Hot Springs Hot Spots Magazine - August 2015

hot springs

AUGUST 2015

SUMMERFEST UPTOWN: THE GREAT SALSA CHALLENGE pg 20

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS Pg 8 SOLAR FEDERATION PG 10

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ICE ICE BABY PG 28

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24thJazzFest Annual Hot Springs

September 2 - 7, 2015

Sax in the Park

Wed, Sept 2 • 7 pm • Arlington Hotel $30/$35

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Fri, Sept 4 • 7 pm • Five Star Theatre $30/$35

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J AZZ in the STREETS Sat, Sept 5 • 11 am to 5 pm • Downtown Entertainment District 106th Army Band • ATM w/Allen Won & Sim Flora UAM Jazz Band • Rodney Block Jazz Project • Nu-Fusion Salsa lessons by Mark & Aura King with Calle Soul @ 4 pm

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NATIONAL PARK

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LETTER FROM THE EDITORS Wow. Is it hot in here, or is it just us?

The dog days of summer have officially arrived. We have to remember to take every precaution we can to keep cool, and we also have to remember that its dangerous out there right now. A toddler died after being left in a car. This tragedy, understandably, has sparked a lot of outrage and nasty comments and whoever was responsible has a lot to answer for; but, we don’t know the whole story yet. Amateur web-based news sources who report information prematurely only fuel the fire. And then everybody assumes. Always a quick trigger finger. Speaking of trigger finger, what’s up with movie theaters?

Would we really rather be walking through metal detectors to get a peek at the latest Disney-Pixar than actually pass a law that might keep more guns out the hands of maniacs? And then there’s Texas and Sandra Bland. We don’t know what happened in that cell, but the tape clearly shows an officer abusing his authority and then lying about it on his radio. Remember all that talk about working together? Sheesh. The human race is in an uncertain place at the moment, and we need each other now, more than ever. On top of all this, its 150 degrees outside.

In order to combat all this, we published a magazine with some really cool stuff in it. A salsa competition on Park that is open to anybody who thinks his or her salsa has a chance. One of our beautiful lakes hosts a huge fishing tournament for kids. A local man is strengthening and nurturing our community’s youth through art, and you’ll get the opportunity to see these future Picassos’ masterpieces at the Convention Center soon. For progressive rock nerds, there will be a Rush tribute band playing in town in the coming weeks. Rad. And some of our future critics rate the best snow cones in the city. This isn’t all we cover this month; you’ll have to keep reading. Maybe some of these things can help you forget about all the BS we give each other on a constant basis. Maybe not. But at least we tried. C’mon, give us a break, Obama. Thanks and enjoy.

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HOT SPRINGS HOT SPOTS CREATIVE/ART Marisa Rodgers EDITORS Josh Williams J. L. James PHOTOGRAPHY Jeremy Rodgers Amanda Shelley Ledbetter CONTRIBUTORS Kian McMahan Grace Brown Blyss Rodgers Kyla Eads Gwen Kudabeck Elijah Williams SALES Josh Williams Want to Subscribe?

Go to HSHotSpots.com/Shop For advertising opportunities: info@rendercreativegroup.com or call 501-620-4520 For editorial queries: Please write to: Hot Springs Hot Spots 801 Central Avenue, Suite 30 Hot Springs, AR 71901 or email info@hshotspots.com BE SOCIAL WITH US LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/HSHotSpots FOLLOW US ON TWITTER twitter.com/HSHotSpots

hot springs

EATS FARM TO FENDER

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FOOD TRUCK FIRDAYS rev up THE SPA CITY

MUS I C SOLAR FEDERATION

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THE COOLEST NERDS ON THE PLANET

ART S TINY BEADS

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G IVI NG CUTWELL 4 KIDS

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28 10

VANESSA RATLIFF’S WEARABLE WORKS OF ART

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THE BIRTH OF AN ARTIST CUTS TO THE CREATIVE CORE

25 D O N’T M I S S ALBUM REVIEWS

FE AT U RED

20 SUMMERFEST UPTOWN 25 FISH FEVER

park avenue community spices up summer

Tournament fishing catches youth, Hook, line and sinker

28 ICE ICE BABY 32 All THAT JAZZ

Spa city youth offer insight into summer’s chilliest treats

THE EXPERIMENTAL EXPERIENCE: 24th annual Hot springs jazz fest

11 12 LIVE SHOW LISTINGS 18 restaurant LISTINGS 33 TOP 5 REASONS CALENDAR OF EVENTS 35

TO VISIT 4D ADVENTURES AUGUST

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EATS

FARM TO FENDER

Food Truck Fridays drives in TO THE SPA CITY

Photography by Jeremy Rodgers

Story by Grace Brown

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Move over McDonald’s, the food trucks are driving fresh, locally sourced food to the Farmers’ Market the last Friday of each month through September. Food Truck Friday (FTF) is the brainchild of a coalition of members of the community including Citizens Bank, the Farmers and Ar tisans Market Board, volunteers and, of course, awesome food truck vendors. Eight different food trucks are lined up for this upcoming event on Aug. 28, and boy are we ready.

The event is “farm to fender,” meaning each food truck will feature an item on their menu containing a locally grown product. The mission of the Farmers and Ar tisans Market board is to increase access to healthy foods, small businesses and foster locally grown produce. By accepting Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, and offering double bucks, the board is making healthy food an option for everyone. The event star ts at 11 a.m. and continues until 8 p.m. with a shor t break from

2 to 4 to allow the vendors to restock. The event will feature musical guests Klair Ann Netherland at lunch and the Gable Bradley Band at dinner.

The Farmers and Ar tisans Market board worked relentlessly alongside several volunteers and Citizens Bank to make the first FTF a reality. “We had only 28 days to plan the first event after getting word from the city,” said board member and vendor Elaine Nesmith. An estimated 750 to 1,000 people were in attendance at the first event, and ever since then vendors have been cooking up some hot new items and old favorites.

Nesmith and her husband Clay Cook have got some “gud füd” in store for everyone. About a year and a half ago Elaine envisioned owning a food truck that sold gluten, chemical and hormone free local produce. Today her vision is reality. Nesmith and her husband own and operate Itz Gud Füd, one of the food trucks you can find parked at the event and around town. Just as she imagined,

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all of the food coming from her truck is free from any gluten, chemicals and hormones. All her chicken and pork come from JV farms which features its local produce in the multiple wraps, salads and arepas Itz Gud Fud serves.

Other vendors have followed suit and are serving up fresh foods that will have you asking for seconds. Joseph Steinman, owner of the Bionic Grasshopper is on a similar mission. He does his best to get all his products from local farmers, but his featured ingredient, summer butter, comes from Jerry’s Jams and Jellies and all the dressings are made by hand each day. Husband and wife duo Steven and Abby Fryar, owners of Mug Shots Express, will also be in attendance, quenching thirsts. Their featured local product is honey, from right here in Garland County. That sweet nectar is infused into their honey lemonade and honey iced coffee. Of course, they will also be serving their traditional coffees, but also some specialty drinks like the hummingbird lemonade. Yum!

FTF is orchestrated by more than just food truck vendors. Eight different farmers from around the area have provided produce to the vendors. Jay Lee from JV Farms says FTF has a positive impact on his business. “We go to the Farmers’ Market on Saturdays, but this being a farm to fender event has really gotten our names out there,” he said. JV Farms is a family run

farm producing grass fed, cage free and hormone free pigs and chickens that they sell to the public. JV Farms, Mac Farms and Thomas farms are just a few of the wonderful farmers whose produce will be integrated into the food at the event.

Last FTF Elaine and several vendors ran out of product before the event was scheduled to end.

“Were encouraging vendors to condense their menus for lunch this time around so we can move things along,” she said, “But we are not fast food. Dinner will have more of a laid back feel. We want to grow healthy community development.” What better way than by sharing a meal with your neighbors? Preparations, such as awnings and shade, have also been made to make the overall dining experience more pleasurable and to help keep patrons cool.

FTF is still accepting applications for new vendors to attend the event and contact information is available on the event’s Facebook page. This month’s FTF is on Aug. 28, and will return again the last Friday of each month until October In order for FTF to continue fur ther into the year it is vital that the community come out and show their suppor t.

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MUSIC SOLAR FEDERATION

The Coolest Nerds on the Planet

There was a time in our society when bands actually played real musical instruments. Guitars were strummed and picked with precision. Keyboards were tickled with feather-like fingers. Drum kits were thumped with backbeats of perfection. That’s right kids, autotuners and drum machines haven’t been around that long. With the generic and plastic sounds in music today, some of the people who were alive in the 70s are longing for the days of yore. They want to show the young ragamuffins that music was real once. It’s good to expand one’s horizons and try new things every once in a while. After all, variety is the spice of life. One band in Hot Springs is playing music so challenging, they should receive a Purple Heart for bravery, or at least, garner attention for a few hours.

The Solar Federation is a local Rush tribute band made up of bassist and keyboardist (hand and foot keyboard just like Geddy) Will Davenpor t,

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guitarist Eric Duggan and drummer Max Sestili. For those who don’t know, there is a Canadian rock band that has been playing together in its current form since 1974. They’re called Rush. Members include bassist, keyboardist and lead vocalist Geddy Lee, guitarist and backing vocalist Alex Lifeson and one of the most skilled drummers of all time, Neil Pear t.

They are regarded in most circles as true masters of their craft and rank among the best musicians in the world. Rush is known for hits like “Tom Sawyer,” “YYZ,” “Limelight,” “Fly by Night,” “Working Man” and “Closer to the Hear t,” but their library consists of 20 studio albums, with songs even Deep Tracks on XM Radio would be hard-pressed to play. Rush is known for its musicianship, complex compositions and eclectic lyrical patterns that draw heavily on science fiction, fantasy, history and philosophy. They are basically a band for nerds, by nerds.

Photography by Jeremy Rodgers

Story by Josh Williams

The Solar Federation knows that the stigma attached to Rush and its fans has not always been a “cool” one. Come on, The Solar Federation itself is made up of a city storm water manager, an estimator/ project manager and a radiologist. Can anyone say “dorks?” But it takes telligence to play the music that Rush plays. “Rush is progressive rock,” Duggan said, “for brilliant college kids getting together making intelligent music. They will mix multiple time signatures.

They’ll go from 4/4 to 3/4 to 6/8 all in one song to make it more challenging. Its genius rock.”

“Music today is too straight-forward,” Sestili added. “What we are doing is bringing back intricate classic rock. Yes, Rush’s music can be written and played, but unless you are extremely familiar with the music it’s very difficult, and can almost seem lame because of a feeling of helplessness trying to replicate it. I’m going to quote Neil himself—‘It’s like running a

hot springs marathon and working on differential equations at the same time.’”

“They make it sound easy, but its nasty,” Davenpor t chimed in. “Their music amazes me. I can sit here, read and listen to this music and say to myself, ‘these guys are in their 60’s and still truckin’ man, can you believe these guys wrote and played that’? It’s incredible.”

When Sestilli and Davenpor t met six year s ago, it was a match made in heaven. They were amazed that there was someone else out there who was as big a dweeb as they are. They originally went by the name Bizarro Buddha, with a vir tual ver sion of Max (Xam) on drums, playing on a movie screen behind the duo. Duggan was a fellow Rush geek who couldn’t believe what he saw.

“I was so ner vous when I came and auditioned for Max and Will,” he said. “I thought to myself, ‘don’t mess this up.’”

Six years later, these guys meet every Thursday to practice their craft. “Here I am, 50 years old and in a Rush tribute band,” Duggan beamed. “I’m living the dream.”

“We practice once a week, play a 16 song set perfectly for an audience a couple times a year, and are totally exhausted for two weeks afterwards,” Davenpor t added.

“It’s not the three hour set, its moving that eight-thousand-piece, pain-in-the-ass drum kit around,” Max chided, wearing a wry smile.

These guys are just like any other band on the surface: they rehearse, they fight, they make up, they wax poetic about music, and they consider themselves family. What’s different about The Solar Federation is their love, dedication and their knowledge of the style they represent.

“The music is based on a thread philosophy,” Duggan said. “We’re all connected. We live on a planet, in a galaxy, in the universe. We are all bound spiritually and positively.”

Max’s wife and certified “band mom,” Michelle Sestili described them best: “The music is what I love the most about these guys. They discovered Rush separately as awkward teenagers, but have spent thousands of hours learning every single note to every single song, when they’re on stage, you can see those giddy young boys living their dream.”

From 8 till midnight on Saturday, Aug. 29 at Jim’s Razorback Pizza, the universe will align and operate in perfect harmony.

ALBUMS ON REVIEW

sublime with Rome SIRENS

Sublime, the original carnation led by Bradley Nowell on vox and guitar, Bud Gaugh on drums and Eric Wilson on bass, was a major part of my formative years, so looking objectively at this sophomore release by the ill-conceived reincarnation, Sublime with Rome (SWR) of the ska-reggaepunk-hip hop trio is nearly impossible. So I didn’t. From the very first track, the title track, a cluster-[redacted] mess of misplaced and overused Beastie Boys samples accompanied by some of Rome Ramirez’ worst attempts at rapping, this phone-it-in, over-polished studio project betrays the original Sublime style, the entire concept. Now, to be clear, Rome is talented as hell, and I believe his heart is in the right place, it’s just not translating into good music. When the band formed in 2009, it consisted of Eric Wilson, Bud Gaugh and Rome.

The late Bradley Nowell’s family wasn’t impressed, citing that they supported Wilson and Gaugh’s perpetuation of Sublime’s music, but that forming a band called “Sublime” without

Pogo kindred shadows

Electronic musician Nick Bertke, better known as Pogo, dropped his fifth album last month, and while the intent behind the overall composition is clear some songs clearly

Nowell was contrary to Nowell’s wishes. They even filed a law suit, “regretfully.”

It didn’t stop the band from releasing an album, the strangely titled, “Yours Truly,” in 2011. Gaugh announced later that year he was leaving the band to spend more time with his family. In 2012, however, he told KROQ that: “Well it’s really not time off as much as it is an ‘I am done with SWR’…. it was really good for the first few months, after that, it just felt wrong. Not playing the songs but playing them with the name Sublime, without Brad.”

Back to the album: Fans of Brett Favre’s retiring and unretiring three times will probably dig it. If you enjoyed Michael Jordan in a Wizards uniform, you may be into SWR. If you’re into spineless pop lyrics alternating with gratuitous, meaningless sex and drug references this record is for you.

“Wherever You Go,” the only single so far, is a poor attempt at a Top 40 hit, the lyrics as deep as a Meghan Trainor song.

It’s catchy at best. Musically the record holds its own. The grooves are tight most of the time, albeit often formulaic. The rhythm section is of the highest caliber. Legendary Vandals’ drummer Josh Freese replaced Gaugh on the record and Wilson still cuts some of the coolest reggae bass lines in the business. The thing is it’s just wrong. In any other outfit, all three of these guys could be making incredible, original music.

I give it a 5 of 10 based on the fact that it’s still better than most commercial music. As a faithful fan, I am officially asking Wilson and Rome to kill this project. Redo Long Beach Dub All-Stars or something. You can still play Sublime classics, just stop trying to recreate the glory days. Please.

— Review by J. L. James sound chaotic. It seems as though this album follows the story of a young boy lost in Wonderland. Probably a response to his popular single “Alice,” released in 2007. The first song is a bit haphazard; the beat is on the edge of epicness, but the lyrics really set it back. It’s a shame considering that several of the other songs on the album are really fun to listen to.

The track “No Worries” might just be the best song on the track; great for a long car ride or laying in bed staring at the ceiling. “Rise and Glide” is an obvious spin off of “Alice,” yet that taste of nostalgia is a welcoming sound. The mellow electronic beats are great for zoning to a chill ambiance. If you want to get lost in your head a little, this album may help you on your journey. “Kindred Shadows” definitely has some hits and misses; great beats, just some iffy choices as far as layering lyrics. Overall the album isn’t bad, just not the best. — Review

by Grace Brown

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Shane Simonton and Greyson Goff (AR) Southern Rock Dan Clanton (AR) Folk/America Ryan Sauders (AR) Alternative Zakk Binns (AR) Delta/Blues Eric Ward (AR) Blues/Rock

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arts

TINY BEADS

VANESSA Ratliff SPECIALIZEs IN Creating Wearable Works of Art

To deal with adversity one must embrace the pain and use it as fuel for the journey ahead.

At least that’s what ar tist Vanessa Ratliff did. No stranger to life’s road bumps, Ratliff met her muse in one of her darkest hours. Three years after being re-diagnosed with throat cancer, Ratliff’s friend, Mar ty Noble, came to her for help with a piece of jewelry. What Noble didn’t realize was that she had brought Ratliff more help than she came looking for.

Today, Ratliff is an established 3-D ar tist with work on display at the Fine Ar ts Center (FAC).

Ratliff was diagnosed with throat cancer for the first time at the age of twelve. She underwent a series of chemotherapy treatments that left her scarred for life. At that time radiation treatments were fairly new in the medical field, and the doctors miscalculated the appropriate dosage; and, as a result

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Ratliff suffers from hearing loss and damage to her vocal chords. Searching to recover her voice, Ratliff took up bead working.

In 2005 Noble came to Ratliff seeking help for a jewelry piece she designed. “Mar ty worked more with gemstones and needed someone to do the beadwork for a cer tain piece, so she came to me,” Ratliff said. Her background in meticulous crafts like macramé, cross-stitch and sewing led Noble to believe she was the woman needed to get the job done. She was. Ratliff used her recovery period to pick up a new skill and teach herself beadwork. She continues to dazzle others with the precision and detail of each piece of jewelry.

For the past ten years Ratliff has been perfecting her technique and has turned out some spectacular wearable works of ar t in the process.

Photography by Amanda Shelley Ledbetter

Story by Grace Brown

The FAC has commissioned her twice to create works to raffle off for benefits: first, in 2010, for a raffle benefiting the arrival of the famous racehorse Zenyatta, and again in 2011. “The piece I made for the raffle for Zenyatta was called ‘Apple Blossom’ and it was probably the most elaborate piece I have ever made,” Noble said. The Fine Ar ts Council named her one of five top 3D ar tists in the area in 2011 as well.

From 2006 until 2009 the Ar t in the Park juried show featured Ratliff’s work. Every piece she entered was selected. Since then both locals and tourists come to her asking for unique jewelry they would not find any place else. Each piece she makes is a unique and one-of-a-kind creation. “I get a lot of people asking me to make jewelry for weddings and things like that,” she said. “And I make sure each one is special in its own way.”

hot springs

Not only is Ratliff par ticular in her work, but in the materials she uses as well. “I have a closet filled with boxes that have beads in them sor ted by style,” she said. “There are so many different kinds of beads.” The beads she uses are specially made so that each type is the exact same size and shape she needs.

The beads range in sizes, star ting at 15 degrees going all the way up to 6 degrees, and Ratliff strings them all by hand.

“Each bead is stitched together,” Ratiff said. “And just like beads, there are several different stitches and bead weaving is a slow process compared to most conventional beading methods. A simple pair of earrings takes about two hours to make whereas a piece that is more intricate can take twenty five or more.” Ratliff is fond of mixing stitches, like the peyote stitch with the brick stitch to add different values and patterns into her work. Mixing styles of beads, as well as stitches, Ratliff brings out the beautiful possibilities that exist within a pile of beads.

Ratliff enjoys sharing her work with others and teaching them a thing or two about string beading. For nearly two years Ratliff would teach a class for adults enrolled in the First Step program in Hot Springs. “Some of the pieces the people out there made were really interesting,” she said. “I really enjoyed getting to work with them.” Despite the struggles she faces on a daily basis, Ratliff finds a way to bring light into the lives of those around her with her passion and creativity.

Amidst all the adversity Ratliff experienced she manages to keep her head up and continues to make her presence known with her exceptional talent. Presently her work is on display at the Fine Ar ts Center located at 626 Central Avenue and she can be reached by email at jvratliff@ yahoo.com.

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GIVING

cutwell 4 kids

The Birth of an Artist: Local organization cuts to the creative core

Photography Courtesy of Cutwell 4 Kids

Story by J. L. James

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“All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” – Pablo Picasso

Anthony Tidwell, founder of Cutwell 4 Kids, a non-profit organization dedicated to tapping in to the artistic side that Tidwell believes exists in every single child, knows first-hand the therapeutic effect art can have on a child. Tidwell was born in Hot Springs, but in 1980 his parents separated and he accompanied his mother to Atlanta, unaware they were joining the city in the midst of some of its darkest days.

On July 21, 1979, the first of the Atlanta Child Murders victims went missing. For the following 22 months Wayne Williams terrorized the city, ultimately killing 29 young African-Americans, two of whom were Tidwell’s classmates. Tidwell spoke to them every day.

He played with them. He shared a piece of his life with them. He has images plastered to his memory: the police showing up at school, the newspaper headlines, proclamations of death and despair. After his classmates disappeared, Tidwell lived in fear, as any child would, that he would be the next victim, the next child to be robbed

of his family, his friends – his breath. Once, Tidwell’s brother didn’t come home after school. Tidwell’s mother, Cozetta Ausler, recalled that Tidwell was terrified, sure that the worst had happened. “Anthony was convinced his brother had been kidnapped,” Ausler said. She didn’t want to take any chances. She put Tidwell and his siblings on a plane to Oklahoma to stay with their father, saving her son from further trauma, possibly saving his life. Still, the atrocities perpetrated by Williams had taken their toll on Tidwell: for nearly a year no words escaped his lips. “He just kind of shut down,” Ausler said.

“Even now,” Tidwell said, “I still have troubles with my speech.” Through drawing and painting, however, Tidwell worked through the traumatic experience and developed the courage to speak again.

“Anthony was always very, very sensitive and compassionate,” Ausler said. “He needed to express himself, so he would draw his feelings.”

When the family returned to Hot Springs, Anthony found inspiration in his surroundings. “My backyard looked out over the Hot Springs City dump,”

hot springs

Tidwell said. “I would watch people come and roll stuff downhill. It gave me so many ideas, and that’s where I think I got the creative mind I have today.”

Tidwell began Cutwell 4 Kids in 2012 as a way to promote artistic expression in children. He welcomes all children between the ages of 4 and 12 to come to 247 Silver St. in Hot Springs on Saturdays during the school year. Tidwell said his organization makes a particularly significant difference to children who have been diagnosed with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Tidwell spent much of his life serving the community and working with children through art programs. During that time he found that kids with ADHD seemed to excel through artistic means, in spite of their perceived failures in classroom environments. “They go to school and they fill them with medicine, and they be a zombie at school,” Tidwell said. “But those were the best students for me. They’re always active and doing something. I used art as a tool to keep them calm.”

Ausler said that Tidwell displayed similar tendencies in his youth. “Nowadays,” she said, “Anthony

as a child would probably have been diagnosed with ADHD.” Ausler said that her son’s work is important because it explores alternatives to medicating children with ADHD.

Jarvis Carrigan, program director at Pulaski County Youth Services, has known Tidwell and his family for several years. “One of my jobs,” Carrigan said, “is to find ways, through summer and after school programs, to keep kids engaged.” Carrigan asked Tidwell to work with kids in Pulaski County the way he does with Cutwell 4 Kids. Tidwell and Carrigan hosted what they call “art parties.” “It’s a great way to keep them engaged,” Carrigan said. “It gives the kids a way to express themselves and that’s so important.”

Carrigan likes that Tidwell makes sure that whatever the kids create is available for the community to see. “Kids can draw all day long but when you put the art on display so people can see then the painting has longevity,” Carrigan said.

Tidwell has also worked with the Morrilton 4H Club in Conway County. “It was wonderful,” said Conway

County Extension Agent Alicia Hugen. “We set up in the shade on campus here a UACCM (University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton) and just allowed kids to express themselves and paint what want to paint.” By giving kids artistic freedom, by removing the constraints they’re used to in art classes in school, Tidwell coaxes kids into finding artistic abilities they may not have otherwise found. “They loved it,” Hugen said. “They loved it because they did what they wanted to do, not what someone told them they had to. And the parents really loved it and they’re excited for the next time.”

Tidwell has also collaborated with the Cultural Alliance during Arts in the Park and with Gospel Light Baptist Church and many more throughout Hot Springs and the state of Arkansas. At 7 p.m. on Aug. 8 at Hot Springs Convention Center, Cutwell 4 Kids presents The Birth of an Artist. The event will showcase the artwork that Cutwell 4 Kids has created throughout the year. All proceeds from ticket sales and artwork sales will benefit Cutwell 4 Kids’ mission in the community. Food and beverages will be provided. Rodney Block and the True Music Lovers will provide live musical entertainment.

Tickets and information are available through hotsprings. org and by emailing Tidwell at mrtidwell@yahoo.com.

Tidwell urges people to support Cutwell 4 Kids. “We need support,” He said. “Not just financial but time also. Hot Springs is perfect for what Cutwell 4 Kids is doing. We need each other.”

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EAT/DRINK

RESTAURANT LISTINGS BANANA SPLIT SHAKE FROM BAILEY’s

AMER IC AN 3B’s 630 Ouachita 623-2160

Back Porch Grill 4810 Central 525-0885

JASON’S 148 Amity 617-5488

MAXINE’s 700 Central 321-0909

BAR BEC UE McClard’s BBQ 505 Albert Pike 624-9586

Smokin’ in Style 2278 Albert Pike 767-9797

Stubby’s BBQ 3024 Central 624-1552

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English Muffin 4307 Central 525-2710

PANCAKE SHOP 216 Central 624-5720

BURG ER S BAILey’s 510 Park 624-4085

Classics Bar & Grill 4813 Central 525-7172

MOOYAH 3954 Central 520-5000

THE OHIO CLUB 336 Central 627-0702

C AFE/ BIS T RO CAFE 1217

C A JU N/ C R E O LE FAT JACKS 101 Central 623-5225

C HI NE S E HUNAN PALACE 4737 Central 525-3344

Wok Express 1418 Albert Pike 623-4932

COFFEE COFFEE LOVE 4832 Central 781-5006

INTERNATIONAL BLEU MONKEY GRILL 4263 Central 520-4800

CENTRAL PARK FUSION

1217 Malvern 318-1094

200 Park Ave 623-0202

BR EAK FAS T / BRUNC H COLONIAL WAFFLE HOUSE

JAVA PRIMO

Colorado Grill

4429 Central 318-9789

320 Ouachita 623-7992

111 Central 624-9273

zoe’s

COPPER PENNY PUB

2230 Malvern 321-2921

711 Central 622-2570

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lotus 515 E. Grand 701-4007

STEINHaus KELLER 801 Central 624-7866

SUPERIOR BATHHOUSE 329 Central 624-2337

I TA LI AN Belle Arti 719 Central 624-7474

JAY’S 538 W. Grand 760-8132

LUNA BELLA 104 Grand Isle 520-5862

JAHNA’s 1803 Airport 767-0200

JA PANESE/ SU S HI CRAZY SAMURAI

LATIN AME RICAN VINA MORITA 610 Central 625-7143

ROLANDO’S 210 Central 318-6054

ME XICAN CotiJa 1335 Airport 760-1165

PICANTE’S 801 Central 623-2300

TACO MAMA

1442 Airport 767-4240

RAZORBACK PIZZA 4330 Central 525-1616

Rocky’s Corner 2600 Central 624-0199

Rod’s Pizza Cellar 3350 Central 321-2313

Sam’s Pizza Pub 401 Burchwood Bay 525-0780

1209 Malvern 624-6262

S EAF O O D BUBBA’s CATFISH

TREJO’s MEXICAN

5411 Central 762-3474

3040 Albert Pike 760-2316

PIZZA Deluca’s Pizzeria Napoletana

5431 Central 525-0488

407 Park 609-9002

Osaka Japanese

crispino’s

3954 Central 525-9888

HAWG’S PIZZA

2608 Albert Pike 767-0700

Cajun Boilers 2806 Albert Pike 767-5695

Fisherman’s Wharf 5101 Central 525-7437

MR. WHISKERS 1538 Malvern 262-3474

S O UT HER N/ S O UL cafe 135

SAUSAGE CALZONE FROM JAHNA’s

135 Central 627-0676

Higdon Square Café 706 Higdon Ferry 623-7744

Phil’s 2900 Central 623-8258

SLIM CHICKENs 1384 Higdon Ferry 463-9797

walker’s 136 Silver 282-0538

S T EAK HO US E Brick House Grill

FIRST LADY ROLL FROM CRAZY SAMURAI

801 Central 321-2926

KJ’s Grill 1834 Airport 767-0063

Porterhouse 707 Central 321-8282

ROCKY MTN. GRILL 5812 Airport 767-2887 #hshotspots

19

SUMMERFEST

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hot springs

Story by J. L. James

How the people of Park Avenue are spicing up summer and reinvigorating their community

It would be hard to find a potion that did more for food than salsa. It entire purpose is to make something else better. Tacos: better with salsa. Eggs: better with salsa. Late night rendezvous with that special someone: better with salsa, as long as you keep it, well, out of things. That’s what Summerfest Uptown is to Park Avenue: community salsa.

From 9:30 a.m. until 2 on Aug. 8 at 315 Park Ave., Summerfest Uptown presents The Great Park Avenue Salsa Challenge. Home cooks and restaurant chefs alike will gather on Park Avenue to compete for first place in four categories: Best Hot Salsa, Best Mild Salsa, Most Unusual Salsa and Best Restaurant Salsa, the latter category exclusive to professional cooks representing local restaurants.

Hannah Mills, owner of the Hot Springy Dingy and key member of Summerfest Uptown has issued a challenge to all Hot Springians: “Anyone who thinks they have a good salsa, I challenge you to come out

and prove it.” Lindsey Bennett, sous chef at Superior Bathhouse Brewery, is the defending champion.

Summerfest Uptown, which organizes monthly events on Park Avenue from April to October, grew out of the Park Avenue Community Association’s (PACA) efforts to revitalize the Park Avenue area. A couple decades ago, Park Avenue had a reputation. A “rough side of town” kind of reputation. A “street walker and crack house” reputation. The residents and business owners in the area grew weary of the drug trafficking and the economic decay. They decided to do something about it. Enter PACA.

Although PACA’s existence dates back several decades, it lay dormant for years until David T. Reagan, currently Garland County Justice of the Peace District 1, reorganized the association in 1986. “There were a lot of vacant houses,” Reagan said. “There was an automobile graveyard mining operation in the 600 block. The oil and fluids would leak everywhere. So we

decided to get together on work on that, rather than letting one person trying to fix a whole neighborhood.”

Sometimes, when a particular community is operating below its potential, its residents and business owners organize a pop-up, an overnight demonstration of what the community could be. They fill vacant businesses with food vendors, arts and craft shops and music venues.

They chalk bicycle lanes on the streets. They rally their residents and the surrounding communities in the hopes that they too will see the would-be thriving culture hidden just beneath the veil of ruin.

Last April PACA organized a pop-up of its own, the brainchild of Reagan as an official judge of the Great Park Avenue Salsa Challenge. For three days Park Avenue was a community filled with music, food and prosperity – no bike lanes though, the Arkansas State Highway Department couldn’t condone such chaos – the anarchy that ensues when a person in a nonfossil fuel-propelled vehicle rides along the shoulder

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SUMMERFEST

of a street with a 30 mile-per-hour speed limit – and, thus forbid the modification of State Highway 7. Because of the limitations, the pop-up wasn’t as instrumental as originally planned; but, it gave Park Avenue a boost and inspired Mills to ride the momentum. “The goal was to bring positive attention to Park Avenue,” she said. “So in that aspect I think it was a success.”

“Hannah came up with the idea to have festivals on Park Avenue,” said Angie Ezekiel, vice president of PACA and a Summerfest Uptown committee member. “We want to let everyone know Park Avenue is safe and full of great businesses.” Ezekiel is a PACA liaison to the Summerfest committee. She sees Summerfest as a celebration of the strides the Park Avenue community has made since the formation of PACA. “There are a lot of things on Park that reflect what PACA has done,” she said.

Summerfest Uptown, in its second year, kicked off with a treasure hunt in April, followed by a Barbecue challenge in May and a bluegrass festival and outdoor flea market in July. In September Summerfest Uptown will host Art on Park with Dessert in which artists will present their art and contestants will compete to see who can make the best dessert. The committee has organized the Majestic Rubble Rousers art contest, challenging local artists to create works of art inspired by the Majestic Hotel rubble, possibly a rendering of what they would like to see rise from the ruins of the iconic landmark.

The pieces will then be auctioned off at the final October event, the Chili and Cornbread Cook-off.

On Tuesdays the committee gathers in Mills’ store to brainstorm and iron out the details for the Summerfest Uptown events. Wayne and Kelly Thomason of Hot Springs Realty, Janice Jones, Hannah Mills, Victoria Meyers, the entertainment coordinator, and Angie Ezekiel gather around a long, rectangular table.

A vinyl banner, as yellow as a sunflower petal, a work in progress featuring a tomato and red pepper made

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hot springs

of felt, lays across the tabletop. When Mills and Ezekiel finish the piece it will grace the front of the judges’ table at the Salsa Challenge.

Meyers has made sure that live music will complement the array of salsas at the event. It’ll be like salsa for salsa. An Indie-pop outfit made up of August Allen, Tyler Glass and Kyle Rash will kick it off at 10, followed by Folk Grass group Turtle Rush at noon and a straight up rock band called Without Reason brings it home at 2.

The committee is still working on finding just the right prizes for the winners.

JoAnn Mangione of The Springs magazine, Kenneth Martin of Park Avenue Hair and Louis Williams of Next Level Barbecue are also members of the committee. “It’s an amazing committee, really,” Mills said. “Only two of us actually have businesses here in Park Avenue. Everyone else just sees the potential in this area and took it upon themselves to attempt to help it along.” Mills added that PACA has “supported us to an unbelievable degree.”

Cheryl Roorda of the Itinerant Locals, local musician, artist and renaissance man Chuck Dodson,

Anthony Valinoti, owner of DeLuca’s Pizzeria will join Reagan as the official judges of the Great Park Avenue Salsa Challenge. “I eat salsa at almost every meal,” Reagan said. “I like peach salsa, cherry salsa, all kinds, and I really look forward to being a judge.”

Park Avenue developments are literally sprouting everywhere the eye can see. PACA has received grants to make ADA accessible the sidewalks on one side of Park, they’re installing curb bump outs that slow traffic and designate parking, and in 2014, PACA constructed the Park Haven Community Garden.

This summer, the 45,000 square foot plot features fruit and nut trees, berry bushes and medicinal and culinary herbs. Last Fall, PACA received a $1,500 grant for plantings in the curbs along Park Avenue, from the Arkansas Flower and Garden Show. With the help of Hot Springs Stormwater Director Max Sestili, that grant will be used for curbside gardens to filter and mitigate storm water. According to Ezekiel, the project will change insurance, and possibly property, values, since the area is currently considered a flood plain. The Park Avenue community isn’t done building. Kumar Maruthur owns the property at 201 and 203 Parallel St. He’s transforming

them into vacation rentals. At the July 20 PACA meeting, the members discussed plans for a possible splash pad. At 811 Park Ave. lies a pile of debris in a vacant lot. PACA is discussing an investment of $222,000 to construct a park in the lot. Ezekiel said that one of the most popular suggestions has been to include a splash pad in the park. “It would require a grant,” Ezekiel said.

“And we need a committee of four to eight people to see it through.”

Anyone interested in lending a hand may attend PACA meetings at 6 p.m. the third Monday of each month at the Tower of Strength building.

Mills, Reagan, Ezekiel and their gang of community builders are just getting warmed up. Next year’s Summerfest Uptown should bring even more people uptown than this year’s, and so on. More information is available at Summerfestuptown.com and by liking the group’s Facebook Page. More important is that people show up to the party the second Saturday of each month through September. “I just want everyone to come out,” Mills said. “It’s fun and food and music and we have all these wonderful vendors. It’s a great way to start your Christmas shopping.”

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Fish Fever tournament fishing catches arkansas youth, hook, line and sinker

hot springs

Story by Grace Brown Photography by Amanda Shelley Ledbetter

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FISHING

It’s no secret that locals in Hot Springs are a little spoiled. The town has more places to hike and golf than you can shake a stick at, but what many consider the biggest spoil found in Hot Springs is the incredible lake access. Fourteen lakes lie within Garland County alone.These lakes provide many opportunities, for visitors and locals alike, to swimm, to boat and most popular of all, to fish.

Lake Ouachita, located in Hot Springs, is one of the cleanest lakes in the United States, and with a title like that it’s hard not to get some recognition; so thats what we here at HS Hot Spots aim to do, show our lakes some lovin’. There is so much going on surrounding the lakes this summer that it would be silly not to utilize the wonderful opportunities many of us have in our own back yards. And from Aug. 20 to 23, the Fishing League Worldwide (FLW) will host the 20th Annual Forrest Wood Cup right here in Hot Springs as a perfect way to wrap up a summer of fishing competition. Just last month the

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city of Hot Springs concluded their 4th annual fishing challenge. Several tagged fish were released into Lake Hamilton and if caught, exchanged for cash prizes totaling out at 86,000 dollars combined. Fishing is a sport anyone can do, and the best part is you get a free meal if you had a good day on the water. Who doesn’t like that?

The local youth are really taking advantage of all the wonderful fishing opportunities our city has to offer these days. McCoy Vereen and Beau Browning are two young men doing just that. Both young men started fishing at a very young age. “I was about two when I caught my first fish” said Browning. Now they’ve turned their hobby into a competition. Vereen recently placed second at the Lake Hamilton Classic, and late last month the duo traveled to Tennessee to compete in the Junior Bassmasters Championships after winning the state fishing tournament on Lake Degray. The boys fished as a team and ended up winning the tournament

with a 13.42 pound Bass. But it’s not just the champions taking to the water. Several novice anglers are enjoying their summer with a rod in hand. The Mitchell brothers are three young anglers from the area whose mom has a really hard time keeping them away from the water.

“They definitely grew up with a strong love for the outdoors” said Anna Mitchell.

Gunnar, the oldest brother is quite the fisherman, often reeling in bigger fish than his own dad.

“I like to fish,” he said. “It’s relaxing and it gives me something fun to do with my brothers.”

Thankfully, for those of us not so savvy with baiting a hook, there are several fishing guide services offered in the area that are not just tourist attractions.

Striper guide David Cochran and his father George have fished the waters around Hot Springs for years and offered up some great beginner tips and tricks for any curious readers. “This is what we anglers call ‘the Dog Days of Summer,” George said through a laugh. “The

hot springs

GUIDE SERVICES FAMILY FISHING TRIPS GUIDE SERVICE

with Capt. Darryl Morris | (501) 844-5418 Captain Darryl Morris is a retired Marine who specializes in Crappie, Bass and Bream fishing on Lake Hamilton, DeGray Lake and Lake Greeson.

In 2010, he received his captain’s credentials for all American inland waters from the United States Coast Guard. Rates, availability, and details are available at http://www.familyfishingtrips.com/ and by email at darryl@familyfishingtrips.com. water in Lake Ouachita is roughly 89 degrees right now, and that’s hot for the fish. You need to get out there early if you plan on catching anything significant.” The Cochrans advise that if you haven’t caught anything by 9:30 a.m. you are probably done for the day.

Lake Ouachita alone is home to 13 different species of fish, and the best method for catching each one varies. Luckily David and his father know a lot about fishing. In fact, George was a professional angler for 38 years and won the Forrest Wood Cup his first time Fishing League Worldwide (FLW) brought it to Lake Ouachita nine years ago. “Each fish has a few secrets to being caught,” said David. “It depends on things like if you choose to use a lure rather than live bait, where you cast and even the time of day you choose” he said.

“The best Bass fishing occurs when the skies are cloudy and there is just a little bit of wind,” said George. Bass tend to lay in beds of moss in channels, pockets and flats usually 12 to 18 feet deep. In late june 56,000 largemouth bass were released into Lake Ouachita, so now is prime fishin’ time. Rainbow trout can also be found in the area.

“They like to hang out under Blakely Dam where the water is nice and cool,” said David. These fish prefer ar tificial bait to live bait and will bite at a large variety of spinners and plugs.

Something that the Cochran family knows a lot about is striper bass. These are huge fish that but up one hell of a fight if you get one on the line. It take about 10 minutes of fighting to reel the fish in before it gets into the boat. Using a guide is a great way to gain experience about fishing you may not pick up on your own. Luckily there are so many amazing guided fishing tours, like David’s, offered in the area. It may take a bit more planning and cost a bit more, but a guided tour is the most effective way for a beginner to catch fish big enough to eat.

This is the third time that the FLW has hosted this event at Lake Ouachita, and according to a recent press release they “are thrilled to be returning to Lake Ouachita.” This competition features the top anglers from five different FLW divisions, including the FLW College Series. According to past winner George Cochran the anglers have already been out on the waters preparing and are ready to compete. The event is sponsored by Wal-Mar t and the weigh-ins will be held at Bank of The Ozarks Arena. Along with the weigh-in there will be plenty of fun activities for the entire family in the arena. So, it seems as though fish fever continues to spread through the Spa City this summer. Why not go dig up some worms and join in on all the fun?

David Cochran Lake Ouachita Striper Fishing Guide with Guides David

and George Cochran | (501) 844-7974 David Cochran’s father put a rod in his hand at an early age, and it’s been his passion ever since.

David has been a guide on Lake Ouachita for more than 18 years; he and his father George, a threetime world fishing champion, guide families and friends all across Lake Ouachita at great prices.

Information for appointments and prices can be found at http://new.davidcochranfishing.com/ and by contacting angler@davidcochranfishing.com.

Catch em’ All with Guide Shane Goodner (501) 624-8757 Guide Shane Goodner has been fishing the lakes in the area for decades and specializes in Rainbow Trout on Lake Catherine, but offers trips with Black Bass on the Ouachita River. He offers one and two day ventures that include all equipment and snacks; the only thing you need to bring is your Arkansas Fishing License. Prices and reservation forms can be found at http://www.catchemall.com/ or via email at catchemall@direclynx.net. #hshotspots

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SHAVED ICE

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Intro by Josh Williams

Photography by Blyss Rodgers, Age 11

Local Snow Cone Aficionados Serve Up a Cold Cup of Justice Against Mother Nature When the temperature is in the triple digits, it can mess with one’s psyche. It should be against the law to walk outside an immediately become covered in your

own sweat. When the only things that come to mind are polar ice caps and schnozzberries, it’s time to take drastic cooling action. Snow cones are a quick

way to help lower one’s body heat. Luckily, we found some local youth (who better?) to tell us where to find the best snow cones in the city.

Cajun Snow

When I arrived at Cajun Snow, owned by Jeff and Christina Buras, I knew it was going to be delightful. I walked up to the front of the bright colorful truck, it seemed like there was a million different flavors, and I couldn’t choose; but, luckily the Cajun snow gives free samples. I finally chose a wonderful flavor called Polynesian Pineapple, it was a great blend of pineapple and strawberry.

The stand has very thin ice that melts in your mouth leaving you wanting more with the delicious syrup. The Cajun Snow put loads of the amazing

syrup, and just as much ice to lead you to a fantasy world. The ser vice is quick for such an amazing snow cone. It’s definitely one of my favorite snow cone stands ever. The price was just right, only $2 for a small, and it was the biggest “small” I have ever seen! The Cajun snow is a great treat on a hot summer day, I will definitely be coming back! The Cajun Snow is in Caddo Valley, right where you get out when you float the river. They’re open from 3 to 7 Monday through Thur sday and 12-7 Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

by Kyla Eads, Age 11 Student at Bismarck

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SHAVED ICE

Get Real Chill

by Gwen Kudabeck, Age 16 Student at ASMSA

Summer’s here, school’s out, and the Arkansas heat is bearing down upon us. What better way to cool off and escape the heat than with a classic treat?

Enter the snow cone.

My stepbrother and I visited the Get Real Chill, located at the intersection of Section Line Road and Central Avenue. The servers were friendly and patient as we pondered every flavor combination known to man.

In the end I chose their bestseller, “Tiger’s blood,” a mix of strawberry and coconut. My stepbrother ordered wild cherry. We both agree that the soft ice blended nicely with the syrup, complementing the perfect ice-

Razorback Freeze

by Elijah Williams, Age 11 Student at Hot Springs Intermediate

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to-flavor ratio. The portions were generous as well, with ice piled far over the edge of the cup. Two picnic tables sit beside the stand, giving customers a place to sit while the umbrellas shield them from the vicious southern sun. Standing right off Central Avenue, the First Church of the Nazerene’s green lawn providing a beautiful backdrop, it’s the perfect spot to cool down before heading to the lake. But the coolest, chillest thing about Get Real Chill is that it’s a fundraising project, not a commercial franchise. Get Real Chill uses the money from shaved ice sales to organize mission trips all over the world.

My trip to Razorback Freeze, owned and operated by Janice Boykin, was delightful, so delightful because on that hot summer day, my mouth was drier than Tatooine, and I needed a snow cone. But there were so many great flavors I couldn’t choose. Here are some of the flavors just in case you want your mouth to feel like Hoth, (that’s the ice planet you know). Sour Apple, Strawberry, Peach, Mango, Grape, Lime, Shirley Temple, Tiger Blood, Wedding Cake, and Woo Pig Sooie.

Having a soft spot for the classics, I went with the Grape.

Waiting for the cone to come out after a hot day at my golf practice, I just stood there thinking, “Man this shaved ice is perfect for me!” I stopped daydreaming, looked up, and my heart skipped a beat. There it was. A ginormous snow cone standing before me!

Other people in the parking lot stopped and bowed down to it, and as I looked back I heard it say, “Elijah, with great power comes great responsibility!”

“Uncle Ben,” I said. “Are you afraid I’m going to turn in to some kind of criminal? Stop worrying about me, okay?”

Well not really, but I did see a guy in the lot fall on his face, and my Dad said, “You better grab some napkins.”

But you know, tomato, tomato.

Anyway I took the spoon and shoved it in the snow cone, scooped out some ice and put it in my mouth. Instant relief. An oasis in my dry cacti-infested mouth. All I wanted was more of that big, juicy, epic, grape snow cone. It was so good I had to stop myself from pouring it on my face. Janice Boykin’s three years of work had definitely paid off. As I got in the car with a big Joker smile on my face, I finally convinced myself to savor the flavor, so I slowed down on the cone. I still had some when I got home and, of course, let my sister take a bite. Then she got a look on her face, an evil one. She star ted to pester me so much I just gave up let her have all the cone she wanted. I’d go back to Razorback Freeze faster than you can say, “Bob’s your uncle!” But enough about me. How about instead of reading this sweet, hot review you go get some sweet icy Razorback Freeze?

hot springs

New Orleans Style Tropical Snowballs

by Blyss Rodgers, Age 11 Student at Lakeside

It was a hot summer day. I needed something cool, refreshing and icy. So my dad took me to where I got an icy snow cone. There were many different flavors, but I knew I could only get one. So I read the flavors and I have to say they had pretty

HotSprings Gourmet Sno-Balls

by Kian McMahan, Age 11 Student at Hot Springs Intermediate

awkward names, like Tiger’s Blood, which happened to be strawberry and pink flamingo. I wanted something unique and different than what I usually would pick. So I chose wedding cake. I love cake, so I figured I’d like it. I didn’t like it; I loved it! After a couple slurps and

sips, my sister wanted to try it. She loved it too. She said, “It tasted like our Nana’s homemade ice cream.”

After all, the truck and location was pretty cool. It had a fountain and different colored tables and in the icy was a tiny umbrella.

Not only does Hot Springs Gourmet Sno-Balls sound delicious, but their wide variety of flavors made my mouth water. I went to this stand at the corner of Carpenter Dam and Shady Grove Road and met and talked to manager Steven Travis. I also interviewed Cameron Moen, both work at Bubba’s Catfish which owns the stand.

They have 37 flavors and 18 special flavors that are not on the menu. They have four add-ons, including cream and whipped cream, but what makes them unique is they have caramel and chocolate as well.

They are the only stand that has a SNOWIE 3000, if you watch them make the snow cones you can see that the SNOWIE 3000 has a snow cone shaped cup at the top of the dispenser. Some of the snow cones are sweetened with sugar cane.

Cameron Moen suggested to me his favorite flavor which was cake batter and blueberry, which sounded kind of nasty, but it was surprisingly good. You could tell the differences in the flavors. One third was yellow which was the sour part the other third was the blue which was the sweet part and the middle part which was green was sweet and sour. I tried two more after that.

The homemade ice-cream and mud-slide combination

was extremely good. It looked almost tan, extremely sweet, and if I had to rate this on a 1-10 basis it would be a 7. Last I had a Buttered Popcorn snow cone which surprisingly tasted just as the name suggested. It was almost as though I was taken into a world of flavor. Each of the snow cones didn’t look as flashy as I thought they would, but they looked delicious.

The service was nice. They were incredibly kind to me and my family and when other customers came up they served them quickly. They were very polite to all who came.

Owned by Stephen Garrison of Bubba’s Catfish, they’ve been running for four years with the past two under Bubba’s management. Although none of them are blood related, it is still called a family business. Moen said “…not blood, but just a bunch of misfits making it work.” That made me laugh. What I found surprising was that they were not a franchise.

Overall rating is a 9, and I look forward to going back.

They are open every day from 2:00pm till 9:00pm, they can be reached at Bubba’s Catfish at (501)262-1100, or on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/HotSprings-Gourmet-Sno-Balls/115431665136576.

#hshotspots

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DON’t MISS! ALL THAT JAZZ

The Experimental Experience: The 24th annual HOT SPRINGS JAZZ FEST

Jazz music is one of the truest forms of expression and improvisation. I don’t believe one can find copies of sheet music from Miles Davis, not really.

The paper might exist, but trying to duplicate his genius is impossible. That’s the beauty of jazz music in general: it can’t be replicated. It’s a different experience every time. From the tickling of the ivories by piano legend Thelonius Monk, to the sexy sax sounds of horn master Charlie Parker, jazz is an art form steeped in experimentation, and experimenting means trying something new, right? So try this: The 24th Annual Hot Springs JazzFest, Sept. 2-7.

Jazz music has had a profound effect on the lives of many, and its importance in the community, and society in general, is under-valued. Bill Clinton said, “If I had not been in a school music program, I would never have been elected president. Because it taught me discipline and order. It made me listen better. And once I got into jazz, I realized you had to make some things up

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Photography by Jeremy Rodgers

along the way, but while you were making them up, you had to stay in the right key and still play in tune.”

“It is one of the few original American ar t forms.” Gretchen Taylor, Hot Springs Jazz Society (HSJS) Executive Director said. “A par t of our young country’s history and a valued contribution to the world’s culture, often much more popular in other countries than here in our own.” HSJS was founded in 1991 as a non-profit dedicated to preserving Jazz as an ar t form in Arkansas.

The HSJF is different than other festivals in that it’s kept its integrity. “It has remained true to the jazz genre,” Taylor said, “focused on the Society’s mission to preserve, present and perpetuate in a culture that is more easily swayed by rap, hip hop, rock, etc.”

Fortunately, Hot Springs is a community conducive to celebrating and promoting artistic expression. While funding is always a challenge, the HSJF doesn’t have to compromise on the caliber of musician it

Story by Josh Williams

invites to perform. “The Society is fortunate to be based in a community that encourages cultural activities,” Taylor said. “Each year, with a minimal budget, the HSJF showcases our most talented regional musicians while seeking out the nation’s best.”

Each year HSJF invites the most talented jazz musicians it can find and peppers them throughout the city. This year HSJF presents Allen Won, a saxophonist and flutist raised in Hawaii and educated in New York City. The Kansas City Star describes Won as “A super sax player who drifts about the stage like an amiable Pied Piper.” Traveling from his current resident city of New York and taking time out of his busy schedule, Won will be the featured artist during Sax in the Park on Sept. 2, the Classical & Jazz Explosion on Friday, Sept. 4 and he will groove with Anything That Moves at the Jazz in the Streets free outdoor concert on Saturday, Sept 5.

Another new addition to this year’s HSJF is the opportunity to dance the night away with Shirley

hot springs

Chauvin’s Little Big Band s’ Wonderful in S’Wonderful Dancin’ at the Austin Hotel’s Silver Fox Lounge on Thursday, Sept. 3.

The aforementioned Sax in the Park on Wednesday, Sept. 2 is a new twist on an old favorite.

Sax in the Park brings together five saxophone players, each with his own style, to electrify the stage in a single evening. The program features Gary Meggs on alto, Brandon Dorris and Nathan Carmon on tenor, and Chris Sims on baritone. These four “saxper ts” will be joined by Allen Won performing on both the alto and soprano sax, not to mention the flute. Eat your hear t out, Ron Burgundy.

Classical & Jazz Explosion is the HSJF’s most traditional concert and a special favorite of its sponsor, The Morris Foundation. On Friday, Sept. 4, the Quapaw Quartet (a classical string quartet) and the Clyde Pound Jazz Combo come together for an evening of musical fusion that is sure to spark one’s musical imagination.

Think Spyro Gyra meets Mozart. If Spyro Gyra is unfamiliar, look them up.

Next on the bill is the traditional outdoor HSJF concert Jazz in the Streets on Saturday, Sept. 5 in the Downtown Entertainment District. On two stages under the Broadway St sky-bridge, six groups will perform from 11am to 5pm. Latin artist Calle Soul will be joined

by Mark and Aura King who will be teaching us how to Salsa! Ole’!

On Sunday, Sept. 6, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church begins the day with Jazz Mass and the Grand Avenue United Methodist Church will co-host Jazz After Church featuring Christian jazz composer and pianist David Arivett. This event is a celebration of Jazz focusing on some of its roots coming from the spirituals and the church. The day concludes with the Stardust Big Band Tea Dance in the Crystal Ballroom of the Arlington Hotel.

And last, but not least, there will be a special “thank you” to the sponsors and volunteers of the JazzFest represented by a huge shindig on Monday, Sept.

7 featuring Arkansas native Michael Eubanks’ smooth sax and soulful, sultry vocal jazz styles accompanied by good food and good fun on Lake Hamilton. Anyone who has sponsored or volunteered will be a guest of honor.

A JazzPass is available to attend at a discounted price Sax in the Park, S’Wonderful Dancin’ and Classical & Jazz Explosion for only $60 Members and $75 Non-Members. Detailed information about the festival and tickets are available at HSJazzSociety.org or contact 501-627-2427 / HSJazzSociety@gmail.com.

Top 5 reasons to visit

Story by Josh Williams

4D Adventures You know that Oculus thing? The virtual reality simulator that you can purchase for your home computer or gaming system? You can buy software that immerses you in dogfight-style acrobatics over mountainous terrain, or you can ride the world’s fastest and craziest roller coaster, or you can somehow survive your way through a haunted building reminiscent of one of those “Saw” movies. Well, if you’re like me, you can’t

afford an Oculus. So, the next best thing would be to visit Hot Springs newest and only four-dimensional, interactive movie theater. “There is no such thing as four-dimensional anything.” Oh, yes there is. It’s the newest thing in cinema, man. And it sits at 256 Central Ave. in downtown Hot Springs. There are more than five reasons to visit this new attraction, but five is all I’m given space for.

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$5.00

4

Four Dimensions

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Cool Fun can save your life

# #

#

The ol’ 5 for 5 deal. 5 minutes of cinematic utopia for 5 bucks. You can’t even get a cheeseburger for less than 5 bucks anymore. You don’t need that cheeseburger anyway. Plus, there are numerous health benefits resulting from adrenaline rushes and increased blood flow. 4D Adventure will improve your overall health.

Now, if you watch The Science Channel or listen to the teachings of Neil DeGrasse Tyson, you already know that in the world of quantum physics, four dimensions already exist in our universe, our minds just aren’t open enough currently to experience them. That’s why you need to get your ass to 4D Adventure.

It will make you more intelligent.

I’m not just saying its “cool” to go visit this place because it’s the thing to do. It literally is cool. It’s an indoor activity. It’s summer time in Arkansas. It’s a 1,000 degrees outside. Don’t get a heat stroke. Take a break after a day out on the lake or the trails or the street. Don’t die. Visiting 4D Adventure can save your life.

2 # Supporting Local Business 1 #

Family bonding

Not only will your kids think it’s awesome, but so will you. Don’t believe this, “If parents like something that means the kids won’t,” crap. I’m telling you, the whole family will have fun. Take your kids to 4D Adventure. They will love you more than they did yesterday.

I ’ve said before and I’ll say it again: when you keep the money local, it improves our economy, increases the value of our hard-earned dollar, and makes everybody worth more. Plus, you’ll feel better about yourself. Being a patron at 4D Adventure will move you up the Forbes richest list. #doitwithalocal

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TRENDING

#LATERGRAM•ING

WHAT’S HOT WHAT’S NOT The Resurrection of Casette-era Classics Before the end of summer, Hot Springs will have hosted Joan Jett, KC and the Sunshine Band, Loverboy and Lita Ford. All that leather and hair: it’s like a time warp. Just don’t look too close.

jeremy_rodgers_photography` Stopped by the park community garden on my way to a shoot #hotspringsnationalpark #hshotspots #getoutside

amanda_shelley_ledbetter Had the pleasure of meeting Ben Bell. He traveled to our sister city in Japan and spent a year learning to make some of the best saki we’ve ever tasted...#hshotspots

Hot Springs Then and Now Every Saturday through Labor Day, the Central Theater presents the documentary that was produced using film reels found stashed in a safe. Some of the film dates as early as 1910. We understand the reels were sent to Hollywood and transferred to video. Wonder what it looks like now that the liberal media’s gotten hold of it.

Donald Trump A Not Hot staple, Trump has once again shown just how big of an a-hole he really is. He called Lindsey Graham an idiot, gave Graham’s cell phone number to the public, denounced John McCain’s heroism and accused the Chinese of inventing the concept of global warming as means to stamp out American industry.

The Hope Watermelon Festival Is there a better way to beat 100 degree heat than letting cool melon juice drip down your chin?

(Aug. 6-8)

The Travs present Hot Springs-Malvern Community Night at Dickey Stephens Park We don’t really know what they’re doing for our community on Aug. 2, but we do know they’re tied for first place in the Texas League. Thanks Mike Trout.

The park has a great bar, and who knows, maybe they’ll give us free tickets for being from Hot Springs.

Is that the deal, Travs?

Razorback basketball players arrested for counterfeiting money Let’s take it easy on them: full ride scholarships only pay for world class educations, room, board, books and food. Who’s gonna pay for the cigarillos? You’d print your own $20s if it was the only way you could roll a blunt, wouldn’t you?

Gun Violence Handguns: 2015’s Prozac.

How is it that all these shooters with a history of mental illness obtained guns?

Less treatment, more guns.

Sounds awesome. Go America.

Be social with us! a_angenuity Yesterday I got to help out with a photo shoot with Miss Arkansas for #hotspringshotspots It was a fun day. #missarkansas2014 #behindthescenes

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If you don’t agree with anything, want to share your favorite things about what’s going on around you in your hometown, or want to contribute your ideas to any of these or future installments (we have more fun in the works), find us online at

hshotspots.com. Be sure to tag us #hshotspots or #hotspringshotspots, so we can find you and just maybe you’ll find yourself back here! And, thank you for everything you do to make Hot Springs more awesome everyday!.

hot springs

AUGUST

EVENT CALENDAR

Springs Concert Band 3FreeHotSummer Concert Series

13-16 ArkansasAnnual Florists 22-23 Bass and BBQ Convention Association 63rd

Competition at Forrest Wood Cup

at Whittington Park

at Hot Springs Convention Center

at Hot Springs Convention Center

5 HOT SPRINGS BLUES SOCIETY’S

Blues night & JAM

at The Big Chill, 910 Higdon Ferry

7 Gallery Walk 7-8 Garland County Electronic at Historic Downtown Hot Springs

disposal Event (E-Waste)

at Hot Springs Convention Center

8 Summerfest Uptown

at 100-700 blocks of Park Ave

Cutwell 4 Kids presents “The Birth of an Artist” at Hot Springs Convention Center

Magic Springs Concert Series “Extreme” at Magic Springs Timberwood Amphitheatre

10-20 Ron Coleman Mining

Crystal Gallery Showing at 211 Crystal Ridge Lane, Jessieville, AR

15 Magic Springs Concert Series 23 Justin Moore Free Concert “Red” & “Thousand Food Krutch” 28 “Happy Together” Tour in Concert 16 “Fun with Tie-Dye” at Magic Springs Timberwood Amphitheater

at Garvan Woodland Gardens, Weyerhaeuser Bonsai Center

Stardust Big Band at Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa

17 Hot Springs Concert Band Free Summer Concert Series

at Whittington Park

19 HOT SPRINGS BLUES SOCIETY’S

Blues night & JAM

at The Big Chill, 910 Higdon Ferry

20-22 2015 TBF Junior

World Championship

at Lake Hamilton Hot Springs

20-23 2015 Forrest Wood Cup at Bank of the Ozarks Arena

at Bank of the Ozarks Arena

at Oaklawn’s Finish Line Theatre

4th Fridays Arkansas Jazz Experience at Quapaw Baths & Spa, 413 Central Avenue

Food Truck Fridays at Hot Springs Farmers Market

SEPT 1-5 Rhea Lana’s

Back to School Consignment Sale

at Hot Springs Convention Center

SEPT 2-7 24 Annual th

Jazz Festival

at Various Locales Around Hot Springs

SEPT 4-5 Oktoberfest

sponsored by the Faces Foundation at Hill Wheatley Plaza

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Go Outside It increases your odds oF having an adventure #doitwithalocal

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