hot springs
25 YEARS OF GALLERY WALK PG 22
JULY 2014
A NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM PG 16
keep the ink flowing PG 14 RETURN TO TINY TOWN PG 30 LIVE VENUE LISTING PG 10 HSHotSpots.com #hshotspots
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Go Outside It increases your odds oF having an adventure #doitwithalocal
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112 Blackhawk Lane • Hot Springs, AR • 501-767-1373 2
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Open Monday - Friday 9AM - 6PM and Saturday 9AM - 5PM ouachitaoutdooroutfitters.com
hot springs
Life Changing Chicken
NIGHT @ THE MUSEUM AUG 2 AMAZON VOYAGE 7-10 pm
Specializing in healthy, natural and organic foods, Local meats, local cheese, local produce and local baked goods.
food/drink live music live auction
Extensive Low Carb and Gluten-free menu. Home of the “Avocado Special” and the 100% Homemade Veggie, Turkey and Bison Burgers A menu based on fresh produce and fresh ingredients!
Limited number of tickets available
250 Park Avenue • Downtown Hot Springs
Call ahead & To Go: 501-321-4977 Plenty of parking • 8 am to 8 pm • 7 Days a week
book your passage Party to benefit the Museum! (age 21 and up) @ 501.767.3461 $35/person in advance
$40/person at the door
presenting sponsor:
Mid-America Science Museum
500 Mid America Blvd • Hot Springs AR • MidAmericaMuseum.org #hshotspots
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
HOT SPRINGS HOT SPOTS EDITOR Jim G. Miller
Helping to write, edit and distribute this publication that is Hot Springs Hot Spots, I often encounter the owners and employees who work in and run the shops, hotels, grocery stores, business offices, restaurants, bars, clubs and other hotspots of Hot Springs. Lately, while tossing stacks of our paper onto the various counters and benches throughout Hot Springs, we have been getting a tremendous amount of positive feedback. I am very thankful to you, John Q. Public, for letting us know that we are doing something right. This positive reinforcement makes us glad to continue providing great photos and stories about the culture found in Hot Springs. Focusing not just on arts and entertainment but also featuring local non-profit organizations and businesses found in this great city, we strive to creatively share the diversity that we find in as many ways as possible whether it is online or as a fresh copy in your hands. Our office is downtown in historic Spencer’s Corner and we print at Wheeler Printing, a local press founded by Bob Wheeler that has been publishing in Hot Springs for more than 50 years. We are just as devoted to supporting the independent businesses and folks that sustain our city as much as we are to providing the best of arts and entertainment news. We also intend to continue exploring the eccentricities of what makes Hot Springs weird, fun and enlightening as compared to the other small culturally unique cities around the country. As we explore what makes this city great, we also have begun to ponder the what-ifs, to ask questions that we have found essential for the survival of our culture and sense of community. This July issue is very emboldened with the arts and we are thoroughly excited to help announce the 25th anniversary of Gallery Walk that will be taking place August 1st. In this issue we discuss everything from Mariachi to the Majestic and downtown revitalization. We also highlight renowned artist Gary Simmons and the exciting events coming up at the non-profit Mid America Science Museum. There are just too many great things occurring in Hot Springs to mention in this modest 36 page publication, but we’re excited about the energy and we plan to continue doing our best to promote everything that this city has to offer. Thanks as always for reading.
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CREATIVE/ART Marisa Rodgers PHOTOGRAPHY Jeremy Rodgers Chris Sale CONTRIBUTORS Samuel Binns Meadow Jones COPY EDITORS Ciara Cerrato Cathy Hicks Samuel Binns
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
EAT S SLIM CHICKENS
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FOOD CHAIN SPROUTS WINGS
MUS I C
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MARIACHI TRADITION JACOB FLORES
ART S KEEPING THE INK FLOWING
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GARY SIMMONS
G IVI NG NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM
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20 8
14
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A FUTURE OF EDUCATION FOR ALL
IMPAC T FROM CANADA, WITH LOVE
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GEESE SPOIL SWIMMING HOLES
WO RT H T HE D R I V E GLORY HOLE FALLS
34 F EATURED REASON TO CELEBRATE
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25 YEARS OF GALLERY WALK
A UNIQUE ARKANSAS WATERFALL
D O N’T M I S S LIVE SHOW LISTINGS
27 DEMOLITION BY NEGLECT 30 RETURN TO TINY TOWN CONCERNED CITIZENS RALLY
A WHITTINGTON AVE. CLASSIC
10 35 CALENDAR OF EVENTS JULY
#hshotspots
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SLIM CHICKENS
EATS
From Slim Pickens to Slim Chickens: An Arkansas Food Franchise Sprouts
Photography courtesy of Slim Chickens
Beginning in 2003, Slim Chickens as a brand has come a long way in eleven and a half years, and it is quickly becoming a sweeping sensation. “We had big dreams and hopes. In the beginning, we were hoping just to get a pay check and maybe be self-employed. We all love food and people, and everyone involved with the company has worked really hard to make it what it is today,” says Byford.
Story by Jim G. Miller
The name is a play on slim pickens, which is a clever reference to the company’s modest beginnings, starting small with no money and a
Wings
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Rob Byford fried the first piece of chicken in the very first Slim Chickens that was established in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He now owns three franchises of the burgeoning Arkansas restaurant. Opening March 5th of this year on Higdon Ferry Road, Slim Chickens has already established a healthy clientele among fans of fried chicken here in Hot Springs. “It is a very vibrant place and that makes us excited to be here,” says Byford, who enjoys the lakes and historic culture of the city.
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simple, grassroots business model. They have now found their niche among the plethora of fried chicken joints popping up all throughout the southern region of the United States. Playing traditional Memphis style blues music like Bo Didley, BB King, and other greats, they cater to the casual diner and provide a unique laid back southern atmosphere that serves nothing but fresh ingredients. The dipping sauces are made in house with a whisk and bowl, and the chicken that they serve is never frozen. Receiving deliveries three times a week from Tyson, another Arkansas-based company, they implement all of the necessary safeguards to make sure they are providing high quality ingredients to their diners. It is evident from the first bite that this is not just any gardenvariety fried chicken establishment. Their entrees are cooked to order, and from the perspective of taste, it makes all the difference in the world. Taking the first bite, you can tell that Slim Chickens has not only established a smart business model,
but they have methodically perfected their recipes in order to provide the right taste at the right price for their customers. Slowly expanding on their menu of handmade items as they build their name, they now offer a variety of options including tenders, wings, fried pickles, baked potato salad from St. Claire’s in Memphis, wraps, and other healthier options such as grilled tenders, salads, and coleslaw. Slim Chickens also strives to improve the speed and quality of their service. For instance, they use tablets at their drive-thru to provide their home cooked meals more quickly to those who are in a hurry, but for most of us here in the South, we understand that some things that are really good simply take a little more time to prepare. Providing great service and a comfortable atmosphere for guests, this is one Arkansasbased fried chicken franchise that is worth boasting about. Pop by one of their locations and see what all the fuss is about.
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Full Menu • Full Bar • Pool Tables
H our s: M -F
11am - 3am Sat
Noon-2am Sun
Noon -3am
$5
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EvEry Saturday
DJ/Dance Floor/Karaoke
t- n - t t uESday
$.75 Tacos & 1/2 price Tequila
W i ng W EdnESday $.25 Wings (dine -in) •
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Professional Tattoo Artists Trey Steelman and Justin Clark
Hours 12pm - 7pm Tuesday - Saturday
909 Central Avenue #hshotspots
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MARIACHI TRADITION
MUSIC
Jacob Flores Stays True to His Roots
Photography by Chris Sale
Story by Samuel Binns
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Although Hot Springs is filled with Mexican restaurants, many residents have only limited knowledge about the mesmerizing music that is played in them. Jacob Flores, who performs traditional mariachi songs, hopes to change that. In August of last year, the stars suddenly aligned for Jacob when he happened to be off work the day that American Idol auditions were held in Little Rock. He sung his heart out, advanced through three separate cuts, and eventually made it to the top 60 contestants for the auditions held in Austin, Texas. While waiting to be filmed individually, the contestants were put in a room together for hours and hours, passing the time by forming one huge, vibrant jam session. Although he did not advance to the next round, Flores appeared on national television in full-costume, laughing and gleaming with joy as he strummed his guitar after every response from the judges. After returning home, he was more motivated than ever to continue working on his craft.
Flores recalls his early music interests that inspired him to play music, saying, “I grew up listening to anything and everything. I love the Gipsy Kings. I love Motown. I love anything that makes my head bob back and forth.” He remembers being a young boy and sitting at a table in a Mexican restaurant listening to his father sing and play the trumpet in a mariachi band. Jacob’s son, Eli, now watches him perform. Music is in Flores’s blood, and he continues the family tradition, hoping to pass it on to his son. One of the most prevalent obstacles that Jacob has had to overcome is being accepted by both English-speaking and Spanish-speaking audiences. Spanish is his second language, English being his first. People think that mariachis need to be completely fluent in the Spanish language, but that’s not exactly the case. “My Spanish is decent, but I am far from fluent,” Jacob reveals. Although he may not be fluent, he was determined to sound like a seasoned mariachi. He would record
his father playing all of the mariachi songs he knew. “As my dad would say, ‘Jacob, if you want to wear those pants, there are certain songs you need know,’” Jacob confirms. To widen his selection of songs to play, Flores tries to memorize at least one Spanish and one English song a week. Hot Springs is full of talent, and the city has really affected Flores as a musician. “There are lots of extremely gifted local musicians. These musicians inspire me to bring my A-game any and every time I perform somewhere. You never know who might be there listening.” Jacob would love to pursue his musical endeavors full-time. He has a debut album in the works, hoping to release it sometime this fall. Flores, staying true to his roots, also plans to release a Mariachi album. Jacob Flores plays at Jose’s Mexican Grill & Cantina every Thursday and Saturday from 6-9pm and at El Padrino’s Mexican Bar & Grill every Sunday from 5-8pm.
hot springs
ALBUMS ON REVIEW < PHISH FUEGO
Released June 24, 2014 The new album by Phish, Fuego, is possibly one of the most anticipated records of 2014. It is the band’s 12th album, but it’s their first studio record in five years. Fuego captures the jam band’s live energy exceptionally well, especially with the opening song, “Fuego,” a groovy showcase of the band’s melodic vocals and volatile electric guitar shredding. “Devotion to a Dream” is an intense Southern-rock melody built on gospel piano, leading up to an unbelievable solo by Trey Anastasio. The pensive psychedelia heard on “Winterqueen” contrasts the funky tune of the next song, “Sing Monica”. The one track that does not meet expectations is “Wombat,” which the band seemingly ran through the wash; the song’s muted vocals and syncopation flatten the vibrant color emitted on the previous songs. The color is restored by the album’s grand finale, “Wingsuit,” which is a dreamy lullaby that erupts into a grandiose three-guitar solo. This eclectic band inspires passion on its newest album with vigorous improvisational sounds, whimsical lyrics, and enduring positivity. Fuego is Phish’s finest work in more than a decade. These guys are like fine wine; they just get better with age.
< JACK WHITE Lazaretto
Released June 10, 2014 Jack White, known for his success with The White Stripes, further expresses the bold, raw energy that built his reputation on his newest album, Lazaretto. He stirs together various influences, embracing just about every musical style that invigorates him. White’s ideas and different influences crowd the album and crash aggressively on the album’s firecracker, “Lazaretto”. “High Ball Stepper” expands upon White’s energetic style with a different texture, incorporating eccentric piano interludes and even more dramatic guitar riffs. The softer ballad-like songs blend bluegrass with rock impressively well. One exception is “Just One Drink,” where the tame instrumentation implies that the title must be literal because the song does not even give me a buzz. “That Black Cat Licorice” brings the album back to life and restores the intense momentum with its groovy rhythm that pushes past any of White’s debilities. The mix of different genres with the jam-packed guitar riffs makes this album a great launching point.
< FIRST AID KIT STAY GOLD
Released June 10, 2014 First Aid Kit consists of Swedish sisters Johanna and Klara Söderberg, who continue to exhibit their unique rock sound, blending country with indie rock and folk. The album’s reflective nature constantly discusses the burden of touring, making it consistent, but not too consistent. They have presented many new features, such as a 13-piece orchestra, which gives each song a different atmosphere as the singers paint each song with a different palette. “Fleeting One” adds a sentimental flute, while “Heaven Knows” has a more vibrant texture with its bouncy momentum. First Aid Kit’s songs are full of warm harmonies, establishing the setting of Midwestern skies that gently flow toward the west coast to symbolize their life on the road. Although Stay Gold focuses on the sisters’ erratic lifestyles as wanderers, “Silver Lining” offers the special sense of hope with a shimmer in every note, giving their journey a purpose. The album’s blue mood is momentary because it involves pushing through hard times lest the gold be tarnished. Stay Gold is the perfect album to listen to while reflecting on summer nights or while trying to lessen the burden of a long road trip.
Do you agree with our Reviews? Leave your feedback on our reviews at hshotspots.com. Submit your own Reviews! Send your new release album, video or movie reviews to info@hshotspots.com.
Reviews by Samuel Binns #hshotspots
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LIVE SHOW LISTINGS
VENUES
10
700 CENTRAL AVE.
THURS 7/3 hikes (TX) Experimental FRI 7/4 ben knight and the welldiggers (OH) Country, Rock, Folk; philos moore (AL) Alternative, Country SAT 7/5 THE GRAYCES (TN); CORPORATE GIANTS (AR); THE FEDERALIS (AR) Rock THURS 7/10 joe sundell band(AR-LA) Americana FRI 7/11 THE OXFORD COMA (AZ) Progressive SAT 7/12 FOUL PLAY CABARET (AR) Burlesque; ENGINE (LA) Folk, Gypsy, Rock FRI 7/18 PECKERWOLF (AR); the escatones (TX); DIRTY LUNGS (AL) Rock SAT 7/19 Cult fiction (AR) Improv FRI 7/25 myaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Madams (AR) Drag Show SAT 7/26 Omy blusky (AR) New Wave; may the peace of the sea be with you (AR) Thrash Folk; bristol hills(LA) Alt-Indie Rock; THURS 7/31 KENTUCKY KNIFE FIGHT (MO) Rock
711 CENTRAL AVE.
FRI SAT SUN FRI SAT SUN FRI SAT SUN FRI SAT SUN hshotspots.com
7/4 7/5 7/6 7/11 7/12 7/13 7/18 7/19 7/20 7/25 7/26 7/27
nicole noel & Chance meyer (FL) Americana roxy walkin (AR) Folk Duo irish brew (AR) Irish john calvin brewer (AR) Rock amyjo savannah & Amanda Avery(AR) Singer-Songwriter Danny & jude (AR) Irish laura lee williard & Buddy case (AR) Folk blind opie (AR) Rock john jordan (AR) Rock kevin kirby (AR) Folk fret & worry (AR) Old Time Guitar, Harmonica kilburn highroad (AR) Traditional Irish
2705 CENTRAL AVE.
hot springs
LIVE SHOW LISTINGS
THURS 7/3 SPA BLAST (OAKLAWN INFIELD): Gable Bradley Band (AR) Rock, Blane Howard (AR) Country, Shari Bales Band (AR) Country, Hwy 124 (AR) Rock, DownDay (AR) Rock, Army National Guard Band of the Southwest (AR) Military Band, JOHN CALVIN BREWER BAND (AR) 9pm-1am; Rock, Blues FRI/SAT 7/4-5 WILLIAM STAGGERS TRIO (AR) 9pm-1am; Blues MON 7/7 MOONSHINE MAFIA (AR) 5-8pm; Blues TUE 7/8 CHRISTINE DEMEO (AR) 5-8pm; Singer-Songwriter THURS 7/10 SHANE SIMANTON (AR) 5-8pm; Blues, Classic Rock FRI/SAT 7/11-12 CRASH MEADOWS (AR) 5-8pm; Rock, Alternative MON 7/14 RUSTY MARSHALL (AR) 5-8pm; Rock TUE 7/15 CHRISTINE DEMEO (AR) 5-8pm; Singer-Songwriter THURS 7/17 JOCKO (AR) 5-8pm; Country, Rock FRI/SAT 7/18-19 SALT AND PEPPER (AR) 9pm-1am; Blues MON 7/21 KYNDRYD SPYRTS (AR) 5-8pm; Rock TUE 7/22 DELTA DONNIE (AR) 5-8pm; Southern Rock THURS 7/24 MOONSHINE MAFIA (AR) 5-8pm; Blues FRI/SAT 7/25-26 THE CHRISTINE DEMEO BAND (AR) 9pm-1am; Rock MON 7/28 SHANE SIMANTON (AR); Blues, Classic Rock TUE 7/29 DEAN AGUS (AR) 5-8pm; Rock THURS 7/31 RUSTY MARSHALL (AR) 5-8pm; Rock 101 CENTRAL AVE.
FRI 7/4 Hotel Casanova (AR) Rock SAT 7/5 Doctor Doctor (AR) Rock FRI/SAT 7/11-12 Usual Suspects (OK) Rock FRI/SAT 7/18-19 Mike Mayberry & the Slowhands (AR) Country, Rock FRI 7/25 relentless (AR) Rock SAT 7/26 CROOKED HALO (AR) Rock #hshotspots
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LIVE SHOW LISTINGS
VENUES
910 Higdon Ferry
THURS FRI/SAT WED THURS FRI/SAT TUE WED THURS FRI/SAT TUES WED THURS FRI/SAT TUE WED FRI/SAT
7/3 HIghway 124 (AR) Classic Rock 7/4-5 MIDNIGHT PARADE (AR) Rock 7/9 JOCKO (AR) Country, Rock 7/10 SHANE SIMANTON (AR) Blues, Classic Rock 7/11-12 MIKE MAYBERRY & THE SLOW HANDS (AR) Country, Rock 7/15 TARA RILEY THOMPSON & BRENT FRAS (AR) Singer-Songwriter 7/16 JOHN CALVIN BREWER (AR) Rock, Blues 7/17 DEAN AGUS (AR) Rock 7/18-19 THE SHOTGUN BILLIES (AR) Country, Rock 7/22 LIGHTNIN LEE & DAVID BALL (AR) Blues 7/23 JOCKO (AR) Country, Rock 7/24 CHRISTINE DEMEO (AR) Singer-Songwriter 7/25-26 HIGHWAY 124 (AR) Classic Rock 7/29 TARA RILEY THOMPSON & BRENT FRAS (AR) Singer-Songwriter 7/30 John calvin brewer (AR) Rock, Blues 8/1-2 PROPHETS & OUTLAWS (AR) Rock, Blues
4330 CENTRAL AVE.
To list your venue, contact info@ hshotspots.com
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FRI SAT FRI SAT FRI SAT FRI SAT
7/4 7/5 7/11 7/12 7/18 7/19 7/25 7/26
DAYTON WATERS (AR) Blues, Rock TRAGICKLY WHITE (AR) Party Music BRIAN MARTIN (AR) Bluegrass BIG STEEL RIVER (AR) Party Band JOHN CALVIN BREWER (AR) Rock THE FEDERALLIS (AR) Rock CHRIS HENRY (AR) Singer-Songwriter DIAMOND BLUES BAND (AR) Blues
700 CENTRAL AVE., HOT SPRINGS NATIONAL PARK hot springs 501.321.0909
INSIDE THE AUSTIN HOTEL • 305 Malvern avenue 877-623-6697 • 623-6600
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TrY Our SUMMER FrOM 4:00PM Till 7:00PM DRINK $1 OFF WellS $.50 OFF DOMeSTiC lOnGneCKS SeleCTiOnS!
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H our s: M -F
11am - 3am Sat
Noon-2am Sun
Noon -3am
$5
or under Lunch Special M o n- Fri • 11am - 3pm
EvEry Saturday
DJ/Dance Floor/Karaoke
t- n - t t uESday
MAXINE’S is THE place in Hot Springs for Live Entertainment. Catch a Touring Band or Your Local Favorite EVERY THURSDAY through SATURDAY
DO NOT MISS
Live Music Every Weekend!
TUES
Taco Tuesday taco, tequila, margarita specials
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Poetry Slam
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FRI & SAT
LIVE MUSIC See Who’s Playing maxineslive.com
PIZZA TACOS
BURGERS CRAFTS
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$.75 Tacos & 1/2 price Tequila
W i ng W EdnESday $.25 Wings (dine -in) •
$8 Buckets
The BesT Burger in hoT springs
JULY 5 – THE GRAYCES, CORPORATE GIANTS, THE FEDERALIS JULY 17 – FOUL PLAY CAbARET, ENGINE JULY 18TH – PECkERwOLF, THE ESCATONES, DIRTY LUNGS
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Keeping the Ink Flowing
ARTS
Gary Simmons Continues Illustrating the Power of the Pen Story by Jim G. Miller
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While he was at Henderson State University, it was often said that the crux of the art department’s reputation fell on the shoulders of a Professor named Gary Simmons. He was said to be magnificently capable of drawing with pen and ink, and he had even written a book on the topic regarding the use of a specific type of technical pen used by architects, engineers and artists. “The Technical Pen” was originally published back in 1992 by Watson Guptill Publications and has been a much-regarded source of reference for pen and ink artists from all around the world. Referred to by Barnes and Noble as the bible of technical pen artistry, the book has had such a following that Echo Point Books & Media decided to pick it back up and begin publishing it in both paper and hardcover. “I was pleasantly surprised,” says Simmons. The publishers tracked him down through Henderson State University where he taught for twenty-two years before retiring in May of 2013.
“Watson Guptill Publications dropped the book shor tly after it had been published, although the editor had told me it would be around for a long time, so I’m glad to see someone bring it back,” says Simmons. Used editions of the book have floated around online and in used bookstores since 1992. It features over 300 illustrations, including 34 full-color images in the hardcover edition and gray scale images in the paperback edition. One major difference between the original publication and the new one is that the images for the original were photographed rather than scanned, so the overall quality and content of the publication has improved. The technical pen trademark discussed in the book is also referred to as a rapidograph, and it is a familiar tool for many ar tists and ar t students. “I used my very first one back in 1960. It had a pump on it like a fountain pen, and it could be very temperamental,”
he recalls. Simmons began doing science illustrations for paleontologists, geneticists, herpetologists, and fisheries by completing taxonomic drawings of things like fish scales and butterfly wings to work his way through college. Eventually he star ted doing it professionally, and the company that designed the pens even star ted using his work in adver tisements and teaching workshops to market the product. “It was the work that I did for scientists that conditioned me to work the way I do now,” says Simmons. A self-taught ar tist, Simmons originally taught English before discovering that he was an ar tist at the age of thir ty-five. Simmons holds the same standard with painting and sculpture as he does with pen and ink. “I have talked about the limitations of being self taught with my friend and fellow ar tist Jim Larkin, and what I found was that there was no one pushing me outside of the boundaries of what I was
hot springs
Portrait by Jeremy Rodgers, Shown in Background: Studio Door, Self Portrait, Pen
Paradise Lost Pen & Watercolor, 30x40
Quest Oil, 16x20 doing, I could have been a sculptor, I love sculpting, but when I despair with what I’m doing I go back to what I know, sucking my thumb and doing pen and ink.” Though drawing is his first love, and it’s what he does the very best, Simmons continues the effort to translate the visual information that he has in his head from drawing into sculpture. “Artists are such late bloomers in our culture because no one encourages you to be an artist, and as a result we tend to chase other things and think that’s what we should be doing,” says Simmons. A late bloomer turned renowned artist and educator, Simmons reminisces on teaching. “It always bothered me because I’d look out there and say to myself, I know what you guys are in for, but you can’t communicate it to someone who hasn’t been there,” says Simmons. As well as influencing and shaping the lives of many of his students that are now artists themselves, he continues to
French Helmet Pen, 20x20
Heart of Darkneww Oil, 16x20
collaborate and work alongside fellow artists in his weekly drawing group that has met every Thursday since 1976. Aside from forays into sculpture, he also occasionally will go on a tear and do watercolors or other painting, though he admits that he will never rival his friend Richard Stephens in these media. Simmons is currently involved with the Hot Springs Cultural Alliance and continues teaching intensive workshops around the state. “I seem busier now. I’m still doing the same thing but I feel like I’m still doing my job. Sometimes I feel like I’m tired and not interested in the chase of being an ar tist, but I’m too damn competitive just to quit,” laughs Simmons. Look for him to be a key role in various community ar t projects taking place around Hot Springs, and if you are an interested student of pen and ink, look for the newest edition of his book “The Technical Pen” at the Echo Point Books & Media online at http://www.echopointbooks. com/product/technical-pen/. #hshotspots
15
NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM
GIVING
Ushering in a Future of Education for ALL
Photography by Jeremy Rodgers
Story by Jim G. Miller
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As a child I recall visiting the Mid-America Science Museum. Tucked away near National Park Community College amongst a shadowy patch of forest, it houses many unique wonders for both children and adults. A playful Pandora’s box of learning for the youth of Arkansas, it’s the perfect destination for a school field trip or just a fun day for the family. Built in 1979 and dedicated by then Governor Bill Clinton, the museum is 35 years old and has been in dire need of a face-lift, which it will be getting thanks to a $7.8 million grant from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation. “When you get a grant like that, it obviously changes the way your institution looks, but it will also bring it into present day and change how we educate the community by expanding outreach and doing hands on science education. It is going to bring MidAmerica back to its glory days when there were not quite as many science museums found throughout the country,” says Executive Director Diane LaFollette.
Currently Mid-America is hosting a special exhibit called Amazon Voyage: Vicious Fishes and Other Riches, and it takes you on an exploratory journey of the rich and diverse Amazonian environment. A field day for wildlife biologists, the Amazon is home to some of the most amazing and unique creatures in the world, such as the piranha, and of course the enormous anaconda. This exhibit will only be up until August 10th when Mid-America closes for its upcoming remodel, so visit them while you can. Once they reopen in March 2015 there will be new permanent exhibitions that will be featured, but they will not host any traveling exhibits until 2016. There will be exciting new features such as the state of the art skywalk, named in honor of Bob Wheeler, a local business owner who did much for the community of Hot Springs. The skywalk will help to set Mid-America apart from many other science museums in the country. There will also be a digital dome theater as well as many other additions.
“Once the museum is reopened, we’ll be focusing on expanding not just educational opportunities for children pre-k and up but we’ll also have tinkering opportunities for adults to learn and take interest in,” says Director of Education Shena Ball. A perfect opportunity to see the museum before the remodel will be at the Night at the Museum Benefit on August 2nd from 7pm to 10pm. It will be a fun evening of live music, food and refreshments along with a special silent auction. The proceeds go toward their educational outreach programming over the six months that the museum is not in operation. Visit them throughout the month of July and the beginning of August to soak up as much of the experience as you can before the remodel, and make sure you go back in the Spring to witness the awakening of an educational landmark here in Hot Springs. For more information about MidAmerica regarding updates on events and how you can support or volunteer this educational non-profit, visit www.midamericamuseum.org.
July 4 to August 9
hot springs
SONGWRITING For Kids
Tuesdays - Saturdays 10:30 am - 5:00 pm 626 Central Avenue Historic Downtown 501-624-0489 hsfac.org
by Laura Lee Williard
S aturday INTRO to Songwriting S essions: July 1 2 , 10am-4pm July 2 6 , 10am-4pm o r August 2 , 10am-4pm
Tu-Sat 7:30am - 5pm
GIO’S PAW SPA
3- Day S ongwriting Workshops: (All Da t e s a re 1 0 a m- 3 p m)
Wed -Fr i , July 9 -1 1 Wed -Fr i , July 1 6 -1 8 Wed -Fr i , July 2 3 -2 5 W ed -Fr i , July 3 0 -Aug 1 o r Tues -T hur s , August 5 -7
501-762-4010
Grand Opening April 1st Next to Cafe 1217
For mor e i nfor mati on, c ontact Laur a Lee at L au raLeeWilliard@gmail.com
1217 Malvern Ave. Suite C Hot Springs, AR 71901
“Gourmet to Go” • Dine-In Café
•
Hot Springs’ Award Winning Gourmet Food!
Catering
Monday - Friday 11am - 7pm Saturday 11am - 4pm Gluten Free Options Available
• 1217 Malvern Avenue • 501-318-1094 • cafe1217.net •
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EAT/DRINK
RESTAURANT LISTINGS SPICY BBQ WINGS FROM SLIM CHICKENS
AMER IC AN Back Porch Grill 4810 Central 525-0885
Gilligan’s on Lake 5200 Central 525-3319
Mel’s Diner 1603 Airport 767-0595
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
PANCAKE SHOP 216 Central 624-5720
BURG ER S Classics Bar & Grill 4813 Central 525-7172
GRINDHOUSE 801 Central 625-3339
MOOYAH 3954 Central 520-5000
C AFE/ BIS T RO CAFE 1217 1217 Malvern 318-1094
MUELLER’s BISTRO
111 Central 624-9273
250 Park 547-7172
4307 Central 525-2710 hshotspots.com
1105 Albert Pike 624-5568
BR EAK FAS T / BRUNC H COLONIAL WAFFLE HOUSE English Muffin 18
JACK’s
111 Crawford #B 623-7005
PARK ISLAND CAFE ZOE’s CAFE 2230 Malvern 321-2921
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
INTERNATIONAL BLEU MONKEY GRILL 4263 Central 520-4800
CENTRAL PARK FUSION 200 Park Ave 623-0202
COPPER PENNY PUB 711 Central 622-2570
STEINHaus KELLER 801 Central 624-7866
SUPERIOR BATHHOUSE 329 Central 624-2337
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I TA LI AN Angel’s in the Park 211 Fountain Street 609-0767
Belle Arti
ME XICAN CotiJa 1335 Airport 760-1165
DOn Juan
719 Central 624-7474
1311 Albert Pike 321-0766
LUNA BELLA
EL PADRINO
104 Grand Isle 520-5862
1607 Albert Pike 623-2406
JAHNA’s
NOM NOMS
1803 Airport 767-0200
JA PANESE/ SU S HI Fuji SteakHouse 608 E. Grand 321-1688
Osaka Japanese 3954 Central 525-9888
LAT IN A MERI C AN VINA MORITA 610 Central 625-7143
ROLANDO’S 210 Central 318-6054
3371 Central 623-8588
PICANTE’S 801 Central 623-2300
TACO MAMA 1209 Malvern 624-6262
TREJO’s MEXICAN 3040 Albert Pike 760-2316
PIZZA Deluca’s Pizzeria Napoletana
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
S EAF O O D BUBBA’s CATFISH TO GO 5411 Central 762-3474
Cajun Broilers 2806 Albert Pike 767-5695
Fisherman’s Wharf 5101 Central 525-7437
MR. WHISKERS
407 Park 609-9002
1538 Malvern 262-3474
Doc’s Pizzeria
Smyly’s Crab Shack
1018 Airport 760-2227
4916 Central 525-3442
S O UT HER N/ S O UL Higdon Square Café
Blackberry sorbet FROM nom noms
706 Higdon Ferry 623-7744
Phil’s 2900 Central 623-8258
SLIM CHICKEN 1384 Higdon Ferry 463-9797
S T EAK HO US E Brick House Grill 801 Central 321-2926
KJ’s Grill 1834 Airport 767-0063
Porterhouse 707 Central 321-8282
ROCKY MOUNTAIN GRILL 5812 Airport 767-2887
T EX- MEX Colorado Grill 320 Ouachita 623-7992
boursin tomato pesto stack FROM Superior bathhousE #hshotspots
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GALLERY WALK
reason to celbrate Hot Springs Gallery Walk Turns a Quarter of a Century Old
Story by Jim G. Miller Photography by Jeremy Rodgers
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hot springs
The Hot Springs Gallery Walk has become a staple of downtown culture since its inception in August of 1989. Culturally speaking, the tradition of Gallery Walk has helped to establish Hot Springs as one of the preeminent small art towns in America. Intensifying the appeal of downtown to visiting artists and guests from around the world, it has helped pave the way for other culturally monumental events such as the Hot Springs Documentary Festival, the Hot Springs Music Festival, and other major happenings that now take place in the city. The ripple effect of this monthly walk up and down Central Avenue has had a significant influence on the people and environment of Hot Springs. It’s not merely a first Friday wine tasting gallery hop, but it is a rich illustration of the talented artists in Hot Springs who display their works for art collectors and appreciators from all around the globe. It’s a monthly field trip for students or aspiring artists who wish to learn from observation. It’s an opportunity for the artistically inclined of Hot Springs to meld together in a unique and almost spiritual way, and it’s certainly been a jewel of pride for downtown merchants and promoters of the city. Gallery owners and ar tists alike are excited to reach this milestone and look forward to having troves of people coming to peruse and buy ar twork. This year’s anniversary exemplifies one thing and that is that ar t as a business and as a trade is still alive and prospering and will continue to do so. “The ar t scene here rivals those in other major cities ar t markets,” says Dolores Justus, an ar tist and owner of Justus Fine Ar t Gallery. The 25th Anniversary milestone will host a showcase of new ar t exhibitions featuring many ar tists who will be present for the momentous occasion to discuss their work and visit with guests. The par ticipation of ar tists in exhibiting their work at these established galleries has been a long time appeal of Gallery Walk, and there will be numerous events throughout the entire weekend with hands-on ar t workshops and tutorials at many par ticipating galleries. Also, look for galleries to be hosting special events such as Star Gallery and Emergent Ar ts. Some par ticipating galleries that are not located in the downtown Hot Springs area also will be featuring special events, so be sure to visit them as well. “I remember the very first Gallery Walk. It was crazy – everybody was scrambling to get things painted, doing molding and getting things ready in the gallery.
Melinda Herr Chambliss, who then owned the location where Blue Moon Gallery is, worked extremely hard that first year,” says Gary Simmons, a local ar tist and long time Hot Springs resident. “It was originally on Thursday nights, and it transitioned to being on both nights. It wore out the galleries. My wife was working at Palmer’s Gallery at the time, and it was always such a scramble to get prepared during the first week of the month,” he recalls. Not too much has changed since those early days of Gallery Walk other than being held now on the first Friday of each month. Many gallery owners will admit that it’s a tough racket each month, but many of them continue to do it because they love ar t and feel as though it is a service to the community of Hot Springs. “There is a resurgence right now much like the one we had fifteen or twenty years ago. We have organizations like the Hot Springs Cultural Alliance which is helping, and there is a whole culture of young people that are an offshoot of the original downtown ar t scene who will soon be picking up the torch,” says Simmons. “The city is now recognizing that cultural tourism is beneficial to the health and well being of Hot Springs, and I think that it will spark even more rejuvenation in the ar ts,” says Justus. There are many who plan trips to Hot Springs just to be here for Gallery Walk to see ar tists whose work may be found in major private and public collections. “What Hot Springs has is the oppor tunity to package the ar t scene with the music and other cultural events that are going on in the area,” says Justus. Cer tainly not every city in the United States has this type of oppor tunity. The bedrock of ar tists and galleries that have been established here for the past twenty-five years has allowed for Hot Springs to flourish culturally. The true test will be whether it can sustain itself economically for future generations. As for now the gallery owners and the ar tists seem to have done their par t. Now it’s up to the people to show their suppor t and invest their time and interest in promoting the ar ts as a viable resource for the city. The 25th Anniversary of Gallery Walk is the perfect oppor tunity to come out and experience it for yourself if you never have. Tell a friend, tell your family, and come meet the gallery owners and ar tists who have invested their hear ts and their time into the wor thy business and pursuit of ar t. #hshotspots
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GALLERY WALK
25th Anniversary Schedule of Events of Gallery Walk
FRIDAY, AUGUST 1
From 5pm–9pm on August 1st, various special exhibitions and receptions will be held throughout downtown galleries.
Line & Form,” an exhibition of contemporary abstract art that will open on August 15th and continue through September 27th.
Gallery Central will feature samples of wine selections from “The Wine Rack.”
Prior to the evening events on Friday, August 1st, the Artists’ Workshop Gallery will feature a demonstration of pottery techniques by Nina Louton from 2-4 p.m.
Legacy Gallery will host live music and interpretive painting. Justus Fine Art Gallery will be celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Hot Springs Gallery Walk, along with their 10th anniversary, with a special exhibition and reception. The Linda Palmer Gallery will feature the colored pencil drawings and oil paintings of Linda Williams Palmer, along with paintings by Jason Sacran and former Hot Springs artist Randy Groden. The AETN Champion Tree Documentary featuring the work of Linda Williams Palmer will also be available at Palmer’s Gallery. Alison Parsons Gallery will feature a special exhibition of “Art and Architecture in The Spa” in celebration of the 25th anniversary and their gallery’s 8th anniversary.
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Forest Path Wood Gallery, which is located south of Hot Springs and features the work of Gene Sparling, will be open throughout the day from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Friday, August 1st and by appointment other times.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 2
Downtown art galleries will be open during their regular hours with the following special event schedule: 10am–Noon Gallery Central to host a “Women’s Paint Out” featuring a live paint out by Gallery Central women artists. Peach Bellinis will be served. 800 Central Ave. - 501-318-4278
American Art Gallery will highlight the work of Valerie Hanks Goetz with an exhibit and demonstration of the artist’s horsehair and pine needle basket weaving techniques.
10am–4pm Barbara Cade of the Blue Rock Studio will be presenting a special show of her work entitled “Rock Music” and featuring tapestries of felted and woven landscapes involving rocks. The exhibit will be held from July 26 - August 17, 2014. The Blue Rock Studio, 262 Hideaway Hills Dr. - 501-262-4065
The Fine Arts Center of Hot Springs will be showcasing the Finalist Exhibit of the Hot Springs Regional Art Competition through August 9th, followed by “Color,
11am Artist Steve Griffith to present, “Travel and Painting: Two Passions Combined” at Justus Fine Art Gallery. 827 A Central Ave. - 501-321-2335
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hot springs
11am–Noon “The Creative Power of Depth of Field, Aperture, and Shutter Speed in Photography” presented by Taylor Bellott Nature Gallery. 726 Central Ave. - 501-520-4576 Noon–2pm Pat Lanquist to demonstrate silk scarf painting at the Artists’ Workshop Gallery. 610A Central Ave. - 501-623-6401 1pm Art Appraiser and Consultant Jennifer Lee to discuss, “How to Start Collecting Art” at Justus Fine Art Gallery. 827 A Central Ave. - 501-321-2335
3–4:30pm Linda Shearer will demonstrate Chinese brush painting at the Artists’ Workshop Gallery. 610 A Central Ave. - 501-623-6401 4pm Artist Dolores Justus speaking on “Essential Elements” at Justus Fine Art Gallery. 827 A Central Ave.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 3
1–4pm Afternoon tea, trunk show and special sale at Legacy Fine Art Gallery. 804 Central Ave. - 501-762-0840
1–5pm Art Class at Legacy Fine Art, 804 Central Ave. Come hang out with the artists Carole Katchen, Patrick Cunningham, and Elizabeth Weber, to paint or draw. The gallery will have live models and still lifes to inspire your art. Bring your own supplies. 501-762-0840
1–4pm Barbara Cade’s Blue Rock Studio will be featuring her “Rock Music” exhibit of felted and woven landscapes featuring rocks. 262 Hideaway Hills Dr. 501-262-4065
2pm Artist Donnie Copeland to address, “Inspiration and Process” at Justus Fine Art Gallery. 827 A Central Ave. - 501-321-2335
1–5pm Gallery Central will be hosting a special art sale to benefit “Paws in Prison” from 1-5 p.m. Each artist at Gallery Central will be creating 10x10 paintings, which will sell for $100 each for the fundraiser. $10 from each sale will be donated to the foundation. A preview of the paintings will be on display during the Friday evening Gallery Walk. 800 Central Ave. - 501-318-4278
2pm Artist Jason Sacran demonstration and talk at Linda Palmer Gallery. 800B Central Ave. - 501-620-3063 2–3pm Terry O’Dell to demonstrate original instrumental compositions on guitar at the Artists’ Workshop Gallery. 610 A Central Ave. - 501-623-6401 3pm Artist Linda Williams Palmer colored pencil demonstration and talk at Linda Palmer Gallery. 800 B Central Ave. - 501-620-3063
1:30–2:30pm “Fine Art Reproduction and Giclee Printing” at Taylor Bellott Nature Gallery. 726 Central Ave. - 501-520-4576 2–3pm Terry O’Dell to demonstrate multiple image-making in dry media at the Artists’ Workshop Gallery. 610 A Central Ave. - 501-623-6401
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501.624.0550
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Demolition By Neglect Concerned Citizens of Downtown Hot Springs Continue Pushing the Envelope
Story by Jim G. Miller Photography by Jeremy Rodgers
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CONCERNED CITIZENS
On Saturday June 7th, on an especially warm summer afternoon, a young man named Robert Taylor stepped up to a podium and lent his voice and passion to a rally of eagerly concerned Hot Springs citizens. The day marked his 20th birthday, as well as the 100th day since the Majestic fire ruins have been left untouched in its wake. Though a monument of history as been annihilated, it has also marked an end to the general apathy the downtown community has for too long let fester. “If this rubble had been sitting across from Oaklawn racetrack, it would have been gone much sooner,” Taylor said toward the end of his speech to a roar of applause. Taylor is a Hot Springs native and a junior at Hendrix, majoring in political science with a minor in economics. He founded the Facebook page for the “Concerned Citizens of Downtown Hot Springs,” and organized the rally along with Brenda Brandenburg who established the Facebook page “Save Her Majesty: Restoring the Majestic Hotel.” On the day of the rally, the message was clear: the people of Hot Springs and others from all around the state must continue a discussion about not only the Majestic Hotel but also the other remaining historic buildings of downtown Hot Springs. Quoting a letter from the Historic Preservation Alliance of Arkansas’ Executive Director, Vanessa McKuin, Taylor mentions that the oldest yellow brick portion of the Majestic would have most likely been condemned long ago, and he references the effects of demolition by neglect that plagues not just buildings in Hot Springs but also structures in many cities all over the United States. “There were no violations held against that building (the Majestic) and its owner until
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it burned to the ground, “says John Girolamo, a long time local building manager affiliated with local businesses and downtown historic buildings.” During the interview, Girolamo also referenced the Baxter Hotel, which burned within a week after the Majestic fire. The Advertising and Promotion Commission owned the Baxter Hotel property, which was located in the downtown historic Pleasant Street district. Structures declared vacant must be properly boarded up according to city vacant structure codes, yet the Majestic sat vacant for more than six years before it was boarded up. Although Taylor and Girolamo appeared to be at odds with one another toward the end of the Rally about who is to blame regarding the neglect of specific downtown properties, they do both appear to have a mutual interest in seeing downtown Hot Springs prosper. “I think that people with the ability to make changes must be held responsible to do something, to provide more discourse on the topic. It’s something that voters should press everyone from their Senator down to their local Justice of the Peace candidates, the Mayor, and also city council members,” says Taylor. Generations of Taylors have put effort into the betterment of the city. Taylor’s father, Anthony Taylor, is an architect who has lived here for nearly thirty years and has helped pave a path of responsible restoration for buildings such as the
hot springs
Quapaw Bathhouse, and other historic properties. He has recently invested with partners to purchase both the Dugan-Stuart and the Thompson Building from Ken Wheatley with the plans of revitalizing the upper and lower floors into viable downtown businesses. Many current building owners or building managers in the city have felt targeted by the recent public attention to the abandoned or non-renovated portions of buildings found in downtown Hot Springs. While many of them have expressed previous complaints and frustration regarding city codes and strict policy enforcements that have served as roadblocks to development, the fact is that many of them just no longer have the capital to invest. This is especially the case for the historic properties three stories or higher that are designated to be in the Fire Basin District and that require sprinkler systems to be installed. “If many of the people who have businesses or lease to business owners in downtown Hot Springs had not owned these buildings and invested time and money into them then they would have most likely been torn down years ago,” says Girolamo. The voice of the existing business/building owners do deserve to be heard and no one doubts many of their contributions to the city of Hot Springs. However it would appear that it is the lack of spurred development and change that the concerned citizens of Hot Springs want to address, especially with non-respondent building owners like Gary Hassenflu, owner of the Majestic Hotel. While change takes time it
does appear that there is a slow and positive movement in the air, especially with Pat & Ellen McCabe recently announcing their plans for opening a Bed & Breakfast in the Hale Bathhouse, next to Superior Brewery and Distillery. However, in downtown Hot Springs right now there is a Bank of America building that’s been vacant for 3 1/2 years, a Howard Johnson that’s been vacant for the past six months, the Malco Theatre Building still sits unused, and of course as of right now, the Majestic bricks still lay in a heap on the foundation where it burned, and it will most likely remain there well into the summer and perhaps for many years to come, but that should not hinder the possibility for change and improvement elsewhere downtown. There is definitely a community of people who care about the future of downtown Hot Springs and do not feel powerless to voice their commentary regarding what they would like to see change. It’s just going to take creativity, and an immense cooperation to see positive things happen. Like many, Taylor and Brandenburg have a sentimental attachment to many of these old downtown buildings like the Majestic, and it fuels their desire to motivate innovation and change in the current downtown attitude. If you are a concerned citizen, and you have ideas about how to help revolutionize things for the better in downtown Hot Springs, visit and share on the Concerned Citizens of Downtown Hot Springs page, write your city officials and those in Congress, and continue this important discussion with your fellow citizens. Check out Taylor’s editorial calling for more downtown innovation at www.hshotspots.com. #hshotspots
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TINY TOWN
RETURN TO TINY TOWN SMALL WONDERS IN A WHITTINGTON AVENUE CLASSIC THAT HAS WITHSTOOD THE TEST OF TIME
Story by Meadow Jones
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Photography by Jeremy Rodgers
hot springs
I’ll never forget our first trip to Tiny Town, the “World’s Largest Animated Miniature Village,” in Hot Springs’ historic Whittington Valley. We had just moved to the Spa City and began exploring the area when Tiny Town captured the imaginations of our then 4-year-old son and 12-year-old daughter. This year, we celebrated the return of spring with an annual pilgrimage to Tiny Town. The daughter was away at college, so we took our now 10-year-old son and his buddies. Thankfully, nothing inside the modest cinderblock building has changed. The exhibit’s hand-carved figures still swing on porches, square dances in the barn remain, and promenades through the park have also survived. The blacksmith shop, saloon, sawmill, and oil derrick remain busy. Inch-high deer make their continual trek through the mountains. Hot Springs natives will recognize a delicate replica of downtown’s original fountain at the junction of Central, Park, and Whittington Avenues. Ringed by quartz crystals, Tiny Town’s fountain was not updated when the city redesigned its fountain in the 1970s. Tiny Town’s owner, “Mr. Mo” (Charles Moshinskie), leads the tour with occasional help from his wife, Barbara. Now retired from teaching science at Glen Rose High School, Mr. Mo keeps the vintage trains running and the waterfalls and rivers flowing. He tells the story of his father, Frank Moshinskie, who as a youngster in the 1930s began carving and constructing what grew into Tiny Town. “Dad was an electrician by trade,” explains Mr. Mo. “He set up this exhibit every Christmas and worked on it for over 60 years.” Frank Moshinskie created scenes from his childhood in Pennsylvania: a red barn and farm scene, brick houses, and parks. Eventually, he would leave the sprawling creation up year-round. Later, when Frank and wife Louise moved their growing family from Baton Rouge to Hot Springs, they housed Tiny Town on Whittington Avenue, which at the time was an epicenter of Americana. In the early 1960s, Whittington Valley boasted several “roadside attractions,” from the I.Q. Zoo and Crystal Cave to the Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo. Of these, the Alligator Farm and Tiny Town remain. You can find Tiny Town on Facebook where updates trickle in every few months. Its wonders can also be viewed on Youtube, and it was once
featured in a segment on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno. A website, TinyTownTrains.com, highlights the interactive model railroad. Ideally, though, this is a place to experience in person. Those who view it in person have the chance to see several black bears dance at the touch of a button, surrounded (but never caught) by National Park rangers. “He loved bears,” Barbara Moshinskie says of her late father-in-law. He also loved rivers. His Indian Village rests beside a stream of circling canoes. Frank Moshinskie’s innovation centers on his artful use of recycled, repurposed. and salvaged materials. “He was green before recycling was popular,” Barbara says, noting materials that compose the animated illusion: bottle caps, typewriter keys, thread spools, and tin can lids. Sweet gum balls were painted green for bushes, and jointed figures were carved from apple crates and wood scraps; nothing is wasted.” During the tour, guests are allowed a glimpse of the workings that power the exhibit. Everything from old washing machine pumps to bicycle wheels are connected underneath like something out of Willy Wonka’s workshop. When Mr. Mo flips a switch, twilight descends over Tiny Town’s landmarks from Mount Rushmore to Christ of the Ozarks. Lights flicker in countless windows as darkness falls on the amusement park and surrounding neighborhoods, streets, and shops. Mr. Mo points out that there is no school building because “It’s always summer vacation in Tiny Town.” Our return to Tiny Town yielded happy news. The Moshinskies’ nephew, Paul Burmaster, is now on hand learning the intricacies of the exhibit’s engineering. His help ensures the continuation of a place that sees visitors come back year after year to bring their children and grandchildren. Before Frank Moshinskie passed away, he asked a favor. “He asked us to promise never to put a Walmar t in Tiny Town,” Barbara explains. “He said that if we did, all of the little stores would have to close.” As the cur tains are pulled back and we say good-bye to a miniature hand-carved Elvis eternally serenading Miss Kitty, it is a comfor t to know Tiny Town exists on Whittington Avenue in Hot Springs, Arkansas, the United States of America, the Ear th, the Solar System, the Universe, the mind of God. #hshotspots
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FROM CANADA, WITH LOVE
IMPACT
Geese Poop Spoils Local Lake Areas
Story by Jim G. Miller
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It’s Fourth of July, and fireworks are exploding overhead, families are grilling out on the lake enjoying the beautiful outdoors, and it’s a perfect day to go swimming. Right? At least you think it is, until you see a closed notice at your favorite swimming area because of the dreaded E. Coli. This was the reality for those who attempted to go swimming at Brady Mountain Resort, and the swimming area out at Lake Catherine this last June. Normally people hear of individuals getting E.Coli from eating raw chicken or bad spinach. However, that was not the case for a dozen or more lakes throughout eleven counties in Arkansas. Two of those lakes were right here in the Garland County area. Corps of Engineers had closed the swimming areas at Brady Mountain Resort on Lake Ouachita due to the E.Coli outbreak, but luckily after retesting the water late last month they were cleared to reopen them in time for the Fourth of July festivities and the busy summer tourist
season. A swimming area out at Lake DeGray had also been closed recently due to E. Coli. According to the Mayo Clinic, Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a bacteria that normally lives in the intestines of healthy people and animals. Most varieties of E. coli are harmless or cause brief diarrhea, but some strains can be exceptionally severe leading to abdominal cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. Aside from contaminated food, it can also be found in drinking water and lakes. Healthy adults may recover from an E. coli infection within a week; however, young children and older adults may develop a life-threatening form of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which is why everyone should be cautious while visiting the swimming areas found on our list of affected lakes. What caused the E. Coli to find its way into areas like our nearby lakes? For that, we consulted with a representative from the Corps of Engineers Field Office and were surprised
to discover they believe it is being caused by migratory geese from Canada. “They’re a little out of control right now, and it’s the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s job to regulate the hunting seasons so that they don’t become overpopulated. We can’t kill them because they’re protected, but they can be hunted whenever the specific season is open, according to the Lake Ouachita Corps of Engineers field office. The Corps of Engineers did state that some other form of contamination could cause the E. Coli, but due to the fact that it’s so widespread in Arkansas, the obvious conclusion only leads to the geese. The proposed dates set forth by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission for hunting migratory Canadian Geese is September 1st15th and September 20-29th, but these are only proposed dates and have not been officially set. For updates on hunting seasons and information about permits visit the Arkansas Game and Fish website at www.agafc.com.
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Glory Hole Falls
WORTH THE DRIVE
One of the Most Unique and Glorious Waterfalls
Photography by Jeremy Rodgers
It is strongly recommended that visitors check out Glory Hole Falls during rainy seasons or the day after a big downpour. This provides the best water flow, since the creek does not constantly flow. The creek is quite far from the main trail, but there is a place where you can venture down and follow along the main creek to the Glory Hole itself.
Story by Samuel Binns
You can get really close to the hole, but the rocks around the hole are quite slick because of the stream, so be cautious. Also be careful as you venture down to the cave below the
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It is very unlikely that you have ever seen a creek, or anything for that matter, cut a clean hole directly through the ceiling of a cave. A long time ago, the creek continued to flow over the rocky overhang. Eventually, the water eroded the rock, creating a perfectly round, smooth hole. That is one of many reasons to visit Glory Hole Falls, located less than 40 miles north of Clarksville.
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Glory Hole because the water and rocks in the cave make the perfect home snakes. Although the main attraction is the Glory Hole, there are many other allures throughout the surrounding environment. Explore the area around the cave area of Glory Hole Falls, and you will find another stream nearby that creates small cascades. If you visit during autumn, you will be able to see the nearby stream become orange, covered with fall foliage. There are also giant boulders near the cave, which are fun and easy to climb. The hike down to the falls is not difficult, but the hike back to your vehicle is a lot tougher, since the trail is quite elevated and fairly steep. Although the hike is short and simple, visitors should plan to spend a little time in the area. Pack a picnic lunch and hang out in the area. Enjoy the beautiful atmosphere and scenery of Northwest Arkansas. Glory Hole Falls is one of the most unique waterfalls in
Arkansas. It is certainly worth the drive to see this unique waterfall area nestled in the stunning Ozark National Forest. If you would like to embark on the journey to Glory Hole Falls, take Highway 16/21 and travel 5.7 miles east of Fallsville. Eventually you will pass a red barn marked with an â&#x20AC;&#x153;Eâ&#x20AC;? on the side of it, which is your hint to slow down and look to the right for a jeep trail. There is a paved entrance off the highway and an open gravel area for visitors to park their cars. The trail to Glory Hole eventually forks, so stay to the right. As the trail begins to go downhill, the trail will abruptly end. From this point, head downhill to the left, through a small bluff area, and you will enter a wet glade area. The Glory Hole will be to the left, but make your way to the right until you see a place near large rocks. Walk through the boulders and down the slope to reach the area below the Glory Hole.
hot springs
JULY
EVENT CALENDAR
2-5 stars & stripes festival 3 OAKLAWN’s SPA BLAST 4 MAGIC SPRINGS CONCERT
12 Summerfest 25 4th friday arkansas
on park avenue, Featuring j RYan in concert
at Various Locations in Hot Springs Village
at Oaklawn Infield
“TESLA” at Magic Springs
5 MAGIC SPRINGS CONCERT “CHRIS YOUNG”
at Magic Springs
6-8 BLEND (a cappella 50’s at its best)
at Five Star Theatre, 701 Central
7 hot springs concert band
free summer concert series at Whittington Park
8 Fairy tea for children 11 MAGIC SPRINGS CONCERT at Garvan Woodland Gardens
at 100-700 Blocks of Park Avenue
MAGIC SPRINGS CONCERT SERIES “steven chapman & Tim Timmons” at Magic Springs
15 culinary series:
Sunny flavors of sicily at Garvan Woodland Gardens
19 MAGIC SPRINGS CONCERT
SERIES “bridgit mendler” at Magic Springs
at Quapaw Bathhouse, 314 Central
26 28th season hickory hill park gospel music concerts
at Hickory Hill Park, 216 Bryant Rd.
26-27 south hot springs lions gun & knife show
at Hot Springs Convention Center
AUG 1-3
25th anniversary of the hot springs gallery walk at Historic Downtown Hot Springs
21 hot springs concert band AUG 2 ROCK PORCH SESsion free summer concert series
at Grove Park in Hot Springs Village
at Whittington Park
23 children’s summer
SATURDAYS historic downtown
at Garvan Woodland Gardens
at Transportation Depot, 121 Orange
“matthew West & rhett walker band” classes: handmade papers
at Magic Springs
jazz experience
Farmers’ Market
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RIX REALTY ADVA N TA GE T E A M
REA L T OR S
( 501 ) 205-1900 www . RIXR EAL TY .cO M
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