIE AND MORE. They have everything from bra and panty sets to bustiers, garter belts and nighties.

This Virgins, Saints and Angels necklace 2 from BOX TURTLE is perfect for the fashionista in your life. The Hillcrest store carries several styles from Virgins, Saints and Angels, as well as other jewelry, clothing and accessories.

If you’d rather communicate your devotion through words, BOX TURTLE has small wood panel message prints 3 measuring 8.5 inches square with messages like “darling”, “to the moon and back” and “every day I love you”. They also have a Valentine’s table full of all kinds of gifts for a variety of different tastes.

Make sure your sweetie is snug in the cold weather with this plush purple Osito jacket 4 by The North Face.

It’s available at OZARK OUTDOOR. If your valentine likes to play outdoors, this Arc’teryx Covert cardigan is the perfect union of function and style.

This breathable fleece jacket 5, available at OZARK OUTDOOR, can be worn alone or under a heavier jacket.

Got a stressed out significant other? Skip the chocolates this Valentine’s and give the gift of relaxation. THE FLOATING LOTUS has Valentine’s Day special — get an hour massage and a facial for $100.

Find eclectic jewelry for your free-spirited Valentine here!

3

2616 Kavanaugh Blvd. • Little Rock 501.661.1167 www.shopboxturtle.com

4

5

hearsay ➥ If tax season has got you down, visit the LOONY BIN, located in Breckenridge Village, for a guaranteed night of laughs. Comic Collin Moulton is the headliner from Feb. 13-16. Little Rock’s own Michael “Doc” Davis will also be featured. On Valentine’s Day, tickets are $10 for the show only, $12.50 for the show and your choice of dessert or champagne, or $15 for all three. ➥ OZARK OUTDOOR’S 15th annual winter sale started Feb. 4 and includes Jackets, sweaters and fleece for up to 50 percent off – and we’re talking brands like The North Face, Patagonia, Marmot, Arc’teryx and more. Footwear is also 40-60 percent off.

➥ Don’t forget to attend the FIRST THURSDAY SHOP ’N SIP IN HILLCREST this week – especially all of the great deals that can be found at BOX TURTLE. ➥ Get ready for Fat Tuesday by attending the SOMA MARDI GRAS PARADE, scheduled for noon Feb. 9 on South Main Street downtown. To join the parade with a float, car or band, call Hillis Schild at (501) 412-3768. ➥ INDIGO, located in Park Plaza Mall, has launched its February Finds sale, with a variety of special deals throughout the month. Check out their Facebook page for a detailed calendar of deals.

ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO ARKANSAS TIMES

FEBRUARY 6, 2013

37

Making it through

M

ade it through another January, thank the Lord.

No progress toward fulfilling any life goals, but there never is such progress in January. Your January assignment, Jim, if you decide to accept it, is just to get through the whorehopper.

Alone among the months, January works on your will, which is why you see so many January obituaries. Why you scan them a little more attentively than usual half-expecting to find your own among them.

Enero snots up your want-to, drags down your get-up-and-go. It laughs at your rare bursts of resolve to trooper on, and with every icy transmontane blast down across the plain from Alberta, it iterates the question of why. Why becomes the standard January nag — Job’s pitiless helpmeet egging him to just give it up, to curse ol’ El and throw in the towel.

Days short and hostile, nights cold and long, and if you have bouts of insomnia, and as we get older, we all do, you lie there in anxious anticipation that something vital is going to break down, one of the machines, one of the fixtures that keep the cold back.

Dawn seems a long time off, a long way off.

Anxieties born of a time when the pipes did routinely freeze, and often burst, and morning found windowpanes lucent with heavy frost both inside and out, tongue-haz-

ardous as a flagpole.

My cousin Henry Joe, or Joe Henry — I don’t think even he knew — who spent some of his DepresBOB sion youth in a shotLANCASTER gun tenant-farmer house down at Dark Corner said he once Barlowed a hole in the clapboard floor so he could go pee mornings when he got up without having to make the frigid privy trek.

He’d be going out soon enough anyway to chop kindling and bring in stovewood. To bucket up well water and prime the pump.

The hole-in-the-floor experiment concluded one morning with a meeting of peckers — a hen roosting under the house mistook the dangling Henry Joe modifier for a grub or some other breakfast succulent. Causing a triangular flesh wound possibly unique in the January annals.

Short days and long nights — and so frazzling many of them. By contrast, February fairly zips along, and December is meliorated or tempered or distracted by the build-up to Christmas.

The January anxieties might go considerably farther back than the Depression, back to the time when glaciers that would’ve dwarfed Everest held much of the Northern Hemisphere and forced our ancestors ever

farther back into their caves.

They hunkered so far back in there that they felt entombed and those who were claustrophobic really had a hard time of it.

Only a few of the hardiest of them ever ventured out into the bleak midwinter, and then only to waylay an embogged mastodon or gimp bison in order to lay in meat for another fortnight.

They didn’t worry about power outages the way we do. They didn’t know about electric power, how it danced all about them, only a cord and an outlet away from making magic. Only those who’d been struck by lightning might’ve suspected fairy dust.

It’s theoretically possible for TV waves of the future to go back in time and ride down on prehistoric lightning bolts, so only those Paleolithic conductors with smoke coming out their ears might’ve seen pitchfork flashes of “Green Acres” or puzzled over the retinal image of a talking sponge grilling crabby patties for a squid to serve to mackerels.

They kept a fire going fueled by buffalo chips, and they entertained themselves and each other fireside by chalking really wonderful murals on the cavern walls. Some of these still exist, notably in France and Spain.

They also sang songs, though it was more likely a grunt-along than a sing-along. The barbershop quartet probably originated then and there. And rap.

The glaciers began their retreat back north, back to where they’d come from, about 12,000 years ago, a pretty remarkable feat

since they only came into existence with the Creation about 6,000 years ago, according to the prevailing belief these days in Texas, Kansas, Conway, and Shreesport, La. Yahoos.

Even after the glacial absquatulation, the ice mountains left us January as a kind of hostile legacy. Legacy with a message implicit: We’ll get you next time.

The ball drops as January commences and the month is all downhill from there.

You toot your horn, take a slug of Ripple, and then brace for the crud.

The rolling ball of death bewitches your computer. New godawful strain of stomach virus goes viral. Freezing rain beleaguers the trees, toppling oaks and snapping fullgrown pines in two, the constant concussive reports sounding through the night like oldfashioned war.

A new Congress convenes, God help us.

A new state legislature gathers to confirm worst fears of the sane. Dr. King and Gen’l Lee (the man not the car) have their tiresome annual tussle over which one deserves the holiday. Nixon’s BD too, and a hecatomb should be oblated for that. Have to get the cat fixed. The generator degunked. Scripture argued with the Watchtower guy. Hogs gelded. Roaches moteled.

The winter constellations, in the rare instances they wink through the January dank, appear preternaturally close, and bright with curiosity. Deepest Hell according to our only eyewitness account is perpetual January. Not on fire but frozen over.

ARKANSAS TIMES CLASSIFIEDS ARKANSAS TIMES FLIPSIDE ADVERTISE YOuR BuSINESS OR EVENT HERE FOR AS LITTLE AS

$50!

FIND OuT HOW! CALL NOW AT 375-2985

❤ Adopt: ❤

Active educated couple yearn to share LOVE of outdoors, music, each other with baby. Expenses paid Dirk & Claudia

1- 800-243-1658

❤❤❤❤❤❤

Comcast is seeking 8 Installers for our Little Rock, AR location!

Are you: · Interested in a new career? · Experienced working with tools? · Able to go the extra mile for your customer? · Looking for a career with growth potential, not just a job?

Consider a career with Comcast, the world’s largest telecommunications company!

Job details: · $11.75/hr base pay · 40 hours/week · Company van provided · Training, tools and equipment provided Apply now: http://www.comcast. jobs/3194 or email resumes to: Ashley_King2@cable.comcast.com

NOTICE OF FILING APPLICATIONS FOR RETAIL BEER OFF PREMISES & SMALL FARM WINE – RETAIL PERMITS Notice is hereby given that the undersigned has filed applications with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division of the State of Arkansas for permits to sell wines produced at Small Farm Wineries and beer at retail to be carried out and not consumed on the premises described as: 1624 S. University Ave, Little Rock, AR Pulaski Said application was filed on January 15, 2013. The undersigned states that he/she is a resident of Arkansas, of good moral character; that he/she has never been convicted of a felony or other crime involving moral turpitude; that no license to sell alcoholic beverages by the undersigned has been revoked within five (5) years last past; and, that the undersigned has never been convicted of violating the laws of this State, or any other State, relative to the sale of controlled beverages. Name of Applicant: Abdul Aziz Farishta for Jseph’s Discount Store

6, 2013 ARKANSAS TIMES 38 FEBRUARY 38 FEBRUARY 6, 2013 ARKANSAS TIMES

The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, Office of Intergovernmental Services is seeking proposals for the provision of services to victims of crime.

Application and instructions can be found on the website listed below: Family Violence and Prevention Services Act (FVPSA) The FVPSA program assists in the establishment, maintenance, and expansion of programs and projects to prevent incidences of family violence and to provide immediate shelter and related assistance for victims of family violence and their dependents that meet the needs of all victims, including those in underserved communities.

STOP Violence Against Women (STOP/VAWA) The STOP program provides services to adult women who are victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking or dating violence through improved responses and coordinated efforts between law enforcement, prosecution, and court and advocacy professionals.

Victims of Crime Act (VOCA).

VOCA provides direct services to crime victims who have suffered physical, sexual, financial or emotional harm as a result of the commission of a crime by another person or persons. The program supports communitybased organizations that serve crime victims, including domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, child abuse programs, and victim service units in law enforcement agencies, prosecutors’ offices, hospitals, and social service agencies. Services may also be provided to underserved victims, such as survivors of homicide victims and victims of drunk drivers. www.dfa.arkansas.gov/igs/rfp

Employment

Miscellaneous

Paid in advanced! MAKE up to $1000 A WEEK mailing brochures from home! Helping Home Workers since 2001! Genuine Opportunity!

No Experience required. Start Immediately! www.mailing-station. com (AAN CAN)

aLL areas - rooMMaTes.coM. Browse hundreds of online listings with photos and maps. Find your roommate with a click of the mouse!

Visit: http://www.Roommates.com.

(AAN CAN)

$$$HeLP WanTed$$$ Extra Income!

Assembling CD cases from Home! No Experience Necessary! Call our Live Operators Now! 1-800-405-7619 EXT 2450 http://www.easywork-greatpay. com (AAN CAN) Live Like a rocksTar. Now hiring 10 spontaneous individuals. Travel full time. Must be 18+. Transportation and hotel provided. Call Shawn 800-7160048 HeLP WanTed! make extra money in our free ever popular homemailer program, includes valuable guidebook! Start immediately! Genuine!

1-888-292-1120 www.howtoworkfromhome.com BecoMe an aviaTion MainTenance TecH. FAA approved training. Financial aid if qualified – Housing available. Job placement assistance.

CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 877-492-3059 (AAN CAN)

aTTenTion sMokers: Everything you have ever done in your entire life has led you to this point. www. bedfordslims.com (AAN CAN)

Adoption & Services PreGnanT? considerinG adoPTion? Talk with caring agency specializing in matching Birthmothers with Families Nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions 866-413-6293 Void in Illinois/New Mexico

Automotive casH For cars: Any Car/Truck.

Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Call For Instant Offer: 1-888-420-3808 www.cash4car. com (AAN CAN)

It’s happening right now on

ArkAnsAs Blog www.arktimes.com

♥ ♥

♥

(501)663-0402 ♥ 2723 Foxcroft Rd • Suite 311 Little Rock, ♥ AR 72227 ♥ www.abetterumassage.com ♥ Gift Certificates Available ♥ ♥ Half Off One Hour Massage $35 Call or text

Macximize

Learn to get more from your Mac at home or office.

• Aid in choosing the right Mac for you and your budget • iMac, MacBook, iPad, iPhone • Troubleshooting • Wireless internet & backup

• Data Recovery • Hardware Installs • Hard drive installation & memory expansion • Organize photos, music, movies & email

FLIPSIDE Moving? save Money. rent boxes.

No Cleanup •No Tape Required • Free Delivery and Pickup

$15 off 35 Box Orders & Up.

Not valid with other offers.

free packing supplies Not valid with other offers.

501-553-6341 • www.GoGreenBoxAR.com

Find Us On Facebook

STUDIO1 P H O T O G R A P H Y

www.facebook.com/arkansastimes

501.650.1806

Call Cindy Greene - Satisfaction Always Guaranteed

MOVING TO MAC www.movingtomac.com

cindy@movingtomac.com • 501-681-5855

contact@studio-1-photo.com

PET OF THE WEEK BLUE HEELER PUPPIES The puppies are 6 weeks old.

There are five girls and 4 boys and they all adorable.

Please call Eric at 501-912-3874

faith. education. TRADITION. Over 100 years of Academic ExcellencE

from

THE MOST AFFORDABLE PRIVATE SCHOOL IN THE CENTRAL ARKANSAS AREA

Enroll today for a brighter tomorrow Private school – Pre K 3 through 8th grade

For more information, call Ms. Denise Troutman at (501) 374-5237 www.nlrcatholicacademy.org

North Little Rock Catholic Academy

1518 Parker Street • North Little Rock, AR 72114 We are participates of the NSLP. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, nationality, origin, sex, age or disability. www.arktimes.com FEBRUARY 6, 2013 39

TASTE IS INTRODUCING A NEW SHADE OF AMBER Meet the new Budweiser Black Crown, a 6% golden amber lager brewed with toasted caramel malt and beechwood finished for a smooth and distinctive flavor. Tasted, chosen and handpicked by the loud, the savvy and the famous, at bars and festivals across the nation. And then, dressed in black.

#TASTEIS

©2013 A-B, Budweiser® Black Crown Lager, St. Louis, MO

Brand: Bud Black Crown Item #:PBD201310413 Job/Order #:247212

Closing Date: 1/31/13 QC: CS

Publication: Arkansas Times

Trim: 10" x 12.5" Bleed: 10.5" x 13" Live: 9.25" x 12"

PA AD AM

AE CD