Heights and Hillcrest 2010 by Arkansas Times

A N E IGH BORHOOD GUIDE

Heights Hillcrest

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HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Heights

Kavanaugh Blvd

Cantrell Rd

Allsopp Park N Lookout

Hillcrest

N University Av

Evergreen Dr

van

Blv

Lee Av

Midtown

You are here.

W Markham St

War Memorial Park Golf Course

630

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WM Markham Ma rrkha kkha ham S Stt

WE ARE, TOO. St. Vincent primary-care clinics are located throughout central Arkansas. So no matter where you live or work, there’s a St. Vincent clinic nearby, fully staffed, and ready to care for you and your family. For a complete list of clinic locations and hours, visit StVincentHealth.com/Clinics today.

Little Rock Internal L Medicine Clinic 1100 N. University Ave., Suite 1 664-2500 Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

The Longevity Center at St. Vincent Parkview Building, Suite 450 One St. Vincent Circle 552-4777 Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Visit any St. Vincent Primary-Care Clinic: Family Clinic/Chenal | Family Clinic/Rodney Parham | Family Clinic/South University | Family Clinic/Jacksonville The Longevity Center at St. Vincent | Little Rock Internal Medicine Clinic | Wildwood Medical Clinic 2 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

A delightfully eclectic collection of over 65 of the city’s most unique and ﬁnest  retailers, all wrapped in the warm, inviting holiday glow of two of Little Rock’s  most distinctive and beautiful neighborhoods. In addition to the vital role they play in the local economy, each business is woven into  the unique fabric that makes these neighborhoods so appealing to so many long‐time  residents, new neighbors and visitors.

There’s something for every taste and budget. From the whimsical mix of shops in historic Hillcrest to the wonderful array of galleries  and specialty retailers—many that go back generations—at the very heart of the Heights,  there’s something for everyone.

Season’s Eatings

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a sweet treat, a lingering lunch or a relaxing  evening of ﬁne dining, the Heights and Hillcrest neighborhoods boast some of the best  restaurants, bar scenes and specialty food shops in town.

Learn more at

heightsandhillcrest .com

courtesy of

Tom & Jill Ricciardone

REAL ESTATE HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

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Heights Hillcrest 6 Our Neighborhood 8 River City Gift Co. 10 St. Vincent Construction 12 Cupcakes on Kavanaugh 14 New Kitchen Store — Eggshells 16 Riviera Condominiums 18 UAMS Expansion 20 Area Shopping 27 Park Avenue 28 Banking 41 Our Schools 44 Riverdale Design District 48 A City in a Park 52 Big Dam Bridge 53 Say Hello to Salut 55 Diner’s Paradise 56 The Big Orange 58 Lemon — A Crepe & Coffee Co. Publisher Michelle Miller editor Deborah Horn Art Director Mike Spain Photographer Brian Chilson Advertising Designers Dan Limke,

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HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

The state of real estate

fter the recent economic bust, some areas of the economy are recovering faster than others. In the Heights and Hillcrest, housing markets are once again defying the odds. Since he opened his business in March, River Rock Realty’s Joel Tvedten has sold about 18 homes — half to first-time buyers. He attributes that to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, commonly known as the stimulus package, which gives anyone who hasn’t bought a home in the last three years a substantial tax break. Buyers have until Dec. 1 to close the deal, he says. Janet Flegal, a real estate agent with The Charlotte John Co., says, “I’m as busy as I can be.” In the last two weeks she’s sold two homes and listed a third, and feels, like Tvedten, the stimulus package is spurring sales. Flegal also feels the local housing market is starting to improve, although both Flegal and Tvedten say the area didn’t experience as

6 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

deep a bust as other areas of the country. Janet Jones Co.’s relocation director, Susan Marlowe, says the area is usually insulated from the economic ups and downs that normally impact other housing markets. “It’s never as bad.” Marlowe believes this is because of the unique homes in the neighborhoods. Often people think, “ ‘If I miss this house, there isn’t going to be another one like it,’ ” she says. One benefit of the recent downturn has been “that we’re no longer seeing houses selling at inflated prices,” Marlowe says. While the rest of the country went through a dip, “Little Rock didn’t experience the same downturn,” Tvedten says. Since last September houses in the Heights, Hillcrest and surrounding areas continued to sell, but only after a period of time on the market. In past years, a house might sell the very moment it went on the market or have multiply offers, sometime fetching more than the original asking price. Now, says Flegal, “We’re (again) seeing multiply offers, often (going) over asking price.” According to the National Board of Realtors, 254 residential

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properties sold in the area that includes the Heights, Hillcrest, Stiff Station and Capitol View in the 12-month period following September 2008. Last year in September, homes in the area on average listed at $300,000 sold for $275,000. This year, that same house is listed for $290,000 and sells for $274,000, says Tvedten. One caveat, Flegal says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The house must be in good condition,â&#x20AC;? and modern upgrades like granite and new appliances in the kitchen and an updated bathroom. Also, Flegal says, smaller homes, priced between $100,000 and $115,000 (about $150 a square foot) are selling well, while larger, more expensive houses arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t as in demand at this time. Tvedten says his clients are interested in Craftsman-style bungalows, in particular,

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Despite the national housing slump, Heights and Hillcrest realtors report brisk sales. houses with an old feel but with updated living conditions. He is also seeing more women than ever buying homes. For Carol Jenkins, an agent with Adkins McNeill Smith and Associates, it’s been a good year, too. Many of her clients include University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences students. From April to August she’s busy showing houses to college students. “The student market in Hillcrest is huge.” For the students who can afford it, a home is great investment. She’s also sold homes to four C-130 pilots in the last couple of years. She believes there are at

8 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Quiet streets and grand older homes are part of the Heights’ mystique.

least eight pilots living in the area. “They just love Hillcre. They can walk to restaurants, Allsopp Park,” Jenkins says. She’s also seeing a large number of women who are buying homes, and while the female factor has long been a big part of the housing market, she says unlike 35 years ago, “people aren’t buying fixer-uppers. They buy a remodeled home but they won’t tackle it themselves unless they have a dad in construction.” “One of the best things

Heights & Hillcrest We live it... We love it... We sell it!

The Charlotte John Company Located at 5811 Kavanaugh in the heart of The Heights! 501.664.5646 www.charlottejohn.com

to happen in Hillcrest is the addition of Walgreens,” being built at the intersection of Markham and Cedar Streets, Jenkins says. Marlowe is not only confident of the local housing market but says, “I’m positive and optimistic.” In addition to tax incentives, Flegal believes that homes are selling well because those who sell are also buyers — they don’t want to leave the Heights-Hillcrest area. “The Heights and Hillcrest are interesting, fun, exciting neighborhoods. We have everything,” Marlowe says. Tvedten says the reason the Heights and Hillcrest areas have remained strong through lean times because of the neighbors’ offerings. “It’s got an electric vibe. It’s a great place to live, with live music, restaurants, parks, it has old oak trees and it’s a foot traffic friendly area. I love it!”

Find your dream home today! Search all the listings at LiveInLittleRock.com “As a native of Little Rock and Owner and Broker of River Rock Realty Company, I have the knowledge of the area and know how of the business to complete your Real Estate needs.” – Joel Tvedten, Licensed REALTOR®

Serving Central Arkansas

(501) 353-2504 • 2612 Kavanaugh Blvd. in Hillcrest HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

A cut above the rest

nephew, Skipper Stafford, adds, “He ike Mario Puzo’s main helps everyone he can.” character in The Godfather, In fact, some of Hood’s best work Jerry Hood’s far-reaching may be done outside the shop as a influence has transcended genlay minister. erations and continues to be felt For 30 years, he taught Bible in Central Arkansas. But unlike classes at Tucker Correctional Puzo’s ruthless character, Hood Facility at Tucker, giving his stukeeps a smile and a helping hand dents the same offer: “When you at the ready. get out, come by the shop and I’ll It was more than 40 years ago give you a haircut.” It also included that Hood, a young man fresh out a meal, on Hood’s dime, at the of the Army with a wife and three nearby Browning's Mexican Food children to support, and working a restaurant. dead-end job at a bicycle factory, Not everyone took advantage of decided to follow in the footsteps his offer and not everyone made of his father, Arte Hood, and two good after his help, but Hood focuses uncles. He enrolled at Eden’s on the success stories. There’s John Barber College, then in North and his girlfriend Pam, both former Little Rock. drug addicts. While John served a Hood had cut someone's hair prison sentence, Pam worked at the only twice before -- the first resultLittle Rock Compassion Center, ing in a scolding from his parents where Hood now volunteers. After and his unlucky friend's parents, his release, John also worked at the the second in a demand by a drill center and eventually the couple marsergeant that he wouldn't cut a ried — with Hood officiating — and buddy's hair again. moved to Northwest Arkansas. Hood, who had grown up around They still write. the business (his father’s Belleville “All they needed was a hand shop was attached to their home), up,” Hood says. attended school during the day and Jerry Hood has operated Jerry’s Barbershop in the heart Now that his wife, Phyllis, is pumped gas at night. of the Heights for more than 40 years. suffering from multiple sclerosis, “I knew I needed a job where I Hood is spending more time at home. could make a living,” he remembers. Unlike is a part psychiatrist and good friend, willIn addition to his daughter, grandson Cody many others at the time who decided to ing to share the good times and bad. Thomas, niece Marie Hood and nephews train as stylists, Hood decided he wanted “I have so many dear friends. We laugh Shawn Hood and Stafford all work at the to work in a barbershop. and cry together, and I care about their barbershop. A year later, Hood graduated and, reluclives,” he says. “It’s job you can you can turn into a tantly, took a job in Helena, but within six Some of his clients have included U.S. career,” Stafford says. months, he was back in Little Rock workRep. Vic Snyder, Army Gen. Wesley Clark There are a few challenges to working ing at May’s Barber Shop. and retired Sen. David Pryor. Gov. Mike with family but the rewards outweigh the That was 1969, and Hood remembers Beebe gets his shoes shined at the shop. obstacles, he says. For instance, Thomas, doing plenty of flat tops and crew cuts. Hood Hood's daughter later Kim Lawery joined who literally grew up in the shop and now bought the May’s Barber Shop in the '70s the staff. The male customers kept their disworks the chair next to Hood, says, “I knew and changed the name. However, he kept tance for a while but it wasn’t long before there was a job waiting on me.” the old-fashioned barber pole at the front of Lawery had a long list of clients. And while not ready to retire at 60 — the building at 5815 Kavanaugh Blvd. She’s been working at the shop for 19 Hood’s own father worked until he was 85 Hood’s career choice proved a good years. — Hood hopes to pass the shop onto the next fit. “He’s very understanding and compasgeneration in another 25 years or so. In addition to cutting hair, a good barber sionate,” Lawery says of her father. Hood's

10 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Shop ‘N’ Sip

n the first Thursday of each month, the Box Turtle is a wall-to-wall sea of shoppers — some 300 strong. It's a sign of the success of the six-year-old First Thursday Shop ‘N’ Sip sponsored by the Hillcrest Merchants Association, a says Box Turtle owner Emese Boone. Jessica Davis, co-chair of First Thursday, estimates hundreds of people come through her store, The Shoppes on Woodlawn. In August, she put out 125 glasses of wine at the start of the evening and all were gone by night’s end. There may be as many as 500 people in Hillcrest on First Thursday. For merchants like Boone and Davis, the after-hours event has brought in customers from around the city. It's a great way for

the Hillcrest Merchants Association to promote local businesses. “Even if people don’t buy anything that night, they come back later,” says Boone. There’s live music on the streets, gift certificate giveaways in the stores, and drink specials at many of the restaurants. Since the event started, Davis says, it's only missed one first Thursday —this past New Year’s Day. Shoppers at Box Turtle enjoying First In addition to First Thursday, the Thursday Shop ‘N’ Sip. Hillcrest Merchants Association hosts But it isn’t all about the moment. The several other events, including a summer brisk business climate it displays should ice cream social, HarvestFest and Christencourage more businesses to move to the mas caroling and tree lighting. area, and potential homeowners see the More and more, Boone is seeing friends neighborhood as a fun area with plenty and family who make the evening a standto do. ing monthly shopping or dining event, For more information, go to http://hillmuch like others might participate in a crestmerchants.com. book club.

HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Station No. 10 stays fired up

he job of the Little Rock Fire Department Station No. 10 is to hurry up and wait — and wait — for the alarm to sound. A quiet day means a good day at the Heights’ firehouse, built nearly 80 years ago. That’s according to Battalion Chief William Sting, with 22 years on the job, who is over this station and others in Little Rock. A bad day means, well, all hell breaks loose. For outsiders it’s hard to realize what it’s like going into a burning building — within seconds, not minutes, rooms are filling with smoke and it’s dark even in the daytime. It’s hot, there’s a roar some describe as sounding like a tornado. All that and about 45 pounds of fire protection

gear slowing every movement. Firefighters train as if preparing for battle. Chaos can’t be allowed to rule the day; there can be no guess work and anything left to chance. During a fire, it’s Sting’s job is to oversee the paramilitary-like operation. He quickly assesses the fire they’re facing and decides the strategy the team will use to tackle it. Importantly, he keeps track of the firefighters as they tackle each fire. There’s only one situation that can shake a firefighter’s resolve, says Sting. A person trapped in a burning building can complicate an operation, often causing firefighters to disregard their own personal safety. It’s hard to identify what might be the busy season for the Heights’ firehouse,

but station Capt. Raymond Gunther estimates his crew has responded to more than 1,000 calls since the first of the year. As many as 80 percent of those calls are for medical situations. Station No. 10 also acts as backup for other stations when needed. Across the city in the nine months since Jan. 1, the city’s Chief Fire Marshal Don Kinney says the LRFD has responded to nearly 17,000 alarms. Like the Heights fire station, about 60 percent of their calls were medical. Firefighters are schooled in both firefighting and emergency response; Gunther says many of their calls are to traffic accidents. Each day-long shift, LRFD’s Station No. 10 is manned by four firefighters, includ-

Little Rock Fire Department Station No. 10 is located on Kavanaugh Boulevard in the Heights.

12 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

For those who are wondering, yes, Little ing the captain. They work 24 hours on, Rock Fire Station No. 10 has a pole connect48 hours off, and a chunk of their time is ing the second floor dormitory-style bedroom spent studying. to the first floor. And yes, firefighters still Firefighter newbie Broderick Ghant, slide down the pole when they need to get six months with the department, spends a downstairs in a hurry. couple hours each day hitting the books. Firefighting isn’t a Monday-throughBut training doesn’t stop once a rookie’s Friday, 9-to-5 job and often requires more probationary period ends. All members than just hanging around the station. of the LRFD continue their fire education until retirement. “You can’t learn everyThere’s only one situation that can shake thing,” says Ron Paige, a 19-year-veteran and the a firefighter’s resolve. A person trapped station’s engineer. in a burning building can complicate an “I keep the apparatus (a 34,000-pound, 25-foot-long operation, often causing firefighters to 1996 Pierce pump truck) disregard their own personal safety. ready to go,” he says. That means his first chore of the day is inspecting “It’s tough. We miss birthdays, graduthe truck to make sure there’s plenty of ations,” Gunther says. fuel and water (all 750 gallons the truck “We work Christmas, Thanksgiving holds), and that the tools needed to fight …” Paige adds. a fire are in place. “We all understand, it’s part of the job,” The job sounds simple enough but the Gunther interrupts. team depends on his skills to keep them “But at the end of the day, it’s a job ready to go at a moment’s notice, prepared that makes you feel good. I love it,” Paige to fight a fire with the same skill at 3 a.m. says. as at 3 p.m.

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Grocery shopping paradise the golden touch

ex Golden is like a kid in a candy store— or like a culinary epicurean in a gourmet shop. One moment Terry’s Finer Food’s new owner is looking over the progress being made on the grocery store’s restaurant expansion and the next he is pointing out the French, Italian and Spanish prosciutto offered in the meat department. Before chef Patrick Herron, who happened to be in the meat department, could shave a few slices of the Spanish prosciutto, Golden was eyeing the cheese display, filled to the brim with a mixture of European and American cheeses. Many of the new choices in the store, Golden says, have been influenced by the time he and his wife Ellen Golden, owner of Antiques on Kavanaugh, have spent

in France. However, the store’s offerings aren’t only for the gourmet-minded. It will include more down-home offerings, like the makings for four-alarm chili and hambones. “Those will make your black-eyed peas sing,” Golden says knowingly. While walking through the sparkling fresh produce department, Golden says, “I love food.” It’s been about 10 months since Golden sealed the deal on the purchase of the Heights’ grocery store that’s famous in Little Rock for its personal service and great selection of products. Golden plans to keep the exotic mix products in place, as well as adding a few of his own favorites, such as French mayonnaises, mustards, sunflower oil and more. “These are wonderful,” he says. The lifelong banker and owner of Allied Bank in the Heights says he has leaned

Lex Golden, new owner of Terry’s Finer Foods.

14 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

heavily on the expertise and guidance of the store’s manager, Jim Justice, who started with Terry’s more than 20 years ago. Golden believes the store’s long-time employees like Justice, as well as the ladies — Pat Killough and Brenda Hefner, who work the registers — made the purchase a great investment. Golden has kept amenities such as custom-butchered meat, fresh produce (with as much brought locally as possible), carry-out and customer charge accounts. Since last January, the operation has gone relatively smoothly — there was a scramble to replace grocery products after the bankruptcy of member-owned central Arkansas Affiliated Foods — and Golden says proudly, “We held our own and actually doing a little better than that. We’re really pleased.” While his wife didn’t blink an eye when Golden told her he was purchasing the store

Public Safety | Economic Development | Infrastructure | Quality of Life They are important to you. They are important to us. Mayor Mark Stodola Vice Mayor Gene Fortson Director Joan Adcock Director Brad Cazort Director Erma Hendrix Director Stacy Hurst

Director Michael Keck Director Dean Kumpuris Director Ken Richardson Director Doris Wright Director B. J. Wyrick City Manager Bruce T. Moore

HEIGHTS & HILLCREST â&#x20AC;˘ 2009

after six months of “on and off” conversations with the store’s owner, Gene Lewellen, others asked if he was “crazy.” Instead of a long explanation, Golden just laughs and says, “I love food.” Besides, the store gives him a chance to catch up with friends. But on a more serious note, Golden says he and his wife had shopped there since the early 1970s and were smitten with the friendly service, charge accounts and the wide selection. Lewellen wanted an owner who would appreciate its uniqueness, and Golden fitted the bill. Now that the new grocer has his feet solidly on the ground, he’s working on a number of changes that Terry’s regulars will notice and hopefully appreciate. The old Sue’s Pie Shop will be torn down and replaced by parking spots, while the loading and employee parking behind the pie shop will be the site of their new 50-seat, or more, restaurant. The restaurant’s kitchen will be located at the rear of Terry’s. Herron, who is already working at Terry’s, will be head chef. He has a great pedigree, says Golden. Not only did he train at New York’s Culinary Institute of America, but also is the former owner/chef of Beechwood Grill and the Afterthought. Earlier this year, Golden shared his dream for the grocery and restaurant with Justice and Herron. Talk wasn’t enough; instead, Lex and Ellen took the two to Paris. The goal is to offer Heights residents a restaurant in the style of Le Comptoir, casual during the day, but spread in white tablecloths and taking reservations at night. Golden says while they’ve tossed several names around, they hadn’t settled on a name for the restaurant he hopes to have open before the holidays.

Rodney Getchell, Hestand’s in the Heights owner. Currently the old pie shop serves as Golden’s office and nursery for the petite white potato starts he recently brought back from France. As Justice walks through Golden’s office on the way to a cooler, Golden noted that the potato plants had more than doubled in size, and then jokes, or maybe not, about starting Arkansas’s only white potato farm.

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5815 Kavanaugh • In the Heights • 663-9875 16 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

quality and service combine at hestand’s

estand’s in the Heights’ customers who think they’ve been seeing a few new faces combing the aisles, just might be right. Co-owner Debbie Getchell says since some the city’s larger grocery stores closed earlier this year, “We’ve seen a lot of new people in the store.” Since moving to the Heights about 14 years ago, Debbie and her husband, Rodney, have worked hard to build the kind of grocery store that is more like stepping back into time than visiting one of the new mega-markets. But don’t be fooled, there’s plenty to choose from, including fresh, locally-grown produce, a hand-cut array of meats and seafood, dry goods and deli. On top of all that, they deliver! Market manager Damon Boykin says he enjoys running the meat counter. “We want to keep it looking good and fresh,” and considering the following he

has built the last 14 years, he must be doing something right. He offers recommendations based on individual customer tastes and gives advice on preparation as well. Customers want “to know how to best cook a piece of meat or how to serve it,” he says. Boykin says most of his suggestions are based on personal experimentation. Boykin also oversees the deli operation, which increased its seafood variety as people became more concerned with their health and went from serving only plate lunches and desserts to ready-to-cook casseroles for customers who wanted a quick and easy meal but didn’t want to go fast food. While the store’s front-end manager, Noble Davis, who has worked at the store since he was a teen-ager, or 24 years, keeps customers happy and the front of the store looking good, Rodney Getchell says offering quality products is the store’s number one priority. When their old supplier went bankrupt, they turned to Associated Wholesale Grocers of Memphis. “They offer better prices and we’ve been able to pass the savings along to our customers,” Debbie Getchell says.

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New kid on the block

or The Station Grocery & Deli owners Holly Ingebo and Casey Pierce, the slow economy didn’t deter their dreams of opening a corner grocer. Their vision included offering fresh farm grown or organic products, such as meats, cheeses, vegetables, coffee and more. “Food’s been a big part of my life,” says Ingebo, who gained experience as part of the locally-grown food movement. But there wasn’t a Midtown option, so Ingebo and Pierce decided to open a small community-oriented grocery and deli in the old trolley station at 1001 Kavanaugh Blvd last February. Because of the economy, Ingebo says, “It’s been tough,” but that wasn’t enough to derail their plans. Instead, they focused on the prepared-food side of the business. Their menu now includes tasty breakfast choices such as coffee, bagels and granola. At lunch select from veggie, turkey or tuna wraps to go. There’s a salad bar, free Internet, organic PBH (peanut butter, banana and honey) sandwiches, fresh soups and even homemade baby food. “We’ve seen growth in our deli, and we’re encouraged by the number of new faces we’ve seen lately” she adds.

Come in to see our selection of Lululemon athletic apparel. Offering Certified Pilates Instruction Since 2003 5915 Kavanaugh in the Heights • 603-2103 www.pilateslittlerock.com HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

The broom man A local institution

s he works his way north on Keightley Drive to the Ozark Country Restaurant with at least 10 brooms slung over his shoulder, Melvin T. Pickens is silhouetted by the bright morning sunlight. Pickens, known simply as the broom man in the Heights and Hillcrest areas, or Mr. B by the younger set, says he doesn’t mind the nickname. “I’ve met a lot of nice people,” he says about the residents and business owners he encounters on his daily route, which starts at the restaurant. “When it’s cold, they let me warm up. They feed me. I’m grateful people let me sell.” Restaurant owner Dan Hasse describes Pickens “as a community fixture” and uses his brooms. “He’s really inspirational and could be a motivational speaker. He’s out, walking

and selling six days a week.” After the restaurant, Pickens works his way through the little commercial strip at the corner of Cantrell Road and Keightly Drive, heads to Kavanaugh Boulevard in the Heights and follows the boulevard to Hillcrest, where he calls it a day about two hours later. Partially blind, Pickens has been walking this route — albeit, a little slower these days — since leaving the Arkansas School for the Blind in Little Rock in 1951. Sure, he taken a hiatus or two, but he’s been a Heights and Hillcrest fixture for nearly 60 years. Now 77, Pickens says he has no plans to retire anytime soon. Betty Robinette of Robinwood describes Pickens “as an institution,” and has bought a dozen brooms from him in as many years. When asked why she says, “It’s the thing to do.” Many locals like the idea of supporting a local entrepreneur.

Lifetime Hillcrest resident LouAnn Wright remembers Pickens as a teen-ager. Later, when she worked part-time at Tipton Hurst, she remembers, “I would always grin and chuckle under my breath when he would enter the store, because he seemed so jolly and happy with his job and he was so cute.” Like others, she has bought a number of brooms over the years. “I have probably bought at least six over the years and one for my mom,” Wright says. “Mops don’t sell as fast as brooms,” Pickens says. When he first started, Pickens sold a broom for 75 cents. Now each goes for $10. “Some days I don’t sell any, but I’m just as happy as if I sell one.” Like other businesses, Pickens says his sales are down. When asked why he continues to work long after most people retire, he says, “Success comes to those who work for it.

Melvin T. Pickens, better known as the Broom Man, is considered a local institution

18 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

“Success comes to those who

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Forget about self and think of others. It’s not what people can do for you, but what you can do for others.” While areas residents know Pickens as the broom man, downtown he’s known as Mr. Pickens, who served on Little Rock Housing Authority’s Resident Advisory Board as well as the authority’s Residence Council, and sat on the city’s Economic Opportunity Agency’s Executive Board. Little Rock Housing Authority’s current Executive Director Shelly Ehenger says she met him 17 years ago and “admires him,” not only for his work but the way he raised his children.

work for it. Forget about self and think of others. It’s not what people can do for you, but

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what you can do for others.” “His disabilities haven’t stopped him,” Ehenger says. Pickens says, “I will always be grateful for the opportunity to serve.” He also served as a New Hope Baptist usher and as Sunday school superintendent at the Little Rock church. He still is an ordained deacon. In the past, he’s volunteered for the Arkansas Lighthouse for the Blind. Pickens was born in Hope, the only child of C.N. and Ellen Pickens. His mother died when Pickens was a baby so he was raised by his grandmother Amedia Bradley, who died just days after his high school graduation. After finishing school, he caught the train to Little Rock, where he studied at the School for the Blind. “They taught me to read Braille and how to survive,” Pickens says. Pickens and his wife, Dorothy, who has a degree in music from Arkansas A & M College (now University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff) married in 1957, and had five children. She was a music director at Camp Aldersgate in Little Rock. Pickens credits his success to his faith and says, “I fought a good fight, I kept my faith and I finished my course. There is a crown waiting for those who were faithful until death, which is not the end but just the beginning of what the Lord has in store.”

www.satellitecafeintheheights.com

Presbyterian Village Continuing the tradition Community Security Friendship Home Quality Trust For forty-four years we have offered retirement living and nursing care to people 62 years of age or older who wish to live full and active lives, yet wish to be free of the cares of maintaining their own homes. 510 N. Brookside Drive • Little Rock 501-225-1615 • fax 501-225-0849 • www.presbyvillage.com Presbyterian Village, Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit retirement home and health care center. HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Fabulous fresh flowers found here

t a time when the economic downtown put frowns on faces, Howard Hurst went for a face lift — not for him, but for his 123-year-old family floral business, Tipton Hurst. “If you’re handed lemons, you make lemonade,” Hurst says. After he received notice from mertinsdykehome, which leased a building on Pierce Street from Hurst, that it was going to move, Hurst seized the moment. By moving his business temporarily to the Pierce Street space, he could revamp the florist’s

home at 1801 N. Grant, built by his father, Joseph Hurst, in 1966. He’s stripped the Grant Street store down to its studs, put in new wiring, lighting and insulation and constructed a new sales floor layout. Without the vacant space, Hurst says he wouldn’t have been able to completely renovate. He would have had to settle for small repairs or updates here or there. Also, because the floral business is seasonal — with a lull through the summer — he was able to start the construction work last spring with minimal disruption to the business. In the meanwhile, long-time employ-

ees like sales department manager Jason Guin and top retail sales employee Jean Ann Morris have made the best of their temporary work space on Pierce. “It’s cozy and intimate,” Morris says. When customers walk into the “new” 17,000-square-foot Tipton Hurst when it reopens in mid-October, Howard says they will see a more modern look: stained concrete floors, raised and open ceilings and lots of windows and light. The clean contemporary look will be mixed with many of Tipton Hurst’s signature antique pieces. It’s what his customers won’t see that’s making his employees happy. “We’re get-

Jean Ann Morris prepares a basket of flowers at Tipton Hurst’s temporary location. The goal is to have the renovated Heights store at Grant and Cantrell completed before the start of the holiday season.

20 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

ting a freight elevator. It will make things so much easier,” says company wholesale flower distributor manager Freda Rice. In addition to the main store on Grant, the state’s largest florist has satellite stores in North Little Rock, Conway and at Baptist Health Medical Center. And as if the day-to-day operation of these stores and the Heights renovation wasn’t enough, Hurst says he’s reconstructing and adding to a 1920s Craftsman house he bought a few years ago at Oak Street and Interstate 40 in Conway. The approximately 4,500-square-foot L-shaped building, once finished, will be white with green shingles, and will be the new home of Tipton Hurst’s Conway satellite. The store, to be complete in December, will share space with Oak Street Bistro. Jokingly Hurst says about all the work, “It’s our own personal stimulus package.”

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Following the money

ittle Rock's westward journey to build in greener pastures hasn't left the Heights and Hillcrest areas of Little Rock high and dry in the middle of Little Rock. Midtown is “a vital, thriving community,” says Allied Bank owner Lex Golden, who recently invested his own hard-earned money

IBERIABANK’s branch in the Heights

22 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

in the community when he purchased Terry’s Finer Foods, a Heights grocery store that specializes in hand-cut meats, fresh produce and hard-to-find specialty items. His son, Alex Golden, Allied Bank chief executive officer, also sees the neighborhoods in a positive light. “The good news and what sustains the community is a solid base of residents who are loyal. The gravy comes from the outside,

people who come to shop and eat.” Golden remembers spending Saturday afternoons in the Heights decades ago, when “there wasn’t a lot of choice and not a going on.” But today, he said, this area “has blossomed.” Saturday evening finds people out and about. Kavanaugh eateries like By the Glass, Starbucks, Browning Mexican Restaurant and Sushi Cafe are packed.

who work there or are looking to shop the “I walk past and think this is awesome,” Another an important aspect River Market) and hard to beat.” Golden says, but not because he’s a banker of the neighborhood is the Another an important aspect of the neighand and doing well. Instead, he says, “This borhood is the loyalty people feel. “Those is my home.” loyalty people feel. “Those who grew up in Little Rock know the hisOne Bank & Trust Senior Executive Vice who grew up in Little Rock tory, and those who live here jokingly refer President Mike Heald believes the area is one to the 'Heights’ bubble' — they don’t leave that will remain viable no matter what’s going know the history, and those the Heights to shop or eat.” on in the outside economic world. who live here jokingly refer Heald sees the commercial side of the “It’s not recession-proof, but it’s strong,” Heights and Hillcrest areas as thriving, too. Heald says. One Bank has three banks in the to the 'Heights’ bubble' — When business spots finally do open up, he midtown area, with another seven around they don’t leave the Heights says, storefronts “only stay on the market Little Rock. for a short time.” As proof of its commitment to the area, to shop or eat.” Jerry Vascocu, president of IBERIAHeald says the bank is in the process of tearBANK , formerly Pulaski Bank and Trust of Little Rock, has ing down its Cantrell and “T” Street location and plans to rebuild seen “a slowdown in people’s interest in borrowing money” it from the ground up. for small items, but says commercial and residential lending Heald believes the community will continue to thrive. “It’s got is steady. As evidence of the commercial health of the area he a smaller, neighborhood feel. It's close to downtown (for those

The Heights of excellence We are proud to be located in the center of the Heights, a neighborhood backed by years of tradition yet lively with modern commerce. From restaurants to retail, banking to barbers, the Heights is an excellent place to live, shop and play… and to call home for IBERIABANK fsb.

5800 “R” Street (501) 661-7747

We invite you to bring in this ad to our Heights branch location and walk away with a great discount from one of our neighboring businesses!

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points to local upgrades like the major revamp of Tipton Hurst in the Heights. Such improvements will take the area “to a whole new level. It will be bigger and better,” Vascocu says. At Metropolitan National Bank, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Susie Smith says more people are opening accounts and saving more money. At the three Heights and Hillcrest locations, deposits have risen by $12 million over the last 14 months, says Smith, who lives in the area. She credits the growth in savings

Metropolitan National Bank’s Hillcrest bank branch

24 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

“There’s a very stable customer base and the neighborhood, with its great schools and incredible people, is very family-friendly.” accounts with people's reluctance to invest in the stock market. Smith says she's seen a moderate increase in spending in the neighborhood. “There’s a very stable customer base and the neighborhood, with its great schools and incredible people, is very family-friendly” — the recipe, she says, for a successful community able to withstand tough economic times.

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Preparing for tomorrow’s healthcare needs

births; state-of-the-art procedure lighting to accommodate the physicians’ needs while still allowing for soft ambient lighting for the mother and baby; private neo-natal intensive care rooms, and a large family waiting room. “We are proud of the person-centered care that we have developed with these major renovations. This is truly a one-ofa-kind unit in Central Arkansas for labor, delivery, recovery, nursery, and neonatal intensive care,” said Banko. While most Arkansans were welcoming in the New Year, St. Vincent was busy readying for the Jan. 5 opening of the new Critical Care Unit. The unit has four distinct specialty areas to care for the specific medical needs of patients: the Cardiovascular Surgical Unit (CVSU) for patients recovering from cardiovascular surgery; Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) for patients who have general medical diagnoses requiring intensive care; Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) for patients recovering from general surgical intensive care needs; and Critical Care Unit (CCU) for patients with a coronary diagnosis. St. Vincent has more ideas for growth. Without giving too much away, the hospital’s chief strategy officer, Jon Timmis, says, the hospital is looking at possibly “improving access points and ambulance services,” both at the hospital and in West Little Rock. “We have promoted the new St. Vincent, Tipton Hurst in relative to the expanthe Heights has sion and we’re starting been in business to reap the benefits, for over 120 with renewed spirit years. about our direction,” St. Vincent at the corner of University and Markham in midtown has undergone a $47 million Timmis says. transformation. t was a little more than two years ago members closer to their loved ones who that St. Vincent Infirmary Medical are being treated, unique family access to Center at the corner of University and respective care areas and a complement of Markham announced it was going to tackle exam rooms that are used to treat virtually major renovations. They claimed they would any illness or injury. There are also major change the landscape of the area. resuscitation rooms that feature negative The hospital kept its word. air flow space for isolation purposes. A little more than a year ago, St. Vincent “This is an important investment in the dedicated its revamped continuing legacy Emergency Department We have promoted the new of St. Vincent and with a blessing by Bishop in the development Anthony B. Taylor of St. Vincent, relative to the of midtown Little the Catholic Diocese of expansion and we’re starting to Rock,” Banko said Little Rock. It opened a at the time. few days later as part of reap the benefits, with renewed St. Vincent’s opened the hospital’s $47 million spirit about our direction. the Center for Women expansion. and Children about Peter Banko, president six months prior to and CEO of the St. Vincent Health System, the emergency department. said $10 million of the project’s funding The Center features state-of-the art was earmarked for expanding emergency electronic monitoring of patient care and and critical care capacity to support the includes the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive increasing demand in Central Arkansas. Care Unit. Other amenities include: private, The new emergency department has waithome-like birthing suites and rooms and ing room space designed to place family neo-natal intensive care rooms for multiply

26 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Going green

he Heights and Hillcrest neighborhoods are bordered by Little Rock’s most popular parks: War Memorial Park, Murray Park, Rebsamen Park, Allsopp Park and Knoop Park. Within walking or biking distance, they offer a wide range of activities, from swingsets and sandboxes to soccer, softball, volleyball, tennis, golf and more. For more information, visit the Little Rock Parks Department website at www. lrpr.org.

ALLSOPP PARK

Cedar Hill Road This 50-plus acre park, which straddles both North Lookout and Cedar Hill roads,

taking in both the Heights and Hillcrest, is one of Little Rock's most popular metropolitan parks. It includes a large playground, softball field and tennis courts and 4.5 miles of biking and hiking trails. A pavilion with a stone fireplace is a popular spot for picnickers; the trails draw flocks of birdwatchers.

MURRAY PARK

Ozark and North Martin streets The water works site in Hillcrest, developed in the 1930s as a Works Progress Administration project, offers visitors hiking trails, picnic tables and a striking view of downtown Little Rock.

PROSPECT TERRACE PARK

KNOOP PARK

Rebsamen Park Road Murray Park is a great place to do some serious fishing. With eight pavilions, two soccer fields, two playgrounds, six volleyball courts and a boat dock, the sporting activities are practically limitless. Includes Little Rock's 2-acre dog park, Paws Park. 371-4770, www.littlerock.org Corner of “I” and Tyler streets A little jewel of park near the corner of «I» and Tyler streets, just off Kavanaugh Boulevard. The playground, basketball goals and picnic tables make it a sweet spot for families with young children.

Rebsamen Park Golf Course HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

REBSAMEN PARK GOLF COURSE

Rebsamen Park Road Nestled in a bend of the Arkansas River, the 18- and 9-hole courses were designed for golfers of all levels. Rebsamen's open fairways frame spectacular river views. The long course has bent-grass greens; the short Tif Bermuda. A full-service driving range gives golfers a chance to warm up before a round or to work on their swing.

WAR MEMORIAL PARK

I-630 and Fair Park As one of the city’s oldest and most popular parks, it offers visitors an 18-hole golf course, the Walker Tennis Center, the Jim

Arkansas River Trail

28 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Allsopp Park

Dailey Fitness Center and the War Memorial Swimming Pool, a picnic pavilion, pond fishing and playground equipment for the kids, and abuts the Little Rock Zoo.

and Be We Hil Par ’re P lcre t o r st N f the oud t eig He o hbo igh rho ts ods

Snell Prosthetic & Orthotic Laboratory

ARKANSAS RIVER TRAIL

(also known as Millennium Trail) The 17-mile River Trail along the Arkansas River connects the twin cities with a nearly-continuous loop via the Big Dam Bridge on the west and the Junction and Broadway bridges on the east. The hugely popular bicycling/walking trail, which can be accessed from Murray and Rebsamen parks, will, once completed, will include a leg to 489-acre Two Rivers Park west across the Little Maumelle. 371-4770, www.rivertrail.org

How Does Your Garden Grow… …with a great deal of stretching, bending and kneeling on the part of the gardener. At Snell Prosthetic and Orthotic Laboratory, our goal is to return each of our patients to the maximum level of mobility possible, so that they can continue enjoying their daily activities and making their unique contributions to the world. Regardless of whether they are playing with their grandchildren, running a 10K, beautifying their neighborhood, or volunteering at the local soup kitchen, we want them to perform at their best. That is why we use the most lightweight, up-to-date materials and techniques available when fabricating orthoses. So, when our patients want to “stop and smell the roses” we want them to be able to comfortably bend, kneel, stretch and feel confident that their orthosis won’t let them down. Peyton Bishop is a Little Rock resident who supports the community through her volunteer efforts on behalf of UALR’s Friends of the Arts and the Centers for Youth and Family. A mother of three and grandmother of four, she stays on the go, but finds time to relax and enjoy gardening whenever possible. Mrs. Bishop’s philosophy regarding her orthosis is that “...it is not an impediment, it is an enhancement” that allows her to maintain her active lifestyle.

Statewide Toll-Free: 1-800-342-5541 • (501) 664-2624 625 North University Avenue • Little Rock, Arkansas 72205 • Fax: (501) 664-1708 Offices located in Little Rock, Russellville, Fort Smith, Mountain Home, Fayetteville, Hot Springs, North Little Rock, Jonesboro, and El Dorado

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5701 Kavanaugh Blvd. • 501-664-7746 30 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

BANKING/FINANCIAL 25 ALLIED BANK

RETAIL MERCHANDISE

35 OneBanc

21 Yarn Mart

53 Metropolitan National Bank

24 Eggshells Kitchen Company

55 Summit Bank

25 Cabbage Rose Florist

60 Simmons First Bank

28 Bella Boutique

80 Iberia Bank

30 Beyond the Garden Gate

81 Arvest Drive Thru

36 Mary Healey’s Fine Jewelry

82 Arvest Bank

38 Eyewear Boutique

99 Edward Jones Investments

45 Colaianni Pianos

101 Fairway Independent Mortgage Co.

46 Steinway & Sons

102 Regions Bank

51 Ozark Outdoor Supply

8 B.A. Framer, Custom Framing

57 Wild Birds Unlimited

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

63 Wordsworth & Company

3 The Pilates Studio of Little Rock

64 Heights Toy Center

12 Jerry’s Barber Shop

84 Tipton Hurst Florist

19 Caracalla

86 Tipton Hurst Florist

31 Interior Design

87 Sherwin Williams Paints

32 Kavanaugh Hair Salon

90 The Painted Pig

33 The Murphy Group

94 Lamp Shades, Etc.

34 Romco Drums/Rosen Music

95 The Accessory

36 Mary Healey’s Fine Jewelry

97 By Invitation Only

39 This Little Piggy 40 Fringe (Benefits)

FINE ART/ANTIQUES

44 Inviting Arkansas

2 Lauren Harris Photography

50 CARE for Animals, Inc.

9 Dauphine

59 Hangers cleaners

11 Boswell Mourot Fine Art

66 Sullivan’s Barber Service

13 Lance Johnston Photographers

70 Head Waves

14 Local Colour Gallery

74 American Gold & Silver Exchange

16 The Heights Gallery

75 Diet Center

23 Chroma Gallery

76 Williamson Insurance

25 Barry Thomas Gallery

77 Arkansas Prostate Cancer

25 ELLEN GOLDEN ANTIQUES

Foundation

47 Stephanos Gallery

79 Arline’s Skin Care

48 Trianon Antiques

93 Major D’seyne salon

89 Pflugrad’s Antiques

96 Ethereal Spa 98 William W. Watt, Attorney

RESTAURANTS/RETAIL FOOD

100 Protrac Development

1 Satellite Cafe 6 Boulevard Bread Company

MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS

7 Sushi Cafe

26 Heights Dental Clinic

15 Browning’s Mexican Restaurant

38 Kavanaugh Eye Care

17 Starbucks

56 Martin Menees, DDS

20 By The Glass

72 Burrow’s & Mr. Franks Optical

27 Cupcakes on Kavanaugh

Our Interest Is In You.

73 Stephen Tilley, M.D.

41 ZAZA

92 Baptist Health Therapy Center

49 U.S. Pizza Co.

APPAREL

61 Kroger

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4 Proposals

67 Fantastic China

5 New Traditions

69 Hestand’s in the Heights

10 Tulips

71 Haagan Dazs

18 Yves Delorme

91 Burge’s Turkeys and Hams

52 Cafe Prego

22 Ember

TERRY’S FINER FOODS

5018 Kavanaugh • 663-4152

37 Feinstein’s

OTHER

42 Venue — Fit for a Queen

29 FOR LEASE

43 Jeanté — One of One

54 United States Post Office

51 Ozark Outdoor Supply

58 The UPS Store

62 Mr. Wicks

65 FOR LEASE

68 The Toggery

83 FOR LEASE

78 Caroline’s Children’s

85 Shell

Consignment Boutique

88 Calvary Baptist Church HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

The tale of Tulips

rom the minute you step into Tulips, with its bright colors, hip, eye-catching couture and fun bobbles and beads — and now an array of fun, funky baby clothes — you’ll see it’s a store cut from a different cloth. This year Emily Brown, owner of the Heights boutique, and her employees will celebrate the store’s seventh anniversary. While the pretty, young Brown makes it look easy, she acknowledges that building a successful retail store has been hard work. “But I wouldn’t change a thing,” she says. After a short stint as a teacher in the Dallas school system, Brown met and later married Mark Brown, settling in Little Rock. Instead of returning to the classroom, she decided to follow her passion. While teaching, Brown worked at Harold’s Ladies

Apparel in the evening and weekends. “I loved it,” she says. She realized on a visit to New Orleans that Little Rock needed a “hip, trendy boutique.” Brown was turned down twice before receiving a loan, which she promptly paid back. “I was determined and driven.” Brown opened Tulips at 5817 Kavanaugh Blvd. and filled it with Choose Juicy Couture, Theme (an Oprah favorite), 7 For All Mankind (made famous by Cameron Diaz), 1921 and more. Three years ago, after having a baby, she decided to expand Tulips’ offering to include the younger set. There are Bunnies by the Bay and Rowdy Sprout Rocker T-shirts (featuring Run-DMC, Rolling Stones and Bob Marley, to name a few). Brown also offers a line of hats, toys and books. There were a few mistakes, she says, but one of Brown’s talents is her ability to quickly adapt to changing markets and

Tulips’ owner Emily Brown is celebrating seven years in the Heights

32 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

to please her customers with her designer selections. Like cable TV’s Rachel Zoe, Brown is constantly trying to stay ahead of the curve— offering last year’s style just won’t do. So she does her research before going to market. “There’s a lot of pressure,” she says. For instance, “peace signs are big this year,” as are bright neon colors, especially pink, yellow, green and orange, she says. Look for the ‘80s to make a comeback, with straight-edge shoulder pads and straight jeans. You can hang onto your super-wide jeans for another season, too. Long and oversized jackets — the boyfriend look — are big, as are ruffled blouses. Cropped and tailored works, too. Top it all off with chunky jewelry, Brown adds. From 6 months or 60, Brown wants to her customers looking good. “Our goal is to offer a piece everyone can afford and something for everyone.”

Heightsandhillcrest.com highlights area businesses

hen the bottom dropped out of the economy last fall, Tom Ricciardone, Prospect Terrace resident and Thinc Marketing Group president, decided it was time to take action. “Small businesses get hit hard during economic meltdowns, and that could break them,” he says. Ricciardone, who with his wife, Jill, who co-owns Feinstein’s in the Heights, knows first hand how important small businesses are to vitality and the health of the neighborhood. “Small businesses are the fabric of the community, and as much as the homes and schools, shape the feel and tone of a neighborhood. So when the number of empty storefronts starts to grow, property values start to plummet and how people — as well as potential future homeowners — feel about the neighborhood changes, and it’s not good.” Ricciardone has lived in Prospect Terrace, sandwiched between the Heights and Hillcrest, for 15 years, he says. A transplant from New York City, Ricciardone says he loves the unique and walkable area, so he Box Turtle in Hillcrest has unique clothing took it upon himself to build a and funky gifts website touting the businesses of and people in the neighborhood, Ricciardone the Heights and Hillcrest and to keep “people says, “It’s a work in progress, and I have spending locally.” plans for expansion in the future.” He, along with Feinstein' in the Heights, Eventually he hopes to highlight activiOne Bank & Trust, and the Charlotte John ties year round, take a more in-depth look Co. put up the money for the Web site, at the historic neighborhoods, and include www.heightsandhillcrest.com/heights. school information, as well as other inforhtml. It features the Heights and Hillcrest mation. area, lists shops and tempts readers with a “We have some unique treasures in these tasty rundown of its restaurants. neighborhoods,” he says. Already a holiday resource for shoppers

MoM & Mini Style

5817 Kavanaugh Blvd. Little Rock, AR 72207 501.614.7343 tulipsarkansas.com

HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

UAMS

Expanding to meet the health care needs of arkansas

ith the opening of a new 10-story hospital earlier this year, it seems the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) might now rest on its laurels. But UAMS’ $300 million expansion continues, as the medical center adds 12 stories to the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute. Chancellor I. Dodd Wilson, who is retiring at the end of October but will continue to work on special projects for UAMS, describes the current facility as “packed full.” The 300,000-square-foot expansion will add more space for clinical, research, education and community outreach programs. The Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging also plans to grow, thanks to a $33.4 million grant from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation. The lion’s share of the money, about $30.4 million, will pay for construction of four additional floors (55,000 square feet) on top of the existing Reynolds Institute on Aging and a pedestrian

Aerial photo of the UAMS campus

we’re facing an overwhelming need for geriatric health care.” UAMS opened its new hospital in January, just months after the opening of the Psychiatric Research Institute, the new Center of Excellence at UAMS. Included in the new hospital are a technologically advanced emergency department, clinical lab and radiology department, surgical and interventional suites, and intensive and intermediate care units. There is room to expand, as well. The hospital’s share of the campus expansion, paidf or with a bond issue and donor gifts, was $165 million. The new hospital allows UAMS to increase enrollment in its schools, be eligible for larger federal grants and contracts and support its worldclass programs that attract patients from across the United States and 34 foreign countries. In March the UAMS Board of Trustees unanimously appointed Dan Rahn, M.D. of Augusta, Ga., as the new chancellor. Rahn will assume the post Nov. 1. Rahn was the president of the Medical College of Georgia and senior vice chancellor for health and medical programs for the University System of Georgia since 2001. Rahn is UAMS’ fourth chancellor and starts work on Nov. 1. “We plan on staying here in Arkansas and building on the friendships and connections we’ve made and appreciate everything this job has offered us,” Wilson said. “I know you’ll be just as pleased when Dan The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute expansion will add 300,000 sq. ft. to the facility Rahn takes over.”

34 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

walkway that will connect the building to the Jackson T. Stephens Spine and Neurosciences Institute a block away. The remaining $3 million will go to the Arkansas Aging Initiative, a program of the Institute on Aging that oversees eight Centers on Aging across Arkansas. The gift was the second largest ever awarded to UAMS. “These expansions will meet the needs of the baby-boomer generation, the oldest are now turning 63 and are expected to live much longer than their parents,” Wilson says. “Arkansas already has one of the country’s oldest populations, and with baby boomers poised to retire,

War Memorial Stadium, dubbed a living veterans’ memorial, is getting a face lift

Renovations planned at War Memorial

ted play to at least two Razorback games amed as the Arkansas Razorbacks’ each season through 2016 at the Little Little Rock home, the 61-year-old Rock stadium. War Memorial Stadium will soon Besides Razorback football games, be getting a makeover, allowing fans to there are about 25 activities held at the call the Hogs in style. stadium each year, including high school The press box, built in 1966, and the and college football games, concerts and nearby seating area will be removed and other large events. totally rebuilt, says War Memorial Stadium The press box and club seating work, Commission Chairman Gary Smith. expected to cost about $7 million, will be In its place, fans will find a modern done by Kinco Constructors LLC. Work press box and 500 club seats, adding 280 is scheduled to start this December and be seats total, as the Razorback season begins complete by August next fall. The renova2010. A $1.5 million tion will also include We have received so many grant from theArkansas a walking track around compliments, and improvements Natural and Cultural the stadium. Resources Council and The stadium, a living have made us a better neighbor a bond issue will pay memorial to Arkansas’s in the community. for construction. veterans, needs to remain The bonds will be vital, Smith says. repaid by future rent, concession, advertising “On a normal [Razorback] game weekend, and parking revenues, Smith says. $2.5 million is spent in the area. People shop Stadium renovation began about nine and eat out while here,” Smith says. years ago with end-zone work, enhancement Razorback and other football fans come of entrances, new restroom facilities, landfrom around the state and the country. “It scaping and the sculpture on the Fair Park needs to be a place Arkansans can point Boulevard side of the stadium’s property. to with pride,” he says. The sculpture, which honors veterans, was The University of Arkansas has commit-

paid for with a gift from the Stella Boyle Smith Foundation. “We have received so many compliments, and improvements have made us a better neighbor in the community,” Smith says. The city of Little Rock will spend more than $1.2 million with money raised by recently refinanced park revenue bonds to add a 1-mile walking trail, install upgrade playground equipment, do general cleanup and add new signs. “We talked for so long about improvements at War Memorial Stadium. This is exciting,” City Director Stacy Hurst says. Smith has a Razorback-big vision for the future of the stadium. He’d like to see it resembling the Green Bay, Wis., legendary Lambeau Field, with its upper deck club suites completely circling the stadium. Smith would also like to see the number of fan seating reach about 70,000, allowing Little Rock to compete with the Razorbacks’ Fayetteville home. Currently, War Memorial Stadium holds nearly 54,000. Of course, these plans won’t materialize for another 20 years, but as Smith says, “You’ve got to have a dream.” HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

New at the Zoo

Work on penguin exhibit begins, over the jumps carousel up and running

shortage of funds put the Little Rock Zoo’s Laura P. Nichols Penguin Pointe African Penguin exhibit on ice for a couple of years, but it looks like workers will dive in soon. A bond issue for Little Rock parks is bringing $1.4 million to the Zoo; about $800,000 of that will go to the penguin exhibit. Another $300,000 will go toward the construction of a cheetah exhibit and the balance will be used on park maintenance. Because of the rising cost of fuel and building materials, the Little Rock Zoo’s

construction cost estimates were like moving targets, Susan Altrui, zoo media specialist, said. By the time bids came in, “We needed $600,000 more than we thought,” she said. Two years later, the cost had gone up by another $400,000. The Nichols family contributed $300,000 to the Arkansas Zoological Foundation for the penguin exhibit, $25,000 to name a penguin and another $175,000 to be used for educational programming. The rest of the $2.5 million exhibit comes from $200,000 in other private gifts, the bond issue, a city contribution and a grant from the Arkansas Parks and Recreation grants program.

Instead of a ground-breaking, zoo’s marketing and development assistant Debbie Miranda described the ceremony as more like a beach-breaking. “We broke sand,” she said. The penguin house will be located in a now sandy triangle located between Spider Monkey Island, the warthog exhibit and the Reptile House. Miranda, who has worked behind the scenes on the penguin exhibit and others, said she is looking forward to seeing her work come to fruition. The penguin exhibit, which will open in fall 2010, will include a tank as well as the African beach so that visitors will be able to see them swim and walk on the sand. Eight penguins will live at the zoo, and it’s hoped they’ll breed. African penguins may reach a height of nearly 3 feet and can weigh as much as 11 pounds, although many weigh about half that. They have a black stripe across the breast and black spots underneath. The spot pattern is unique to every penguin, much as like human fingerprints are.

Over the jumps

The Arkansas Carousel

36 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

n a busy day as many as 500 people climb up onto one of the decades-old horses with fun names like Old Joe, Smarty Jones or Breezy. By modern theme-park standards, the gentle up and down motion is a bit old-fashioned and somewhat tame, but in the world of the carousel, it’s a rare treat. The Arkansas Carousel, lovingly restored by Friends of the Carousel at a cost of more than $500,000 and 16 years of hard work, is now housed at the Little Rock Zoo near the entrance. It’s the last known Over-TheJumps carousel with an undulating track and only one of four built sometime between 1887 and 1935. “This is the only fully-operational carousel of its kind in the world,” says Little Rock Zoo carousel caretaker and specialist Terri Branson. Now, on the hour, the one-of-a-kind Overthe-Jumps decades-old carousel comes to life to the tune of an old carnival tune. “Kids love it, but adults who rode one as a youngster, love it more,” says Branson.

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ay Winder Field sits eerily quiet since the Arkansas Travelers deserted their decades-old home for greener pastures on the north shore nearly three years ago. Gone too are the cheering fans, support staff, and hotdog and beer vendors. The city — which owns a portion of the property — took bids on proposals for the land. The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences won out, agreeing to sell the land to the city for $1.6 million. Ballpark proponent Rex Nelson, who’d hoped to restore the park for young athletes, and the Little Rock Zoo, who wanted to expand into the property, lost out. But as part of the deal with UAMS, the Zoo will be able to expand into the parking lot that now separates it from the park. And Nelson, founder of the Ray Winder

Foundation, will encourage to medical school chancellor to consider the vision of Little Rock architect Reese Rowland when the school decides to build. A few years ago, Rowland drew up some plans that included a curved, three-stories-high building that looks out over an infield, a place where several local high schools could play, Nelson says. The city will use the money from the sale to buy other park land, assistant City Director Bryan Day says. It may buy land adjacent to park property directly south of Interstate 630 and the Zoo, where the Central Arkansas Library System is building a children’s branch. “While it was a very difficult decision, it’s a real positive for the city,” City Director Stacy Hurst says. “My only regret is losing a historical landmark. The compromise is a great thing.”

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Get smart

hoosing the right school for your child can be a daunting task, one hopefully made easier with the following guide. The Heights/Hillcrest area boasts of some of Central Arkansas’s finest public and private schools. Below is a broad overview of the area’s educational opportunities.

Fair Park Early Childhood Center

Principal: Judy Milam Enrollment: 180 Grade: PreK The Fair Park Early Childhood Center, which covers an entire city block in the historic Hillcrest neighborhood, provides a high-quality preschool program at no cost to parents. Fair Park uses a learning center approach that provides opportunities for children to engage in respectful interactions in a nurturing environment with professionals available to help children develop socially, emotionally, academically and physically.

Fair Park Elementary has been a tradition for more than 70 years and educated several generations of families.

Montessori

Education for life, a holistic approach… For those who prefer the Montessori way, there are two choices in the Heights and Hillcrest area: Children’s House Montessori on Lee Street, and River Valley Montessori on North Pierce Street. The Children’s House Montessori School has been providing a Montessori education to students for nearly 35 years. At Children’s House, the emotional, intellectual, physical, social and spiritual aspects of a child’s growth are all of equal importance. Arkansas River Valley Montessori began enrolling students in 2003 and is fully affiliated with the American Montessori Society (AMS). Co-founders Pat Bowen and Somers Piazza, longtime Montessori teachers and co-workers, dreamed of having their own school one day, in which they would dedicate themselves to following the original

Montessori ideas as closely as possible. They’ve realized this dream and watched as enrollment has risen steadily, and faculty and staff continue to be added.

Cathedral School

Headmaster: Dr. Fred Niell Enrollment: 290 Affiliation: Episcopal Grades: PreK-5 Founded in 1957, The Cathedral School considers learning a life-long process and celebrates childhood as a journey—not a race. The Cathedral School offers a program that encompasses all disciplines of an elementary education and holds high expectations for its students. Academic work is the focus with the understanding that cognitive skills go hand-in-hand with emotional and physical health. The Cathedral School offers a child-centered curriculum that does its best to meet the needs of each student. For this reason, teacher-student ratios are kept low. Art, music and enrichment classes are also available. Parents love the elementary school because of its small class size, as well as its focus on service. Each child grows up knowing his or her place in relationship to others, recognizing that we should all be in service to each other and the world around us. The school has also introduced an choral music curriculum, under the direction of Canon Precentor Timothy Allen. Allen hopes to build the Cathedral School Choristers into a world class school choir.

Forest Park Elementary

Forest Park Elementary PreK students

38 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Principal: Theresa CourtneyKetcher Enrollment: 439 Grades: PreK-5 Forest Park, located in the heart of the Heights, has several outstanding programs along with strong leadership and a dynamic staff. The curriculum is geared for all students to achieve maximum success. The Accelerated Reader program motivates students

to read literature designed to build comprehension and vocabulary skills. Other outstanding programs include: balanced literacy with phonics and whole language instruction, hands-on math connecting problem solving and computation, science lessons using experiments, weekly Spanish instruction, art, music, orchestra, technology, chess club, spelling and geography bees and more. Built in 1913, Forest Park is a charming school with an environment conducive to learning. Many children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren continue the legacy of attending Forest Park.

Pulaski Heights Middle School monitors, peer helpers, Junior Great Books, character education, Quiz Bowl, geography, spelling bees, Odyssey of the Mind and more. In a time when most people drive several miles to take their kids to school, Pulaski Heights Elementary remains a neighborhood school in the truest sense of the word. Many of its students walk to and from the school. The 90-year-old school serves as

Episcopal Collegiate School

Headmaster: Steve Hickman Enrollment: 603 Lower School Headmaster: Kelly Kennedy Grades: PreK-12 Just 13 years after opening its doors for the first time to middle and high school

Jefferson Elementary

Principal/Director: Roberta Mannon Enrollment: 433 Grades: PreK-5 Jefferson Elementary School has a reputation for providing a nurturing learning environment for pre-kindergarten through fifth grade students. Located in a safe community setting, next door to the Cammack Village Police Department, Jefferson offers a curriculum based on the latest education models. Students have access to K-2 enrichment, a gifted program (3rd-5th), classroom computers, a spacious media center with a mini-lab and books, full-time music and art programs, speech and resource assistance, and a licensed professional counselor. Episcopal Collegiate School band students Teachers at Jefferson have received a number of awards for excellence, includan anchor of the neighborhood and coning “Teacher of the Year,” the Arkansas tributes significantly to the strong sense of “New Teacher of the Year,” the Lions community in Hillcrest. Club’s “Teacher Recognition Award,” and Arkansas “Counselor of the Year.” Our Lady of Holy Souls Sixty-seven percent of the staff has a Catholic School master’s degree, with an average of 16 years Principal/Director: Ileana Dobbins teaching experience. Jefferson Elementary Enrollment: 525 was designated a “Blue Ribbon School” by Grades: K4-grade 8 the Arkansas Department of Education and Just down the street from Mount St. received the “Elementary School Award Mary Academy, Our Lady of Holy Souls of Excellence.” recently celebrated its 80th birthday. Like other Catholic schools in the area, it has seen a rise in its student population. It Pulaski Heights doesn’t look like the boom will slow down Elementary anytime soon. The Arkansas Nonpublic Principal/Director: Lillie Carter School Accrediting Association (ANSAA) Enrollment: 349 has fully accredited Our Lady of the Holy Grades: K-5 Souls Catholic School. ANSAA is affiliated Pulaski Heights Elementary is known for with the National Federation of Nonpublic the dedication of its parents and PTA. The Schools in Washington, D.C. school offers Accelerated Reader, tutors,

students, Episcopal Collegiate School welcomed kindergarten and elementary students to its Jackson T. Stephens Campus on Cantrell Road. The school’s Board of Trustees decided to add the school to the middle and high school Cantrell Road campus as a way to maximize the schools’ full potential. The lower school opened this fall is a state-of-the-art facility. The upper schools are preparatory schools rooted in the Episcopal tradition.

Williams Magnet

Principal: Mary Menking Enrollment: 460 Grades: K-5 Situated on a lovely, wooded campus on Evergreen Drive, Williams Magnet has a long tradition of providing a quality magnet education. The school’s a wide range of HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Pulaski Heights Middle School cheerleader

Forest Heights Middle School

Principal: Wanda Ruffins Enrollment: 706 Grades: 6-8 Forest Heights Middle School recently completely new art and technology buildings, and is revamping the school’s courtyard and building a small promenade. Changes have been going on inside, too. Forest Heights recently became an International Baccalaureate middle school, an internationally recognized and respected program. The IB program at Forest Heights gives students exclusive opportunity to learn and achieve at new levels. The school offers an exciting and challenging curriculum, including electives, for each grade.

Pulaski Height Middle School

Principal/Director: Daniel Whitehorn Enrollment: 815 Grades: 6-8 In 1908 a tradition that continues today was begun in an abandoned store on the corner of Prospect and Oak streets. With educational excellence in mind, Pulaski Heights Middle School began with two teachers and 100 students. Today Pulaski Heights Middle School continues to excel in the manner in which was started. Now a city landmark at the corner of Lee and Pine streets, it proudly serves about 815 students and has

40 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

of Central Arkansas at Conway. Principal Steve Straessle says Catholic is pleased with the UCA program. In addition to the concurrent credit program, Straessle says enrollment continues to grow at the boys school. Despite continued growth, the high school has plenty of room to accommodate the additional students. Many credit the school’s “unique style of education and attention to high school academics” as one of the reasons for the school’s growth. JON KENNEDY

programs include technology, Reading is Fundamental, Arkansas Writers in the Schools, phonics, art, physical education and music. Also, there are reading recovery specialists on campus, and science and art fairs. The also have classroom computers, mandatory homework and a full-time nurse. Students at Williams Magnet consistently produce high standardized test scores, and the school is noted for its structure, orderliness and disciplinary standards.

60 certified staff members who strive to achieve educational excellence daily. The team approach among the school’s teachers enhances each student’s academic, social and emotional needs, as well as ensuring a well-rounded education for our leaders of tomorrow. Communication through technology and a new curriculum in English, math and science gives students a boost in preparing them for the future.

Catholic High School for Boys

Principal: Steve Straessle Enrollment: 680 Grades: 9-12 Like its sister institution, Catholic High School for Boys also offers the concurrent credit program through the University

Mount St. Mary Academy students

Little Rock Central High

Principal/Director: Nancy Rousseau Enrollment: 2,400 Grades: 9-12 Little Rock Central High, built in 1927, has been added to the National Register of Historic Places and is also designated by the National Park Service as a National Historic Landmark. At one time, it was named by the American Institute of Architects as “the most beautiful high school in America.” In 2007, Central celebrated an historic event: the 50th anniversary of the desegregation of the school. Central boasts of National Merit, National Achievement, and Presidential scholars. There have been more than 144 AP schol-

ars, and five Stephens’ Award winners for outstanding academic achievement. The school teaches more than 140 classes, including 24 AP courses and four foreign language courses, and offers excellent extracurricular activities. Proving the dedication of Central’s student body and parents, the school’s PTSA has more than 1,000 members.

Lutheran High School

Principal: Mary Kathryn Stein Enrollment: 122 Grades: 9-12 In 1993 a steering committee was formed by area Lutherans with the dream of creating a Lutheran High School to serve Christian young people in the Little Rock area by providing a quality education in a caring Christian environment. In March of 1998 a home for the school was secured at the corner of Markham and Hughes in West Little Rock. The dream became a reality in August 1998 when the first class began with 23 students. The school is supported by an association of eight Lutheran churches in the Little Rock area. In November of 2000 the school was accredited by NLSA (National Lutheran School Accreditation and ANSAA (Arkansas Non-public School Accrediting Association. The first three students graduated in June 2001 and the first four-year senior class graduated in June 2002. After 10 years, over 350 students have graduated from Lutheran High and are making a difference in the world.

Mount St. Mary Academy

Principal/Director: Diane Wolfe Enrollment: 492 Grades: 9-12 For 158 years, families in the Roman Catholic faith tradition as well as families of other faiths have chosen Mount St. Mary Academy for their daughters’ high school education. Young women of all socio-economic backgrounds have been welcomed and provided the highest quality education possible. The arrival of 12 young Sisters of Mercy in 1851 at the request of Arkansas’s first Catholic Bishop was a response to the vision of the foundress of the Sisters of Mercy, Catherine McAuley, who just 10 years earlier had written, “No work of charity can be more productive of good to society … than the careful instruction of women.” This is the mission to which Mount St. Mary remains committed today.

EXCELLENCE. GROWTH. TRADITION. Preparation Preparationfor forcollege collegeand andadult life isn’t just found between the adult life isn’t just found between covers of a book. It’s also the covers of a book. It’sfound also in the heart in the found in of thea caring heart ofteacher, a caring smile of ainfriendly classmate and in teacher, the smile of a friendly classmate in the eyes of an the eyes of and an encouraging school encouraging school community. community. Come experience what Come experience what160 we’ve we’veknown for almost years— known for almost 158 years— that young women excel personally thatacademically young women and in excel an all-girls personally and academically in environment. an all-girls environment.

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(501) 664-8006, EXT. 106 3224 Kavanaugh Boulevard � Little Rock, Arkansas � www.mtstmary.edu HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Where to shop

he Heights, Hillcrest and nearby Riverdale neighborhoods are home to some of the city’s finest shopping, from venerable businesses to young, hip spots. Heights’ stores offer products ranging from European antiques and diamonds to kayaks and Tinker Toys. During the warmer weather the streets are lined with flower pots and smiling faces, so you might want to park the car and stroll along Kavanaugh Boulevard. Follow Kavanaugh a few blocks to the south for another old-fashioned, pedestrianfriendly shopping district where handmade clothing and gifts, unique antiques, local art and much more can be found. Riverdale is often referred to as the “Design District” because of its number of home-related renovation and interior design stores, with everything from fresh flowers and fabrics to antiques and the latest in furniture design. The following is a comprehensive list of the retail stores in the area.

Riverdale

The shopping district at the bottom of Cantrell Hill and along Rebsamen Park Road. About Vase: Browse a variety of flowers or have Phil make you a one-of-a-kind arrangement. 3400 Old Cantrell Road, 603-9200. The Antique Co.: Fine European antiques, lighting, architectural elements as well as other accessories. 1408 Rebsamen Park Road, 666-0339. Bear-Hill Interiors: Fine furniture, lamps, home accessories and other gift items. 1420 Rebsamen Park Road, 907-9272. Botanica Gardens: From houseplants and planters to nursery items and gardening tools. 1601 Rebsamen Park Road, 614-3000. Cynthia East Fabrics: Upholstery, decorator and drapery fabrics as well as decorative accessories. 1523 Rebsamen Park Road, 663-0460. C&F Flooringand Rug Gallery: Unique tiles, carpets and other floor options. 2206 Cantrell Road, 399-9909.

Hillcrest is home to a number of quaint shops.

42 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Distinctive Kitchensand Baths: Custom-made kitchen and bath cabinets. 1414 Rebsamen Park Road, 666-7756. Elements of Design: Awarehouse full of furniture, original art and decorative accessories. 2400 Cantrell Road, 375-4520. Fabulous Finds Antique Mall: A booth-style antique store where you never know what you’ll find. 2905 Cantrell Road, 614-8181. Kaki Hockersmith Interior: Variety of home accessories and interior design services. Located inside Riverside Design and Antiques. 1408 Rebsamen Park Road, 666-6966. Cobblestone & Vine Loft: A satellite of the original home furnishing and accessory store in the Heights. 2314 Cantrell Road, 372-1966. Louie’s Unique Framing and Gallery: Custom framing, original artwork and prints. 1509 A Mart Drive, 907-6240. Marshall Clements: An interior design firm with antiques and artwork on display and for sale. 1509 Rebsamen Park Road, 663-1828. Massimo: An interior design firm with modern/transitional furniture, original artwork and other accessories. 3513 Old Cantrell Road, 664-0355. Mertinsdykehome: Furniture and home accessories store with a modern flair. Also offers books, giftsand bed linens. 1500 Rebsamen Park Road, 280-3200. New Orleans Antiques and Jewelry: Featuring a large selection of fine European antiques, including furniture, art and jewelry. 2226 Cantrell Road, 374-3119. P r i vat e C o l l e c tions Consignment Gallery: Quality home furniture and accessories. 2017 Kavanaugh Blvd., 372-3270. RoyDudleyAntiques: Fine antiques to funky collectibles as well as furniture,

Now offeriNg cookiNg classes Fine fabrics and more at Cynthia East. lamps and other decorative accessories. Inside Fabulous Finds Antique Mall, 2905 Cantrell Road, 666-5856. The Showroom: Custom framing options and a wide selection of prints, frames and original artwork. 2313 Cantrell Road, 372-7373. Soho modern: A furniture and home decor shop specializing in both period pieces from the mid-20th century and contemporary designs as well as home accessories, rugs and lamps. 2200 Cantrell Road, 372-4884.

niture and accessories. 623 Beechwood St., 681-7999. River City Gift Co.: Gourmet coffees and teas, food items, related accessories and supplies. 2715 Kavanaugh Blvd., 661-1496. The Shoppes at Woodlawn: A collection of antique, home decor and art-related shops. 4523 Woodlawn Road, 666-3600. Sweet Home Furnishings: Antique and vintage furniture, home decor items and other art-related accessories. 2909 Kavanaugh Blvd., 296-9198.

Hillcrest

The Heights

With the Heights, Little Rock’s first suburb, just minutes from downtown, with older homes and parkland along winding Kavanaugh Boulevard. Box Turtle Imports and Gifts: Unique home accessories, hand-made jewelry, local designer clothing and oneof-a-kind gift items. 2616 Kavanaugh Blvd., 661-1167. Clement: Artwork, furniture and accessories that have caught the eye of owner Chris Clement. Located within Sweet Home Furnishings. 2909 Kavanaugh Blvd., 539-1473. The Full Moon: Fun and whimsical gifts, home accessories, baby items, personal care products and more. 3625 Kavanaugh Blvd., 663-4367. Gallery 26: Highlighting work created by local artists, including glass, prints, original works and jewelry, also offers framing services. 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-8996. Haus Werk: A fun collection of clothing, house wares, decorative accessories, furniture, jewelry and gifts. 2919 Kavanaugh Blvd., 663-5251. Hillcrest Junk Co.: Vintage fur-

Mansions mingle with brick bungalows in this neighborhood developed around the Little Rock Country Club. The Accessory: Fine home furnishing, designer lamps and botanicals. 5608 R St., 664-5363. Antiques On Kavanaugh: Furniture, artwork, lamps and other accessories. 5701 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-7746. Bella Boutique: Fine linens, jewelry, cosmetics and skincare products, bathing and bath accessories, books, candles and other personal care and home-related items. 5623 Kavanaugh Blvd., 603-5373. Cabbage Rose Florist: Specializing in custom-designed dried, silk and fresh floral arrangements. 5701 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-4042. Caracalla Day Spa: A hair salon and day spa with a wide selection of hair and personal care products and accessories. 5715 Kavanaugh Blvd., 280-0866. Cobblestone and Vine: Fine furniture, linens and decorative gifts and accessories with a European flair. 5100 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-4988. Dauphine: Fine linens, antiques and gifts. 5819 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-6007.

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DRIVERS PLEASE BE AWARE, IT’S ARKANSAS STATE LAW: Use of bicycles or animals

Every person riding a bicycle or an animal, or driving any animal drawing a vehicle upon a highway, shall have all the rights and all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle, except those provisions of this act which by their nature can have no applicability.

Ellen Golden FrenchAntiques: Specializing in French furniture, artwork, lamps and other home accessories. 5701 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-7746. Feinstein’s: Fine women’s apparel, cosmetics and accessories. 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-7330. Foster Cochran: A gift shop with a wide selection of sliver pieces, jewelry, gifts and other home accessories. 5020 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-3925. Heights Fine Wines and Spirits: Offering an excellent selection of wines, beer and other spirits. 5012 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-9463. Heights Gallery: Featuring work by regional and locally-known artists, offers custom-framing services as well. 5801 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-2772. Heights Toy Center: Anything a child wants is here. 5918 R St., 663-8383. Kristin Chase: A women’s clothing store. 5008 Kavanaugh Blvd., 663-1665. Mary Healey’s Fine Jewelry: Fine jewelry and custom-jewelry design services. 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd., 6611314. Mr. Wicks Men’s Clothing: Business apparel and weekend wear. 5924 R St., 664-3062 New Traditions: Women’s designer fashions, shoes, purses and other accessories. 1920 N. Grant St., 663-2388. Ozark Outdoor Supply: For the outdoor enthusiast, get your camping gear and other supplies here. 5514 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-4832. Pflugrad’s Antiques: Specializing in fine European antiques and old leather books. 5624 R St., 661-0188. Terry’s Finer Foods: A gourmet food market. 5018 Kavanaugh Blvd., 663-4152.

Great baths begin at Bella Boutique. Tipton & Hurst: Florist also offers books, candles, gifts, seasonal and decorative items. 1801 N. Grant St., 666-3333. The Toggery: Children’s clothing. 5919 R St., 663-8662. Trianon Antiques: Fine antiques and accessories imported from Europe. 5501 Kavanaugh Blvd., 663-5502. Tulips: Boutique offering fun designers and styles. 5817 Kavanaugh Blvd., 614-7343. WordsWorth Books: An independent bookstore. 5920 R St., 663-9198. The Painted Pig: Ceramic studio where kids paint unfired pottery; the Young At Art folks handle the glazing and firing. 5622 R St., 280-0553. W. RandallByars Interiorsand Accessories: An interior design firm with fine linens, bedding accessories and select furniture items and artwork. 5617 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-1008.

Overtaking a bicycle

The driver of a motor vehicle overtaking a bicycle proceeding in the same direction on a roadway shall exercise due care and pass to the left at a safe distance of not less than three feet (3’) and shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken bicycle.

your cycling friends thank you! http://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/ Go to “Arkansas Code,” search “bicycle” 44 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Ellen Golden Antiques specializes in fine French antiques.

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After hours

t’s early Thursday evening, but already By the Glass waiters are busy taking and filling orders. Although only open a few months, owners Susan and Michael Crosby are delighted with the turnout at their location in the Heights, and they feel that the wine bar “is an idea that time has come,” says Michael Crosby, who has been in the wine industry for about 25 years. “He says, “We had been talking about starting a wine bar for years,” which included offering a comprehensive list of wines from around the world. Business is booming, thanks not just to business from the Heights, but, Michael Crosby says, customers from as far away as Memphis. Unlike many of central Arkansas’s bars, By the Glass’s crowd ranges in age from 25 to 55, and is a “more grownup group. Our customers are pretty cool,” she says. The wine bar also includes a selection of sliced meats and cheeses, appetizers and hors d’oeuvres to nibble on while sipping on a favorite wine. They’re serving it all with Boulevard Bread Co., just around the corner at 1920 N. Grant St. On Monday night, there’s football, imported and domestic beers and steaming bowls of chili. Don’t be shy about exploring your wine options. Susan Crosby says By the Glass offers “a wine flight,” or three 2-ounce pours of wines of the customer’s choice, so they can discover a new favorite. For wine newbies or those who are interested in learning a bit more, the couple is offering wine classes. Eggshells Kitchen Co. at 5705 Kavanaugh Blvd. is pairing Michael Crosby’s wine expertise with their cooking classes. “It will be great fun,” Susan Crosby says. Welcoming our new neighbor While By the Glass has set up shop in the Heights, Joe St. Ana is planning

By the Glass in the Heights offers a variety of wines and appetizers to open Diversion, a wine and martini bar, in Hillcrest in the spot formerly occupied by Lemon. St. Ana, who also owns Crush Wine Bar on Markham Street in downtown Little Rock, has teamed up with Jay Patel for the venture. He added a deck to the top of the building that is handicapped accessible and put a wine cellar at the back for private parties. St. Ana plans to be up and running in October. Diversion will offer a selection of meat and cheeses, salads and hot tapas. Despite the number of restaurants and bars in the immediate area, St. Ana believes his bar gives “people one more option.” Like By the Glass, St.Ana hopes to offer people a place “to chill” after work. A list of Heights and Hillcrest wine bars: Afterthought 663-1196, 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. By The Glass 663-9463, 5713 Kavanaugh Blvd. Ciao Baci 603-0238, 605 Beechwood St.

Carrying the fine works of local, national and international artists for the emerging and established collector.

Boswell

Mourot

5815 Kavanaugh Little Rock, Arkansas 501.664.0030 • www.boswellmourot.com

WordsWorth Books & Co. 5920 “R” St. In the Heights (501) 663-9198 www.wordsworthbooks.org

Little Rock’s largest and oldest independent bookstore Large selection of gifts and cards Knowledgeable and helpful staff

Diversion 374-9463, 2611 Kavanaugh Blvd. Salut Bistro 660-4200, 1501 N. University Ave.

HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Artistic endeavors

t was less than seven months ago that Kyle Boswell and his partner, Jon Mourot, opened the doors to Boswell Mourot Fine Art. They joined a growing number of galleries located along Kavanaugh Boulevard, including five in the Heights and another four south of Cantrell in Hillcrest. “I would welcome more galleries,” says Boswell. Instead of competition, he sees it “as a growing destination.” He feels he and Mourot bring an additional dimension to the growing midtown art scene. “We are more of a museum setting, with little to distract from the art presentation,” he says, pointing to the 1,600-square-foot gallery’s white walls and pedestals. Boswell has used his Miami connections to bring international artists to Little Rock. He invested in a couple of galleries during the eight years he lived there. Currently, the Little Rock collection includes about 23 local, international and national artists. Among his artists are Alejandra Gauzen, who he met as an exchange student in Chili, and Hugo Urlacher, who has two pieces hanging in the Vatican. There’s work by potter Susan Goss, porcelain by Carla Davis and the paintings of Eleanor Dickinson. Also important to Boswell: He has a place to display his own blown glass pieces. He describes his brightly colored glass pieces as influenced by “an historical approach,”

Hillcrest’s Gallery 26 is one of several galleries in the Heights and Hillcrest offering original art instead of production art. This means he produces fewer pieces. While relying on a museum-like setting, Boswell says he and Mourot want “everyone” to feel comfortable when walking through their front door. “I appreciate art and I want others to enjoy it,” he says. That’s exactly the response he received from Marge Johnson of Little Rock and her friend. “I love your work,” Johnson said to Boswell about his glass pieces. Despite the slow economy, Boswell says the gallery has had a great response since its spring opening and is attracting visitors from all over the state. “People are ready. Many come because

they know the artist,” he says. In addition to bringing international art to Arkansas, Boswell says it’s his goal to give local artists the opportunity to show in Miami, as well as in Europe. Art is changing the area, bringing in more shoppers to the neighborhood and prompting stimulating conversations.

The Heights

Boswell Mourot Fine Art 5815 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-0030 Chroma Gallery 5707 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-0880 Hurst Gallery 5811 Kavanaugh Blvd., 614-9250 Local Colour 5813 Kavanaugh Blvd., 265-0422 Stephano Fine Art Gallery 5501 Kavanaugh Blvd., 614-7113 The Heights Gallery 5801 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-2772

Hillcrest

Gallery 26 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-8996 Hillcrest Gallery Custom Framing & Fine Art 2807 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-7900 Kyle Boswell of Boswell Mourot Fine Art gallery in the Heights

46 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Sweet Home 2911 Kavanaugh Blvd., 296-9198

A Closer Look

any schools, businesses and retail shops are steeped in tradition and can boast a long and proud heritage while some are just discovering how friendly

and neighborhood-oriented the area is. This advertising section is dedicated to retailers, schools and medical professionals who would like to “share their story.” Here’s a closer look at some of the best the area has to offer.

lrafb• 50th HEIGHTS & HILLCREST 2009

347 1

DR. TRACY WINDHAM — CHANGING LIVES ONE SMILE AT A TIME EMPATHY, COMPASSION & SKILL SETS DR WINDHAM AND STAFF APART FROM THE REST

found the right dentist.’’ isa McGee of Conway had Lisa’s dental problems were known for years she was severe. She needed a fullin desperate need of dental mouth reconstruction, which care, but her lifelong fear of consisted of 26 crowns. the dentist prevented her from “I was scared at first, but I seeking help. was sedated and never felt a “I had been afraid of the thing,’’ Lisa said. “I was able dentist since I was a child but to get all of the work I needed one particular incident that with just a few sessions and happened more than 20 years didn’t have any painful side ago made me determined never effects. If I had known it Lisa McGee, before (left) and after. to step foot in a dentist’s office was going to be this easy, I again,’’ Lisa, 48, explained. would’ve done this years ago!’’ Years of neglect began to take its toll. Cavities and rampant Lisa said she began to reap the benefits almost immedecay made Lisa self-conscious, even around her husband diately. and two daughters. “It’s been years since my husband and my daughters have “I have a very outgoing personality but that even started to seen me laugh and smile without covering my mouth,’’ Lisa change because I was so paranoid of people seeing my teeth,’’ said. “You don’t realize how important your smile is until you she said. “I covered my mouth with my hand when I spoke. lose it. Dr. Windham gave me my smile back with absolutely My self esteem had hit rock bottom, and my family was startno pain. It honestly has changed my life.’’ ing to worry about me because I just wasn’t myself.’’ Lisa said a close friend PATIENTS’ TAKE took her aside and urged ON DR. WINDHAM: her to face her demons “I am no longer afraid head on. to go to the dentist. You “It wasn’t a subject I cared have not only restored to discuss with anybody,’’ Lisa my smile and self-confisaid of her teeth. “A good dence, you have removed friend of mine knew what a life-long fear. That, my was bothering me without friend, is priceless.” — A. having to ask, and she told Sutherlin. me about this particular “When I walk into dentist in Little Rock. My that office, it’s not all like friend had a similar fear going to the dentist. Each and said that Dr. Windham and every one of the staff had made a huge difference Lisa McGee and Dr. Tracy Windham greets you like an old for her.’’ friend which puts you Lisa reluctantly agreed to at ease. From top to bottom, they’re a great dental team and a consultation, but was leery about making any commitments good people to boot.” — Terisa L. before meeting Dr. Windham. She said she was particularly “The sedation experience was great. No pain at all, no anxiety interested in learning more about Sedation Dentistry, which and everyone who works there is so caring.’’ — Debbie C. allows the patient to relax throughout the procedure with little TRACY WINDHAM or no recollection of the treatment. FAMILY DENTISTRY “When I walked through the door, I knew this place was 5500 West Markham different,’’ Lisa said. “It was a homey atmosphere and the staff Little Rock, AR 72205 couldn’t have been nicer and they understood my anxiety. Dr. (501) 664-6888 Windham explained to me step-by-step about my needs and www.littlerockdentalcare.com was never condescending or pushy. That’s when I knew I had lrafb 50th & HILLCREST • 2009 48 3 2HEIGHTS

CHILDREN’S CONSIGNMENT IN THE HEIGHTS

fter dabbling in real estate and being a stay-athome mom for 14 years, Mary Adkins finally fulfilled her longtime dream of opening a children’s consignment store on January 17, 2006 (an auspicious day considering it’s also her daughter’s Mary Adkins birthday for whom the store is named). Like any savvy businessperson, she saw a niche and decided to fill it. “I shopped at consignment stores and felt there was a need for it,” she says. “Moms could make some extra income and share quality clothing at less cost.” “I just woke up one day and decided I was going to do this,” she explains. She took some steps in that direction, and then the clothes starting pouring in—lots of them.

“I used my own money to finance the new venture, and business so far has been great,” she says. She has roughly 900 consignors and sales that are far exceeding her original expectations. Life on the homefront is swell as well, with husband Jack of 20 years and two great kids, Spencer, 18 and a senior at Catholic High, and the eponymous Caroline, 15 and a sophomore at Mt. St. Marys. CARoLINE’S CHILDREN’S CoNSIgNMENT BouTIquE 1917 N. Grant, Little Rock, AR 72207 • 614-9294 www.carolinesccb.com/index.html Tues-Fri 10:30 to 5:00, Sat 11:00 to 4:00 Closed Sunday & Monday

ExCEEDING pATIENTS ExpECTATIONS

hen looking for a location to start his practice, Dr Brian Guice, OD, was surprised to learn that there were no professional eye care providers in the Heights or Hillcrest. "I couldn't believe these areas were without eye care services. They are both great areas of Little Rock and deserve quality eye care." says Dr. Guice. So, in March of 2009, Dr. Guice opened Kavanaugh Eye Care. Located at 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd, Kavanaugh Eye Care serves the Heights, Hillcrest, and greater midtown areas. In addition to providing comprehensive primary eye care, contact lenses, prescription eyewear, nonprescription sunglasses and ocular disease management, Dr. Guice has created a unique, modern atmosphere, unlike the typical health care setting. The optical and reception area has a clean, contemporary design with smoked glass shelving and leather sofas. The examination room is spacious and offers the latest eye care technologies and computerized examination equipment. The Eyewear Boutique within Kavanaugh Eye Care really makes this Dr Brian Guice, OD doctor's office unique. With the help of his wife Kerry, Dr. Guice has acquired eclectic designer collections from all over the world. Once inside the Boutique, it will quickly become apparent that the selection of eyewear is not what one typically sees in Arkansas, with many more colors, shapes and designs. Not only are the frames exceptional, but the lenses offered at Kavanaugh Eye Care are second to none. "We only offer the best in new lens technology," says Dr. Guice. The same goes for contact lenses. Multifocal, astigmatism, and

daily disposable contact lenses offer more freedom from glasses than ever before. "Our goal is to exceed patients' expectations at every step in the eye care process," says Dr. Guice. Kavanaugh Eye Care truly has something for everyone. They accept most major medical insurances, such as QualChoice,

Blue Cross, Health Advantage, Medicare, and vision plans such as Vision Service Plan, Delta Vision, and Vision Care Direct. Call the office at 614-9900 to schedule an appointment or visit the website at www.KavanaughEye.com. KAvANAugH EYE CARE 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd 614-9900 lrafb• 50th HEIGHTS & HILLCREST 2009

349 3

paTio perFecT

n central Arkansas, Ken Rash’s casual furniture has a keen insight on outdoor living. They are the “go to” store for barstools, grills, patio furniture and plenty more. Their success, however is not solely due to the large selection of merchandise. As owner Lawrie Rash says, “We put quality and customer service above all else.” She describes her business philosophy as a combination of years of experience and an ever-present eye for current and future trends. Her committed sales staff has formed lasting relationships with clients over the years, and Rash says, “They know we have the expertise to accommodate their particular tastes in style, as well as their budgets, and we are a locally owned operation, not just a click on the computer that can be gone tomorrow.”

With a design degree, Rash also brings a unique perspective to the business. She explains, “I think that’s why our store is different than others around the country. We’re able to help our customer create their perfect outdoor living space that Lawrie Rash, owner incorporates new trends and individual tastes to bring balance between their indoor and outdoor decor.” Perhaps a little known fact about Lawrie is that she began learning the business at age 13 from her father, Ken, after whom her store is named. She honors him by continuing the tradition of excellence he began some 40 years ago. Ken rAsh’s cAsuAl Furniture 7214 Cantrell Rd., Little Rock, AR 72207-4143 (501) 663-1818

The plumbers’ plumber—and The public’s

ounded in 1947 as Ray and Reynolds Plumbing, Associated Plumbers Inc. once focused primarily on new construction— that is, until the 1960s, when they decided to dedicate themselves solely to service work and retail sales of plumbing parts and fixtures. In the process, they became one of the largest service-only plumbing firm in the Little Rock area. Their sales counter proves this, offering possibly the largest selection of rare and hard-to-find plumbing repair parts in the state. To this day, Associated Plumbers Inc. continues to specialize in plumbing service and remodels. It is but one of many things that sets them apart from the competition. President Ferrell Johnson says, “This is our only business and not a hobby or sideline to another trade. We only hire individuals to perform plumbing who are licensed by the State of Arkansas.” As for other reasons they are the plumbers of choice, Johnson pipes up, “We will quote you a price before we perform any work. If we don’t have a part on our truck that is needed, you do not pay extra for us to go get it. We are one of the most knowledgeable companies on plumbing parts in the area.” This alone makes a world of difference in this lagging economy. Perhaps the ultimate testament to their expertise is that other professionals in the field look to them for help. Says Johnson, “Other plumbers call us for information on how to repair faucets and fixtures and/or purchase their parts from us. They also recommend us when they are unable or unwilling to perform the work requested by a client.” He adds, “We belong to multiple plumbing associations for ongoing technical and safety training, unlike some companies in the area who offer no training at all. For the Do-It-Yourselfers we sell plumbing repair parts over the counter.” Customers would do well to heed this warning on the comlrafb 50th & HILLCREST • 2009 50 3 4HEIGHTS

pany’s web site: “Don’t fall into the trap of hiring a plumbing company that is able to offer a cheaper price because they operate without a license, don’t obtain the required permits, or carry adequate insurance. Associated Plumbers, Inc. is a licensed contractor and pulls municipal and state permits as

required. Associated Plumbers, Inc. is insured for Workers Compensation and for liability insurance.” Associated Plumbers has always been one of Central Arkansas’ most admired and trusted plumbing firms, and the quality of workmanship they bring to projects both large and small has created a loyal clientele base. Customers can rest easy knowing that that they’re working with a long-established company interested only in doing the best job possible. AssociAted Plumbers inc. 3509 W 12th st little rock, Ar 72204 (501) 666-9483 • www.associatedplumbers.com

Building successful restaurants One grill at a time

oug Green doesn’t want the spotlight, but at 6’5”, he easily takes center stage as he walks through the dining room of his restaurant, the Buffalo Grill on Rebsamen Park Road in the Riverdale area just east of the Heights. He also owns the Buffalo Grill on Bowman Curve in west Little Rock. Others, however, may know him better as the Canon Grill’s proprietor. Green became a restaurateur quite by accident. He was studying psychology and biology at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock when he went to work at the nearby Cajun’s Wharf. It was there that he met his future business partner, John Gaiser, and the rest, so to speak, is history. Richard Harrison would soon join forces with them. Harrison’s family owned Cheers in the Heights, and he wanted to open a funky hamburger joint like the one he had eaten

at on a recent trip to Austen. He opened the Buffalo Grill in 1981. It was about three years later when Green went to work for Gaiser, then one of the restaurant’s owners. “It was a means to support myself while I was going to school but it gets in your blood. I enjoy the fast pace and you can make good money,” Green says. It’s not a job for the timid, “It’s a pressure cooker and you learn quickly to talk to people.” In 1988, with Green as a minority shareholder, Gaiser and Green opened the Buffalo Grill West. It was at that point that Green says he almost “sacrificed it all” for the restaurant’s success. He believes in playing hard but only after a hard day’s work, although at that point in his life there was little time to play. “John and I worked hard, day and night to grow the business,” he says. His only diversion was a daily workout at the Little Rock Athletic Club. Four years later, Green was the sole owner

of the original Buffalo Grill in Riverdale and in 1998, he bought Canon Grill. Even today, their burgers remain the favorite at the Buffalo Grill, while customers are more likely to order chicken quesadillas at Canon Grill. “I paid my dues, and things just fell into place,” but not before Green found a handful of great and trusted employees, who he says have been the “foundation of my business.” He credits his Canon Grill manager Cole Treece, Buffalo Grill West manager Louis Heard and the original Buffalo Grill’s managers Christa Belote and Conley Cox with his success. His sister Mona Hasler keeps the lights on, pays the bills and the employees. “She’s dependable and a large part of my success,” he says. Without good managers, who keep his 130 employees in line, Green says he wouldn’t have been able to succeed in the restaurant business. “I couldn’t have done it by myself.”

Doug Green and staff at Cañon Grill in Hillcrest HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

BARBECUE CROSS-EYED PIG Huge portions of marvelous barbecue, including amazingly tender pulled-pork; lean-and-meaty, fall-off-the-bone ribs; and crusty-brown, juicy half-chickens. 1701 Rebsamen Park Rd. Full bar. CC $$ 265-0000 LD Mon.-Sat. WHOLE HOG CAFE The pulledpork shoulder is a classic, the back ribs are worthy of their many blue ribbons, served with a six-pack of orsauces hungry Heights andbeef Hillcrest for all tastes. The brisket is fine and cooked thebeen way several Texans residents there have like it.additions World and barbecue recent to state the epicurean cook-off champion. 2516 Cantrell lineup, including The Union, Zaza’s, Salut, Rd. Beer and wine. CC 664-5025 Cupcakes and more. Within the heart of LD Mon.-Sat.

DAMGOODE PIES A somewhat different Italian/pizza place, largely because of the spicy garlic white sauce that’s offered as an alternative to the traditional red sauce. Good bread, too. Delivery available. 6706 Cantrell Rd. and 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd. Beer and wine. CC $$ 664-2239 LD daily. PIZZA CAFÉ Thin, crunchy pizza

Coffee to haute cuisine

For a blast from the past approach to Tex-Mex, this is it. You definitely won’t leave hungry. Serving Heights and Hillcrest customers for over 60 years. 5805 Kavanaugh Blvd. Bear and wine. CC $$$ 663-9956 LD Tues.-Sat. CANON GRILL Pronounce it canyon grill, and order the creative and tasty appetizers or from the varied main

Little Rock, there are fancy Euro-American, down-home and American, Tex-Mex, MexEUROPEAN/ETHNIC Mex, Japanese, Vietnamese, Chinese, Italian CAFE BOSSA NOVA A South and Greek restaurants — many are within American approach to sandwiches, andresidents’ desserts, all quite good, walking salads distance homes. wellofasrestaurants an array of refreshing teas Here’s aaslist that sit along and coffees. 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd., a stretch of Cantrell Road. from the 2000 Suite 105. Beer and wine. CC $$ block, below Hillcrest, to the 6000 block, 614-6682 LD Tues.-Sun. south of Cammack Village. CIAO BACI The focus is on fine dining in this casually elegant Hill-

AMERCIAN crest bungalow, and many come for

This Hillcrest restaurant serves up tasty fish dishes and more. ACADIA A jewel of a restaurant Hillcrest. the comfortable lounge in that serves specialty 2 a.m. nightly. Wonderful soups drinks and fishuntil dishes. Extensive N. Beechwood St. Full get bar.three CC restaurant has a new look to go with great fish is special. 2300 Cottondale Lane. Full wine list.605 On Mondays and Tuesday $$$ 603-0238 D Mon.-Sat. gumbo and oysters Bienville, and other bar. CC $$-$$$ 663-2677 L D Mon.-Sat. courses for the fixed price of $23.50. It’s a LEO’S GREEK CASTLE WonThe deck at Acadia is a great place to meet neighbors for a drink or to enjoy a great meal. options like fine steaks. All served with BUFFALO GRILL Great, crispy-off-thebargain. 3000 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. derful Mediterranean food—gyros somelist. ofGreat the best nightly in griddle cheeseburgers, hand-cut steaks and CC $$-$$$ 603-9630 D Mon.-Sat. course white cheeseentertainment dip. 2811 or platters, falafel and tabouleh—plus with just a dab of tomato sauce but plenty town. 2400 Cantrell Road. Full bar. CC homemade fries star at this family-friendly BOULEVARD BREAD CO. The prize Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC $$ 664dependable hamburgers, ham sandwiches, of chunks of good stuff, and topped off $$-$$$ 375-5351 D Mon.-Sat. Enjoy Riverdale restaurantand with 2068 of the Heights: Freshand bread pastries, LD Mon.-Sat. steak platters BLTs.and 2925 Kavanaugh stop. with gooeythe cheese. Draft beer—frosty CHEERS Offers good and sandits spacious deckappealing for lunchon orthe dinner. 1611 CASA MANANA Great burgers guacamole Blvd. No alcohol or CC.meats, $-$$ 666-7414 grenerous—is open-air a wide selection of cheeses, side and garlic beans, superlative chips and BLD Mon.-Sat. deck. 1517 Rebsamen Parkbar. Rd. Beer and wiches, vegetarian offerings and salads at Rebsamen Park Road. Full 296-9535 dishes, frozen and canned gourmet foods— salsa (redand andfish green) and aand broad selec- steaks 666-5403 LD daily. lunch, specials delicious CCwine. $-$$ CC LD$$ daily. all superb. Great coffee, too. 1920 N. Grant tion seafood, a deck out PIZZA D’ACTION Some of theFamous best in of thefresh evening. Thisplus Heights restaurant is BURGE’S TURKEYS AND HAMS St. $-$$ ITALIAN 663-5951 BLD Mon.-Sat. back. 6820 Cantrell Rd. Full bar. CC $$ BENE VITA Simple pastas and great pizza in town, a marriage of thin, crispy intimate and with a nice wine list. 2010 N. for its smoked turkey and hams, but also BRAVE NEW RESTAURANT The food’s 280-9888 BLD daily. sauces star, but the artfully constructed crust with a hefty ingredient load. Also, Van Buren St. Full bar. CC $$-$$$ 663fried and catfish andpasta, homemade great, portions large veal and prices LA HACIENDA Creative, fresh-tastbruschetta, dishes reasonable. and lovely fish offers goodtasty appetizers salads, sandLD and Mon.-Sat. pies.and 5620 R plate St. No alcohol. CCW.$$ ing5937 Diners can the open andtoo. fried entrees traditional favorites, are look also into alluring. Greatkitchen desserts, wiches killer lunches. 2919 KAVANAUGH LDSt.Mon.-Sat. watch the3701 culinary work slicing, allCUPCAKES painstakinglyON prepared in a festiveOffering Oldgeniuses CantrellatRd. Full bar. CC 666-1660 Markham Full bar. CC $$ 666-5403 Great taco salad, nachos $$-$$$ 666-8482 BLDfun, L Mon.-Fri., D daily. WHARF The venerable seafood atmosphere. a bevy of tempting, tasty cupcakes, designed dicing and sauteeing. It’s great and the D CAJUN’S Mon.-Sat. CAFÉ PREGO Dependable entrees of pasta, pork coupled with great sauces,

U.S. PIZZA Crispy thin-crust pizzas, frosty beers and heaping salads drowned in creamy dressing. Multiple locations:

and maybe the best fajitas around. 3024 Cantrell Rd. Full bar. CC $-$$ 661-0600 LD daily.

Burge’s, a popular fixture in the Heights since 1977 70

HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2007

urge’s rich smoked meats get a lot of attention, but they aren’t the whole story.

The Heights’ institution — which has called 5620 “R” St. home since 1977 — is a family business that traces its beginnings to a backyard in Lewisville in South Arkansas. That’s where Alden Burge started smoking turkeys nearly 57 years ago. In 1962, he opened Burge’s at the intersection of state Hwys. 29 and 82, about 30 miles from Texarkana. His wife, Margaret, and their three children helped make Burge’s a success, with smoked meats, barbecue, burgers and peppermint ice cream. In 1977, he opened the doors to his Heights location, and the rest is tasty Heights history. Many of its customers eat at

52 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

the restaurant or buy from the shop as many as two or three times a week. The family business also benefits from the service of longtime employees. For instance, 24-year-employee Louise Henderson (called Momma by those who know her) still makes their famous Smoked Turkey Salad fresh each day. And, like the Burges, her children, Audra and Willie, have worked at Burge’s for more than a decade. Burge’s has expanded into a successful mail order business, great for holiday orders. For more information, call 666-1660 or go to www.smokedturkeys.com.

What’s behind the Red Door?

hile Bene Vita proved to be one of Little Rock’s most successful restaurants, owner and executive chef Mark Abernathy decided to lock the front doors one final time in midSeptember.

Another important ingredient, Abernathy says, is “I want the Red Door to be a fun and lively place. A place to come after work.” When reopened, the redesigned space will double the size of the bar area and a huge blackboard will be loaded with the nightly specials.

But Abernathy fans don’t despair, with a little interior hocus-pocus and new menu, the restaurant at 3701 Cantrell Road will reopen in early October as the Red Door. “It’s going to feature modern American cuisine,” he says.Abernathy collaborated with young chef John Leonardis, formerly of Imagine A Restaurant. They have created some tasty new dishes for the restaurant, and Abernathy will keep “some of the greatest hits” of Bene Vita and Blue Mesa Grill, a restaurant he operated years ago in West Little Rock. “Look for dishes like braised short ribs, cheese grits and two or three fresh seafood specials every night,” he says. It additional to entree-sized portions, look for smaller offerings, and dishes that Soon to open, this Riverdale restaurant will offer modern American cuisine. feature local growers.

Try the Freshest. Open Seven DayS a Week 1900 n. Grant n HeiGHtS (501) 663-8999

Enjoy eclectic New American cuisine in one of Little Rock’s most romantic restaurants. Home of Arkansas’ most diverse award winning wine list.

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The Heights Premiere Wine Bar! 5713 Kavanaugh Located In the Heights (501) 663-WINE(9463) Mon – Wed 4-10 p.m. | Thurs 4-11 p.m. 4 p.m.-midnight Fri& Sat Beer & light menu available

3000 Kavanaugh Located in Hillcrest area 603-9630 Mon-Sat 5:30-10 Mon - Tues - 23.50 for your choice of three courses Wed - Thurs - 20% off all wine by the bottle Fri - Sat - Martini Happy Hour 5:30 - 7:30 - $2.00 off

2004-2009

www.acadiahillcrest.com HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Best Margarita in Little Rock Delicious Mexican, Southwestern and Tex-Mex entrees

2811 Kavanaugh Blvd.

664-2068

Mon - Sat 11am - 10pm

to celebrate any occasion or to satisfy the tiniest of cravings. 5625 Kavanaugh Blvd. No alcohol. $-$$$ (for special orders) 6642253 Mon.–Sat. DIXIE CAFE Abundant inexpensive vegetable choices that are wholesome and satisfying, with meats and fresh rolls to match. 1301 Rebsamen Park Road. Beer and wine. CC $-$$ 663-9336 LD daily. FADED ROSE The Cajun-inspired menu seldom disappoints. Steaks and soaked salads are legendary. Multiple locations, including the original at 1619 Rebsamen Park Road. Full bar. CC $$-$$$ 663-9734 LD daily. FERNEAU Great seafood, among other things, is served at the Ice House Revival in Hillcrest. 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC $$$ 603-9208 D Tue.-Sat. HAAGEN DASZ ICE CREAM SHOP Looking to satisfy a sweet tooth? This shop has a yummy, flavorful answer. 5911 “R” St. 664-7888 Open daily. JIMMY’S SERIOUS SANDWICHES Consistently fine sandwiches, side orders and desserts. Chicken salad’s among the best in town. Get there early for lunch. 5116 W. Markham St. No alcohol or CC. $ 666-3354 L Mon.-Sat. LOCA LUNA Grilled meats, seafood and pasta dishes that never stray far from its

country roots, whether Italian, Spanish or Arkie. “Gourmet plate lunches” are good, as is Sunday brunch. 3519 Old Cantrell Road. Full bar. CC $$-$$$ 663-4666 LD daily. OYSTER BAR Gumbo, red beans and rice, peel-and-eat shrimp, oysters on the half shell. Good po’ boys. 3003 W. Markham St. Beer and wine. CC $-$$ 666-7100 LD Mon.-Sat. SALUT BISTRO A New Orleans style restaurant serving comfort food with a French flare. For a tasty treat consider the country shrimp and grits, rosemary barbeque shrimp or the cob salad. 1501 N. University, Ave. (ground floor of Prospect Building). Full bar. CC $$-$$$ 660-4200 LD Wed.-Sun. SATELLITE COFFEE CO. AND CAFE This Heights sleek, hip coffee shop offers fresh breads and fruits all day. Sandwiches are trendy and good. Kavanaugh and University. CC $$-$$$ 663-6336 BL daily. SCALLION’S Reliably good food, great desserts, pleasant atmosphere, able servers—a solid lunch spot. 5110 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC $-$$ 666-6468 L Mon.-Sat. SO RESTAURANT BAR A Charming upscale restaurant and bar located in the Hillcrest neighborhood. Featuring offerings

Where FrIeS AIN'T JUST A SIDe. open 7 days a week happy hour 3-6 M-F 1611 Rebsamen • (501) 296-9535 400 n. bowman • (501) 224-0012 54 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

For fresh Chinese cuisine try Fantastic China

that range from salads and sandwiches to a four-course meal featuring seafood specialties. Large deck for al fresco dining and brunch on Sunday. 3610 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC $$-$$$ 663-1464 LD Sat.-Sun. THE UNION Enjoy tasty tapas and cocktails in this restaurant’s friendly, casual Riverdale setting. 3421 Cantrell Road. Full bar. CC $$ 661-8311 Open daily. TOWN PUMP Daily soup specials at lunch and a juicy burger, plus basic bar food. 1321 Rebsamen Park Road. Beer and wine. No CC $-$$ 663-9802 LD Mon.-Sat. VIEUX CARRE A la New Orleans’ French Quarter, Vieux Carre eats range from Cajun and Creole to French, Italian, Southwest and just plain Southern. Come hungry. Don’t forget to save room for the chocolate creme brulee. Great Sunday jazz

brunch. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC $$-$$$ 663-1196 LD Mon.-Sat.

ASIAN

FANTASTIC CHINA The food is fresh and delicious, the presentation beautiful, the menu distinctive and the service perfect. 1900 N. Grant St. Full bar. CC $ 663-8999 LD daily. FORBIDDEN CITY The Park Plaza Mall staple has fast, friendly service, offering up good lo mein at lunch, and Cantonese and Hunan dishes. Markham and University. Full bar. CC $ 663-9099 LD daily. HUNAN BALCONY The owner of New Fun Ree has combined forces with the Dragon China folks to create formidable offerings on buffet and menu items. 2817 Cantrell Road. No alcohol. CC $-$$ 6668889 LD daily.

NEW FUN REE Reliable staples, plenty of hot and spicy options and dependable delivery. 418 W. 7th St. No alcohol. CC $ 664-6657 LD Mon.-Sat. SAIGON CUISINE Traditional Vietnamese entrees with Thai and Chinese selections. Be sure to try the authentic and delicious pho soups and an extra thumps up for the spring rolls. 6805 Cantrell Road. Beer and wine. CC $$ 663-4000 LD Tues.-Sun. SHOGUN JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE The chefs will dazzle you, as will the variety of tasty stir-fry combinations and the sushi bar. Usually crowded at night. 2815 Cantrell Road. Full bar. CC $$-$$$ 666-7070 LD daily. SUSHI CAFE Impressive, upscale sushi menu with other delectable house specialties like tuna tataki, fried soft shell crab, Kobe beef and, believe it or not, the Toyko

U.S. PIZZA COMPANY WANTS YOU

TO TASTE ARKANSAS’ BEST Pizza sandwiches HillcREST lOcATiON!

2710 Kavanaugh liTTle ROcK cHEcK OUT OUR GREAT NEW PARTY ROOM!

salads LittLe Rock 5524 Kavanaugh • 664-7071 2710 Kavanaugh • 663-2198 9300 N. Rodney Parham • 224-6300 7620 Baseline Rd • 562-0734 3307 Fair Park Blvd. • 535-6580 NoRth LittLe Rock 3324 Pike • 758-5997 4001 McCain Park • 753-2900 5524 JFK • 975-5524 MauMeLLe 650 Edgewood Dr. • 851-0880 coNway 710 Front Street • 501-450-9700 FayetteviLLe 202 W. Dickson • 479-582-4808 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

cowboy burger. 5823 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$ 663-9888 LD Mon.-Fri. D Sat.-Sun.

BARBECUE CROSS-EYED PIG Huge portions of marvelous barbecue, including amazingly tender pulled-pork; leanand-meaty, fall-off-the-bone ribs; and crusty-brown, juicy half-chickens. 1701 Rebsamen Park Road. Full bar. CC $$ 265-0000 LD Mon.-Fri. WHOLE HOG CAFE The pulled-pork shoulder is a classic, the back ribs are worthy of their many blue ribbons, served with a six-pack of sauces for all tastes. The beef brisket is fine and cooked the way Texans like it. World and state barbecue cook-off champion. 2516 Cantrell Road. Beer and wine. CC 664-5025 LD Mon.-Sat.

EUROPEAN/ETHNIC

For a change of taste, try Faded Rose in Riverdale

CAFE BOSSANOVAASouthAmerican approach to sandwiches, salads and desserts, all quite good, as well as an array of refreshing teas and coffees. Great brunch on Sunday. 2701 Kavanaugh

A diversion is just around the corner 2611 Kavanaugh Blvd. Ste. 200 little RocK 56 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST â&#x20AC;˘ 2009

dedicated wine room 501-374-Wine

Blvd., Suite 105. Beer and wine. CC $$ 614-6682 LD Tues.-Sat. CIAO BACI The focus is on fine dining in this casually elegant Hillcrest bungalow, and many come for the comfortable lounge that serves specialty drinks until 2 a.m. nightly. 605 N. Beechwood St. Full bar. CC $$$ 603-0238 D Mon.-Sat. LEO’S GREEK CASTLE Wonderful Mediterranean food — gyros or platters, falafel and tabouleh — plus dependable hamburgers, ham sandwiches, steak platters and BLTs. Great breakfast spot. 2925 Kavanaugh Blvd. No alcohol or CC. $-$$ 666-7414 BLD Mon.-Sat.

ITALIAN

RED DOOR American cuisine, including favorites from late great “Bene Vita” and “Blue Mesa.” 3701 Old Cantrell Road. Full bar. CC $$-$$$ 666-8482 DAMGOODE PIES A somewhat different Italian/pizza place, largely because of the spicy garlic white sauce that’s offered as an alternative to the traditional red sauce. Good bread, too. Delivery available. 6706 Cantrell Road. and 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd. Beer and wine. CC $$ 664-2239 LD Open daily. OW PIZZA Formerly part of the “Olde World” trio of restaurants, OW serves up good pizzas in a variety of ways, big salads with homemade dressings, and various pasta dishes and yummy appetizer breads. 1706 W. Third St. Beer and wine. CC 374-5504 LD Mon.-Fri. PIZZA CAFE Thin, crunchy pizza with just a dab of tomato sauce but plenty of chunks of good stuff, and topped off with gooey cheese. Draft beer — in a big frosty mug — is appealing on the open-air deck. 1517 Rebsamen Park Road. Beer and wine. CC $$ 664-6133 LD Open daily. PIZZA D’ACTION Some of the best

pizza in town, a marriage of thin, crispy crust with a hefty ingredient load. Also, good appetizers and salads, pasta, sandwiches and killer plate lunches. 2919 W. Markham St. Full bar. CC $$ 666-5403 LD Open daily. U.S. PIZZA Crispy thin-crust pizzas, frosty beers and heaping salads drowned in creamy dressing. Multiple locations: 2710 Kavanaugh Blvd., 663-2198 and 5524 Kavanaugh Blvd. Beer and wine. CC $-$$ 664-7071 LD Open daily. Za Za For those looking for fresh, locally grown ingredients in their salads or on their pizzas, this Heights restaurant is the answer. Also serves a delicious handmade authentic gelato and other desserts. 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd. Beer and wine. $$ 6619292 LD Mon.-Sat.

MEXICAN

BROWNING’S MEXICAN FOOD/ CORDELL’S CATERING For a yummy blast from the past approach to Tex-Mex, this is it. You definitely won’t leave hungry. 5805 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full. CC $-$$ 6639956 BLD Mon.-Sat. CANON GRILL Pronounce it canyon grill, and order the creative and tasty appetizers or from the varied mostly Mexican entrees. 2811 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC $$ 664-2068 LD Mon.-Sat. CASA MANANA Great guacamole and garlic beans, superlative chips and salsa (red and green) and a wide selection of seafood, plus outdoor dining. Breakfast served on the weekend. 6820 Cantrell Road. Full bar. CC $$ 280-9888 LD daily. LA HACIENDA Creative, fresh-tasting entrees and traditional favorites, all painstakingly prepared in a festive atmosphere. Great taco salad, nachos and maybe the best fajitas around. 3024 Cantrell Road. Full bar. CC $-$$ 661-0600 LD daily.

New! • Grilled Mahi Mahi Salad • Grilled Shrimp

Catfish • Po’boys Gumbo • Shrimp 3003 W. Markham Little Rock, AR 72205

Mon-Thur 11am-9:30pm • Fri 11am-10:30pm • Sat noon-10pm

www.lroysterbar.com (501) 666-7100

In the early 1900s, my grandparents sailed from Sicily with a secret and magical recipe for homemade pizza.

Not!

But it is magical! PIZZA CAFE

1517 Rebsamen Park Rd • (501) 664-6133 11-10 Seven Days a Week Old School, slow-cooked in a real oven with the best ingredients.

Richard V. Harrison, proprietor

pc HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

he annual HarvestFest,

which celebrated its 14th year on September

26, raised money for the Centers for Youth and Families and the Francis A. Allen School for Exceptional Children. It did so by showing people a good time. The festival included street vendors and a chili cook-off, music and a fashion show by star designer Korto Momolu. The See, Kevin Kerby and Battery and the American Princes performed, and a “Hot Wheels” antique car and hot rod show debuted. The festival is a way to “strengthen the neighborhood, honor the businesses and build friendships,” said co-chair Penny Rudder, who owns the online business Natural Foods Cooking.

58 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

Retirement Looks Good From Here New Entrance Fee Options!

Breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, deluxe modern amenities and more – the luxurious high-rise residences of Woodland Heights take retirement living to a whole new level. Tucked away in the serenity of nature yet only minutes from the bustle of the city, you’ll love life from our point of view. Gated Community • 24 Hour Security 8 Floor Plans • Small Pets Welcome Weekly Housekeeping Service Transportation Available Complimentary Laundry Facilities Indoor Heated Pool & Hot Tub Beauty Salon/ Barber Shop Library • On Site Storage • Much More!

Close to three of the area’s best medical facilities

woodland heights

8700 Riley Dr. • Little Rock • 501.224.4242 • woodlandheightsllc.com

HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009

60 HEIGHTS & HILLCREST • 2009