AY Magazine - September 2013 by AY Magazine

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contents SE P TE MBE R 2 0 13

features 42

21 FASHION FowarD You will “ooh and ahh” as you peruse the pages of this feature, which highlights the latest in fine jewels, autumn’s makeup trends and apparel that will have you looking for a place to go strut your stuff.

59 NWA: The Place to be Northwest Arkansas is one of the state’s most popular destinations, especially this time of year, and we’ve got the details, from the 75th anniversary of the Razorbacks’ stadium to Chefs in the Garden, the story behind the movie“Greater”and our most recent visit to the region.

83 CHEFS TAKE CENTER STAGE Arkansans appreciate good food; whether its fare served in wax paper and on paper plates or gourmet dishes served on china, we have an abundance of culinary genius. Two of the Capital City’s finest chefs gained due recognition this year as their talents afforded them time in the national spotlight.

99 JONESBORO BBQ FEST Kansas City-style BBQ, family fun and lively music — including a concert with Lee Brice — are just a few highlights of this year’s event. “like”us on facebook @AY Magazine

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add us on google + @AY Magazine

departments 08 10 12 16 18 40 112 n

interests

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Editor’s Letter Reaction / What’s Happening Agenda People / Buddy Villines SKINsights by Sheryl People / Paige Rystrom Final Thoughts

My Opinion Whether You Like It or Not Tales From The South Art Scene: Arts & Entertainment Guide Murder Mystery: Mothers Who Kill

dwell

34 All Through Your House 37 P. Allen Smith: Canning 101 42 Home: Monticello’s Coleman B&B follow us on twitter @ayisaboutyou

excursion

70 Northwest Arkansas n

74 76 77 86 88 n

nourish Spotlight: Petra Café, Fayetteville Notables: Sushi House, Bentonville Servings Create: Cooking with Beer Pamela’s Palate: Best Chicken Wings

about you

101 Living: Rebecca Ward’s Book 104 Health: Cancer Profiles

ON THE COVER Cover art by Ashlee Nobel based on concept from Shindig Paperie; photo credits within stories.

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contributors

Lisa Lakey Lisa Lakey is a freelance writer living in Benton, Arkansas. In addition to her work with AY, she is a regular contributor to other local publications, including Savvy Kids and the U of A Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension. When Lakey isn’t typing away at her laptop, she enjoys spending time with her husband Josh and their two children, Ella and Max.

SEPTEMBER 2013 | Volume XXVI | ISSUE 5 | aymag.coM Publisher • Scott Harrell EDITOR Angela E. Thomas • athomas@aymag.com ASSociate Editor Stacey Bowers • sbowers@aymag.com CREATIVE director/staff photographer Ashlee Nobel • anobel@aymag.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jessica Miles • jmiles@aymag.com

REBECCA WARD Rebecca Ward is a clinical social worker in private practice in Little Rock, Arkansas. She is the author of the book How To Stay Married Without Going Crazy (Rainbow Books, Inc. 2000, 2013) and has been the on-air resident therapist for “Good Morning Arkansas” on the ABC affiliate KATV since its beginning. Along with her full-time private practice, she is an in-demand speaker.She looks forward to an interactive relationship with AY readers who can contact her at rfw@ aristotle.net for questions and/or subjects they would like to know more about.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER/staff photographer Sara Edwards Neal • sneal@aymag.com SOCIAL MEDIA AND Circulation Manager Gabrielle Gero • ggero@aymag.com Office administrator Brittney Miller • admin@aymag.com Account Executives Laura Davis • ldavis@aymag.com Tonya Higginbotham • thigginbotham@aymag.com Joy Livers • jlivers@aymag.com Jane Phillips • jphillips@aymag.com Bethany Robinson • brobinson@aymag.com Alice Strange • astrange@aymag.com BRANSON Account Executive Linda Burlingame • lindaaymag@aol.com

Janet Warlick Janet Warlick of Camera Work Photography is a commercial photographer based in Little Rock who began her career as a photojournalist for the Associated Press and Arkansas Democrat. She expanded those skills to include all aspects of photography and especially enjoys shooting architectural and editorial assignments. Her work has appeared in national and regional publications such as Southern Accents, Inc. Magazine, This Old House, Sailing World and many others.

CONTRIBUTORS Nate Allen, Faith Anaya, Amy Bowers, Steve Bowman, Steve Brawner, Shelby Brewer, Roby Brock, Jill Conner Browne, Cindy Conger, Tracy Courage, Jennifer Ellis, Lisa Lakey, Rhonda Owen, Sheryl Porter, Sonny Rhodes, Joe David Rice, April Robertson, P. Allen Smith, Pamela Smith, Jodie Spears and Rebecca Ward.

Vowell, Inc. CEO • Vicki Vowell

P. ALLEN SMITH P. Allen Smith is an award-winning designer, gardening and lifestyle expert. He is the host of two public television programs, “P. Allen Smith’s Garden Home,” “P. Allen Smith’s Garden to Table” and the syndicated 30-minute show “P. Allen Smith Gardens.” Smith is the author of the bestselling Garden Home series of books, including the latest, P. Allen Smith’s Seasonal Recipes from the Garden. His radio show can be heard every Saturday morning on KARN 102.9.

AY Magazine is published monthly, Volume XXVI, Issue 5 AY Magazine (ISSN 2162-7754) is published monthly by Vowell, Inc., 910 W. 2nd St., Suite 200, Little Rock, AR 72201. Periodicals postage paid at Little Rock, AR and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to AY Magazine, 910 W. 2nd St., Suite 200, Little Rock, AR 72201. Subscription Inquiries: Subscription rate is $15 for one year (12 issues). Single issues are available upon request for $5. For subscriptions, inquiries or address changes, call 501-244-9700. The contents of AY are copyrighted, and material contained herein may not be copied or reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. Articles in AY should not be considered specific advice, as individual circumstances vary. Products and services advertised in the magazine are not necessarily endorsed by AY.

Please recycle this magazine. 6 . september 2013

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editor’s letter

Write the Editor: athomas@aymag.com

eptember: the month when moms revel in their once-again peaceful, clean homes; the month of the last official “summer” holiday; the month when tailgating and Hog calls begin their ascent to a fever pitch; the month during which we begin to exchange our summer wardrobes for the new trends of fall; and the month during which we celebrate Grandparents Day (Sept. 8). September also marks other commemorations, such as Prostate Cancer Awareness, Ovarian Cancer Awareness and Childhood Cancer Awareness. This month, we introduce you to three Arkansans who have and are battling these cancers; you’ll fall in love with Mollie — just as I did — and you’ll marvel at the strength of these overcomers. As September marks the start of football season — and the start of new projects carried out by football widows (including me) everywhere — we take you on a jaunt to northwest Arkansas. AY staffers Stacey Bowers, Sara Edwards Neal and Ashlee Nobel, along with photographer Janet Warlick, shopped, stayed, played and enjoyed the folks, fun and fare that make this corner of our state so popular. Read about their adventure as well as the Broyles-Bielema connection in our northwest Arkansas section. Looking to take in a bit of culture or enjoy a night out on the town? Check out our Top 10 events on pg. 12 as well as the 2013 Arts and Entertainment Guide. September also marks National Hunger Action Month — Sept. 5 is National Hunger Action Day — and the Arkansas FoodBank has a month of activities planned to promote awareness via the color orange, including: an Orange Party at Murray Park; Drink Orange — several restaurants will serve orange cocktails; and Two Rivers Bridge and Big Dam Bridge will shine orange during the month. Their “Cans” Film Festival will feature three films addressing food insecurity; admission is — you guessed it — canned goods. For more information about hunger in our state, see our August story “Because No One Should Be Hungry,” available online at aymag.com, and for more information Hunt Jackson about Hunger Action Day, log onto arkansasfoodbank.org and click on the calendar. You can also log onto ricedepot. org to find volunteer opportunties at Arkansas Rice Depot, one of the state’s independent foodbanks. Get out and do something for others … you’ll be glad you did.

“… September days are here, with summer’s best of weather and autumn’s best of cheer …” -Helen

Angela E. Thomas, EDITOR

AY ’s Mission AY is about you; real stories, real people, real issues, real life ... dedicated to helping you live your best life. AY is the definitive resource on culture and entertainment, home and garden, health and shopping ... everything to make the most out of living in and around Arkansas. And with our refreshing humor and insight, AY is a pretty, good read.

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REACTION out of this world

darn good delta

Thank you so much for the wonderful article [the June 2013 “All Through Your House”] on my Eureka Springs place. I was in Little Rock, Ark., recently for “Avenue Q” at The Rep, and lo and behold, I came across your magazine and the article on one of the local art galleries. I was delighted! Again, thank you.

I … received the August issue of AY Magazine and it features one of the best [articles] I have read about the Delta. If I didn’t live here, I would sure come to visit. Thanks, AY, for telling others the things we already know. I say go out and get a copy of the magazine — it is a keeper.

John Marrs, owner John Phifer Marrs Dallas, Texas

loving parents go through every day! I look back at my children, and now my grandchildren, and am grateful that they might not have exactly what they want, but they have good meals with lots of fruit and veggies. Hunger is my big crusade. I try to support our local food bank, and my church has a big outreach program. Without nourishment you simply cannot grow physically, mentally and emotionally. Pray for answers.

Paula Miles, assistant director Arkansas State University Heritage Sites Jonesboro, Arkansas

A higher calling Thank you for a great story on higher education [“Double Up,” in the August 2013 issue], and thank you for including me. The whole issue looked good. Rex Nelson, president Arkansas’ Independent Colleges & Universities North Little Rock, Arkansas

Sandy Sutton, owner Sandy Sutton Interior Spaces, LLC Hot Springs, Arkansas

AY Magazine’s sister publication, Talk Business Arkansas, has an interesting article on the Delta in its [July/August 2013 issue]. Also, in every issue of Talk Business Arkansas, the last page is called “Hometown Arkansas.” In the September/October issue, the “hometown” will be West Memphis. I’m very proud the region is getting some positive press.

opportunity maker We greatly appreciate AY’s support of A Work of Art, our scholarship fundraiser. The magnificent article in AY generated calls about the foundation and our week of events, and one call provided future opportunities. We thank you … we are planning the 2014 A Work of Art, so mark your calendar for July 28 through Aug. 2!

Jim Jackson, director West Memphis Tourism West Memphis, Arkansas

Thank you for forwarding a copy of [the August issue of] AY Magazine. As usual, the magazine is wonderful, and you did a great job on the higher education article. I greatly appreciate your coverage.

Champion the cause

Dr. Charles L. Welch, president Arkansas State University System Little Rock, Arkansas

I am so happy AY editor Angela E. Thomas wrote the article [“Because No One Should Be Hungry,” August 2013] and shared her memory of what many

Send your comments and suggestions to Angela E. Thomas at athomas@aymag.com.

Sterling Ingram, president Benita Porter Browning, executive director Art Porter Music Education Foundation

GIVEAWAYS ONLINE go to aymag.com and click on ‘Contests’ tab

1. Take an art trip

3. laugh it up

We’re giving away two sets of four tickets to Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, so you can take the family to a Delta cultural hot spot. Codeword: Brooks

Comedian, political commentator and satirist Bill Maher brings his stand-up to Robinson Center Music Hall on Sept. 14. The controversial comedian is sure to amuse and offend, and two AY readers will get two tickets each to the show. ENTRY DEADLINE: Sept. 7. Codeword: Bill maher

2. Renew yourself If your skin just doesn’t glow the way it used to, refresh yourself with an at-home micro peel system by Osmotics Cosmeceuticals. Three readers will win a kit, complete with a three-step skin resurfacing system. Codeword: Micro Peel

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

Become a fan of AY on Facebook, and find a new way to win prizes each month. This month, we’re treating one fan to $100 worth of delicious Yaya’s Euro Bistro. Get online, and get in the game!

“like”us on facebook @AY Magazine

add us on google + @AY Magazine

get boozy in the kitchen. In honor of game-day diversions, Faith Anaya takes a tailgating staple — beer! — and uses it to bring out food’s flavor. Check out Create on page 86, and go online to watch her whip up some sudsy snacks.

4. for facebook fans

You may also enter our contests via U.S. mail; send a postcard to AY, 910 W. Second St., Ste. 200, Little Rock, AR 72201. Be certain to use the codeword for the specific contest and include your name, address and a daytime phone number. Deadline: September 30.

FIND US ON:

this month at aymag.com



Can it! Don’t let your garden’s summer bounty spoil. Go to aymag.com, and let P. Allen Smith show you how to preserve produce for the winter using the good old-fashioned canning method.

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TOP10 TO DO

THINGS

THIS MONTH

SEPT 2013

(501) 623-4411 or oaklawn.com

An Evening with Bill Maher Little Rock

in the King Biscuit Blues Festival in Helena, Arkansas. For a full list of festivals, exhibits and musical acts, visit the Bridging the Blues website.

info@bridgingtheblues.com bridgingtheblues.com

Sept. 14. Bill Maher, political commentator and host of HBO’s “Real Time,” brings his hilarious insight to Robinson Center Music Hall for an evening of “hardhitting, side-splitting stand-up humor.”

18th Annual Arkansas Hot Air Balloon State Championship

(800) 745-3000 celebrityattractions.com

Harrison Sept. 6 through 8. If you’ve dreamed of riding in a hot air balloon, get to Harrison for this fun-filled weekend of flying. Balloon races are scheduled throughout the weekend, and Saturday night, rides will be available for $5. Stay and watch the balloons glow after the sun sets.

Little Rock

(870) 741-2659 arkansasballoonfest.com

Bark at Dark Little Rock

Cirque Éloize “Cirkopolis”

Conway

Sept. 10. C.A.R.E. for Animals’ Paws in Prison program has helped a lot of homeless pets prepare for adoption while teaching prisoners lessons key to life outside prison. This fundraiser for the program features fine dining, an auction and a sale, from 6 to 9 p.m., at the Governor’s Mansion. (870) 267-6180 careforanimals.org

Dionne Warwick Hot Springs

Sept. 12. Five-time Grammy winning singer Dionne Warwick is best known for hits like “Walk on By,” “Say a Little Prayer” and “That’s What Friends Are For.” Her repertoire of gospel, soul and R&B hits is historic. Warwick dazzles fans with a performance at Oaklawn Park. 12 . september 2013

Sept. 28. Cyclists from across the country flock to Arkansas for this annual ride over the Big Dam Bridge. The non-competitive ride, which includes 100-, 62-, 50-, 25- and 15-mile courses, spans the bridge, Little Rock and North Little Rock. Proceeds benefit the Bid Dam Bridge Foundation. Online registration is now open.

Sept. 14. Circus, dance and theatre come together in Cirque Éloize’s “Cirkopolis.” Twelve acrobats and multidisciplinary artists fight against the monotony of a dark, imposing factory-city, represented by giant gears and dark portals.

thebigdambridge100.com

(501) 450-3682 uca.edu/publicappearances

Branson, Missouri

Bridging the Blues

Big Dam Bridge 100

Arkansas Delta and Surrounding Areas

Sept. 27 through Oct. 13. Arkansas, Tennessee and Mississippi join forces for this celebration of the Delta blues. The celebration includes many cultural festivals and culminates

“Unsinkable Molly Brown”

Through December. Don’t miss meeting Molly and Carter, Titanic’s mascots — who are going into semiretirement at the end of the year — as they honor the 10 dogs on board Titanic. You’ll also enjoy the Unsinkable Molly Brown Exhibit, which closes at year’s end. It’s time for a trip to Branson and the Titanic Museum. (800) 381-7670 or titanicbranson.com

Light the Night Little Rock

Sept. 19. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night walk funds research and support for people battling cancer and is held across the country each year. Money from the event funds therapies and treatment advances for blood cancer patients. There’s no fitness requirement for this walk, so anyone can join this casual stroll to save lives. Registration for the one-mile walk starts at 5:30 p.m., and the walk begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Rivermarket Amphitheater. Online registration is now open. To find out more about how to start a team or raise funds as an individual, visit Light the Night’s website. (501) 227-6416 or lightthenight.org

Artists for Ovaries Little Rock

Sept. 20. The Arkansas Ovarian Cancer Coalition (AROVCC) celebrates its 5th annual Artists for Ovaries event, a showcase of works by local artists who graciously donate pieces for a silent auction. Last year, more than 80 works were submitted, and $20,000 was raised for the AROVCC. The funds raised at this event go straight to helping the AROVCC complete its mission to educate the public about the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer. This year’s event will be held at the Women’s City Club from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Individual tickets are $35, and couples tickets are $60; guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. arovcc@arkansasovariancancer.org arkansasovariancancer.com aymag.com . 13

interests n my op i ni on

Happy I s as happy does By Jill Conner Browne

he Year of Our Lord was 1953. I busied myself with the What this “typical American couple” did, and continue to do, that rigors of turning 1 and was thus oblivious to all of the changed MY life forever is sadly no longer “normal” or “typical,” almomentous things occurring in the world around me though it remains “perfect” and “right.” Billie Sue and Bill fell in that would ultimately change life for All — but of course, LOVE, they married for LOVE and they have maintained that LOVE most importantly — for ME. for each other for more than six decades. The Korean War ended; assorted folks developed the hydrogen In my lifetime, I have observed a fair number of lengthy marriages, bomb; DNA was discovered; Jonas Salk vaccinated himself and his and, regrettably, nearly all of those appear to me to have been Endless family against polio; Queen Elizabeth II was crowned; the Endurance Tests and/or Contests of Will. Personally, I don’t Hillary Expedition conquered Mt. Everest; PLAYthink there will be any prizes handed out for such. Come the Judgment, I reckon we’ll see (to date, BOY magazine debuted with Marilyn Monroe It just seems to me that when God went I have not been named to the Arrangements on the cover (and in the center); it made it to through all the trouble to create people Committee). 86 degrees in Anchorage, Alaska; and some with the ability to feel love for each other, It just seems to me that when God went guy named Searles sawed a 32-inch log in He musta thought it was a Pretty Good through all the trouble to create people with 86.4 seconds. Idea, and He certainly talks about loving the ability to feel love for each other, He musta It’s somewhat of a personal and subjecone another a whole, big lot in His Book. thought it was a Pretty Good Idea, and He certive matter as to which of those brought any tainly talks about loving one another a whole, big IMPROVEMENTS to our world, I suppose, but lot in His Book. He went so far as to say that it’s THE as far as I am personally concerned, THE Biggest and most important thing we can do, next to loving Him. Either He Most Important Thing That Happened in 1953 was a wedding in meant what He said or He didn’t, right? Well, this Jennings couple has Benton, Arkansas. taken Him at His Word, and that has made all the difference to ME, In 1953, high school sweethearts Billie Sue Nunn Fowler and Bill on account of I was lucky enough to happen upon and MARRY that Jennings got married, which was apparently a very wonderful thing on handsome SON of theirs, and let’s just say, one should NEVER underaccount of they have STAYED THAT WAY, happily ever after — and estimate the value of a Good Example. we are fast closing in on How That Was Such A Great Thing for ME. So, here’s to 60 HAPPY years — and counting — for Billie Sue They did all the things we think of as “normal.” College, jobs, and Bill Jennings! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for homes: check, check, check. They had the “perfect” family — one beaushowing your son what a HAPPY Marriage looks like! tiful daughter, one handsome son — and they brought them up “right.”

Jill Conner Browne is a multiple #1 New York Times® Best Seller. Her latest book FAT IS THE NEW 30: The Sweet Potato Queens’ Guide to Coping With (the crappy parts of) Life was recently published by Amazon. She is featured regularly in national and international magazines and television shows. You can learn more about “Her Royal Highness” at sweetpotatoqueens.com.

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People / Buddy Villines

Building a bridge, Literally & Figuratively By an g el a e . Th o m a s p h oto g r a g p h y b y C i n dy M o m c h i lo v

hen Buddy Villines took office as Pulaski County judge in January 1991, one of his first duties was to demolish a bridge in an unincorporated area. “It was just after a flood and the bridge had washed out. Bob Lane [who served as director, Public Works] and I went to take a look. There we found a pole about five or six inches in diameter along with a metal cable — the bridge washed out so much, they just used the cable to drag it back.” That experience prompted him to take inventory of all the bridges and to develop a plan to repair or replace the bridges as deemed necessary. In his more than two decades in office, Villines has overseen the development of more than $150 million in construction projects — projects that required the cities of Little Rock, Ark., and North Little Rock, Ark., to work together to ensure success — including The Big Dam Bridge, the world’s longest pedestrian/bicycle bridge, The Junction Bridge and the Two Rivers Park Bridge. Villines’ Given Name: Floyd G. Villines Jr. “When I was a kid, someone, said he’s such a nice child, you should call him Buddy and it stuck.” What He Loves About Building Bridges: Figuratively: “Together, we can make a difference, and making a difference is what I first set out to do.”

Buddy Villines

america’s Bridge dedicated to those who fought for freedom and worked for peace

Literally: “Bridges are one of the easiest ways to make a connection. These bridges aren’t just for vehicles. They are a place to connect, to play, to exercise … to be.” Something You May Not Have Known: Villines is the son of a Methodist minister. This isn’t his first turn at serving: Villines served in Vietnam and received the Bronze Star. What Would He Do If He Were Not Serving Pulaski County?

“I thought about engineering or business. I come from a long line of Methodist preachers. … I say I just needed a bigger pulpit.” Will He Retire? “I’ll make a decision the fall before the next election.” How He Wants to Be Remembered: “I’m just a blip on the radar. Hopefully, my passion will have made a difference in the lives of our citizens.” 16 . september 2013

Villines’ latest project is “America’s Bridge,” which will replace the aging Broadway Bridge that connects Little Rock and North Little Rock, Ark., and carries 25,000 motorists back and forth daily. “The Broadway Bridge was built in 1923 and is dedicated to WWI veterans,” he said. “Over the years, people have forgotten that. [America’s Bridge] will be dedicated to those who fought for freedom and worked for peace. We’ll also acknowledge America’s Nobel Peace Prize winners. There’s a real dynamic between freedom and peace. We want people to think about that.” The proposed bridge design includes a 16-foot pedestrian/bicycle path and pays homage to the nation’s wars, those who’ve received the Medal of Honor and recognizes the branches of the armed services as well as the reserves and National Guard.

We Would like to thank the doctors of fort smith for providing the Best looking healthcare in thefor a neW car? ASk uS ABOut OuR lOw AutO lOAn RAteS! river valley. FOllOw uS On FACeBOOk

1001 S. 21st Street • PO Box 305 • Fort Smith, AR 72902

www.rivertownfcu.org FedeRAlly inSuRed By nCuA

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Indulge / Sheryl Porter

SKIN SIGHTS

F A S H I O N F O R WA R D F O R F A L L BY SHERY L P O RTER , PHOTO G RA PHY BY CIN DY M O M CHILOV

It's time to bid summer farewell! But don't fret, my pets; there are plenty of beauty trends to fall in love with. Whether your color crush is eyes, lips or cheeks, my product picks and application tips will have you looking gorgeous come autumn. These awe-inducing shades of berry, chocolate and khaki will look great with all the fall tones and textures in your closet.

G E T T H E Look

ComPlexion

Ey es

Many people make the mistake of thinking of foundation like “wall-to-wall carpeting.” Foundation should be like a “throw rug” to your complexion, adding enhancements only where needed.

Prevent eye shadow fallout by tapping excess powder off before applying. I imagined Casey’s eyelid in thirds: I applied the darkest shadow to the two outer portions and the medium tone to the middle of the eyelid to give it more dimension. Since these powder shadows have such a creamy feel, it took minimal blending on my part.

Pro-Tool: Giorgio Armani Blender Brush, $49 — hands down the mostcoveted complexion brush in my kit!

Cheeks

LiPs

Applying lip and cheek products keeps each feature in scale and actually saves time. Bare Minerals Marvelous Moxie Lipstick in Get Ready, $18 Bare Minerals Marvelous Moxie Lipgloss in Maverick, $18

Bare Minerals READY Eye Shadow 2.0 in The Honeymoon Phase and The Top Shelf, $20 each Bare Minerals Lash Domination Mascara, $18 (my favorite mascara for fall!)

S O LV E D : Fl a w l ess Com P l e x io n

The key to a flawless look any season is a smooth, glowing, even complexion. As temperatures cool and humidity becomes a little more bearable, your skin may become less oily. Be observant to the ever-changing needs of your skin. Tinted moisturizers, BB (blemish balm) creams and CC (color correction) creams are great lightweight alternatives to traditional foundation products and can be used any time of year.

18 . september 2013

before:

Casey Carder Rockwell, deputy director, Ark. Tobacco Control

Sheryl Porter

/ Indulge

Meet sher y l

Sheryl Porter has more than 15 years experience in helping women look and feel their best. Her approach utilizes proper skincare, make-up and fashion to enhance her clients’ features and compliment their lifestyles. Sheryl’s beauty philosophy is “find what works for you” because each woman is unique in the amount of time and money she is willing to invest.

ComPlex ion It was easy to even out Debi’s complexion with Stila’s CC Stick. The green core center color-corrects redness while the high-definition formula goes on smoothly, leaving a natural-looking satin finish. Stila CC Color Correcting Stick with SPF20, $38

Ey es

Cheeks

Khaki is a great neutral shade as it plays well with fall’s fashion palette. Since Debi’s features are delicate, I used a very light hand with each step in order to enhance, not overpower, her natural beauty. This eye look is so simple to recreate: apply Khaki eye shadow all over the lid. Sweep a brown matte shadow in and above the crease. Define lashes with a touch of liner on the upper lash line and a couple of coats of black mascara.

LiPs

G E T T H E Look

As temperatures drop, your skin becomes drier and that summer glow you love fades away. Cream blush has great staying power and offers a luminous boost to the skin. Butter London Cheeky Crème Blush in Naughty Biscuit, $20 Napoleon Perdis Lip pencil in Mauve Minx, $20 DuWop Private Lipstick in Private Plum, $22

Stila Eye Shadow in Jade and Puppy, $18 each

before:

Debi Barnes, principal, DD&F Consulting

S O LV E D : F l aw l e ss C o m P l e x i on

If you notice those pesky fine lines and wrinkles, my best complexion advice is “less is more.” A dimesized amount of foundation is all you need. Stay away from complexion products that promise a “matte” finish, as the product can make skin look flat and exaggerate lines. I prefer cream-based products or products that offer a hydrated, luminous finish. Don’t forget to blend: a foundation brush will deliver a smooth, even application.

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20 . september 2013

Fall Fashion

/ Indulge

antastic F Fall Fashion

The change in season is always a great time to try a new trend in makeup, purchase accessories, add to — or start — your collection of fine jewelry and update your wardrobe in preparation for all the autumn and winter events. In the pages that follow, you’re sure to find just that special something you’ve been searching for.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILY DARRAGH SHOT ON LOCATION AT 1620 SAVOY

RESOURCE LIST PG. 30

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Belle & Blush How to get this look â&#x20AC;Ś Face: The Sensual Skin Tinted Balm, The Celestial Powder & Bronzer by Kevyn Aucoin Beauty Cheeks & Brows: Poppy Tint & Blond Brow Definer by Jouer Eyes & Lips: Trio Eyeshadow, Untitled, & Baby Balm Lipstick Amorosa by Vincent Longo All available at Belle & Blush.

22 . september 2013

Kamille Marie Black baby doll dress by Heritage Halston. Necklaces by Max Mara. Cuffs and Ring by St. John. Shoes by Gucci. Dekeata is committed to filling Kamille Marie with original pieces from local and emerging artists to known brands and designers. “I recently launched Kamille Marie On Call, a one-on-one shopping/styling experience. I am available by appointment during business hours and will travel outside of Little Rock for groups or parties. I’ve always been a fashion forward woman — my style has often been compared to Victoria Beckham — and I am ready to help you. Whether finding that one special item, putting together a new look, or even to execute an entire wardrobe makeover.”

Dekeata Walker

Owner, Kamille Marie

}

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Leslie Jewelers Mother’s jewelry Alexis Bittar designs Daughter’s jewelry Necklace and Bracelets: Designs by Raymond Mazza — citrine, smokey quartz and quartz in sterling; sideways cross in sterling and crystals.

Tiffany and Mary Chandler Mother and Daughter

24 . september 2013

{Pam and Brenna Mother and Daughter

Leslie Jewelers Mother’s jewelry Necklace: One-of-a-kind, unique design by Yanni B. containing a heart-shaped 1ct Canary diamond surrounded by .78ct white diamonds in 18K Ring: Canary and white diamonds in a unique 18K gold halo setting with trillion and brilliant cut diamonds 1.13 ct total weight Earrings: 18K white and yellow gold wide hoops set with 1.2 ct diamonds Bracelet: 1.5 ct diamond set in 18K white gold

Daughter’s jewelry Earrings: 18K white gold with 1.11 ct white and 1.91 ct black diamonds. Pendant: Black diamond pendant 0.77 ct surrounded by round black and white diamonds with a halo setting in 18K gold. Engagement Ring: Designer 18K vintage style with emerald cut, brilliant round, princess cut baguette cut and trapezoid diamonds 1.91 ct total weight. aymag.com . 25

Cecilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Fine Jewelry 18kt rose gold and sterling silver blue topaz peridot earrings. 18kt rose gold and sterling silver bracelet with blue topaz center surrounded by diamonds. Sterling silver diamond ring with rose gold accent and blue topaz center. Designed by BELLARRI.

Becky Whelan

Owner, Cecilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fine Jewelry

26 . september 2013

}

Ember Boutique Outfit produced in the USA and available at Ember. Handmade necklace with Arkansas crystals by Myrrh jewelry, local artist Michelle Rhodes. Fall is all about change. We invite you to come and see some of the thoughtful changes we have made at Ember this season. In a growing world of “fast fashion,” where styles are rapidly produced and purchased, we are doing our part to focus on how we impact our economy, our planet and our customers. For starters, we are happy to now offer a large selection of clothing that is made in the United States, as well as one-of-a-kind styles that are designed and produced on site. Additionally, we’ve minimized our packaging to reduce unnecessary waste. Lastly, this fall we will extend our size range, providing sizes 2 to 16, thus reaching even more customers and meeting their fashion needs. However, one thing that won’t change: our prices. Our merchandise, almost without exception, will remain less than $75. Shopping at Ember is now an even better experience, and we can’t wait until your next visit.

Jamie Richardson Owner, Ember Boutique

} aymag.com . 27

Lauray’s Fancy Yellow Cushion Cut Diamond Ring with 4 Carat Total Weight of Diamonds in Tri Color Gold Henri Daussi 3.35 Carat Cushion Cut Eternity Band in 18 Karat White Gold Lauray’s Mixed Yellow and White Diamond Bangles in White, Black Rhodium, Yellow and Rose Gold Michele Serein Watch with Diamond Dial and Numerals Lauray’s 8 Carat Diamond Necklace in 14 Karat White Gold Lauray’s Diamond Teardrop .86 Carat Diamond Earring in 18 Karat White Gold

Lauray’s

The Diamond center

28 . september 2013

Lauray’s The Diamond Center is located at 402 Central Ave. in downtown Hot Springs. The Fleischner family, alongside a talented staff of diamond specialists and a talented goldsmith, strive to provide an outstanding jewelry experience for the Hot Springs community. Since 1886, Lauray’s has gained a reputation for extraordinary service, exquisite bridal and custom designs, reliable repairs and southern hospitality. Lauray’s offers an extensive selection of fabulous jewels, including diamonds of all cuts, yellow diamonds, semi mountings and a wide selection of wedding bands. Lauray’s also carries designers such as Michael M., Henri Daussi, MaeVona, John Hardy, Alwand Vahan, Pandora and Michele Watches. Visit Lauray’s while strolling down Bathhouse Row or find them on Facebook, Pinterest and laurays.com.

Vogue Visage Angelina Black Cocktail Dress Yellow Lillian Jumpsuit Daring black halter cocktail dress by Angelina features plunging neckline and high-low hemline. Stunning animal-print jumpsuit by Lillian with strapless top. Accessories also available at Vogue Visage (shoes: modelsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; own).

aymag.com . 29

Indulge / Fall Fashion

FALL FASHION RESOURCES Belle & Blush

Merry Kline, Owner The Promenade at Chenal 17815 Chenal Pkwy. Ste. F-112 Little Rock, AR 72223 belleandblush.com

Modeled by: Katy Tipton

OPENING SEPTEMBER 2013! After years in the corporate world, Merry decided to take her experience combined with her love of beauty products and accessories to the next level by creating Belle & Blush. Belle & Blush specializes in beauty products, upscale accessories and small gift items. Earrings: Bounkit Blue Topaz & White Moonstone 24K Gold Plate $450; Scarf: Micky London Volcano Golden Oak Modal Scarf $110

CONTRIBUTORS Lily Darragh studied photography in New York at Parsons the New School for Design. After graduation, she apprenticed under several photographers before returning to Little Rock and opening her own business. Her favorite subjects to photograph are the people and things unique to Arkansas.

Makeup Artist for Belle & Blush

Kamille Marie

Owner Dekeata Walker mixes high-end designer fashions and moderately-priced, fashion-forward items using her impeccable sense of style to personalize every shopper’s experience — even offering one-on-one consultations.

Leslie Jewelers

Leslie Jewelers has served the community since 1935. The store is now owned by sisters, Amy Maxson and Melanie Purnell, natives of Searcy. Master Jeweler Robert Pitard continues to be an integral part of the business. Pitard provides custom design services using a state-of-theart computer studio that allows customers to visualize the final product.

4531 John F. Kennedy Blvd. North Little Rock, AR 72116 501-771-1766 kamillemarielimited.com

319 N. Spruce St. Searcy, AR 72143 501-268-2340 lesliejewelers.com

Cecil’s Fine Jewelry

10720 N. Rodney Parham Rd. Little Rock, AR 72212 501-225-5068 cecilsfinejewelry.com

Ember Boutique

5709 Kavanaugh Blvd. Little Rock, AR 72207 501-225-3220 shopemberfashion.com

Lauray’s The Diamond Center 402 Central Ave. Hot Springs, AR 71901 501-321-2441 laurays.com

Becky Whelan absolutely adores her business. As an interior designer, she spent 30 wonderful years designing spaces for her many clients. She now has the opportunity to have a business that has truly become her passion.Twelve years well spent, surrounded by gorgeous jewelry and fantastic customers.

Jamie Richardson earned a degree in fashion merchandising and certification in fashion design and illustration. She served as an assistant in Dillard’s Product Development Department and later held sales and management positions in various local boutiques. Richardson and sister-in-law Kathryn (who has since relocated) opened Ember in 2009, carrying stylish and trendsetting, yet sensible fashion. Lauray’s the Diamond center is owned by the Fleischner family, which has done business on famed Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs for more than 87 years. Mark and his wife Patti are the third generation of the family to own the jewelry store.

Modeled by: Rhonda Davis

Vogue Visage

9100 N. Rodney Parham Rd. Ste. #301 Little Rock, AR 72205 501-223-9979 vogue-visage.com

Vikita Eason, hair stylist, makeup artist and owner of Vogue Visage in Little Rock, Ark., has been in the makeup industry for a decade, initially for MAC cosmetics. The staff at the boutique provides beauty services and products and clothing to create looks from conservative to fantasy for clients of numerous ethnicities.

Modeled by: L.C. O’quin (left) and Ryann Mitchell

30 . september 2013

Aaron Perkins has been a makeup artist for nearly a decade. He has worked with celebrities, celebrity artists and pageant contestants. While an intern at Vogue Magazine, Aaron worked at New York Fashion Week. He is currently the owner of Face Your Day Studios in Argenta and serves on the board of Opera in the Rock.

Hair Stylist for Belle & Blush and Leslie Jewelers Brigitte Pipken’s passion for beauty is lifelong. This hair stylist and makeup artist is also the owner/operator of That French Salon, which has been voted “Best Salon” numerous times. Pipkin and staff love creating new looks for their clients — whether it’s complete makeovers or just a new ‘do. She also specializes in wig fittings for all types of hair loss.

Makeup Artist for Leslie Jewelers Vannette Vititow has been a makeup artist and skin care specialist for 32 years. She has studied art since the age of 6 and considers the face the ultimate canvas: “[Being a makeup artist] allows me to ‘highlight’ the beauty that God has given.” Vititow has also worked on the makeup crews of many feature films and with stars such as Holly Hunter, Kevin Bacon and Peter Fonda, to name a few.

Makeup Artists and Hair Stylists for Cecil’s Fine Jewelry, Ember Boutique, Kamille Marie, Lauray’s and Vogue Visage Vogue Visage team, back row from left: Holly Rae Van Auken, Veronica Jones-Whittington and Andrea Dobbins. Seated in front: Vikita Eason. Holly Rae Van Auken is a stylist who specializes in hair coloring and haircuts. An Arkansas native who’s been professionally doing hair sincce 1994, she’s part of a team of stylists at Vogue Visage. She takes her work very serious and is dedicated to and extremely passionate about hair. She believes a good hair cut and color can make you feel on top of the world. Veronica Jones-Whittington is a native of Pine Bluff, Arkansas. She has been a makeup artist since 2003. She started her career as a certified MAC makeup artist for four years and continued her career in the make up industry doing freelance, photo shoots and runway. Veronica has had the opportunity to work with celebrity designers such as Kevin Sanders and New York designer Michael Stallings.“Makeup is my passion,” she said. Andrea Dobbins is a new and upcoming makeup artist at Vogue Visage.

Your Last Diet 11809 Hinson Road | Little Rock, AR | 501-224-5900 | www.idealforyou.net

Call Today to Schedule Your Initial Consultation

equipped & educated 1 Get for healthy, quick weight loss. confidence & competence 1 Gain to maintain your new weight. Kimberly Pruitt, Owner/Weight Loss Consultant

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aymag.com . 31

interests n TALES F R O M T HE SO U T H

Willie Nelson Goes to Church B y

ou have to take it on faith that my dog Hank is well trained. I mean, he’s a field trial champion. But Willie Nelson … well, he’s just a leggy, know-nothing, goofy puppy. So it was a Sunday morning last fall when I was outside with my fellas. Bad dog owner that I am, I had them off the leash. We live at Eighth and Commerce Streets in downtown Little Rock, and there is a strip of green grass the next lot over. They were sniffing, peeing, tussling, rolling around and just being dogs, you know? Then this guy came walking down the street, across the street, carrying a transparent bag full of loaves, buns, scones, croissants and dinner rolls and maybe even an English muffin or two. Once the bread man got past us — across the street, mind you — Willie got interested in him and ran across the street after him. The man stopped, and Willie danced around him, jumping on him and sniffing the sack. I told Hank to sit where he was and crossed the street, apologized to the bread man and got Willie Nelson by the collar. We went back to our grass lot where Hank was waiting for us. The bread man carried on. The next corner, toward downtown, is Eighth and Rock Streets. First Lutheran

K e i t h

H a l l

Church sits on that corner. As the bread man drew near the corner, Willie Nelson again bolted and ran the length of the block on Eighth Street, angling across the pavement toward the bread guy, who was now rounding the corner onto Rock. This time he didn’t stop, and Willie kept walking with him. Honestly, I really needed to put Hank in the backyard before I took off after Willie, but I needed to move quickly, so I told Hank to “sit” in the front yard. Hank knows that “sit” means sit. I mean, he’s a solid sitter (the technical term for it is “steady”). We have spent countless hours training, which always includes some formal “sitting.” So Hank sat, and I took off after Willie and the bread man. As I was jogging up Eighth Street on this nice October Sunday morning, I noticed the doors to the church — not only the big, heavy outside doors but the ones to the sanctuary — were wide open, inviting. From outside, I could see the backs of the faithful who’d gathered there to worship. As I came to the corner, Hank bolted from my yard and ran the length of the block, out into the street, angling across and joined me on the corner. I reared back and sternly boomed “SIT,” as I whacked him hard, open handed on his rear. I looked up and realized, to my great concern, Willie and the bread man were turning onto Seventh.

Paula Morell and Jill Conner Browne 32 . september 2013

I took about five steps when a red pickup truck screeched to a halt at the corner where I had just left Hank, sitting pretty as a picture now, across from the church. The guy in the truck yelled threatening, “Hey buddy, hit that dog again.” I yelled back, “Excuse me?” “Hit that dog again, and you go to the hospital.” “Man, you don’t have any idea what’s going on here. This is a well-trained dog, and he’s my dog.” The guy yelled, “Well, it is my world, and I don’t want to see that kind of ugliness in it.” As I yelled my string of expletives back, I looked up to see them closing the sanctuary doors to the church. The guy in the truck peeled off, and I resumed my chase of Willie and the bread man, who were now out of sight. Hank just sat. I raced to Seventh Street, and when I turned the corner, to my relief I saw Willie Nelson had gotten involved with some dogs on leashes being walked my way. The bread man was a speck on the horizon, now, way the heck up Seventh and no longer of interest to any of us. The dog walkers became hip to my chase of Willie, collared him and held him until I got there. I thanked them, gathered up Willie and headed back for Hank and then home. Traffic was coming, and we couldn’t cross the street, so we walked the block on the same side as the

As an official sponsor, along with Argenta Arts Foundation, of "Tales from the South," a radio program taped each Tuesday at Starving Artist Café in North Little Rock, Ark., featuring southerners telling their own true stories, AY brings you this monthly feature of highlights from "Tales from the South." The program is broadcast Thursdays at 7 p.m. on KUAR (FM89.1) in central Arkansas. You can find it streaming online at kuar.org; or listen along with 140 million European listeners on World Radio Network Sundays at 9 a.m. at wrn.org. For more information, log onto talesfromthesouth.com.

church but across from Hank. As more cars came, I eyed Hank and prayed he didn’t dart out in front of them to cross to us. He did not. When it was our turn to cross, I stepped into the crosswalk. That’s when I looked up to see Willie running up the stairs and in through the big outside doors of the church. I figured, OK, they closed the sanctuary doors; I’ll just slip up into the foyer and get my puppy. Oh, no. That would be too easy. They had not closed the aisle doors and — to my horror — when I got to the foyer, I saw Willie Nelson prancing down the side aisle. I have no idea whether the congregation was looking at Willie or giggling at me or what, because I only had eyes for Willie Nelson. I stood at the head of the aisle, and, in my loudest stage whisper, called, “Willie. Willie. Willie Nelson.” About halfway down the aisle he stopped, startled and look around at those few good Christians scattered around that sacred space, and he spooked. Maybe he’d heard me. Maybe he’d heard The Word. Maybe he’d heard The Word and spooked. Maybe he’d heard The Word and imagined himself lolling forever on some vibrant, grassy strip with those faithful Lutherans, gorged fat on broken fishes and multiplied loaves and wasted on once-water wine. Maybe he’d heard The Word, and he did not want to be washed in the blood of any lamb. Whatever. Willie Nelson turned his back on the preacher, tucked his tail and came slinking out to me in the foyer. I grabbed him by the collar, bounced down the outside stairs and crossed the street. Hank was still sitting ever so faithfully, so I gave him the OK and released him. He and Willie Nelson danced around each other and me as we all three headed home.

There’s nothing quite like a good story

Join Us Live for Dinner and a Show Tuesday Nights @ Starving Artist Café www.talesfromthesouth.com

Keith Hall Keith Hall practices law where he lives in downtown Little Rock with his lovely wife Holly and their rambunctious Labrador retriever Freddy. Hank has gone to dog heaven, and Willie Nelson has since been adopted by another family. aymag.com . 33

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Janet Warlick . 34 SEPTEMBER 2013

dwell

Lou Anne Herget: Tickled Pink

n a l l t h r o u g h yo u r ho u se

his month, we feature the fantastically feminine pet room in the Howse home. Designed by Lou Anne Herget, who works with Little Rock, Ark-based Cobblestone & Vine, the cozy room is haven to Heather and Havilland, 3- and 4-year-old shih tzus. “I don’t have girls,” Regina Howse, homeowner said, “I’ve always wanted to have a ‘cutesy’ room. So having this room for them allows me to fulfill that desire.”

Homeowner Regina Howse with her two shih tzus, Havilland and Heather.

Smaller dog-themed details add extra character to this room and make it a perfect pooch haven.

Angelfish Studios, Little Rock, painted the floral mural and the pooches’ names on the walls, and Herget outfitted the room with a pair of wicker dog beds, dressing them with striped Dash & Albert Rug-covered cushions. Built-in cabinets hold supplies and toys, and a cubby is perfect for the television used to entertain the ladies while the lady-of-the-house is otherwise occupied.

LightING: Three-light Girly chandelier by Feiss, available at Light Innovations

HARDWARE: Dog door and cabinet knobs available at ProBuilder Supply

Other touches include a pair of “woof” and “walk me” coat hangers; bright pink Dash & Albert pillows; and a chandelier. Customize. This chandelier has been painted to match the space. Don’t be afraid to purchase pieces, even inexpensive items, and paint them. Don’t have the talent or patience? Hire a local artist to help you. Personalize. Whether it’s a bedroom or a specialty room, personalize the space with your initials or name, wall art or a mural.

beds: Wicker dog beds available at Cobblestone & Vine

PILLOWS AND RUGS: Dash & Albert, available at Cynthia East Fabrics

It’s all in the details. Add whimsy to your rooms with small items, such as these knobs; they make a big difference, especially in a small space like this.

<< Mural painted by Angelfish Studios

Items available in mentioned shops in Little Rock, AR

Repurpose. These cushions are actually outdoor rugs, which are durable, easy to clean and fadeand stain-resistant.

Lou Anne Herget

<< LOU ANNE HERGET

Licensed residential interior designer (501) 413-0894 aymag.com . 35

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dwell n p. a l l e n smit h

Pickled peppers and tomatoes

Home Canning 101 Preserve your summer bounty. By P. Allen Smith | Photography by Hortus Ltd. and Mark Fonville

anning brings back memories of working in my Aunt Genny’s kitchen “putting up” batches of tomato sauce and green beans, so I’m delighted to see the practice make a comeback. Canning your own food is a great way to extend the life of your summer bounty, and opening a jar of fresh tomato sauce or pickled cucumbers can evoke memories of warm summer days during the cold, drab winter months. Just hearing the word canning may conjure up images of scary pressure cookers and an eternity spent in the kitchen. Rest assured today’s pressure cookers and water-bath canners are safer and easier to use. If this is your first time preserving food, partner with an experienced canner, especially if you tend to “fly by the seat of your pants” when it comes to following recipes. The canning process varies depending on the food being preserved, so be sure you follow a reliable recipe.

aymag.com . 37

C a n n in g nt Eq u ip m e

View P. Allen Smith’s video at aymag.com.

p Pressure cooker for low-acid foods p Heavy, large stock pot for acidic foods p Jars with self-sealing lids p Screw bands p Canning basket or jar lifter p Oven mitts to protect your hands Canned tomatoes

te p s b a s i c s in g nn fo r c a

Processing pickled okra in a hot water bath.

1. Clean jars and lids with hot water and soap. This can

also be done in the dishwasher.

2. Sterilize jars and lids by submerging in boiling water,

right side up, for 10 minutes.

3. Keep jars hot in a pot of simmering water until ready

to fill.

4. Fill warm jars with hot food, leaving headspace as

recommended in the recipe; this allows the food to expand during processing and creates a vacuum seal.

5. Wipe the rim of the jar to clean and ensure a good

seal.

6. Tighten the screw bands just enough to secure; do

not over tighten.

7. Process in either a pressure cooker or hot water

bath, depending on the recipe.

8. Remove jars from canner, and cool. Listen for the lids

to pop, indicating a good seal. Lids should be secure on the top of the jar.

9. Store jars in a dark pantry that stays between 50 and

70 degrees Fahrenheit.

It’s a good idea to borrow equipment the first time you try canning, but I’m guessing after one try, you’ll catch the canning bug and invest in your own equipment.

38 . SEPTEMBER 2013

N N Y’S A U NT G E

SALSA

This is a great recipe for preserving the last of the summer harvest. Ingredients:

1 gallon peeled tomatoes 2 large onions, finely chopped 5 jalapeño peppers, chopped 1 red sweet pepper, chopped salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons sliced garlic Directions: Place peeled tomatoes in a large pot, and gently mash to release their juice. Bring to a boil. Add the chopped onion, jalapeños, sweet pepper, garlic, salt and pepper. Reduce heat; simmer until the salsa thickens. Transfer salsa to warm, sterile jars, seal and process in a hot water bath for 15 minutes.

e r ato r r e fr ig p ic k l e s

These refrigerator pickles are a simple alternative to canned pickles and will keep in the refrigerator one to two months. The crisp, tart flavors are delicious right out of the jar or served with sliced tomatoes. Ingredients:

My Aunt Genny taught me everything I know about canning.

2 large cucumbers, sliced 1 small onion, sliced 1 tablespoon dill, chopped 1 teaspoon peppercorns 2 cups water 1 Âź cup white vinegar 2 cups sugar 1 tablespoon salt Mason jar, half-gallon, with lid

Instructions: Combine the water, vinegar, sugar and salt in a non-reactive pot. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Remove the pan from the heat, and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Place the cucumber, onion, dill and peppercorns in the Mason jar. Pour in the vinegar mixture. Screw the lid onto the jar, and place it in the fridge. Chill for at least 24 hours before serving.

aymag.com . 39

People / Paige Rystrom

paige rystrom Furniture Lacquer by Angela E. Thomas photography by Sara Edwards Neal

Cynthia East Fabrics is known as the onestop shop for fabrics and custom drapes as well as accessories and such. Now, DIYers have two more reasons to stop by this locally-owned business: Paige Rystrom and Amy Howard at Home Furniture Lacquer. Rystrom has worked with Cynthia East Fabrics for three years. “I’m always reusing things in my house, repurposing items and changing the look. I am the mother of four daughters, and we’re constantly trading accessories and other items,” she said. So Howard’s theme of “rescue, restore and redecorate” falls right into Rystrom’s interest. She recently underwent extensive training on the use of Howard’s paints. “The products are so easy to use. They allow you to give old pieces a modern twist,” Rystrom said. She also loves the wide variety of finishes the company offers, “from antique old world to contemporary.” The lacquers are her favorite. “The color ‘Belize’ is my favorite color. It’s a fresh, bright blue that is very sophisticated. I predict these paints will be a huge hit with everyone who uses them.” “Our clients are very creative. They enjoy making things beautiful, whether it’s by recovering an old piece of furniture with great fabric or adding special pillows to change the look of an entire room. These paints give so many options. Whether you’re painting a treasure you’ve discovered at a flea market or updating a family treasure with a new look, you’ll find these paints perfect, and as Amy Howard says you'll ‘enjoy the bragging rights.’” She also noted the paint’s versatility: “It can be used on wood, glass, Formica, metal and iron."

for more info Rystrom will host workshops at Cynthia East Fabrics this fall. For a schedule and more information about Amy Howard at Home paints or any of the fabulous items Cynthia East carries, call (501) 663-0460 or visit the store from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Mon. through Sat., 1523 Rebsamen Park Road, Little Rock, Arkansas. 40 . SEPTEMBER 2013

Our thanks to Tiffany Foltz for allowing us to shoot Rystrom in her home.

Local Colour Gallery

Since 2002, we have continued to represent 27 of Arkansas’ most talented artists!

With 27 Artists, there is always something new! Mon - Sat | 11:00 am to 5:00 pm

5811 Kavanaugh Boulevard • Little Rock 501-265-0422 • localcolourgallery.com

aymag.com . 41

^ Dazzling Foyer:

The front door leads to a foyer illuminated by a bronze and crystal chandelier purchased in New Orleans. On the wall an antique Chippendalestyle mirror sits above a candelabrum atop a demilune chest. The extra-deep moulding above the entryway to the living room allowed Chandler to introduce a large accessory â&#x20AC;&#x201D; an iron whippet â&#x20AC;&#x201D; in an unexpected place.

42 . SEPTEMBER 2013

dwell n Museum Manor

Pastoral splendor By sonny rhodes / photography by Janet Warlick

he country home of Dr. Jeffrey Reinhart of Monticello, Ark., is as much museum as mansion. Surrounded by fields and forestland some 15 miles northeast of the Drew County seat, the Greek Revival-style home is filled with the work of contemporary artists, ancient artisans and Mother Earth. A tranquil spot for weddings and community fundraisers, the home’s interior design is by Chandler & Associates of Little Rock, Ark., the exterior by Daniel Keeley of DK Design in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Tom Chandler, founder of the Chandler firm, has brought in furniture and artwork from around the world and has even provided some of his own treasured possessions as part of an eightyear decorating process. "Through the years,” Chandler said, “I have placed several

things from my family in this home. That’s one of the reasons I love spending time here.” In and around the house, you’ll find an eclectic collection of furniture and artwork ranging from an antique English sideboard to an iron Buddha head and at least 19 works by Arkansas artists (Chandler obligingly went room to room counting the local art). Probably the oldest of all the features, though, at least from the standpoint of the raw materials, is a sculpture that combines a pair of large crystals. At one time on display at Rockefeller Center in Manhattan, N.Y., the sculpture later made its way to a high-end auction in Dallas, and then to a room all its own in the Reinhart home. Exploring the space, it’s easy to get the feeling you are in a decorative arts museum. Yet you can sit on things. “We’ve tried to make it look like a grand country estate,” Chandler said.

Room that Sisals

A custom-bound wool sisal rug provides a foundation of warmth for the living room. A Persian rug layered atop the bottom rug adds to the luxury. Other room features include a silk sofa with pillows made from fragments of antique Aubusson rugs and a book-match mahogany chest from the French King Louis Philippe period of the 1800s.

Keeping cozy

The keeping room, a type of space dating to Colonial times, is just off the kitchen. As is the case elsewhere in the house, the Reinhart keeping room offers contrasting decorating elements, the lamp at left among the items adding contemporary flair. The painting above the fireplace is by California artist Wayne Forte. aymag.com . 43

WAT C H RECIPE TIPS WITH FAITH ANAYA

@ AYMAG.COM 44 . SEPTEMBER 2013

VIDEO Go to the recipes page to catch this month’s video tips or view past month’s videos.

study in contrasts This guest bedroom is a testament to the eclectic mixture Chandler & Associates works to achieve. The twisted-wood base floor lamp provides a contemporary influence to a mostly traditional room. The Buddha head atop the dresser lends a peaceful touch. “I’ve always been attracted to Buddha as a symbol of peace,” Chandler said. The landscape painting is by Arkansas artist Patrick Cunningham.

crystalline display

Place for reflection

This monumental piece of artwork, called the Sentinel Crystal, has a room all its own. The top crystal cluster weighs nearly 1,500 pounds and was mined in the Ural Mountains of Russia. The base’s point crystal is from Mount Ida in Arkansas. Visitors can sit and contemplate the crystals on hand-chiseled limestone benches from Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

A person standing in front of the keeping room sofa could look toward the back hall and see a mirror reflecting the Wayne Forte painting. The 6-foot-diameter mirror has a hand-painted silk fabric frame. Sitting in front of the mirror is an antique Buddha figure, supported by a Louis XV-style console table, yet another reflection of Chandler’s love for mixing styles. aymag.com . 45

Greenery Abounds An inviting walkway, bound by a meticulously-manicured holly bush and other mature plantings, leads to the four-bedroom Reinhart residence.

Balcony with a view A rust-iron reproduction of a Greek torso is the focal point of a balcony overlooking the south lawn. This and other outdoor space around the Reinhart residence represents the work of Daniel Keeley of Fayettevilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s DK Design.

46 . SEPTEMBER 2013

See

kansas

Caverns in Blanchard Springs, Arkansas

Arkansas has much to see and do â&#x20AC;Ś whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for big-city action or small-town fun, you will find the perfect venue to enjoy a day or to get away for a staycation. Take a tour of the Natural State and behold the wonders that make our state one of a kind.

aymag.com . 47

See

Little Rock CVB

ust voted Kiplinger’s number one choice of great U.S. cities in which to live, Little Rock is on a roll. Celebrated for its hospitality and the warmth of its people, Little

Rock is home to dozens of museums and cultural attractions, including the William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park, Arkansas Arts Center, Arkansas Repertory Theatre and Arkansas Symphony Orchestra — to name just a few. Its downtown and River Market district are filled with a variety of great dining and entertainment options, and Little Rock has many vibrant and unique neighborhoods, each with its own character, and shops and restaurants that beckon you to explore. Throughout the city, there are great hotels and B&Bs that cater to every budget and need. One thing’s clear — Little Rock has a new Southern style and charm that’s uniquely its own. To learn more, go to LittleRock.com, and see why we say, “Life is better with a Southern accent!”

48 . SEPTEMBER 2013

Fall is a great time to explore Little Rock’s incredibly rich neighborhood dining scene, and to enjoy dining alfresco.

See

Pine Bluff CVB

e r h a p s Pi n e B l u f f ’s b e s t- ke pt secrets are the many museums and exhibition centers that can

be found throughout the city, each specializing in its own interpretation of a unique subject. “Murals on Main” is an informal exhibition of a dozen murals painted by renowned artists on the sides of buildings along Main Street since 1992. The Arkansas Entertainers Hall of

locomotives and an array of displays.

include agricultural and industrial artifacts.

Fame, inside the Convention Center,

The Arts & Science Center for Southeast

The Hall of Honors pays tribute to those who

Arkansas houses permanent and rotating

highlights Arkansas’ sons and daughters

served our country from Jefferson County,

collections and is best known for its family-

from WWI through Afghanistan.

in the entertainment world with a

oriented programs, ranging from hands-on

collection of memorabilia.

children’s exhibits to stage productions.

The Arkansas Railroad Museum is home

The Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Historical

to Engine 819, the Cotton Belt Railroad’s

Museum is in the restored Union Station

legendary “Queen of Steam.” Visitors

Train Depot, which is on the National

can tour several rail cars and view vintage

Pine Bluff’s museums welcome visitors with no admission fees. www.arkansasentertainershalloffame.com www.arkansasrailroadmuseum.org www.artssciencecenter.org www.pbjcmuseum.org

aymag.com . 49

50 . SEPTEMBER 2013

Fairfield Bay S

omeday Starts Today in Fairfield Bay Nestled on the north shore of the pristine Greers Ferry Lake, Fairfield Bay showcases a community of people who enjoy the great outdoors while living a lifestyle of new experiences. With its tree-lined country boulevards, winding trails, yearround fishing and championship golfing, Fairfield Bay is home to a growing community of residents and vacationers alike! Natural Setting. Resort Living. Countless amenities are part of the outdoor resort lifestyle in Fairfield Bay, including fishing and boating on scenic Greers Ferry Lake, teeing off on two 18 -hole championship golf courses, hiking Sugar Loaf Mountain – the first designated National Scenic Trail in Arkansas – and exploring the historic boulders and caves at Indian Rock, where de Soto visited in 1542. There are 8 championship tennis courts, 3 resort-style pools, fitness center, library, country club and more in a mild climate that makes it the ideal location for year-round memories. Always Something Happening. The community holds some of

See

Photo courtesy of Debbi Brawley

Arkansas’ most unique festivals: Bloomin’ in the Bay (May), Surf the Bay (June) and StoryFest (Oct). Explore our 36-hour vacation planner at www.FairfieldBayStartsToday.com With outstanding quality of life and affordable housing tucked in the peaceful beauty of the Ozarks, Fairfield Bay is where the amenities of a Mountain Lake resort and the qualities of a caring community come together. Come see us!

aymag.com . 51

See

rom sporting events to the performing arts, there is plenty to do in Conway. Residents and visitors alike can find a

variety of entertainment venues as well as free and ticketed cultural events throughout the city. With our almost 200 restaurants ranging from local favorites to big name chains, Conway has the dining options guests look for. And if you wish to stay the night, we offer 1,200 hotel rooms, many of which are less than five years old. Conway also boasts a wide range of shopping options, from cute local boutiques to large, well-known brands where you can find what you need for your whole family. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re interested in learning more about this small but growing city with so much to offer, visit Conwayark.com.

52 . SEPTEMBER 2013

Conway CVB

aymag.com . 53

54 . SEPTEMBER 2013

advertorial

Eureka Springs

... the people, places and stories

Basin Spring Park

By Linda Burlingame / Photography courtesy of the venues

ureka Springs is full of interesting stories. The city attracts people for many reasons: artists and entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams and visitors to enjoy the fruits of those labors. Whether you want to relax and wander for a few days or shop ‘til you drop, whether for a wedding or just several days of dining and fun, Eureka Springs provides an extraordinary setting. The city has an interesting story. Founded in 1879, news of the miraculous, healing waters of Basin Spring and 60 other local springs spread quickly. By the end of the year, visitors arrived and the population reached 10,000. Beautiful Victorian homes and hotels, built of brick and native limestone, replaced shacks and tents. These buildings are carefully maintained; Eureka Springs is on the National Register of Historic Places. Today it is a thriving community with much to share: European charm, winding streets lined with shops and galleries, historic buildings, lodging and restaurants,

entertainment, springs and parks … what’s not to love? Keels Creek Winery & Art Gallery, at the edge of town on E. 62, has become one of Eureka’s most popular places. As you’re reading, husband and wife owners Edwige Denyszyn, a French artist, and Dr. Doug Hausler, a retired analytical chemist, are harvesting grapes. Their out-of-the-ordinary story includes living for a year on a sailboat in Chesapeake Bay, Virginia! A boutique winery, Keels Creek wines are made with local grapes, including grapes from their own vineyard three miles away; planting began in 2004. The winery is located behind the retail space and features a barrel storage room, fermentation space and bottling area. Their wines include many national and international award winners. Known for their dry and flavorful reds and whites, Keels Creek also has a selection of lightly-sweet wines, topped off by their signature Big C, a tawny port-style blend of Cynthiana and Chambourcin wines. Edwige designs the labels using local art and her own

designs. Read more about the Gallery in our Arts & Entertainment Guide. When you visit Keels Creek, get the stories behind the labels. Quicksilver Gallery is one of the fine galleries you can visit on 2nd Saturday Gallery Stroll. Owners Steve Roberson and Lamont Richie left the rat race of accounting and banking in Houston and bought an old motor court on Eureka’s historic loop. They replaced asphalt with gardens, gutted and totally renovated the cottages — and operated Rock Cottage Gardens for ten years before they sold it. They wanted something not quite so 24/7 but wanted to remain in Eureka, for the same reasons they came: four seasons in the beautiful Ozarks and the friendly residents and visitors. The answer came when friends, who then owned Quicksilver, were ready to retire. Quicksilver Gallery is two levels of American-made jewelry and unique art forms. The variety is wonderful — original art, prints, photography, clocks, gorgeous glass, pottery and wood, from whimsical to aymag.com . 55

A Unique Mix of Indulgences For Bath, Body and Home

Tues-Sat 10 to 5 Find us on 41 Kingshighway | Eureka Springs

479-253-5943 www.vintagecargo.net

Photos 1-5: Keel’s Creek Winery Exterior; Keel’s Creek Wine; Vintage Cargo; Quicksilver Gallery and Suchness Spa.

56 . SEPTEMBER 2013

serious. The jewelry is beautiful, many styles by many artists, including “Balance by Brian” pieces. Brian works in the gallery; you’ll enjoy visiting with him. About 125 artists are represented. Read more in the Arts & Entertainment Guide. A couple of doors down, Suchness Spa is on the main level of The New Orleans Hotel. The beautiful wood floors and high, antique ceilings help make Suchness a quiet sanctuary of calm and healing. Besides spa services, owner Catherina Bernstein displays her eco clothing and artisan jewelry. She designs the jewelry and clothing, influenced by numerous trips to Thailand. The clothing, and some of the jewelry and crafts, is made in small villages by individuals she has come to know. Suchness Spa is truly a one-of-a-kind place. Suchness Rituals include Suchness Massage, Crown Chakra Lightwork, Thai Herbal Steam and Lotus Shower and more. It’s is an exceptional experience. Drive up Spring Street to Vintage Cargo, at the top of the Historic Loop at W. 62, for another wonderful experience: shopping! Owners Stan Dubois and Jeff Chapman, along with manager Chalea Jacobs, present

the most marvelous, eclectic collection of home furnishings and accessories. Some new pieces are repurposed from old wood and other materials; there are one-of-a-kind antiques from Europe and Asia. Vintage Cargo carries several lines of gorgeous Vietri dinnerware, including the popular Old St. Nick. Every time I’m in, there is new merchandise, fabulously-arranged and displayed. There are personal things, too; spoil yourself with luxurious candles, lotions, fragrances and finely milled soaps, jewelry, clothing and handbags. Archipelago Botanicals and Niven Morgan are just two of their bath, body and home lines. They have a very shopper-friendly website, too. Vintage Cargo is in a restored medical clinic, and the original ceiling is lovely; be sure to look at the photos of the building before its renovation … another interesting story! If you are planning a wedding, there are outstanding facilities in Eureka Springs, and your wedding party will love the dining and lodging choices and all the activities. Warm autumn day? Try standup paddle boarding, or the Downtown Underground

5 Tour. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a great place to visit any day; you can stay in one of their Safari Lodges. September events in Eureka Springs include: the Auto Festival; Jazz Eureka; Bikes Blues & BBQ ; Motorcycle Art Show; and the 8th Annual Studio Tour. You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to miss the Corvette Weekend the first weekend in October. Visit Eureka Springs, and create your own story. For more information, log onto eurekasprings.org.

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58 . september 2013

north

From football to falafel, beer foam to French crêpes and philanthropy to fine art, northwest Arkansas abounds with little charms — some edible — that have us spellbound.

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NWA /// RAZORBACKS

Arkansas Razorback #10 Brandon Allen

Bret Bielema, University of Arkansas at Fayetteville head football coach

Great Expectations By Nate Allen / Photographs courtesy of University of Arkansas at Fayetteville Department of Athletics

till the father of all things Razorback, University of Arkansas at Fayetteville (UAF) Athletic Director Emeritus Frank Broyles is grandfathered into ties with Arkansas’ new head football coach Bret Bielema. Those ties to Bielema, through Hayden Fry and his personal experiences with Bielema since Jeff Long, UAF Athletic Director, hired Bielema last December from Wisconsin, have convinced Broyles that Arkansas has the right man. “I think he is the perfect fit,” Broyles said. “I like him, and he is committed to the program. He understands the width of the program, not just coaching football, and he is doing everything he can to help every part of the school and to coach football, too.” Broyles qualifies as the mentor to Bielema’s mentor, or his football grandfather. He mentored Hayden Fry, Bielema’s coach and first employer. Before his 50 years (195760 . september 2013

2007) as Arkansas’ head football coach and athletic director, Broyles was a young assistant at Baylor, from 1947 to 1949, coaching Fry. He hired Fry in 1961 as offensive backfield coach of the Southwest Conference champion Razorbacks. Fry never assisted again. From 1962 through his 1998 retirement, Fry served as head coach at Southern Methodist University, North Texas and Iowa. Bielema played for Fry as an Iowa nose guard from 1989 to 1992 and was an assistant coach there from 1994 to 2001 before coordinating defenses at Kansas State and Wisconsin for Fry disciples Bill Snyder and Barry Alvarez. Alvarez personally picked Bielema as his 2006 Wisconsin football successor. Fry immediately notified Broyles about Arkansas’ new coach who Broyles deems “the perfect fit.” In Bobby Petrino, the Razorbacks had a great offensive coach, “I admire his coaching,” Broyles said. But even 10-3 and 11-2 seasons

in 2010 and 2011 couldn’t salvage Petrino’s Arkansas career, which was undone by a motorcycle accident that revealed he had put his mistress on his administrative staff payroll. Under John L. Smith, Petrino’s interim successor, the 2012 Razorbacks, picked 10th in the nation in the preseason by the Associated Press poll, skidded disastrously to 4-8. Arkansas required a winner in every facet. “Hayden [Fry] called me and was very positive about everything,” Broyles said. “He said he would be a good citizen first. He said he would be good for the students and good for academics — and he would win games. You can’t beat that.” Bielema’s seven-year, 68-24 Wisconsin record speaks for itself. Wisconsin’s off-thefield problems were few and its academics solid. Also, Bielema joked at banquets, “He won’t ‘motorcycle’ on the side.” The coach, 42, married 27-year-old former model Jen Hielsberg while at Wisconsin.

Arkansas Razorback #42 Chris Smith

I was assured we were going into a nice, quiet restaurant in Hot Springs,” Bielema said. “I think they called the Hogs four times in an hour. To see 250 people in Hot Springs call the Hogs spontaneously just by walking in the door, that kind of sums it up. People have been awesome and very forward and very, very sincere in their passion. I think that part is the neatest thing. Jen Bielema hit the ground running in Arkansas. She has been active in the Humane Society, including serving as grand marshal of the Humane Society parade, and in the Susan B. Komen Race for the Cure. Meanwhile, Bret Bielema’s gregariousness and state university background at Iowa and Wisconsin suit him to the “rubber chicken circuit” required of Arkansas’ head football coach. “This is my 54th event since February,” Bielema said, addressing a Fayetteville Boys and Girls Club luncheon in May. The big former Iowa nose guard left an audience laughing for the 54th time, noting his “Dutch name that’s kind of hard to say.” “I’ve been Bulimia, Bulimic,” Bielema said. “I’ve been every eating disorder known to man — but as you can see, I don’t suffer from any.” He said even the Iowa and Wisconsin experiences didn’t entirely prepare him for Arkansas’ statewide love of the UAF Razorbacks. He recalled one instance. “I was assured we were going into a nice, quiet restaurant in Hot Springs,” Bielema said. “I

think they called the Hogs four times in an hour. To see 250 people in Hot Springs call the Hogs spontaneously just by walking in the door, that kind of sums it up. People have been awesome and very forward and very, very sincere in their passion. I think that part is the neatest thing.” While having to float like a social butterfly, Bielema has stung on academics like one bear of a bee. “When I got here they didn’t really understand and appreciate the meaning of going to class every day,” Bielema said. “So we had this thing called Saturday morning study hall. It was at 5 a.m., and they didn’t come over with books because they had already missed their opportunity in class. We did 200 yards of log rolls, which means you lie down on the ground and roll 100 yards. Then you take a deep breath and roll back 100 yards. It will give you the worst headache you have ever had and you will usually throw up.” Apparently it struck home. “We actually had the highest team semester GPA in school

history over the last eight years since they have really been tracking it,” Bielema said. Nevertheless, the coach knows the honeymoon wanes at first loss. “I’m really popular,” Bielema said, “and I know that’s because we are undefeated right now.” That isn’t apt to last. Arkansas really could use a 4-0 nonconference start before opening its SEC season against four powerhouses: Texas A&M with Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Johnny Manziel, Sept. 28 in Fayetteville; at Florida on Oct. 5; South Carolina on Oct. 12, in Fayetteville; and visiting, reigning national champion/SEC champion Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Other than probably Samford, a lower-division team visiting War Memorial Stadium, Sept. 7 in Little Rock, and hosting Southern Mississippi, 0-12 last season, Sept. 14 at Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, that 4-0 nonconference start could be hard to achieve. Rutgers defeated Arkansas last season in Fayetteville and has the home-field advantage hosting the Razorbacks Sept. 21 in Piscataway, New Jersey. Though less formidable than the fourgame gauntlet opening the SEC slate vs. Texas A&M, Florida, South Carolina and Alabama, the Razorbacks’ final four SEC games promise no picnics; they host Auburn, Nov. 2 in Fayetteville; visit Ole Miss, Nov. 9 in Oxford; hosting Mississippi State, Nov. 23 in Little Rock; and closing with another Top 10-powerhouse, visiting LSU, Nov. 29 in Baton Rouge. Other than Rimington Award-candidate senior center Travis Swanson and Bednarik Watch List-senior defensive end Chris Smith, the Razorbacks retain little of what prompted them to be picked so highly in preseason 2012. Yet Bielema believes his underdog Hogs will surprise some and bruise all. “We have 21 seniors,” Bielema said. “Twenty-one kids who are angry, frustrated and upset with the way things went and who believe they have a higher spot in the world of college football. I told them all along, ‘Hey, we are Rocky, man [referring to the character famously portrayed by Sylvester Stallone]. We are on the bottom fighting our way up, and we are going to enjoy every minute of it.’ I don’t know how many wins we will get, but I will assure you that when [our opponents] get done playing Arkansas, [they’re] going to feel it not only on Sunday and Monday but hopefully a little bit on Tuesday as well.” aymag.com . 61

NWA /// Razorback stadium 75th anniversary

A History worth rooting for By April Robertson / University of Arkansas at Fayetteville Department of Athletics

he Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium is an Arkansas icon. It is the gathering place for thousands of University of Arkansas at Fayetteville (UAF) Razorback fans, where families make ritual treks to heartily cheer for their team, where friends celebrate and where alumni reconnect after spending years away from their Ozark roots. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Razorback stadium, and the UAF is celebrating its history with a website that catalogues the greatest moments and evolution of the stadium, as well as a few interactive contests and promotions. “It’s designed as a season-long celebration instead of a single capstone event,” said Kevin Trainor, associate director, Athletics for the Arkansas Razorbacks at UAF. It celebrates “the history [of the team and the stadium] and what it has meant to the entire state and generations of Arkansans.” Fans voted on their favorite Reynolds Razorback Stadium plays, and top five moments will be relived — footage of the plays will be shown — at the five home games of the 2013 season: Aug. 31, Sept. 14 and 28, Oct. 12 and Nov. 2. For those looking to come away with more than just memories, fans can enter to win two seats from the actual stadium through

62 . september 2013

Razorback Stadium circa 1970s

a promotion via the website arkansasrazorbacks.com/75years, and special 75-year anniversary commemorative merchandise is also available.

About The Stadium   Many Razorbacks are part of an ongoing tradition — not just one shared by a campus community, but one by their families, whose mem-

bers, generation after generation, attend the school. The stadium is one feature that sets their experiences apart from each other. “The stadium has undergone tremendous change since it opened,” Trainor said. “It’s really amazing to look back.” The Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium, initially called Razorback Stadium, opened in 1938. The facility had a capacity of 13,500. The stadium has undergone a few major makeovers. Expansions took place in 1965 and 1969; next, they focused on improving seating options. “In the summer of 1985, major renovations were made on the upper deck west side and the suites,” Trainor said. “Prior to the opening of the 1985 season, seats and skyboxes [were added], taking its seating capacity up to 51,000.” At that time, the stadium wasn’t closed off on all sides. Fans could sit in the stadium and look to the south for a fair view of the Boston Mountains. Then, in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, the south side of the stadium gained temporary seating, which was soon replaced with permanent facilities. In 2001, renovations to the football stadium included an increase in seating to 72,000 and the official renaming to Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. “As we look toward the future, we’re involved in studying the potential for north end zone expansion,” he said. “We’re looking at the demand for additional seats and amenities.” This means the Donald W. Reynolds Stadium could be a 360-degree facility; visitors could walk the entirety of its circumference without having to step outside. “That’s the thing about great stadiums,” Trainor said. “We continue to evolve, expand and meet the needs [of fans].” The most recent feature took place last season, when a new Jumbotron replaced the original, which dated back to 2001. “When we opened the stadium [with the new Jumbotron], it was the largest in the region,” Trainor explained. “It’s now the second-largest, on-campus video display,” which he attributed to the general nature of growth in intercollegiate athletics. Trainor and those in Arkansas Athletics hope their efforts will highlight the signature moments of Razorback football and all the nostalgia attached to it. “That’s the great thing about Arkansas,” he said. “So many of our great memories are based on those Razorback plays. It doesn’t matter [what age you are], they connect everyone.”

aymag.com . 63

NWA /// CHEFS IN THE GARDEN

Good Grub in the Garden Come Sept. 12, flowers and other vegetation will not be the only occupants in the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks (BGO). That evening, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., 10 restaurants, two catering companies as well as Yarnell’s Ice Cream and Glazer’s Distributors will delight patrons as they offer crowd-pleasing beverages and cuisine — it’s all part of Chefs in the Garden. Meet four of the chefs who will share their culinary talents.

By Angela E. Thomas Photography by Cole Fennel Photography; Illustrated by Sara Edwards Neal

Jerrmy Gawthrop

Jonathan Morrow

Maudie Schmitt

Chef/co-owner | Greenhouse Grille

Chef | Meridienne Dessert Salon

Chef/owner | Café Rue Orleans

Gawthrop has worked professionally for 16 years, prepar-

Morrow loves fresh herbs, especially thyme and rosemary.

Schmitt is a former special education teacher who retired

ing meals for catering, restaurants and makeshift kitchens in various venues including outdoor festivals. What do you love about cooking? Cooking offers a full-sensory artistic opportunity involving taste, smell, touch, vision and often sound, especially in the kitchen. Secondly, my attraction is a basic realization that I simply enjoy eating, so I thought I’d become good at preparing food. What is your favorite dish/food to cook? Garden sauces like fresh marinara, salsa and salsa verde. What is your quick, “go to” meal? Vegetable hash … I use anything that’s in the garden, anything that’s in season, including sweet potatoes, golden beets and celeriac (celery root). It’s fast, fresh and the kids eat it. What will you serve at Chefs in the Garden, and why? I may change this, but an heirloom tomato bruschetta and a Caribbean braised pork tenderloin with Cuban black beans and rice along with a roasted pineapple chutney. The tenderloin will be tender, as I’ll brine it and use a wet jerk sauce. This flavor profile is tried and true; it’s a combination of sweet, spicy and savory. 64 . september 2013

What do you love about cooking? I love the melding of ingredients, the chemistry behind it all. Cooking is a great outlet for my creativity, and because I flourish in intense situations, working in a restaurant fits me well.

after 25 years to pursue her love for cooking. What do you love about cooking? I love watching people as they take that first bite and say, “Wow!”

What is your favorite dish/food to cook? Anything French. I love French cuisine; it’s similar to southern food — everything has butter, and the techniques are astounding. The way the food was prepared 100 years ago is still in use today.

What is your favorite dish/food to cook?

What is your quick, “go to” meal? I often eat at work, so I’ll make a quick crêpe or a tartine, an open-faced sandwich.

sic dishes.

What will you serve at Chefs in the Garden, and why? Two savory items, appetizer style: a mini-quiche with savory rosemary dough, filled with caramelized onions and local goat cheese and topped with a balsamic gastric, and a crêpe torte, made of eight to 12 brandied crêpes stacked and layered with pork confit with an apple compote and topped with a shallot jam. These dishes reflect Meridienme’s style of using fresh ingredients prepared using classic French techniques.

it only takes about 20 minutes to pound out a chicken

Soup … no matter the temperature outside. You can take something as simple as oysters Rockefeller and create a soup or bisque with the same ingredients. In fact, that’s one of the things I like to do: create soups based on clasWhat is your quick, “go to” meal? A quick version of chicken picatta with rice or pasta — breast and prepare it with butter, lemon juice and capers; it’s simple, but delicious. What will you serve at Chefs in the Garden, and why? A favorite: grits and grillades. It’s a traditional New Orleans dish, usually served at brunch. My version will include smoked, seasoned pork in gravy, served with smoked gouda and tasso.

C Allen Keever Chef | Fresco Café & Pub Crème brûlée is one of Keever’s favorite desserts. What do you love about cooking? The creativity, what you can create, the ingredients … the possibilities are endless. What is your favorite dish/food to cook? Pesto chicken alfredo — there are so many different ways to make it, and the pasta must be cooked perfectly. What is your quick, “go to” meal? A snack, really: sweet mascarpone cheese with fresh berries, sometimes with crème anglaise. What will you serve at Chefs in the Garden, and why? We’ll serve a cheese-stuffed potato ball on a basil-pesto crostini, topped with a balsamic glaze and a crème brûlée tartlet with merlot glaze.

hefs in the Garden is one of the BGO’s premiere fundraising events. Tickets sell for just $45 each, and the attendance maxes out at 450. “Chefs in the Garden is a relaxed, fun event. Everyone walks around and interacts. There’s a photo booth, music provided by a DJ and food demonstrations by the chefs,” said Liz Esch, director of special events, BGO. This year’s honorary chair for the popular event is Kelly Zega. Zega serves as director of public affairs for Cox Communications Central Region. “Kelly supports various organizations, but she has a soft spot in her heart for the Botanical Gardens. She participates in a number of our activities, volunteers and supports our social events with her presence,” Esch said. BGO has a number of educational programs, including tours; educational programs for youth; cooking demonstrations that teach the connection between nature and food; daycamps for preschools; and more. Also providing food for Chefs in the Garden are: Micah Blackmon, chef, Early Bird Catering; Kurt Plankenhorn, chef, Fayette-

ville Country Club; Frank Suchara, chef, GC Catering; Todd Golden, chef, Mermaid’s; Vincent Waide, chef, Springdale Country Club; Starbuck’s with Heath Kelley, barista/ manager; Matthew McClure, chef, The Hive at 21c Museum Hotel; Alan Dierks, chef, Vetro 1925. Esch said each of the restaurants serves outstanding food; expect imaginative and creative dishes. One of the surprises, for those who’ve not experienced it, will be GC Catering. “When people taste the delicious food and notice their uniforms say ‘Golden Corral,’ they are shocked. The food is fabulous.” She said Yarnell’s will serve not only ice cream but also specialty sauces, including a sauce created with a liqueur from Glazer’s, to top the frozen treats. Glazer’s will also offer upscale beers and wine as well as the signature drink — cosmopolitans — for the evening. For more information about BGO or to purchase tickets to this historically soldout event, call (479) 750-2620 or log onto bgozarks.org.

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NWA /// Women in Philanthropy

Front row seated (L to R): Judy McGruder, Debbie Tucker, Kristen Gehrig, Lucy Coleman, Kathy Remerscheid. Back row (L to R): Antoinette Beland, Sharla Lau, Dorothy Hosford, Michaela Files, Sandy Dixon, Hope Childrey, Linda Spradlin, Brooke Spradlin, Sally Frick, Laura Keep, Cindy Webb, Jennifer Thomas, Linda Udouj, Staci Goodman, Ramona Roberts, Melissa Udouj Not Pictured: Ann Bruning, Joan McCoy, Robin Flippi, Maude Jeter Roger, Peggy Weidman, Peggy Brandebura, Joanne Swafford, Michelle Smith, Mary Pulliam, Deana Infield, Ann Echols and Shirley Crain

A Legacy of Giving:

Women in Philanthropy By Lisa Lakey / Photograph courtesy of Mercy Health Foundation

early 200 years ago, a group of generous women, the Sisters of Mercy, founded the ministry behind Mercy healthcare system. Devoted to the poor, sick and uneducated, they dedicated their work to improving the lives of others. Today, this legacy of generosity that began with an amazing group of women continues, thanks to another group of amazing women. In 2008, a group of donors at Mercy Hospital in Fort Smith, Ark., realized that by pooling their resources, they could do more for patients than their individual donations ever would. Later that year, these 23 women, known from that point as the Women in Philanthropy, funded the creation of a “family room” at the In-patient Hospice Unit; a music therapy program; and equipment for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Linda Udouj, one of the original members, said since the hospital already had a major fundraiser, the annual Charity Ball, this was a way for many of the smaller needs to be met. “We each contribute $1,000 a year with no blood, sweat and tears having to be put forth

66 . september 2013

on a huge fundraiser,” Udouj said. “The goal was to, hopefully, fund the monetarily-smaller needs of the hospital.” Each year, various departments of Mercy submit their requests for funding. This year, 32 members donated a total of $33,000 to be dispersed. The women voted to fund several projects, including several pieces of equipment for the McAuley Medicaid Clinic, as well as the oncology unit, emergency room and cardiology unit. Like the Sisters of Mercy, they search out where their generosity can do the most good, improving the lives of patients. “As our membership has grown, we’ve been able to meet most of the needs of almost all of the proposals,” Udouj said. “From state-of-theart equipment for the NICU, to an apparatus that makes the transfer of non-ambulatory patients from bed to x-ray equipment far less painful.” Michelle Hood, executive director of philanthropy, Mercy Health Foundation, has had the pleasure of working with the Women in Philanthropy and said the work these women do is at the heart of Mercy’s mission. “We are very thankful for our Women in Philanthropy group and proud that such an

astounding group of women support Mercy’s mission and vision,” Hood said. “We view this group as very important to the advancement of the hospital, and we could not provide the funds to purchase the equipment without them.” Membership is open to any woman who wishes to make the monetary and personal dedication to improve the lives of Mercy’s patients. “Mercy has a wide base of donors, but our Women in Philanthropy is the most active group of donors,” Hood said. “We always look forward to working with this group of women, and we hope to continue to grow with the group, while providing them the benefit of developing relationships with each other through their work for Mercy.” It is through the work of the Women in Philanthropy that the ties to Mercy’s past stay strong. Like the Sisters of Mercy so long ago, the Women in Philanthropy are doing what they can to lighten the burden of others through their giving. “The most rewarding part of being on this committee,” Udouj said, “is knowing that we are helping to enhance patient care and comfort in many diverse areas.”

aymag.com . 67

NWA /// Brandon Burlsworth

Christopher Severio portraying Brandon Burlsworth

Brandon Burlsworth

‘Greater: The Brandon Burlsworth Story’

The story of University of Arkansas at Fayetteville Razorback legend Brandon Burlsworth is expected to hit the big screen next fall. By Jennifer Ellis / Photographs courtesy of Marty Burlsworth and Brian Reindl

ongtime University of Arkansas at Fayetteville (UAF) Hogs fans and visionaries who benefit from a foundation raised in his honor know well the story of Brandon Burlsworth. And as any good underdog story goes, it’s one of tenacity and triumph. Like many Arkansas boys, Burlsworth played for his high school football team, the Harrison Golden Goblins. He “called the Hogs” and had dreams of donning a Razorback-red uniform, but when he graduated, he hadn’t managed to garner a single scholarship to a Division 1 college. Despite the odds, his dreams came true when he landed a walk-on spot on the UAF football team during open tryouts. Not only did Burlsworth make the team and earn a scholarship, he went on to become the team captain. He was named All-Southeastern Conference offensive guard two years in a row, received

68 . september 2013

All-Conference honors and was named to the first-team All-American. Off the field, Burlsworth became the first UAF football player to earn a master’s degree before playing his last game as a Razorback. By all accounts Burlsworth was greater than great. The Indianapolis Colts thought so and chose him with the 63rd pick overall in the third round of the 1999 NFL Draft. Eleven days after he was drafted, Burlsworth’s story turned tragic. It was April 28. Burlsworth was headed home to Harrison to attend a Wednesday night church service with his mother when his white Subaru Impreza, the car his parents gave him when he left for college, collided with a semitrailer. He was killed.

Capturing his legacy “Someone needs to make a movie about that guy” is almost immediately what real

estate investor-turned-writer/producer Brian Reindl of Fayetteville said he thought after he heard the news that Burlsworth had died. He wasn’t the only one. Marty Burlsworth, Burlsworth’s older brother and agent, said after the accident he and his family were approached by several people from Hollywood who wanted to make a movie about him, but the family had their reservations. “We just really didn’t know what they would do with it,” Marty said. A few years later when Reindl, a fellow UAF graduate living in Fayetteville who had seen Burlsworth play a number of times, went to Harrison to meet with the family and talk about his idea for the movie, they had a change of heart. “We felt good about him,” Marty said. “We knew he would do a good job telling the story the way it should be told.” “I told them I was a walk-on filmmak-

er, just like Brandon was a walk-on football player,” Reindl said. “And true to that, I’ve got a lot of passion and heart.” Reindl worked on the project for eight years. “I never could get satisfied with the screenplay,” he said. “I wanted to tell his story as powerfully as I could. Brandon was known as this great guy, this great role model of this Christian kid,” Reindl said. “I told the family I didn’t want to make a Christian movie, but I wasn’t going to shy away from who Brandon was at all. I wasn’t going to try to make a movie that was preachy. But again, I wasn’t going to shy away from who he was. It’s his life and that was preachy enough, and they liked that.” From getting the screenplay just right to figuring out how to finance the project, being a walk-on filmmaker presented its challenges. “The whole project was the hardest thing I’ve done in my life. I didn’t want to do something that wouldn’t do Brandon justice,” Reindl said. In the end, Reindl said he decided to finance the movie himself and set his goal to make something that would affect at least one person’s life and that would make Brandon proud. Aside from telling one of Arkansas’ greatest underdog stories, Reindl said, “This movie grapples with big life questions: Why would something like this happen to someone so good? Why would God take him at the most cruel moment? Why do bad things happen to good people?” The Burlsworth family had to deal with that and then came to the conclusion that God does have a purpose. “The whole first week of filming was all based around the funeral. Just sitting behind the monitor and watching the scenes, I cried every day,” Reindl said. Despite shedding a few tears, Reindl said, he thinks people will laugh a lot and leave the theater thinking about life. And Hog fans watching the film, which was shot exclusively in Arkansas, will be in heaven. “We intentionally put a lot of things in the movie for Razorback fans,” Reindl said. There are cameo appearances by former coaches, players, Burlsworth’s friends and family, as well as the Harrison High School football team. “Razorback fans are going to, hopefully, want to jump out of their seats and run out onto the football field.” When “Greater: The Brandon Burlsworth Story” hits the box office next fall, it will be 15 years since Brandon’s life was cut short.

Just months after his death, Brandon Burlsworth’s family established the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation to carry on his legacy.

“A

lot of what we do is stuff he and I had talked about and ideas Brandon had seen other professional athletes do,” Marty Burlsworth said. Burlsworth is Brandon’s older brother and chairman/CEO of the foundation. “We just decided after his accident, that everything he had worked for and all he did to get where he was … it would have been a shame for it to be over and nothing more to come out of it.”

Burls Kids

The foundation’s signature program, Burls Kids, puts 30 underprivileged children in the stands at each Razorback home game and tops off the experience with a Burls Kids t-shirt and pair of black-rim glasses like Brandon used to wear. “He always had [empathy] for kids who didn’t have as much as he did,” Burlsworth said. “Going to games was something he experienced, and he knew there were kids out there who would not have that experience without help.”

Eyes of a Champion

During the school year, The Burlsworth Foundation teams up with Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club optical departments to offer free eye exams and glasses to uninsured children of low-income families with the Eyes of a Champion program.

Football Camps

Another program Brandon envisioned was directing football camps to help improve kids’ skills on the field and encourage them to develop good character. Each year, The Burlsworth Foundation puts on football camps in Harrison and Little Rock, where former UAF Razorback stars coach the kids.

“Brandon was a hard worker, and he believed in himself. That’s what we try to do with the foundation, to show that [ethic] to the kids,” Marty said. “Maybe they come from a home or situation where they may be the only ones who believes in them, where they’re not hearing a lot of good things like, ‘you can do this and we believe in you.’” We show them that Brandon had some of that going on, too. Not everybody is going to be a great football player or great student in the classroom, but he believed in himself and they can do the same, if they apply themselves and put God first.”

Burlsworth Awards and Trophy

In addition to the thousands of dollars in scholarships the foundation awards each year for both athletics and academics, the annual Burlsworth Trophy was established in 2010 to recognize the most outstanding athlete who began his career as a walk-on. Reindl conceptualized the Burlsworth Trophy while working to develop the screenplay for “Greater.” The Burlsworth Trophy Ceremony, sponsored by the Springdale Rotary Club, will be held Dec. 9, at the Holiday Inn Northwest Arkansas Convention Center. Tickets are $50 and benefit The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation. For more information, visit burlsworthtrophy.com or brandonburlsworth.org. aymag.com . 69

NWA /// Excursion

Petit Bistro, photo by Beth Hall

Shindig Paperie

Magnetic North

As a Little Rock, Ark., native, I’ve assumed that anything good that’s coming to Arkansas will land in Little Rock. After all, it is the state’s capital and largest city; the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport and the Clinton Presidential Center are here; and we’re conveniently located smack-dab in the middle of the state. I’m not sure when I felt the first pang of northwest Arkansas envy. Maybe it was when a musician I adore favored the Arkansas Music Pavilion in Fayetteville, Ark., over a venue in central Arkansas. Maybe it was when I learned Bentonville, Ark., had a French bakery and a food truck that serves crêpes. Maybe it was when Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art was formally announced, and the whole world suffered northwest Arkansas envy. Speaking from personal experience, the surefire way to soothe that green feeling is to pack your bags, make the short drive north for the week, immerse yourself in the state’s burgeoning cultural hub and bring back memories that will make your friends jealous.

By Stacey Bowers / Photography by Sara Neal, Ashlee Nobel and Janet Warlick

Fayetteville Eat Northwest Arkansas’ biggest city has an eclectic appetite. You’ll find an array of cultures, from the low-key Mediterranean favorites at Petra Café to upscale Italian at Bordino’s. Fayetteville loves its farming heritage, and many restaurants serve locally-sourced, cre70 . september 2013

ative dishes. Chow down on gourmet grilled cheese at Hammontree’s; try deli-style organic, vegan and vegetarian food at Ozark Natural Foods; have a juicy, local, grass-fed buffalo burger at Greenhouse Grille; or grab a gyro from Nomad’s Natural Plate food truck. Fall back on steaks and American fare from Hugo’s or barbecue from Herman’s Ribhouse. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a treat from Bliss Cupcake Café or Rick’s Bakery.

Drink Drink like the locals, and head to one of Fayetteville’s many craft breweries. West Mountain Brewing Company; Fossil Cove Brewing Company; Tanglewood Branch Beer Company; Haug Haus Brewing Company; Saddlebock Brewery; and Apple Blossom Brewing Company serve distinct brews, some of which can’t be found elsewhere. Without a doubt, the nightlife hot spot is Dickson

Street, where college students, young partiers and the occasional street performers gather on the weekends. You can have a more relaxed evening at Theo’s Bar and Dining Room. Catch local musicians and traveling acts at Smoke and Barrel, George’s Majestic Lounge or Arkansas Music Pavilion.

Do It’s September, which means football season is upon us. Get thee to a Razorbacks game at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and call the Hogs with your red-shirted brethren! If football isn’t your thing, Fayetteville’s got other options. Stroll the floral paths at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks; brush up on Clinton trivia at the Clinton House Museum; stock up on local produce at the Fayetteville Farmers Market; or catch a performance at the Walton Arts Center: the Jersey Boys perform Sept. 3 through 8; Edmar Castañeda Quartet performs Sept. 27; and Aaron Neville takes the stage Oct. 5.

Shop In the state of Arkansas, Fayetteville is a Mecca of vintage and handmade boutiques. Grey Dog Boutique; Flying Dog Vintage; and Black Cherry Vintage have gained local fame for their found wares. Hip and chic boutiques Lola and Maude keep up-to-date on fashion trends with clothing, shoes and accessories, and Bach Clothiers keeps gentlemen looking dapper. Funky, one-of-a-kind gifts can be found at The Mustache Goods and Wears, Shindig Paperie and Four-Legged Bird. Fayettechill Clothing Company stocks outdoors gear and Arkansas-centric apparel. As Fayetteville is a college town, take advantage of local bookstores Dickson Street Bookshop and Nightbird Books; good local bookstores are rare finds these days.

Sleep Check into luxury at The Chancellor Hotel and splurge on one of their huge, modern suites; stay in the heart of it all at the University’s Inn at Carnall Hall; or enjoy historic comfort and an unbeatable location at The Dickson Street Inn.

Bentonville Eat Welcome to the culinary capitol of Arkansas. The restaurant scene in Bentonville has

Clockwise from top left: Aaron Neville, who will perform at Walton Arts Center, Oct. 5, photo courtesy of the Center; neckties at Four-Legged Bird; Apple Blossom Brewing Company; locally-made wood items at The Mustache Goods and Wears’ Bentonville location; and George’s Majestic Lounge. aymag.com . 71

NWA /// Excursion

The Spice & Tea Exchange

Crêpes Paulette

grown by leaps and bounds over the past several years, and local chefs are getting national recognition. Gourmet is king; indulge at Eleven at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art or The Hive at 21c Museum Hotel. Try “inspired American” cuisine at Tusk and Trotter; modern Latin at Table Mesa; gourmet, creative Italian at Tavola Trattoria; or Mediterranean-inspired French fare at Petit Bistro. Find unforgettable sushi at Sushi House and comforting café food at Red Onion Espressoria. Francophiles will fall in love with Crêpes Paulette, a food truck that serves sweet and savory crêpes by Bentonville Square, and Meridienne, a French-themed café and bakery.

Drink

As Bentonville just recently broke free of its dry county bonds, watering holes are hard to come by. For a night out, head to Bentonville Square, especially on first Fridays through September, and enjoy wine and cocktails at the Square’s many restaurants.

Get cultured at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, where you’ll find yourself among works by America’s finest artists, in72 . september 2013

cluding Norman Rockwell, Andy Warhol, Louise Nevelson and numerous others. Stroll the museum’s manicured grounds and sculpture garden, and bike the trails connecting the museum to downtown. At the Square, travel back in time at the Wal-Mart Visitor Center, also known as Walton’s 5 & 10; this location of the Sam Walton’s first store has been converted into a museum of everything Wal-Mart.

Red Curry Thai Restaurant

Off the Beaten Path Eat

While you’re at Crystal Bridges, peruse the unique gifts, including art, jewelry and other handmade goods, at the Museum Store. Shop the Square’s locally-owned stores, and be sure you stop at The Mustache Goods and Wears’ Bentonville location. Inhale the soothing aroma of The Spice & Tea Exchange while you shop for your pantry.

In Johnson, Ark., you’ll find renowned gourmet fare and a serene, historic mill setting at James at the Mill. Other local favorites include breakfast and lunch at Spring Street Grill, Acambaro Mexican Restaurant and Neal’s Café, all in Springdale, Arkansas. Downtown Rogers, Ark., is a quaint, thriving tourist area with plenty of restaurant offerings: brand new Red Curry Thai Restaurant satisfies a curry craving; Victoria’s Café Bistro serves the unlikely combination of burgers, Cajun and quiche; and Heirloom Food and Gifts specializes in “seasonal, from-scratch cooking.” Go to The Venesian Inn for homemade Italian food in the wine-producing, historically Italian town of Tontitown, Arkansas.

Sleep

Drink

Shop

21c Museum Hotel is just what its name suggests — a museum and a hotel. Enjoy the luxury rooms, access to The Hive restaurant, Square-front location and its surprising collection of contemporary art. It’s the perfect compliment to a trip to Crystal Bridges.

Heirloom Food and Gifts offers a small wine list and a curious selection of craft beer, including gluten-free raspberry ale from Colorado. Don’t miss the recently-revamped 3rd Fridays in Rogers, which now include contemporary music acts and a beer tent.

Inn at the Mill

Speaking of beer, visit the tasting room at Core Brewing and Distilling Company, and sample the beer thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s settling in at bars and restaurants across the state.

Do Get a taste of Arkansas culture and history at War Eagle Mill in Rogers and see how the beloved mill churns out floury goodness. Downtown Rogers is home to the Daisy Airgun Museum and the Rogers Farmers Market. In Springdale, catch a theatrical performance at the Arts Center of the Ozarks or visit the

Shiloh Museum of Ozark History for the full story on historical northwest Arkansas. This region of the state is known for its gorgeous scenery, which can be experienced in numerous parks and outdoor recreation areas. Take a leisurely ride on an Arkansas & Missouri passenger train through the beautiful Boston Mountains and marvel at the landscape that inspired Arkansasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; nickname, The Natural State.

Shop Downtown Rogers has a variety of interesting shops, including many vintage stores and

Downtown Rogers

antique malls. For gifts, stop by Brick Street Botanical, and head to Savoy Tea Company for steeping supplies, coffee and cupcakes. If you aim to get outdoors on this excursion, suit up for golf or cycling at Caddies Shack or Boston Mountain Cycles. For fine menswear, visit The Independent.

Sleep For a super modern stay, pick Aloft in Rogers and take advantage of the swanky lounge area. For something more subdued, rest your head at Inn at the Mill and wake up to breakfast and the stream peacefully flowing over the watermill.

aymag.com . 73

NWA /// Petra Café

Baklava and Turkish coffee

Petra Platter

The Culture of

Quality

Petra Café built its foundation on the sturdy stones of consistent quality, which helped it grow from its humble beginnings as a convenience store to the Fayetteville Square favorite it is today. By Stacey Bowers / Photography by Ashlee Nobel

hen Saleh Faur opened his convenience store 20 years ago at the corner of School Avenue and 15th Street in Fayetteville, Ark., he soul searched for the right name for it. He wanted the name to represent his native country of Jordan, and he wanted it to be respectable. He settled on “Petra Stop,” in honor of his country’s greatest landmark, the ancient city of Petra. The stone city carved into a mountainside has bared its rosy rock facade for two millennia, a beautiful, dependable monument to ancient desert civilizations. Perhaps the

74 . september 2013

solid name helped cement Faur’s business in the community, but the addition of authentic Mediterranean food was the driving force behind his endurance. After the snacks the self-taught cook Faur served at his convenience store gained popularity, he closed Petra Stop and opened Petra Café a few blocks up the road, right off Fayetteville Square. Monday through Saturday for 10 years, the cozy café has drawn a large lunch crowd comprised of diehard fans and newcomers lured by the buzz it has generated. “We enjoy our customers. We like all of them, and we know most of them by name,” Faur said, inviting us to list any Petra fans we know.

What built his fan club, Faur said, is the consistent quality of Petra Café’s food. He admitted there aren’t a lot of bells and whistles on the menu. The straightforward collection of Mediterranean staples isn’t extravagant. “I was raised on an abundance of food — good-looking, good-quality food,” Faur said, and that’s what fills the menu. Dishes represent a melting pot of cultures, including Egyptian, Syrian, Lebanese, Jordanian and Palestinian. You’ll find falafel (falafil), hummus, grape leaves, foule modammas (ful medames), gyros and more traditional Mediterranean favorites in the form of pockets, salads and sampler platters.

Faur said it’s difficult for him to choose favorites, but he’s partial to what’s on the Petra Platter: falafel, hummus, baba ghanouge and tabbouleh. While he insists they’re common snack foods in his culture, we didn’t find them to be common. The hummus was lighter in flavor and creamier in texture than average hummus; the baba ghanouge — a dip made of baked eggplant, tahini, parsley, garlic and other spices — had a unique, slightly-tart flavor and was sprinkled with cabbage; the falafel, seasoned and fried chickpea balls, had a spicy bite; and the tabbouleh had more ingredients, including fresh, chopped vegetables, than typical tabbouleh. Faur’s — and customers’ — other favorite is the Mayo Platter, a combination of juicy, seasoned chicken or beef gyro meat, taziki sauce and two sides, which include everything on the Petra Platter plus foule modammas and grape leaves. The grape leaves, commonly known as dolmas, are stuffed with savory rice and herbs, and they make a great appetizer or a meal on their own as the Grape Leaves Platter. As Petra is a lunch-only restaurant, Faur serves easy-to-hold, pita-pocket versions of his

Saleh Faur, owner

platters that are perfect for a busy, fast-moving crowd. Two things go hand in hand at Petra Café: baklava and Turkish coffee. Faur makes the syrupy topping for the baklava by melting together butter and cream cheese, or “all the good stuff,” as he calls it. He prepares the Turkish coffee — sweet, slightly-minty, dark coffee served in a cup and saucer — on the stove in full view of customers in the tiny diner; it’s the way everything is prepared at Petra Café. “We are under their watchful eyes,” Faur jokingly said, but he likes it that way. He loves the little building, all decked in postcards and pictures from Jordan and colorful trinkets. He loves the small staff, a requirement of cramped quarters. He won’t open for dinner because he’s content with just working the lunch shift. This is his job, but he doesn’t like to think of it as work. He confessed: “To date, when I leave the house in the morning, my wife tells me, ‘Have fun!’” Sitting in a window seat, watching the hubbub of the Square, listening to Mediterranean music and savoring the rich aroma of Turkish coffee, we can see why he and his customers are so in love with this place.

aymag.com . 75

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aymag.com . 77

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Tandra Watkins

Daniel Capello

Culinary By Tracy Courage / Photography by Ashlee Nobel and Janet Warlick and courtesy of Chenal Country Club

wo central Arkansas chefs with large local fan bases have attracted national attention, including love from the James Beard Foundation. Tandra Watkins, pastry chef at The Capital Hotel in downtown Little Rock, Ark., and Daniel Capello, executive chef at Little Rock’s Chenal Country Club, have recently received accolades for their culinary excellence. Capello is a three-time winner of the Diamond Chef Arkansas competition and recently hosted the American Culinary Federation’s (ACF) regional Academy of Chefs dinner, which pays tribute to outstanding chefs.

Watkins, who trained at LeCordon Bleu in Paris, was one of 20 semi-finalists nationwide for the 2013 title of Outstanding Pastry Chef from the prestigious James Beard Foundation. She was the only Arkansan from the field of more than 400 nominees in all categories. “I was shocked and so elated,” Watkins said about the nomination. “I love the James Beard Foundation and what they do for young cooks. To be recognized by them, I was honored.” Watkins grew up in Cabot, Ark., and got her start working in restaurants in central Arkansas. When her husband James’ job took the family to Europe, Watkins took advantage of the opportunity to study at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu in Paris.

“I had been cooking and catering for years, but I had never received formal training,” she said. “When I got there, I thought, now is my chance.” When she returned home in 2007, she went to work as pastry sous chef at The Capital Hotel and was promoted to pastry chef in 2010. She oversees production of all the pastries for Ashley’s at the Capital and the Capital Bar & Grill, as well as the hotel’s private dining and room service. Watkins’ style combines American southern and French cuisines. “I appreciate them both. I like the stringent, meticulous technique of French cooking, but I also appreciate the relaxed, aymag.com . 83

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comforting casualness of Southern food,” she said. “It’s very friendly and approachable.” Watkins, who was recently featured in Southern Living magazine’s The Daily South blog, seems to have found her niche. “I‘ve found the hotel really tries to deliver something special. They go out of their way to treat people with southern hospitality, and I love that,” she said. Daniel Capello, who has been executive chef at the Chenal Country Club since 2009, specializes in American cuisine. He’s a Texas native and worked as an executive chef at several Houston restaurants and for the corporate dining facility of British Petroleum before moving to Arkansas. He is one of 15 chefs in the state who have earned the American Culinary Foundation’s (ACF) Certified Executive Chef designation. Next year, he hopes to pursue the Certified Master Chef credential. Only 60 chefs in the nation have the credential; none of whom are in Arkansas. “It’s been one of my goals since I started 20 years ago,” Capello said. Capello is already a master when it comes to cooking, especially when the pressure is on. In 2010, 2011 and again this year, he won the Pulaski Technical College Foundation’s Diamond Chef Arkansas competition, which pits area chefs against each other in an “Iron Chef ”-style competition. He showcased his talent earlier this year when the ACF selected Little Rock as the site for its Central Region conference. The ACF’s Central Arkansas Chapter has lobbied for more than a decade to bring the conference to Little Rock, and their efforts finally paid off.

Find the recipes for these delicious creations at aymag.com

Capello’s Catfish Sandwich

“The conference brought more than 500 chefs and culinary professionals from a 15-state region to Little Rock, and many of them visited central Arkansas for the first time,” said Todd Gold, president of the ACF’s Central Arkansas Chapter. “We have tremendous culinary talent right here in Arkansas, and this was a great opportunity for us to showcase what we can do.” A highlight of the four-day conference was the Academy of Chefs Dinner, a blacktie event attended by the region’s top culinary professionals. The Chenal Country Club hosted the event, and Capello planned and prepared a six-course extravaganza that included a caviar station; bacon-wrapped dates and chorizo; Alabama oysters on the half shell with mignonette sauce; crabavocado-almond cakes with parsley sauce; and truffled foie gras with roasted pineapple — all just for starters. Capello joked that cooking for his peers is “the ultimate pressure cooker,” but on his rare day off, he simplifies the menu when cooking for wife Michelle, son Conner, 14, and daughter Abby, 6. “The favorite at our house is tacos,” he said. “I can turn anything into a taco.” Watkins also cooks on her days off, often trying new twists on favorite recipes. “As a chef, you reinvent the wheel all the time,” she said. “You build off a classic dish or you’re inspired by something you tried while traveling.” “At the end of the day, I want it to be simple and delicious so when someone takes a bite, they want to have another.”

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Visit aymag.com to view video tips on preparing this decadent dish.

BREW YOUR

food By Faith Anaya / photography by Janet Warlick

ooking with beer is as interesting and as varied as cooking with wine. Beer enhances flavors, serves as a tenderizer for meat and the yeast can have a mild leavening effect in baked goods. You can use beer to make soup, salad dressing, chicken, beef, mussels or even chocolate cherry pie. As with wine, the alcohol mostly evaporates, while hints of the flavor remain. None of the recipes that follow “taste like beer,” nor does the taste of beer dominate the end product; rather, light “notes” tend to enhance the flavors in the seasonings and intensify other ingredients.

Salads Pictured: Chocolate Stout Cherry Pie Topped with Whipped Cream and Garnished with Mint 86 . september 2013

nourish n cr e at e

Smokey Hot Beer Shrimp yIELD: TWO TO THREE servings

The sweet heat in this recipe — with just a hint of beer taste — is outstanding! We used Guinness Extra Stout in the recipe testing. • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika • 1 teaspoon garlic powder • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, more to taste • 1 teaspoon chili powder • ½ teaspoon red chili flakes • 3 tablespoons tomato paste or catsup • 1/3 cup wheat or stout beer • 1 tablespoon honey • ¼ teaspoon black pepper • 4 tablespoons butter, cut into cubes • Pinch salt • 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined • 2 tablespoons olive or canola oil • ¼ cup chopped or snipped cilantro, to garnish and serve • 2 cups cooked rice, to serve In a saucepan over medium-high heat, stir to combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, chili powder, chili flakes, tomato paste or catsup, beer, honey, salt and pepper. Add the butter, and bring to a strong simmer, stirring frequently until reduced and thickened, about 5 minutes. In a separate skillet, heat the oil until hot but not smoking. Add the shrimp, and cook until just pink on both sides, 2 to 3 minutes. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and continue to cook until shrimp are no longer translucent and are cooked through, another 2 minutes or so. To serve, arrange the shrimp on a bed of cooked rice and sprinkle the cilantro on top. Serve with green salad of romaine, avocado and grape tomatoes dressed with herb vinegar. Adapted from thebeeroness.com

Brazilian Beer-Marinated Chicken yIELD: four SERVINGS

There are a lot of ingredients in this marinade, but it is well worth the effort as the resulting flavor is deep and wonderfully complex. The recipe is written for chicken breasts, but you can substitute chicken tenders or drumettes, depending on the occasion. Remove the majority of the skin before marinating if you use drumettes.

For the marinade: • 4 garlic cloves, smashed • 4 ¼-inch slices of peeled fresh ginger, smashed • 2 large shallots, peeled and thinly sliced • 1 tablespoon sweet paprika • 1 teaspoon kosher salt • 1 teaspoon black pepper • ½ teaspoon caraway seeds • ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped • ¼ cup Dijon mustard

• 2 cups dark lager or stout (Xingu Black Beer or New Belgium 1554 recommended) • ¼ cup vegetable oil • 4 6-ounce boneless, skinless chicken breast halves or 2 pounds chicken drumettes, excess skin removed Combine all the marinade ingredients in a shallow dish. Add the chicken, cover and refrigerate for 4 hours, turning a few times. Light a grill. Remove the chicken from the marinade, wiping off any excess. Grill over high heat until nicely browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. Separately, transfer the marinade to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat, and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. When the chicken is done, transfer to a serving plate and top with the sauce. Beer Note: Other beer suggestions for this recipe for drinking or cooking include Sam Adams Cream Stout. Adapted from Steven Raichlen/foodandwine.com

Chocolate Stout Cherry Pie yIELD: six to eight SERVINGS

Chocolate and cherries are a classic combination. You can make this as one 9-inch pie or 8 mini-tarts. As with the other recipes, the main effect of the beer is to intensify the chocolate. • 1 pie crust • 7 ounces 60-percent chocolate pieces or bar • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes • 2 tablespoons light corn syrup • 1/3 cup stout (Guinness recommended) • 3 tablespoons heavy cream • 2 ½ cups pitted dark sweet cherries, about 16 ounces

For the whipped cream: • 1 cup heavy whipping cream • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar • 1 tablespoon stout Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Using a fork, prick the bottom of the piecrust. Bake at 350 degrees for 18 to 20 minutes until light golden brown. Remove from oven and cool. Put the chocolate, butter, corn syrup and stout into a large glass mixing bowl and microwave for 1 minute. Carefully remove from microwave, and stir briefly. Microwave for an additional minute, then remove from the microwave. Stir until all ingredients are melted and thoroughly combined and the chocolate is shiny. Add the cream, and stir until completely incorporated. Add the cherries; stir until all are well coated. Pour into the crust and refrigerate until set, about 4 hours and up to 24. To serve, whip the cream, powdered sugar and stout on high until soft peaks form. Serves eight to 10. Adapted from thebeeroness.com

Guinness Stout Brownies yIELD: about 38 brownies

These brownies are decadently chocolate and on the fudgy side. The eggs lighten the final product, and the stout enhances the chocolate — you will not taste it. • 1 cup flour • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder • ½ teaspoon salt • 6 tablespoons butter, cut into cubes • 12 ounces or 2 cups bittersweet chocolate chips • 4 large eggs, at room temperature • 1 cup granulated sugar • 1 cup stout (Guinness or Young’s Double Chocolate recommended) • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips • Coarse sea salt, to garnish • 1 cup heavy cream, whipped with 1 tablespoon powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon stout, to garnish • Mint leaves, to garnish Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Line a 9-inch-by13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or nonstick foil. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa and salt. Set aside. Melt butter and bittersweet chocolate chips in a double boiler over very-low heat, stirring constantly until completely melted. Alternatively, use a large glass bowl and heat in the microwave in one-minute increments just until chocolate begins to melt. Stir to finish. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar on high until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the melted chocolate mixture, beating on medium until combined. Beat reserved flour mixture into the chocolate mixture a spoonful at a time. Stir in the Guinness by hand. The batter may seem a bit thin. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Drop the semisweet chocolate chips evenly on top of batter. Bake 25 to 30 minutes on center rack in the oven, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Sprinkle sparingly with the sea salt. Let brownies cool, uncovered, to room temperature. Serve with a spoonful of stout whipped cream, and garnish with a mint leaf. Yield: about 38 brownies, depending on the size you cut them. Adapted from homecooking.about.com Beer Note: The beer should be at room temperature. The recipe uses 8 of the 12 ounces in a standard Guinness bottle, so there will be enough left for the stout whipped cream and for the cook. Do not include the foam in the measurement. Either spoon out the foam or let the beer rest until the foam subsides. Questions? Contact Faith at info@kidscookarkansas.com aymag.com . 87

nourish n Pam el a’ s Pa l at e

it r o v fa

Here’s a

Wing Tip By Pamela Smith / Photography by Ashlee Nobel

this month’s FAVORITES: Favorite

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken LITTLE ROCK, AR

Montego Cafe

Honorable mention

Little rock, AR

Honorable mention

Little Rock, AR

The Tavern

ports fans, if you’re looking to kick off your next game day watch party with a bang, there’s a new wing joint in town, and it’s sure to score a touchdown with all your guests. The reputation of Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken is the stuff of legends. That reputation earned the no-frills eatery a significant following, based on word-of-mouth alone, long before the spicy, golden brown, fried-to-perfection chicken arrived in town. The secret is a closely-guarded recipe that includes frying the chicken in peanut oil. The Little Rock River Market is the latest of only a handful of lucky recipients that can boast being home to the famous restaurant, which originated in Tennessee. Gus’s racks up bonus points for consistency, and its crispy exterior seals in the flavor to keep the meat tender and juicy. Beware, the chicken has a serious kick for those with heat-sensitive palettes; but that’s what I like about Gus’s. Don’t expect fancy, but do expect flavor. A typical meal is served on a Styrofoam plate and comes with chicken, delicious baked beans and cole slaw; other sides include: French fries; greens, a down-home favorite; potato salad; and fried okra, to name a few. Gus’s also has a “chicken only” option and provides a wing deal that’s served by the dozen. Here’s a tip: Gus’s also reheats well in the oven. If you have room for it, chess and pecan pies, among my favorites, are offered for dessert.

88 . september 2013

Gus’s Fried Chicken Wings

Honorable mentions

You can also tackle game day munchies at the Jamaican-themed Montego Cafe, in downtown Little Rock, known for its specialty jerk wings. The traditional jerk is a style of cooking indigenous to Jamaica, in which the meat is either dry-rubbed or marinated with a hot-spice mixture called jerk seasoning. Montego is one of the few places in Arkansas where you can find authentically-prepared jerk dishes. If the jerk variety packs too much heat for you, you’ll find a multiple offense with the slightly-milder hot, honey or lemon pepper versions on the menu. The latter, marinated in lemon juice and sprinkled with cracked pepper, is now on my radar.

P a m e l a S MIT H

Pamela’s

palate

Pamela Smith is a fan of AY magazine and one of the restaurant industry’s biggest supporters. Smith is a former long-time news anchor for KATV, and during her tenure, she established the popular, award-winning restaurant feature “Pam’s Picks.” From salt fish to sea urchin, from bison to catfish, to honey bun pudding, Smith’s food adventures have exposed her to cuisine in several countries. As a self-proclaimed Arkansas foodie, she feels there’s no place like home.

You’ll go straight to the end zone with the signature wings from The Tavern at the Promenade at Chenal in west Little Rock. There is a variety of sauces, but the owners start with the premise that all wings should be created equally — smoking them before they’re deep-fried. The Teriyaki wings will tempt your taste buds, but those prepared with a hint of chipotle are also fan favorites.

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interests n art sce n e

AY ’s 2013

Arts

& Entertainment List

A state is only as cultured as its art scene. Thanks in part to a recent renaissance of sorts — including the addition of the world-renowned Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art; the revamping of Fort Smith Regional Art Museum; a number of coveted collections visiting the Arkansas Arts Center; and a slew of new galleries, venues and festivals popping up across the state — Arkansas’ culture level is through the roof. Our region’s art scene is an enviable main attraction, and its versatility keeps us on our toes. Here is a guide to some of the key galleries, venues, museums and festivals in Arkansas and the surrounding region and what they have lined up for fall …

BENTON Diane Roberts Art Studio and Gallery 145 W. South St. (501) 860-7476 • drartstudio.com The Royal Theatre 111 S. Market St. (501) 315-5483 • theroyalplayers.com

BENTONVILLE Art Emporium 2505 S. Walton Blvd. (479) 273-5990 • aenwa.com Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art 600 Museum Way (479) 418-5700 • crystalbridges.org Walmart Visitor Center 105 N. Main St. (479) 273-1329 • walmartstores.com

When Sam Walton opened his 5&10 on the Bentonville, Ark., town square in 1950, he had no idea he’d planted the seeds for what would become the global leader in retail. Today, that humble little dime store is the location of the Walmart Visitor Center Museum, a family-friendly experience in three parts: Walton’s 5&10, the storefront where everything began; an interactive Exhibit Gallery that takes you on a fascinating tour of Walmart’s history; and The Spark Café Soda Fountain, a celebration of small-town ice cream soda fountains, complete with soda jerks, ‘50s era music and videos. Step through the store and into a collection of images, items and information on the history of Walmart and the Walton family.

CONWAY Baum Gallery of Fine Art

University of Central Arkansas 201 Donaghey Ave. (501) 450-5793 • uca.edu/art/baum/ Conway Symphony Orchestra P.O. Box 1307 (501) 269-1066 • conwaysymphony.org

EL DORADO South Arkansas Arts Center 110 E. Fifth St. (870) 862-5474 • saac-arts.org

EUREKA SPRINGS Keels Creek Winery and Art Gallery 3185 E. Van Buren St. (479) 253-WINE (9463) • keelscreek.com

» The buildings of Keels Creek Winery & Art Gallery house the winery, tasting room and art gallery. The works of 16 artists from Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma are represented. The art includes pieces by nationally-known artists Larry Mansker, Eureka Springs; Carolyn Mock, Bartlesville, Okla.; and Don Kitz, Deer, Arkansas. Works range from beautiful pottery and hand-blown glass to photography, watercolors, oils and acrylics. There’s a nice variety of styles, from luscious landscapes to stunning equine portraits. Buck Run Pottery is very popular, with simple designs of vibrant color spilling over to wonderful dragon designs. Co-owner Edwige Denyszyn designs the labels for Keels Creek wines. She uses artwork from local artists, including some who are represented in the gallery; Denyszyn also incorporates some of her own designs. Nestled in the trees on East Hwy. 62 on the edge of Eureka Springs, the tasting room and gallery structure was originally designed as a residence. With its white stucco exterior, it is reminiscent of old European-style housing and provides a spacious area for visitors to enjoy the art and their wines. The winery is located on the property, and the vineyards are about three miles southeast of the facility, at the owners’ home. Studio 62 335 W. Van Buren St. (479) 363-9209 • studio62.biz

» Quicksilver Art & Fine Craft Gallery showcases the work of more

Gallery 221 The arT collecTor’s gallery

moN-fri 11Am To 6Pm; SAT 11Am To 4Pm or By APPoiNTmENT | 501.801.0211 gAllEry221@gmAil.com 90 . september 2013

from gorgeous to whimsical, from fun to practical. Everyone finds something to love. Quicksilver Gallery is in the heart of Historic Downtown Eureka Springs, on Spring Street. Visitors admire beautiful jewelry designs by master metal smiths and craft artists; pottery, from rustic hand-thrown to gold- or platinum-drenched porcelain and raku; photography; prints and original art; wood pieces, clay and precious metals; and art for the home and garden. The McNamara Collection of limited-edition prints is popular, as are the one-of-a-kind wall tapestries and wildlife watercolors by Christina Smith. Find amazing treasures for yourself as well as wonderful gifts. All the art and crafts are handcrafted in the United States. A pleasant time to visit Quicksilver Gallery is for a Eureka Springs Second Saturday Gallery Stroll. April through December, member galleries feature guest artists; some, including Quicksilver, provide wine and hors d’oeuvres. It makes a lovely, leisurely evening. The September Stroll is Sept. 14. Susan Morrison’s Signature Gallery 78 Spring St. (479) 253-8788 • susanmorrisonstore.com Zarks Fine Design Gallery 67 Spring St. (479) 253-2626 • zarksgallery.com

FAYETTEVILLE

Quicksilver Gallery 73 Spring St. (479) 253-7579 • quicksilvergallery.com Walmart Visitor Center

Keels Creek Winery and Art Gallery

than 125 local, regional and national artists. Beautifully displayed on two levels, the eye-catching array of original creations ranges

art studios 221 aT Pyramid Place

2 2 1 W E ST 2 N D ST, ST E 1 02 & 512 A rT ST u D i o i N fo : 5 01 . 375.470 0 A m A N DA @ r o c k Eq u i T y.com

Kathy P. Thompson Studios 3 E. Mountain St. kathypthompson.com Matt Miller Studio 21 W. Mountain St., Ste. 26 (870) 919-8651 • mattmillerstudio.com Symphony of Northwest Arkansas

Quicksilver Gallery P.O Box 1243 (479) 521-4166 • sonamusic.org Walton Arts Center 495 W. Dickson St. (479) 443-5600 • waltonartscenter.org

FORT SMITH Fort Smith Museum of History 320 Rogers Ave. (479) 783-7841 • fortsmithmuseum.com Fort Smith Regional Art Museum 1601 Rogers Ave. (479) 784-2787 • fsram.org

HELENA Delta Cultural Center 141 Cherry St. (800) 338-4350 • deltaculturalcenter.com King Biscuit Blues Festival Downtown Helena, AR (870) 572-5223 • kingbiscuitfestival.com

» The King Biscuit Blues Festival is one of the nation’s foremost showcases of blues music and is held for three days annually in October on Columbus Day weekend. Tens of thousands of enthusiasts from around the world converge on Historic Downtown Helena to hear the best the blues world has to offer. Promoting the blues throughout the year, the King Biscuit Blues Festival seeks to sustain the culture, heritage and authenticity of Delta Blues. The blues heritage is a significant cultural distinction and a valuable resource. With headliners Gregg Allman Band, Robert Cray, Marcia Ball and a host of hot regional talent and upcoming stars, King Biscuit is already on the calendars of hardcore blues fans and music festival enthusiasts. Don’t miss this iconic American festival on the banks of the Mississippi River Oct. 10 through 12. HOT SPRINGS American Art Gallery 724 Central Ave. (501) 624-0550 • americanartgalleryandgifts.com Blue Moon Gallery 718 Central Ave. (501) 318-2787 • bluemoonartgallery.com Gallery Central Fine Arts 800 Central Ave. (501) 318-4278 • gallerycentralfineart.com Hot Springs Documentary Film Institute 659 Ouachita Ave. (501) 538-2290 • hsdfi.org Justus Fine Art 827 Central Ave., Ste. A (501) 321-2335 • justusfineart.com Linda Williams Palmer Gallery 800 Central Ave., Ste. B lindawilliamspalmer.com Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) 425 Central Ave. (501) 609-9966 • museumofcontemporaryart.com Taylors Contemporanea Fine Arts 516 Central Ave. (501) 624-0516 • hotpspringsar.com/taylors

JONESBORO Jonesboro Foundation of Arts

King Biscuit Blues Festival aymag.com . 91

Jonesboro Foundation of Arts 115 E. Monroe Ave. (870) 935-2726 • foajonesboro.org

The Foundation of Arts is a non-profit, publicly-funded organization that serves the entire region of Northeast Arkansas and a portion of Southeast Missouri. The Forum Theater is open year round, presenting a full season of eight locally-produced community theatrical performances, including children’s theatre, comedy, drama and two annual stage traditions — The Nutcracker Christmas Ballet and a summer musical — many times featuring as many as 75 to 100 cast/crew members. Additionally, the Foundation of Arts offers a variety of classes in dance, art and drama for adults and children throughout the year in The Arts Center facility. The Foundation’s 2013/2014 season includes: “The Boys Next Door,” Sept. 7 through 9; “Ring of Fire,” Oct. 26 through 28; “The Nutcracker Ballet,” Dec. 6 through 9; “It’s a Wonderful Life,” Dec. 20 through 22; “The Scarlet Letter,” Feb. 22 through 24; “Harold and the Purple Crayon,” April 12 through 14; “Les Miserables,” June 28 through July 1. Sara Howell Studio & Gallery 405 S. Main St. (870) 935-6336 • sarahowellgallery.net

LITTLE ROCK Arkansas Arts Center 501 E. Ninth St. (501) 372-4000 • arkarts.com Arkansas Festival Ballet P. O. Box 25812 (501) 227-5320 • arkansasdance.org

92 . september 2013

Arkansas Repertory Theatre Arkansas Repertory Theatre 601 Main St. (501) 378-0405 • therep.org

» The Rep’s 2013-2014 Season: “Pal Joey,” Sept. 4 through 29, 2013; “Red,” Oct. 23 through Nov. 10, 2013; “Because of Winn Dixie,” Dec. 4 through Dec. 29, 2013; “Clybourne Park,” Jan. 22 through Feb. 9, 2014; “Les Misérables,” March 5 through April 6, 2014; “The Second City,” April 29 through May 11, 2014; “The Compleat Wrks of Wllm Shkspr (Abridged),” June 4 through 29, 2014. Saints & Sinners, Feb. 1, 2014, Wally Allen Ballroom at the Statehouse Convention Center: Saints & Sinners, the annual black tie gala benefiting Arkansas Repertory Theatre, includes cocktails and a silent auction followed by an elegant dinner and live entertainment that only The Rep can provide. ArtWorks XXVI, April 12, 2014, Arkansas Repertory Theatre Lobby: Nearly 90 of Central Arkansas’ most notable artists donate a piece of their work to be sold at this lively auction. Arkansas Symphony Orchestra P.O. Box 7328 (501) 666-1761 • arkansassymphony.org

» Arkansas Symphony Orchestra 2113-2014 Season, Philip Mann, music director

Stella Boyle Smith Masterworks; Robinson Center Music Hall, Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Sept. 21 through 22; “Tchaikovsky & ‘Rite of Spring’” Oct. 19 through 20; “Barber’s Violin Concerto” Nov. 9 through 10; “Beethoven and Blue Jeans” Jan. 25 through 26; “Bohemian Rhapsody.” March 1 through 2; “Verdi’s Requiem”

April 12 through 13; “Mahler’s Fifth Symphony” ACXIOM Pops Live!; Robinson Center Music Hall, Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m.. Oct. 12 through 13; “Halloween Spooctacular” Dec. 20 through 22; “Happy Holidays” Feb. 15 through 16; “Best of Broadway” March 8 through 9; “’The Wizard of Oz’ and Orchestra” May 3 through 4; “Shower the People: The Music of James Taylor” Parker Lexus River Rhapsodies Chamber Music; Clinton Presidential Center, Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Sept. 24; “Visions of America” Oct. 22; “Sonatas for Two” Nov. 12; “Richard Shepard Artist of Distinction: Inbal Segev” Jan. 28; “Dvorak’s Piano Trio” March 4; “Brahms the Romantic” April 22; “Beethoven and Wagner” Art Studios 221 221 W. Second St., Ste. 102 (501) 375-4700 • pyramidbldg.com

Artist Studios 221 opened along with Gallery 221 in the spring of 2012. The second floor of Pyramid Place is dedicated to the artist community, offering long- and short-term studio rentals to professional and emerging artists. Each private studio offers great natural lighting, and concrete floors have an industrial look and feel. Artist Studios 221’s mission is to provide a healthy, mature and positive working atmosphere that emphasizes the creative process. For more information, please contact Amanda Judd at amanda@ rockequity.com. Ballet Arkansas P.O. Box 26203

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Central Arkansas Library System (501) 223-5150 • balletarkansas.org The Bernice Garden 1401 S. Main St. (501) 617-2511 • thebernicegarden.org Boswell Mourot Fine Art 5815 Kavanaugh Blvd. (501) 664-0030 • boswellmourot.com Butler Center 401 Pres. Clinton Ave. (501) 320-5792 • butlercenter.org Cantrell Gallery 8206 Cantrell Road (501) 224-1335 • cantrellgallery.com Chroma Gallery 5707 Kavanaugh Blvd. (501) 664-0880 Central Arkansas Library System 100 Rock St. (501) 918-3000 • cals.org

» There’s something about the Arkansas River that makes free live music sound even better. DeQueen native Collin Raye and a tribute to Delight native Glen Campbell will headline the Arkansas Sounds Music Festival, a free annual event hosted by the Butler Center for Arkansas Studies, a department of the Central Arkansas Library System (CALS). Sept. 27 through 28, the festival will feature Arkansas music and musicians both past and present at programs for all age groups at the River Market Pavilions, First Security Amphitheatre and the Main Library. Artists include Collin Raye; Bonnie Montgomery; The Smittle

94 . september 2013

Esse Purse Museum Band; Tav Falco & Panther Burns; Dan Hicks & the Hot Licks; The Sound of the Mountain; The 1 oz. Jig; Messy Sparkles; Big Piph (Epiphany); War Chief; and Mountain Sprout. Music styles — including instrumental progressive rock, funk, electro-pop, progressive hip-hop, rock, bluegrass and country — will entertain music lovers of all kinds. Youth programs at the Main Library include a concert by The Kinders and two interactive hip-hop workshops by Big Piph (Epiphany) and Ferocious. Additional events include a cocktail party to celebrate the release of Encyclopedia of Arkansas: Music, a Songwriters Showcase and book signings. To volunteer for the Arkansas Sounds Music Festival, contact Angela Delaney at adelaney@cals.org or (501) 918-3095. Cox Creative Gallery 120 River Market Ave. (501) 918-3090 Esse Purse Museum 1510 S. Main St. (501) 916-9022 • essepursemuseum.com

Delightful, by-decade displays of purses are complimented by carefully-selected items women from each era carried — true history held in a handbag. Small photos in the displays and enormous backlit photos on the north wall show real women with their personal bags. Three cozy dioramas — “Nothing’s More Natural Than Skin,” “By Land, Sea or Air” and “A Night on the Town” — feature specialty purses, and a large, whimsical art installation addresses the essence of a woman, her handbag and the contents within. Gallery 221 221 W. Second St., Ste. 102 (501) 801-0211 • galleryandartstudios221.com

From established collectors to casual art enthusiasts, Gallery 221 combines carefully-chosen art from large private collections

Gallery 221 with original paintings, drawings, sculpture, photography and oneof-a-kind artisan jewelry by a talented and visually-diverse group of both prominent and emerging, local, national and international artists, including exclusive representation of international art icon Gino Hollander. As the sole organization in Arkansas authorized to represent Hollander and his newest creations, Gallery 221 guarantees the authenticity of pieces purchased through them. After visiting the main gallery, be sure to ask for a private tour of Gallery 221’s Gino Hollander Gallery, the Art Collectors Gallery and the Decorative Art and Gift Room, all located on the second floor of Pyramid Place. Gallery 26 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd., Ste. 101 (501) 664-8996 • gallery26.com Hearne Fine Art 1001 Wright Ave., Ste. C (501) 372-6822 • hearnefineart.com Historic Arkansas Museum 200 E. Third St. (501) 324-9351 • historicarkansas.org Local Colour 5811 Kavanaugh Blvd., Ste. A (501) 265-0422 • localcolourgallery.com

» Local Colour Gallery is one of the most successful galleries in Arkansas. Representing 27 of Arkansas’ most talented artists, the gallery currently shows pottery; handmade, one-of-a-kind jewelry; and art in mediums such as oil, pastel, watercolor, mixed media and acrylic. Local Colour always has exciting new work, and many days artists will paint onsite. Commissions to meet your personal needs are accepted, and the gallery can be open by appointment for private showings. Two shows each year exhibit new work by all 27 artists. Each month, one artist is featured, and a huge fall and Christmas show begins in November.

Local Colour

Murry’s Dinner Playhouse 6323 Colonel Glenn Road (501) 562-3131 • murrysdinnerplayhouse.com Museum of Discovery 500 Pres. Clinton Ave., Ste. 150 (501) 396-7050 • amod.org Old State House Museum 300 W. Markham St. (501) 324-9685 • oldstatehouse.com

» The Old State House, the oldest surviving state capitol west of the Mississippi, is known for its exquisite Greek-Revival architecture. The museum is nationally recognized for its collections of Civil War battle flags; inaugural gowns of governors’ wives; original drawings by architect Charles L. Thompson; Arkansas pottery and art; quilts by black Arkansans; and artifacts from the heritage of Arkansas music. Its many exhibitions draw visitors who learn about law-making as it occurred in the 1836 House of Representatives Chamber; the legacy of Arkansas women; period furniture and decorative styles; the architecture of the building; and the state’s most important political people and events of the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum also features one changing exhibit annually. The Old State House Museum is open Mon. through Sat., from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sun., 1 to 5 p.m. The museum is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Admission is free. Old State House Museum

The PUBLIC Theatre 616 Center St. (501) 374-7529 • thepublictheatre.com Sculpture at the River Market 400 Pres. Clinton Ave. (501) 664-1919 • sculptureattherivermarket.com

» Sculpture at the River Market is a non-profit organization whose vision is to enhance the quality of life and image of Little Rock through public art. Located in Riverfront Park, the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden serves a dual purpose: it is a tranquil retreat for locals, as well as a noteworthy destination for art enthusiasts everywhere who come to enjoy our city. Sculpture at the River Market Presents: A Night in the Garden, Oct. 26, 2013, 6:30 p.m. Sponsored by: Little Rock Marriott, Glazer’s and Stella Artois with the City of Little Rock. Party design by: About Vase of Little Rock. Sculpture at the River Market Invitational Show and Sale: April 25 through 27, 2014, at the River Market Pavilions. Admission is free. Preview Party: Enjoy music, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while you peruse the sculptors’ artwork April 25, at 6:30 p.m. Guests will vote for their favorite proposal for a $60,000-commissioned monument sculpture to be placed in Riverfront Park. $100 per person. Bronze and Brewski’s: an “artful afterparty” for young professionals, April 25, 2014, beginning at 8:30 p.m. at the River Market Pavilion will include music, food and libations; $30 per person in advance and $40 per person at the door. The Showroom 2313 Cantrell Road (501) 372-7373 • andyhublerfineart.com

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Wildwood Park for the Arts

The Sheid

Stephano’s Fine Art Gallery 5501 Kavanaugh Blvd. (501) 563-4218 • stephanostudios.com

William J. Clinton Presidential Center 1200 Pres. Clinton Ave. (501) 374-4242 • clintonpresidentialcenter.org

Stephano’s Fine Art Gallery 2 1813 N. Grant St. (501) 563-4218 • stephanostudios.com

MOUNTAIN VIEW

Weekend Theater 101 W. Seventh St. (501) 374-3761 • weekendtheater.org Wildwood Park for the Arts 20919 Denny Road (501) 821-7275 • wildwoodpark.org

Wildwood Park for the Arts is home to Little Rock’s unique botanical gardens and enriches the lives of Arkansans of all ages by creating community through nature and the arts. A 105-acre park featuring pavilions, gardens and a 625-seat theatre complex in west Little Rock makes Wildwood one of our state’s most valuable natural and cultural resources. The Park is open daily with no charge to visit: Mon. through Fri., from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat., from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sun., from 12 to 5 p.m. The complex is also available for corporate and private rentals. Upcoming Wildwood events: Oct. 5: Americana Acoustic Music, all day Nov. 1: Wine Reserve Dinner at the Governor’s Mansion Nov. 9: RunWILD! 5K certified race from Promenade Mall to the Park Nov. 15: The Hot Sardines jazz concert indoors, Cabe Festival Theatre Dec. 7: Holiday Tour of Homes, Designer Breakfast and Holiday Concert Feb. 14 – 16: LANTERNS! Festival More information can be found at wildwoodpark.org. Wildwood Park: Create! Recreate! Celebrate!

96 . september 2013

The Sheid 1600 S. College St. (870) 508-6280 • thesheid.com

» The beautiful Vada Sheid Community Development Center, known as “The Sheid,” on the campus of Arkansas State University at Mountain Home hosts many performances throughout the year. Coming up: Sept. 3: Golden Dragon Acrobats; their 2005 Broadway debut was sold out, and they were a huge hit at The Sheid in 2012. Oct. 3: Casting Crowns, Acoustic Sessions. This Christian rock band has won Dove and Grammy awards. Oct. 6: “Stuart Little”: a beloved children’s story comes to life on stage. Oct. 20: Always Free Arvest Concert: Cutthroat Trout and National Park Radio, modern folk bands born and based in the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains. Oct. 22: Always Free Gaston Lecture Series: Roy Hallums, author of Buried Alive: The True Story of Kidnapping, Captivity, and a Dramatic Rescue Nov.12: Titanic Readers Theater. Nov. 22: “A Christmas Carol”: The Nebraska Theatre Caravan brings this classic to life. The 2014 shows include Jeremy Davis & the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra; The Fantasticks; “Fancy Nancy the Musical”; “An Evening with Elvis,” hosted by Argo from Sirius XM’s Elvis Radio. The Sheid is available for performances, meetings, conventions,

Andy Williams Moon River Theatre banquets and other special events.

MOUNTAIN VIEW Arkansas Craft Guild & Gallery 104 E. Main St. (870) 269-4120 • arkansascraftgallery.com The Ozark Folk Center 1032 Park Ave. (870) 269-3851 • ozarkfolkcenter.com

NORTH LITTLE ROCK Argenta Community Theatre 405 Main St. (501) 353-1443 • argentacommunitytheater.com Claytime Pottery 417 Main St. (501) 374-3515 • pennstudios.com Greg Thompson Fine Art 429 Main St. (501) 664-2787 • gregthompsonfineart.com Ketz Gallery 705 Main St. (501) 529-6330 • canvasjunkie.com/Ketz-Gallery Laman Library 2801 Orange St. (501) 758-1720 • lamanlibrary.org Matthews Studios 4004 John F. Kennedy Blvd.

Oak Ridge Boys Theatre

(501) 658-2255 • matthewsstudiosar.com Red Door Gallery 3715 John F. Kennedy Blvd. (501) 753-5227 • reddoorgalleryonline.com Starving Artist Cafe 411 Main St. (501) 372-7976 • starvingartistcafe.net The THEA Foundation 401 Main St., Ste. 100 (501) 379-9512 • theafoundation.org

ROGERS Poor Richard’s Art 101 W. Walnut St. (479) 636-0417 • poorrichardsart.com Rogers Little Theater 116 S. Second St. (479) 631-8988 • rogerslittletheater.org

SPRINGDALE Arts Center of the Ozarks 214 S. Main St. (479) 751-5441 • artscenteroftheozarks.org

OUTSIDE OF ARKANSAS

BRANSON, MO Andy Williams Moon River Theater 2500 76 Country Blvd. (417) 334-1800 • andywilliams.com

» The beautiful Andy Williams Moon River Theatre, the only theater ever featured in Architectural Digest, has a unique exterior remarkably in tune with its setting. Inside, oak floors and high ceilings of African ribbon-striped mahogany are an elegant backdrop to artwork and celebrity photos from Andy’s TV shows. This fall the venue hosts a concert series Friday and Saturday nights, Sept. 20 through Oct. 19. Master Impressionist Rich Little takes the stage Sept. 20 through 21 with his one-man show “Jimmy Stewart and Friends,” mesmerizing audiences with more than 40 famous voices. Award-winning Lee Greenwood performs an inspirational show Sept. 27 through 28. His “God Bless America” has been voted the most recognizable patriotic song in America. Country music star Clint Black returns to Moon River Oct. 4 through 5. A country music traditionalist from Texas, Black helped kick-start the popularity of country in the ‘90s. Four leading, hit-making groups of the ‘60s are represented Oct. 18 through 19 with the “Happy Together Tour,” starring The Turtles, featuring Flo and Eddie; Monkees’ lead singer Micky Dolenz; Gary Puckett and the Union Gap; and Mark Lindsay, former lead singer for Paul Revere and the Raiders. The Andy Williams Christmas Show, starring the Osmonds and the Lennon Sisters, and Daniel O’Donnell Show both run Nov. 1 through Dec. 7. Oak Ridge Boys Theatre 464 Hwy. 248 (417) 335-2000 • oakridgeboystheatre.com

» The Oak Ridge Boys Theatre is located on Hwy. 248 near Hwy. 65 at the north edge of Branson. The theater presents an outstanding lineup of nationally-known celebrity talent throughout the year. The theater has state-of-the-art lighting and sound, and the stage design gives audiences a close-up experience. Entertainers like Neal McCoy, Oak Ridge Boys and many others especially enjoy performing in Branson and being able to interact more with their audiences. Seeing your favorite entertainers live on stage at the Oak Ridge Boys Theatre is an exceptional experience.

The Starlite Theatre aymag.com . 97

Welk Resort Theatre Scheduled shows include: Oak Ridge Boys, select dates through Nov. 21; Neal McCoy, select dates Oct. 3 through Dec. 7; America, Sept. 20; Sawyer Brown, Sept. 21, Oct. 19 and Nov. 23; Diamond Rio, Oct. 5; Kenny Rogers, Oct.11 and Nov. 10; Bill Cosby, Oct. 12; Jim Belushi and The Chicago Board of Comedy, Oct. 25; John Michael Montgomery, Oct. 26; John Anderson, Nov. 2; Don Williams, Nov. 4; Charlie Daniels, Nov. 8; Ronnie Milsap and Connie Smith, Nov. 9; Johnny Mathis, Nov. 15 and 16; Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Nov. 17. The Starlite Theatre 3115 E. State Hwy. 76 (417) 337-9333 • starlitetheatre.com

» The newly-renovated Starlite Theatre hosts a variety of talent. Larry

Gatlin and The Gatlin Brothers take the stage Sept. 13, with shows through October. The Gatlins return in December with their Christmas Show. The Gatlins’ hits include: “All the Gold in California,” “Broken Lady” and “Houston (Means I’m One Day Closer To You).” Their Christmas show alternates with a show new to Branson, “The Toy Shoppe,” written by Kenny Rogers and starring Billy Dean. The Toy Shoppe begins Nov. 1. The Texas Tenors, a phenomenon from NBC’s “America’s Got Talent,” return to Branson’s Starlite Theatre Sept. 14 and have select dates through Dec. 3. Their November and December show is “Deep in the Heart of Christmas.” JC Fisher, John Hagen and Marcus Collins all perform with a live band and are accomplished tenors with a unique style, from opera to country. Larry’s Country Diner, the popular RFD-TV show, has live shows at the Starlite, with select dates through Oct. 17 this year. Stars include Jimmy Fortune (Statler Brothers); Rhonda Vincent & The Rage; Gene Watson; Dailey & Vincent; Wilson Fairchild; and The Grascals. The Starlite is an excellent state-of-the-art venue, excellent for all their shows. Welk Resort Theatre 1984 Hwy. 165 (800) 505-9355 • welkbranson.com

» The Welk Resort Theatre, located in the newly-renovated Welk Resort Branson, has been the venue for many renowned entertainers. This fall and Christmas are no exception. “The Price Is Right, Live!” is in its second season in Branson. The show runs through Nov. 30. “The Price Is Right” is the longest running TV game show in history, and “The Price Is Right, Live!” is the live, audience interactive version where the audience can win great prizes. Guest hosts add to the excitement; Jerry Springer was a guest host earlier this year; Mark Walberg, host of TV’s “Antique Roadshow,” is currently hosting. This year marks the final season for Tony Orlando in Branson. His “Great American Christmas” has a 19-show limited engagement, Nov. 5 through 28. Tony Orlando’s “Great American Christmas” features not only favorite holiday songs, but also Orlando’s classic hits, like “Tie a Yellow Ribbon,” “Knock Three Times” and “Candida.” He will also host his 20th Yellow Ribbon Salute to Veterans Nov. 11 at 2 p.m. The Welk Resort has just completed a multimillion-dollar renovation. Artwork and other design features with vibrant colors and textures that reflect the unique charm of the Ozarks. The resort offers a restaurant and Splash-A-Torium, an indoor/outdoor water attraction. MEMPHIS, TN The Dixon Gallery and Gardens 4339 Park Ave. (901) 761-5250 • dixon.org Memphis Brooks Museum of Art 1934 Poplar Ave. (901) 544-6200 • brooksmuseum.org

Art Studio 221 98 . september 2013

Country music star Lee Brice headlines this years’ Downtown Jonesboro BBQ Festival.

Arkansas Style By Lisa Lakey, photographs courtesy of Festival

ew things draw a crowd faster than the smell of grills being fired up for chicken, ribs, pork butt and brisket. The aroma captures the senses and pulls you in before you have a chance to fight it. So what do you get when you combine nearly 100 grills and one of Nashville’s hottest rising stars? You call it a great day and head over to Jonesboro, Arkansas. “There’s more barbecue than you can shake a stick at,” said Jack Turner, event director for the Downtown Jonesboro BBQ Festival, set to take place Sept. 28. Now in it’s fifth year, the Festival hosts the Kansas City Barbecue Society-sanctioned state championship for Arkansas. For you who are rookies to the wonderful world of BBQ, the Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) is the world’s largest organization of barbecue enthusiasts. Each year, the Grand Champion is invited to the American Royal and Jack Daniels World Championship. So would-be participants heed this warning: they take their barbe-

Backyard grillers and professionals from all walks of life are welcome to come show their best and compete for more than $10,000 in cash and prizes.

cue seriously. Very seriously. But you don’t have to be a pro to take part in the fun. Backyard grillers and professionals from all walks of life are welcome to come show their best and compete for more than $10,000 in cash and prizes. Last year’s winner was the local team of Higginbotham Family Dental. The first-time participants earned the Grand Champion title after competing with 70 other teams. “You don’t have to be a KCBS member to enter our event. It gives you peace of mind that it’s not just thrown together, and we’re not pulling people off the street to taste your barbeque,” Turner said. “We actually bring in professionals, the KCBS reps. The reps manage the barbeque side of the event to make sure everything is run properly and all of their standards are taken seriously.” No cook-off would be complete without a little entertainment. This year’s headliner is none other than the four-time Academy of Country Music nominee Lee Brice. aymag.com . 99

“It’s exciting to know that we got him before he made it really big and now he’s blowing up,” Turner said, “which is only going to make our event that much bigger. Where else are you going to see Lee Brice for free?” Brice has taken Nashville by storm as a songwriter for hits including “Crazy Girl,” which he co-wrote for the Eli Young Band. The song went on to become Billboard’s #1 country song of 2011. His two more-recent hits, “A Woman Like You” and “I Drive Your Truck,” quickly established him as a household name. Turner said, get there early if you want to see Brice up close. All spots are first come, first serve. If country music isn’t your first choice for entertainment, fear not. There will be plenty of music and fun for everyone. “You’ll get a stage full of music all day,” Turner said. “Local talent, regional talent and we’ve got some bands that play on Beale Street quite frequently coming out of Memphis. There are vendors, stuff for kids to do and we’ll do several giveaways throughout the night. In downtown Jonesboro, the atmosphere is just great.” The festival is largely sponsored by the Jonesboro Advertising and Promotion Commission. While their main job is showing Jonesboro to

100 . september 2013

Local and regional acts, such as Haven Hill, have participated in the Downtown Jonesboro BBQ Festival.

be the great city it is, Turner said the festival is less about tourism and more about celebrating the people who make it so great. “Jonesboro is a great community, and this is our community party,” Turner said. “We’re kind of the gem of northeast Arkansas. We’re growing by leaps and bounds. In years past, you would have to go to Memphis or Little Rock to get some of the amenities we have — the restaurants, shopping … entertainment. But now we’ve got it all ourselves, and we’ve be-

come a hub, but still retain our small-community feel. ” While the festival entrance and entertainment are free and will fill up plenty of your time, Turner invites visitors to take a walk downtown and browse the shops or stop in the wine bar, pizzeria and other restaurants and outlets. Jonesboro guarantees you’ll find something for everyone. “Come spend a day and night in Jonesboro,” Turner said, “and see what we have to offer.”

about you n LIV I NG

is a promise The following is an excerpt from Ward’s book How To Stay Married Without Going Crazy, Second Edition, released this fall as an eBook as well as Print-On-Demand. This winter, Ward will sign 50 copies at Wordsworth Books just about 12 years after the original book was released. “It’s hard to believe that much time has passed; I’ve been relieved and validated that when re-editing the book with my publisher, I realized that I had pretty much gotten it right the first time,” she said.

By Rebecca L. Ward, LCSW, MSW

ne of the most common and least effective methods of dealing with an unhappy marriage is to go outside the marriage by having an affair. Unfortunately, it’s a too common solution in our society, a society that loves the “quick fix.” We may be able to rid ourselves of termites by calling in an exterminator or taking care of the dripping faucet in the kitchen by calling the plumber, but a sick marriage is not going to be fixed by inviting in another man or woman to make it all better. Adding a third person may ease the pain momentarily, but it causes irreparable damage to the vows and promises that were made and intended to last a lifetime. Healing can occur and many marriages survive, but the betrayal is never forgotten. Current statistics are confusing and difficult to put solid numbers to, but they are high — probably in the 30-to-40 percent range — meaning too many married people don’t stay where they need to be and work on a marriage that may have gotten a little stale, a little boring. Now the relationship is encumbered by children and other life responsibilities that can suck out the fun and excitement; who has time for romance,

tenderness and understanding? It’s not just husbands and men who stray. The number of unfaithful females is growing higher now that many have escaped the tyranny of both their uterine destinies as well as their financial inequities and inadequacies. Twenty-f irst century women have both educational and vocational opportunities that were not available even 50 years ago; they have taken them, been successful and are now in every work situation imaginable. They are in operating rooms holding the scalpel, on utility poles, carrying M-16s on foreign soil, teaching at every level, selling insurance, brokering in the stock market, lawyering, and so forth. The point is that women are out of the house and now in the company of men other than their husbands. Work-related infidelities are numerous as proximity and opportunity meet; when a marriage is weak, that’s a bad combination. Inf idelit y has different meanings to each of us, and we all have limitations that we set for ourselves as well as our spouses. Limitations should be formally discussed so both spouses know explicitly what those are and are crystal-clear about the expectations (to me, the marriage vows are pretty clear and the thought of having to tell my husband I

expect him to stay zippered-up with anyone but me seems ridiculous). Technology, such as e-mail, texting and smart phones with photographic capabilities, has increased the opportunity and ability of people to contact each other, mostly under the radar … until a mate gets suspicious and starts looking for the paper trail. I have, in my office, witnessed many times the moment of truth when one indignant spouse presents a stack of cell phone bills or actual text messages to an ambushed partner who cannot deny hard, tangible evidence. Sexual relations with someone other than your spouse is generally the definition of “infidelity” most accepted in our culture and our courts of law (though the courts don’t really seem to care). It generally means genital-to-genital contact in the strictest sense. A man in my office actually asked me, with some semblance of innocence, this question: “If I’ve let a woman have oral sex on me, have I been unfaithful?” I told him to ask his wife what she thought, and he gasped, saying, “I couldn’t ever ask her that.” “Well, you’ve been unfaithful,” I told him. My opinion is that any contact that involves the genitalia with someone other than the person to whom you have pledged exclusivity is betrayal. aymag.com . 101

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about you n HEALT H

Behind the Numbers By Angela E. Thomas / Photography by Cindy Momchilov

This year, 1,660,290 Americans — 16,330 Arkansans — will be diagnosed with cancer. For each person diagnosed, there are countless others lending support to the individuals fighting this potentially fatal disease. Following are four stories that demonstrate the power of positivity. This month we highlight three cancers: Ewing's sarcoma, which affects children, usually during puberty; ovarian cancer, which, according to the National Cancer Institute, will affect more than 22,000 women this year; and prostate cancer, which will affect nearly 240,000 men. You’ll also meet Brenda Stallings, who has dedicated her hobby to her late grandfather.

According to the American Cancer Society’s “Cancer Facts & Figures 2013,” the following are “leading new cancer causes, 2013 estimate”: Women:

PHOTO BY ASHLEE NOBEL

breast lung & bronchus colon & rectum uterine corpus (body of the uterus) thyroid non-Hodgkin lymphoma melanoma of the skin kidney & renal pelvis pancreas ovary

Men:

prostate lung & bronchus colon & rectum urinary bladder melanoma of the skin kidney & renal pelvis non-Hodgkin lymphoma oral cavity & pharynx leukemia pancreas

In His Memory

renda Stallings works each day “fulfilling her life’s calling” as a deputy public defender in the Pulaski County Jurisdiction. This Arkansas transplant experienced a time of transition, uncertain whether to remain in the Natural State or to return to her hometown of Detroit, Michigan. “A friend suggested I get a hobby. I thought, I’ll run the Little Rock Marathon. The training is free — versus golf or tennis — and all I need is a good pair of shoes. I showed up in shorts, a t-shirt and a pair of gym shoes I’d bought when I was a kid,” Stallings said, laughing at her naïveté. That year, which was the first year for the Little Rock Marathon, she walked/ran a half marathon, and she hasn't looked back. She joined Black Girls Run, a national running club of African American women; Arkansas has more than 300 members. In 2004, she ran her first marathon. Today, Stallings runs to raise money for a cause dear to her heart: prostate cancer. Her grandfather James Giles died of the disease on Feb. 28, 1989. “I didn’t know so many people were affected by prostate cancer, and no one talks about it. We talk about other cancers, like breast cancer, but not prostate cancer,” Stallings said, expressing a sentiment echoed by the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation (APCF). APCF works to provide information, screening, support and patient services and to educate individuals about prostate cancer. Last year, Stallings ran a half marathon in Denver, Colo., and raised more than $1,000 for the foundation; In March, she’ll run a marathon in Rome, Italy; in 2015, she’ll run in Africa; and in 2016, in China — all in her grandfather’s memory. Her fundraising goal for the March 2014 run is $3,000. You may contribute to Stallings’ effort by making donations to APCF in her name. While a marathon’s 26.2 miles may seem daunting to your average Joe — or Joanne — Stallings said, “it’s just a matter of mind over miles.” For more information about the APCF, call (501) 603-7433 or log onto arprostatecancer.org. 104 . september 2013

Behind the Numbers

Mollie’s Moments

ollie Campbell is your typical 12-year old. She’s looking forward to seventh grade; enjoys making jewelry and other types of arts

and crafts; and she loves to watch movies — her favorite is “The Hunger Games”; she loves suspense. However, Campbell is anything but typical. Last fall, her legs began to ache; then she noticed a lump on her shin that became tender to the touch. “It hurt to walk. I love to be outside and walk. I played basketball — not well, but I was on a team for awhile — but [the ache became painful], so I started just sitting around,” she said. In the meantime, Campbell’s grandparents, Dave and Ann, took her to their family doctor, who initially thought she was simply experiencing growing pains. However, as the pain continued, he sent her for a CT scan and MRI, which, Campbell noted, stopped just above the tumor. The Campbells decided to seek a second opinion and visited an orthopedic surgeon in Mountain View, Ark., which is the closest city to their hometown of Timbo, Arkansas. “He sent us to Arkansas Children’s Hospital immediately,” Campbell said. While they awaited test results, she said she “knew something serious was going on.” She was diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma. Ewing's Sarcoma is a cancerous tumor that grows in bones or soft tissue near bones; it can occur anywhere on the body, but most commonly presents itself in the arms, legs, ribs, spinal column and pelvis in children, usually during puberty. It’s treated with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation. The incidence of Ewing's Sarcoma is three in a million in the United States, and it occurs primarily in the lower extremities. Campbell has handled her “too many surgeries to count” like a trooper and said losing her shoulder-length hair “was pretty upsetting, but you gotta do what you gotta do. It’s just hair.” Ann said, “Mollie asked me, after one of her first surgeries, ‘why does it hurt so much?’ I said, ‘I don’t know … I’d give everything I’ve got to not have you go through this.’ She shook her head and said ‘No. Nanny, I’ve got this.’” She and Dave clearly adore their granddaughter, who from the age of 6 months has had her grandfather wrapped around her little finger. He said of his wife and Campbell: “You don’t see very many angels in your lifetime, but here are two of them.” For more about Mollie Campbell’s journey, “like” her Facebook page Mollie’s Moments.

Sources: cancer.gov and kidshealth.org

Campbell has handled her “too many surgeries to count” like a trooper and said losing her shoulderlength hair “was pretty upsetting, but you gotta do what you gotta do. It’s just hair.”

Mollie Campbell, 12, who loves pink fingernail polish, wearing two of her favorite items: a pair of fashion glasses and a large, flowered headband. aymag.com . 105

Did you know â&#x20AC;&#x201C; *Every 17 minutes, 24/7, an American man dies of prostate cancer? *Source â&#x20AC;&#x201C; American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute

September is National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

Know the Risk; Beat the Odds The Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation helps Arkansas men beat the odds through education, free screenings, advocacy and its statewide network of support groups.

Join our B ue Ribbon Campaign this September.

501.379.8027 or 1.800.338.1383 | www.arprostatecancer.org 106 . september 2013

Behind the Numbers

Lean On Me

ary Potter is a husband, father, business owner, a survivor, an advocate and a source of support. Four years ago, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer; he opted for robotic surgery to treat the cancer. “Of course, we began to closely monitor my PSA levels and when they went up, we decided to take action,” Potter said. So he underwent radiation treatment. PSA refers to the prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate gland; the higher the PSA level, the more likely prostate cancer is present. Symptoms include urination problems, frequent urination and frequent pain in the thighs — things Potter experienced, but “explained away.” “Prostate cancer affects not just the man who has it, but everyone around him, his wife, children, parents,” Potter said. “Your first reaction is 'I’m dying.' Then, 'I’m dying and what’s going to happen to my family.' … when I called my daughter to tell her, she asked, ‘Will you be able to walk me down the aisle?’ [referring to her wedding]. Everyone around you experiences fear initially, and the diagnosis can leave you in a weak emotional state.” That’s why Potter is such a huge advocate for the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation’s (APCF) Peer Network, a support group for men and those who love them. “Support is very important for men as they go through this journey; going it alone can make the process very difficult,” he said, noting that emotional support is an important part of recovery, perhaps just as important as the support one receives after surgery and radiation treatment. He’s been a part of the Peer Network since his first bout with prostate cancer. “I thought I’d join and move on after I completed treatment. I attended the APCF Boys and Their Toys event and enjoyed it and found I loved the support group. In five years, I've missed three meetings. I just want to give back and help others. There is so much information and so many resources for women going through breast cancer; that’s not the case with men and prostate cancer.” During the sessions, Potter, who owns Potter Motors in Conway, is an open book, sharing his experiences, such as trying to maintain his pre-radiation schedule while being treated. He gives advice — “your job is to get cancer free” — and said the group asks for no commitment. “You have some men who come once, get what they need and never return. Others, like me, have been involved for years.” He advises men and their loved ones facing a prostate cancer diagnosis: “Become your own advocate. Do your research, ask questions and arm yourself with information. Seek a second opinion … and speak with others who’ve been where you are.”

“Your first reaction is 'I’m dying.' Then, 'I’m dying and what’s going to happen to my family.' … when I called my daughter to tell her, she asked, ‘Will you be able to walk me down the aisle?’"

For more information about prostate cancer, APCF, the Peer Network or a support group near you, call (501) 3798027 or log onto arprostatecancer.org. aymag.com . 107

108 . september 2013

Behind the Numbers

Her Name Says It All

erry Zakrzewski of Little Rock, Ark., taught school for 28 years

and only once missed the first day of class. In the summer of 2001, this aptly-named lady — she just bubbles over with enthusiasm — visited her doctor for her annual exams, which included a mammogram, a visit to her gynecologist and a general physical. Her gynecologist noted that a cyst on one of her ovaries had grown by 2 centimeters and decided he’d like to remove it. During surgery, a tumor on her gall bladder was discovered and removed. One month later, after she’d healed, doctors performed a total hysterectomy, and Zakrzewski was diagnosed with Stage 3 ovarian cancer. “I’d had no symptoms — just a bit of thickness around the middle,” she said. “I’d never been sick or stayed in the hospital, and when my doctors performed a CA125 test, the results were normal.” The CA125 test measures the amount of the protein CA 125 (cancer antigen 125) in the blood. She underwent six rounds of chemotherapy while working. “The kids knew I had cancer, and I wanted them to know that you don’t have to die from cancer,” Zakrzewski said, in reference to her seventh grade math students. “I explained to them about my hair loss. While they knew about cancer, ovarian cancer was a bit harder than breast cancer to explain [because of the anatomy] and sometimes I’d have ‘chemobrain’ (forgetfulness), but I made it through.” Zakrzewski’s husband Greg was her support — though it was an adjustment as “he’d never seen her sick” — and friends and “lots of prayer" saw her through the process. This decorative artist hasn’t had any reccurrences, and while she admits her hair loss was a bit difficult — “I wore a wig and drew my eyebrows on, but I missed my lashes. I wanted to look healthy” — she said getting really sick was not an option. In her spare time, she and Riley, her miniature Australian shepherd, visit several central Arkansas hospices; they recently celebrated the completion of 150 pet therapy visits. To others facing a cancer diagnosis, Zakrzewski offered: “Stay positive and enjoy life. Don’t let cancer lock you [into a negative outlook]. Don’t dwell on the diagnosis. Cancer does not always have a fatal outcome.”

“The kids knew I had cancer, and I wanted them to know that you don’t have to die from cancer,” Zakrzewski said, referencing her seventh grade math students. aymag.com . 109

interests n m urd e r myst e ry

MOTHERS W HO KI LL What could break nature’s strongest bond? By Rhonda Owen / Photograph courtesy of Arkansas Department of Correction

he bond between mother and child — an innate, lifelong attachment that begins with the first flutters of life in the womb — is supposed to be unbreakable. Indeed, as a society, we hold fast to the belief that a mother’s desire to protect and nurture her children is one of the most powerful forces of nature. Our belief in the sanctity and strength of the mother-child bond is such that we can’t help but be horrified when we learn about mothers killing the people they should be most likely to protect. We want to know how any mother could kill her children. Among the answers offered by psychologists who study filicide, or killing one’s child, is that women who murder their children are usually in deep emotional distress. They feel cut off, alone and overwhelmed. These women love their children, but can’t separate the children from themselves — so when they seek a way out of their pain by committing suicide, removing the children is part of the process. In Arkansas, two such cases seem to fit that theory. In 1997, 26-year-old Christina Riggs — a

110 . september 2013

licensed practical nurse who by many accounts was a loving mother — smothered her two preschool-age children in their beds. That a mother would do such a thing was shocking enough, but the details that emerged about her crime devastated Arkansans struggling to cope with the unfathomable violation of the mother-child bond. That Riggs’ attempt to commit suicide after suffocating her son and daughter had failed seemed to many to be the worst kind of injustice. Riggs wanted to die with her children, Bradley Diner, a Little Rock psychologist, testified during her 1998 trial. Suffering from depression, she saw suicide as her only option. On Nov. 4, 1997, she gave 5-year-old Justin and 2-year-old Shelby small amounts of the antidepressant Elavil. Then she injected Justin with potassium chloride, a heartstopping chemical compound that’s one of the ingredients in the lethal injection then-used in Arkansas executions. Unless diluted and given intravenously, the chemical causes intense pain — when she injected Justin with the chemical, he woke up and cried out in fear before she smothered him. She then suffocated Shelby, skipping the potassium chloride injection. Riggs wrote suicide notes before taking

a lethal amount of Elavil and a large dose of potassium chloride. She passed out, but she didn’t die. Not then. On May 2, 2000, the state executed her for the murders, injecting her with a lethal drug cocktail containing potassium chloride. Six years after Riggs’ execution, another case of filicide shocked the state. In 2006, Eleazar Paula Mendez apparently suffered from depression exacerbated by separation from her husband, Arturo Morales, who had stayed in New York City to work while she and their three children moved to DeQueen, Arkansas. Mendez, a native of Mexico, wanted to raise her kids in a safer environment than that of the big city. DeQueen, with its large Hispanic population, seemed ideal. For a year, all seemed well. Mendez made a life for the family and was considered by neighbors and members of her church to be a quiet, but friendly woman who doted on her kids. But all wasn’t well. Mendez began to feel the stress of being apart from her husband. After visiting him in New York in December 2005, Mendez told friends that Morales had asked for a divorce. She was distraught because she thought he had been unfaithful. Then, on

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“I blessed them, then I suffocated them,” 43-year-old Mendez told police after she was arrested. Jan. 28, 2006, her husband received a chilling phone call: Mendez told him she had killed their children and tried to kill herself. Frantic, Morales contacted police in DeQueen. Officers who went to the family’s small white house to check out his claim found 8-year-old Elvis Morales and 5-year-old twins Samuel and Samantha Morales dead in their mother’s queen-sized bed. “I blessed them, then I suffocated them,” 43-year-old Mendez told police after she was arrested. She also said she had tried to kill herself by taking ant poison but her suicide attempt was interrupted by her children, who she claims asked that she take them with her into death. In May 2007, Mendez plead guilty to capital murder and received three life sentences, which she’s serving at the Arkansas Department of Correction’s women’s unit at Wrightsville. The murders by Riggs and Mendez contradict what we instinctively believe about mother-child bond, but in both cases the bond was there — twisted into something incomprehensible. Next month: We’ll look more closely at the psychology of filicide and why mothers kill their children.

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aymag.com . 111

FINAL THOUGHTs By Sonny Rhodes

eptember 1863 — 150 years ago this month — was an anxious time for Confederate Arkansas, especially in the state capital. Two months earlier, on July 4, the Union had won key victories at Gettysburg, Pa., and Vicksburg, Miss., the latter a Mississippi River stronghold that surrendered after a long siege. In Arkansas, on that very same Fourth, Union troops also repelled a poorly-executed Confederate attempt to recapture Helena. As the summer continued to heat up, so did talk of an attack on the Arkansas capital. On Aug. 29, the capital city’s Arkansas State Gazette (briefly the name of the Arkansas Gazette) published a call to arms, stating: “Now is the time for every man who can carry a gun to do his duty. The enemy … [is] threatening the Capital of the State. … Arms will be put into the hands of all who will aid in the impending battle. … The difference of a few men, on the one side or the other, may determine a battle.” On the same page was a message from a Confederate medical officer seeking supplies. Addressing the “Ladies of Little Rock,” the officer stated the Confederate army’s medical department was “almost entirely destitute” of bandages and related materials. “A battle is imminent and we cannot be supplied with the articles mentioned without your aid.” Historian Mark Christ vividly recounts the fighting at Little Rock in his book, Civil War Arkansas 1863: The Battle for a State. In the chapter on the fight for the capital, as he does throughout the book, Christ quotes 112 . september 2013

numerous combatants to bring to life this critical era of Arkansas history. I should say here that Christ and I have been friends since our days as copy editors for the Arkansas Gazette in the 1980s. This is not a plug for his book. It doesn’t need my approval (for instance, next month the Central Arkansas Library System will honor Christ with its Booker Worthen Literary Prize). I mention the book because of the minute details and perspective it provides about a part of Arkansas history that is almost unfathomable. Now back to regularly scheduled programming. It’s hard to imagine Civil War conditions, especially in the Arkansas swamps in summertime. A Union cavalry officer, whose horsemen camped awhile at Clarendon en route to Little Rock, wrote in his diary of the scarcity of water and of resorting to drinking swamp water after taking a stick to push away the green scum. Similarly, a Minnesota infantryman stated, “I was glad of a sip of coffee made from filthier water than I had ever thought to drink.” Despite oppressive heat, deadly illness and lack of water, eventually more than 10,000 Union troops amassed along the north side of the Arkansas River near Little Rock, while more than 7,700 Confederates prepared to defend the city. Major Gen. Frederick Steele, in charge of the Union forces, devised a plan to have cavalry troops cross the river south of Little Rock while his infantry moved west against Rebels dug in along the river’s north side. The assault began on the morning of Sept. 10, with the Union horse soldiers crossing the

river near the confluence of Bayou Fourche and engaging in fierce fighting with the Confederates. The battle ended quickly. Learning the Federals had crossed the river, Confederate Major Gen. Sterling Price decided to abandon the capital and retreat toward the southwest, not wanting to be trapped like the Confederate commander at Vicksburg. Among the Confederates disappointed in Price’s decision was cavalryman Thomas Barb, who wrote in his diary that he came through Little Rock that afternoon and “found the whole army under a full retreat … so the big expected fight for our capitol is come and gone and wasent [sic] nothing but a skirmish.” Union casualties were put at 137: 18 killed, 118 wounded, one missing. The Confederates, not known for their record keeping, put their casualties at 64: 12 killed, 34 wounded, 18 captured or missing. Rebel losses almost certainly were higher, Christ writes. Widespread deaths due to disease also were not part of the numbers. In putting the battle in perspective, Christ quotes historian Shelby Foote, who noted Little Rock was the fourth Confederate capital to fall, following Jackson, Miss., Nashville, Tenn., and Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The battle’s outcome, Foote wrote, “extended the Union occupation to include three-fourths of Arkansas, a gain which the victors presumably would have been willing to pay ten or even one hundred times the actual cost.” Old war stories? E-mail sonnyrhodes@ sbcglobal.net.