Travel Blog
Kids Can Learn the Basics of Fishing
May 16, 2012 10:00 AM
Do you have a child who has always wanted to learn how to fish? It’s a great way for kids to have fun outdoors but they may not have a clue as to where to begin. The John Gould Fletcher Library has just what that child needs. Together with the
Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, the library is hosting a two-part
Beginner’s Fishing Clinic this Thursday and Saturday (
May 17 and
19). Thursday’s class begins at 6 p.m. at the library, with the 9 a.m. Saturday event taking place at the MacArthur Park pond. It is for ages 15 and younger.
The first gathering features an AG&FC biologist who will teach participants about gear, bait, rigging, fish handling, and commission-owned pond locations. The first 40 children who attend the clinic's initial session receive a coupon good for a free fishing rod and reel, which is redeemable on May 19. At the clinic's second session, participants will be able to fish in the MacArthur Park pond while receiving advice from an AG&FC biologist on fish handling.
Participants much attend both the Thursday and Saturday workshops to receive the rod and reel. The Fletcher Library is located at 823 North Buchanan Street. The MacArthur Park Pond is located behind the
MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History at 503 East 9th in downtown
Little Rock.
For more information on the fishing event, call Fletcher Library at 663-5457 or visit
www.cals.org.
One Tank Travels: Heber Springs
May 16, 2012 12:00 AM
We invite you to have "More Fun Per Gallon" in Arkansas this year. Each day we will be blogging on different Arkansas destinations which can be reached on one tank of gas or less. This is basically every corner of The Natural State. We hope these suggestions help you in planning a trip to remember. Today's Trip: Heber Springs
I’m a keeper. Not a hoarder - a keeper. I do purge stuff – albeit some stuff easier than other stuff. Old notebooks, full of old notes, seem to be something I have a hard time parting with. If I’ve already written the article, I no longer need the notes, so I don’t know why I don’t just toss them. Sometimes I find papers stuck in the notebooks, like recently when I found an agenda from a writer’s workshop I attended in December of 2006 (yes, 2006).
Scratched on a side border was a quote from freelance writer Georgie McIrvin of Heber Springs. It read, “Everybody ought to have to go to Heber Springs before they go to Heaven so it won’t be such a shock.”
Well, if that doesn’t make
Heber Springs worth at least one tank of gas, I don’t know what does.
Heber Springs was founded as a health resort in the mid-19th century. Today it serves as a gateway to
Greers Ferry Lake and the
Little Red River. I have to agree with Georgie that the scenery in this area is pretty heavenly. Greers Ferry is among the state's five largest lakes and is tops in providing great fishing, water sports, boating and camping. Corps of Engineers campgrounds and commercial parks are available. You can also try your hand fishing for trout on the Little Red River below the Corp of Engineers Dam. It’s internationally known for producing world-record trout. Resorts and outfitters are abundant. The lake and river have served as national models for environmental cleanliness.
In addition to the great outdoors, Heber Springs’
historic downtown district has an Americana square with a stately county courthouse, museum, antique shops, art galleries, and gift shops. Spring Park, which attracted settlers to Heber Springs in the 1830s, is located in the heart of town along east Main Street. The park has picnic tables, shade trees, a basketball court, skateboard ramp, playgrounds, two outdoor amphitheaters, public restrooms and is wheelchair accessible. It’s also the backdrop for many festivals throughout the year including Spring Fest and Old Settler’s Days.
So fill up your gas tank and make plans to see Heber Springs’ little slice of heaven. I’m going to go throw out a notebook from 2006. I suddenly don’t feel like I need it anymore.
Jill M. Rohrbach
This Weekend in the Arkansas Delta
May 15, 2012 8:00 AM
Kimberly J. Williams
Some of the Arkansas Delta’s favorite festivals and events are taking place this weekend.
Downtown
Paragould is the setting for the
23rd annual Loose Caboose Festival on May 17-19. Live music, carnival rides, a bike ride, vendors, a fish fry, a large children’s area and stage, an expanded arts and crafts area, a karaoke contest, and petting zoos are all scheduled. To learn more, log on to
www.LooseCaboose.net or phone 870-240-0544.
If you’re a fan of crawfish,
Dermott is the place to be as the town hosts the
29th annual Crawfish Festival on May 18-19. The two-da
y festival also features live music, the Arkansas Game and Fish aquarium, a dog show, children’s rides, vendors, arts and crafts…. and crawfish! To find out more visit
www.DermottCrawfishFestival.com or phone 870-538-5656.
Downtown
Tyronza serves as the backdrop for the
10th annual Stars and Stripes Festival on May 18-19. The festival features live music and a pageant on Friday evening. Saturday’s events include a parade, live music, games, and vendors and concludes with an evening street dance. For more information, phone 870-487-2168.
The
14th annual Piggott Heritage Park Car Show, one of Arkansas’s largest, takes place May 18-20 in
Piggott. Check out hundreds o
f classic cars restored to their glory. Other festivities include live entertainment, classic car parade, games, and lots of food. Saturday night’s events include a 50s dance contest for kids and live music. For more information, contact 870-598-3167.
The 2012 Tour de Hoot Bicycle Tour is slated for May 19 in
McGehee. The bicycle tour, which benefits the McGehee Boys and Girls Club, offers routes ranging from 25 to 100 miles throughout southeast Arkansas. The event is known for great rest stops and delicious food. A pasta dinner is held the night before the race at the Boys and Girls Club. Registration is $35. Log on to
www.TourdeHoot.com or phone 870-222-8410 for all the details.
Come visit the Arkansas Delta! You won’t be disappointed!
One Tank Travels: Little Rock’s River Market
May 15, 2012 8:00 AM
If you’re looking for a vacation that doesn’t call for a lot of driving that also offers a wide array of activities, then look no farther than downtown
Little Rock. And if you find you don’t want to walk the whole area, you can always hop a ride on the
River Rail Trolley.
Head to the
River Market District located along the Arkansas River. What was once a pretty-much abandoned strip of warehouses is now a thriving entertainment district. Within a few short blocks, you’ll find restaurants, shops, museums, the
Clinton Presidential Library, the Central Arkansas Nature Center, and Heifer Village.
First, check in to the River Market District, literally. There are five lodging properties in the area, ranging from the
Doubletree at the western end to the
Courtyard by Marriott Downtown on the eastern edge. In between, you’ll find
The Peabody Hotel Little Rock, the historic
Capital Hotel, and the
Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown.
You can start your adventure at any number of places in the River Market. The
Clinton Presidential Library is located at the
eastern end of President Clinton Avenue. You’ll get a feel for the White House when visiting the museum due in part to the authentic replicas of the Oval Office and the Cabinet Room. The informative but not boring displays are a fun way to learn about American history. There is a variety of acclaimed visiting exhibits, such as original Dr. Seuss art, a rare collection of Elvis photos, Peter Max Paints America, and Play Ball! The St. Louis Cardinals. A monthly schedule of nationally known speakers adds to the allure.
You’ll notice the
Presidential Park Wetlands on the banks of the river. The 13-acres provide unprecedented public access via an elevated boardwalk and two bridges to conservation, environmental and wildlife watching opportunities. Also located there is the
Clinton Presidential Park Bridge, an old Rock Island bridge converted into a pedestrian and cycling walkway, which connects Little Rock and North Little Rock.
Next door to the Clinton Center is headquarters of
Heifer International, a Leed-Certified building. In Heifer Village, learn about how Heifer’s sustainability efforts to protect Little Rock’s environment and how the organization is working to end world hunger and poverty.
From there, head west back toward the district, stopping to admire
Art Along the River, a series of outdoor sculpture decorating the area. Drop-in at the
Central Arkansas Nature Center to explore wildlife and nature available within an urban area. Portions of the Arkansas River Trail cross the grounds. Right next door is the reinvented
Museum of Discovery. It’s not just for kids any more as new interactive exhibits make it fun for all ages. See if you can lift your weight, lay on a bed of nails, send smoke signals, or get-up-close-and-personal with a tornado.
La Petite Roche Plaza is next along the Arkansas River. This beautifully landscaped park highlights the capital city’s namesake – the little rock. Interpretive signs explain the significance of the area, located at the foot of the Junction Bridge Pedestrian Walkway. Another old railroad bridge, the structure spans the Arkansas River affording gorgeous views of the surrounding terrain and is popular with bicyclists as well.
Don't forget to bring your swimsuit so you can cool off in
Peabody Park, located behind The Peabody Little Rock. The watery playground was designed from suggestions made by area children.
The majestic
Old State House will definitely catch your eye as you’re strolling through the River Market. The stunning Greek Revival structure served as Arkansas’s first capitol building and it now a museum of Arkansas history.
Don’t miss the shopping opportunities here. At the
Clinton Museum Store and the
Shop at Heifer, you can find gifts from all over the world, along with Clinton memorabilia. Handmade jewelry, books, collectibles, shirts, hats, artworks, plus items just for kids are
great take-homes. The Museum of Discovery offers the Explore Store while the Butler Center at
Arkansas Studies Institute Galleries showcases some of the finest examples of local art. Other souvenirs can be picked up at 4 Square Café & Gifts, the Central Arkansas Nature Center, and Shop the Rock.
When you get hungry, there are numerous options in the area. You’ll find fresh fruit and homemade items for nibbling at the
Farmer’s Market if you happen to be there on
Tuesday or Saturday mornings during the season. Ethnic eateries featuring Mexican, Japanese, Thai, Middle Eastern, International and Italian are all available. You’ll find some local favorites here such as
Boulevard Bread, the
Copper Grill,
Iriana’s and
Dizzy’s Gypsy Bristro. If you like pizza loaded with ingredients, try Iriana’s Sweep the Floor Special. Check out the winner of the professional category in the
2010 World Cheese Dip Championship at Dizzy’s. You absolutely have to try an
Arkansas delicacy – fried black-eyed peas – served at the
Capital Bar & Grill inside the Capital Hotel. The homemade pimento cheeseburgers are awesome as well.
See how much fun you’ve had and you have not once moved your car. There's enough going on in the River Market District to keep you busy for days....and you won't have to get behind the wheel once you are there..unless you want to. Talk about a money-saving vacation.
Kerry Kraus
Greek and Other Ethic Foods Shine This Weekend
May 14, 2012 2:00 PM
You might want to watch your caloric intake this week because an abundance of food is going to be available at the
28th Annual International Greek Food Festival,
May 18-20 in
Little Rock. If you do, then you’ll have more room for all the tasty treats offered this weekend. Various culinary traditions include Greek, Armenian, Georgian, Romanian, Russian, Indian, Middle Eastern, English and a dash of American dishes. In addition, music, dance and other cultural traditions are explored as well. A special kid’s area features face painting, a candy walk, a climbing wall, rides and grilled hot dogs.
The indoor Old World Market has an ethnic grocery, frozen dinners to go, pastries, Stavriana jewelry, and other items. Guided tours of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church are also scheduled. Everything takes place at the church, located at 1100 Napa Valley Drive in Little Rock. The
event website has a complete schedule of activities or phone 501-221-5300.
Storytellers in the Park: Tales from the Buffalo
May 11, 2012 1:41 PM
The
40th anniversary celebration of the
Buffalo National River continues with another offering from the Buffalo National River Partners “Storytellers in the Park: Tales from the Buffalo” series at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, May 19 at Steel Creek.
Gary Weibye, a Newton County author, will tell tales of “Hubby” and “Wifey” and their many experiences in a new found environment. He’ll inspire you with stores of rural Newton county and its residents’ values and customs. He’ll even have a few tales of haunted places in those hills. Local musician Brent Crow will provide entertainment.
Gary Wiebye was born in Minnesota and made his way through Iowa and finally to the Gulf of Mexico. He was a high school English teacher in Houston for most of his career. But, upon retirement, he and his wife, Beverly, found the Ozarks and the two of them moved to the mountains south of Jasper. Since moving to the Ozarks, Gary has written several books about the culture and customs of residents of Newton County. Gary and Beverly now call the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Ozarks their home.
The series is dedicated to the memory of Harold and Margaret Hedges, who along with others, were instrumental in the designation of the Buffalo as America’s first national river. Steel Creek is located on Hwy. 74 between Ponca and Jasper. Once at Steel Creek follow the signs to the program location. Bring a lawn chair to the program.
Jill M. Rohrbach
This Weekend in the Arkansas Delta
May 10, 2012 6:18 PM
The weather forecasters are promising a beautiful weekend in the Arkansas Delta! Take a look at some of the great events going on throughout the region.
May 11 is the date for the
dedication of a replica of Fort Curtis in
Helena-West Helena. The reproduction of the Union Civil War fort is located at the corner of York and Columbia streets in historic downtown Helena. The May 11 dedication of the fort begins Helena’s Civil War Sesquicentennial commemoration of a multi-faceted heritage that includes Federal occupation, seven Confederate generals, and an encampment of thousands of freed slaves. The dedication begins at noon. Log on to
www.CivilWarHelena.com or phone 870-816-1152 for more information.
Marion hosts the annual
Esperanza Bonanza Festival through May 12. The festival features a barbecue cooking contest, carnival, rodeo, a golf tournament, live music and games for children and adults. For more information, phone 870-739-6041.
Pull out the lederhosen and head to
Stuttgart for the 5th annual German Heritage Festival on May 12! The event is held on the grounds o
f the Museum of the Arkansas Grand Prairie. German beer and wine, bratwurst, Germanic desserts and potato salad are on the menu, along with live polka music, grape stomping, log and stone throwing contests, a variety of children’s activities and a 5K run. Phone 870-672-1425 for more information or log on to
www.GrandPrairieMuseum.org.
Head to
Blytheville on May 12 as the community hosts
Mayfest. The historic downtown is the setting for the arts and crafts festival, featuring live music, a dog show, activities for kids and a variety of food vendors. Learn more by logging on to
www.MainStreetBlytheville.com or phoning 870-763-2525.
Celebrate The Natural State’s heritage as
Parkin Archeological State Park in
Parkin offers an
Arkansas History Fair on May 12. Demonstrations and programs are offered throughout the day, with topics including Dutch oven cooking, pottery making, archery and atlatl throwing. Contact the park at 870-755-2500 to learn more.
Native American legend says the sound of the drum reflects the heartbeat of Mother Earth. It is also a belief that when people sing along with the drum, nature joins in harmony and carries the spirit of the songs to the Creator. Explore these legends and create a drum to take home when
Hampson Archeological State Park in
Wilson offers
The Mother’s Heartbeat on May 12. The workshop is suitable for all ages. The $10 participant fee includes all materials. Contact the park at 870-655-8622 to learn more.
Cane Creek State Park in
Star City hosts the park’s first mountain bike race on May 12.
The Cane Creek Timberland Mountain Bike Race wends through the wooded, hilly trails of the park. Prizes awarded for race length and age divisions. Early registration fee is $25. Contact the park at 870-628-4714 for details or to register.
Get out and explore the Arkansas Delta this weekend!
Several Options for Celebrating Mom this Weekend
May 10, 2012 11:00 AM
Historic Arkansas Museum: Live music, dance, frontier demonstrations, pioneer games and more are on tap at the
39th Annual Territorial Fair, May 12 in downtown Little Rock.
Dutch oven cooking, quilting, blacksmithing and other 19th-century demonstrations all take place at the 1850s Log House Farmstead. Visitors can join the Arkansas Country Dance Society in traditional dances. Children will be able to enjoy stilts, hoop-rolling and pioneer table games.
Living History characters portraying residents from the 1800s greet visitors in the historic homes. Some will be doing chores, like laundry, while another packs his bags for the California Gold Rush. At 10 a.m. the museum’s Medicinal Herb Garden will be dedicated in honor of Mary Fletcher Worthen by the Herb Society of America, Arkansas Unit. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and admission is free.
Quapaw Quarter: One of the most beautiful areas of the Capital City is highlighted during the
48th Quapaw Quarter Association's Spring Tour of Historic Homes,
May 12-13. P. Allen Smith’s original Garden Home, the Charles Thompson-designed Croxson House and the recently rehabilitated Boyle House are some of the featured structures. Several other privately owned homes along Arch and Gaines Streets are also a part of the event. As is tradition, there is a candlelight tour followed by a dinner and gala at the Spanish Revival YMCA on Saturday. The Sunday afternoon tour is from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Event prices vary from $20 to $150 and can be found on
www.quapaw.com.
Arkansas Symphony Orchestra: “
Wicked Divas” will be on stage along with the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra
May 12-13 at Robinson Center Music Hall in downtown Little Rock. Eden Espinosa and Emily Rozek will be performing popular favorites from “Wicked,” “The Wizard of Oz,” “My Fair Lady,” and “Chicago.” Espinosa is an acclaimed vocalist best known for her portrayal of Elphaba in the Broadway production of “Wicked.” She has also performed the role of the green witch in both Los Angeles and San Francisco. Rozek appeared at Glinda in the Los Angeles performances of “Wicked.” The curtain rises at 8 p.m. on Saturday and 3 p.m. on Sunday. Ticket prices range from $20-$65; $10 for students. Tickets can be ordered online by visiting
www.arkansassymphony.org/.
Arkansas Queen: Treat Mom to a relaxing cruise on the
Arkansas Queen Riverboat,
May 13. Boarding begins at 12:30 p.m. with a departure time of 1 p.m. The trip ends at 3 p.m. The menu consists of salad, chicken, ham rice, green beans, fruit salad rolls and dessert. Admission including meal is $32.50 plus tax per adult and $22 plus tax for those ages 3-12; ages three and younger are free.
One Tank Travels: Texarkana
May 10, 2012 12:00 AM
We invite you to have "More Fun Per Gallon" in Arkansas this year. Each day we will be blogging on different
Arkansas destinations which can be reached on one tank of gas or less.
This is basically every corner of The Natural State. We hope these
suggestions help you in planning a trip to remember.
Today: I-30 from Hot Springs to
Texarkana
This weekend, Texarkana is
going to be in festival mode as the town is the starting line for the Bandit
Run, an annual re-enactment of the legendary drive featured in the 1977 Burt
Reynolds flick Smokey and the Bandit. More details can be found here. Bandit
Weekend kicks off this weekend and the start of the Bandit Run is on
Monday. For those who might want to make a venture to Texarkana sometime,
here are some quick pit stops to potentially check out.
Attractions: Check out the U.S.
Federal Building/Downtown Post Office – It’s the second more photographed
federal building in the U.S. (the first is the Supreme Court in D.C.). Stand in
two states at once and have your picture made.
Tour the Museum of Regional
History- This museum has a variety of historical collections covering the
history of the region from the time of the Caddo through the founding of
Texarkana and beyond. Located at 219 State Line Avenue.
Got kids? Stop by the
Discovery Place, a hands-on children’s museum. More details on both
museum times can be found here.
If you are still in museum
mode, you can head to the Four States Auto Museum at 217 Laurel Street. They
are open mainly on weekends but special tours can be arranged by calling 870-772-2886.
There is also a brand new
museum opening this Saturday ( May 12): the Lindsey Railroad Museum at
Broad and Wood Streets.
Look for: Scott Joplin mural:
this pays homage to master ragtime composer and Texarkana native Scott Joplin.
Joplin received a Pulitzer Prize (awarded after his death) for his work and is
probably best known for composing the popular Maple Leaf Rag.
Lunch options: Hopkins Ice
House on Third Street. They are celebrating their 3rd anniversary on Saturday
(May 12) and will have outdoor service and bands that day.
Or TLC Burgers, which has been
voted #1 burger in Texarkana for 6 years. Located on 201 E. Broad Street.
Or Twisted Vines Café (218
Broad St) French-inspired café inside Twisted Vines Floral Studio. Le
Cordon Bleu (Paris) trained chef. This café is open Tues-Friday 11-2 for now
but their times will be expanding in another month.
More lunch options can be found
here.
Attractions: Ace of Clubs House
on 420 Pine Street.
This Victorian style house was
built in 1885 and has some neat history. It’s probably best known because of
the local legend of being built with the money won with the draw of a lucky
poker hand. The building features a floor plan (the only place in the world
with this plan) that is said to have been inspired by the lucky card of
mention- the ace of club.
Visit the Perot
Theatre ( not open on weekends). Located at 3rd and Main Street
This theater, which first
opened in 1924, is a landmark in town. Classic stars such as Will Rogers and
Annie Oakley performed here as well as other popular acts due to the town’s
prime location as a bustling railroad town.
Got kids? Check out the outdoor
Kidtopia Playground at Broad and Spruce. They have equipment in shapes of
Texarkana's historic buildings including the Post Office, Ace of Clubs, and
Perot Theatre.
Get a feel of the neighborhood
by exploring Quality Hill Historic District or enjoy the outdoors at
either Spring Lake Park or Bobby Ferguson Park.
Dinner: Zapata’s at
217 Walnut Street. More options can be found here.
If you might want to stay in town, lodging includes the new Regency Inn &
Suites on State Line just off the interstate. More options can be found
here.
Enjoy!
Dinosaur Exhibit at Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources in Smackover
May 7, 2012 12:00 AM
The
Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources in Smackover has a new exhibit: “Dinosaur
Discoveries: Ancient Fossils, New Ideas.”
According
to a media release sent by Superintendent Pam Beasley, the exhibit, funded by
the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation and custom-built by New York’s American
Museum of Natural History, spans 1,500 square feet and includes seven
interactive stations. Dinosaur Discoveries focuses on how dinosaurs lived,
maneuvered, defended themselves, and how they eventually became extinct. The
exhibit also provides a journey into the world of modern paleontology.
This
exhibit is traveling nationally and has been exhibited in museums such as the
Field Museum in Chicago, the Museum of Science in Boston and the California
Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. The mobile
showcase was produced specifically for the Arkansas Discovery Network, a statewide museum collaborative of which
the Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources is member of.
The exhibit will be showcased until
July 23.
The Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources opened in 1986 and although the museum represents all of Arkansas's natural resources, it is dedicated to the pioneers of south Arkansas's oil and brine industries.
If you were intrigued by the movie
There will be Blood,
a stop in Smackover shouldn’t be missed. The
museum is the spot to learn about the drillers,
roughnecks, roustabouts, and teamsters that shaped the region’s oil and brine
industry. South Arkansas was transformed by oil and the discovery of it here in
1922 gave birth to one of the wildest oil booms in history.
The museum is situated in the
midst of the historic 60 square mile Smackover oil field. “If you set a toe in
the Smackover oil field you’d be covered with oil by the time your other toe
got it,” was a popular saying of the time. Located outside the museum is a 112-
foot replica of a wooden derrick, which eventually became a popular symbol of
the 1920’s oil boom. Inside, the second floor of the museum offers a view of a
re-created, boom-era street scene. The scene, which can also be explored on the
first floor, includes numerous storefronts, a jail, a newspaper office, and
vintage cars. Photographs and exhibits throughout the building explain the era
in detail.
Circuses, carnivals, and
chautauquas provided an entertainment outlet for oil producing communities like
Smackover. A popular
display at the museum is the Rhene Meyers circus wagon. Although trained at
Julliard School of Music, she chose the circus over the opera. After her circus
(Barnum & Bailey) closed, she and her husband drove this carriage into town
in 1929. She entertained folks from the balcony of the wagon as a one woman
band. Meyers died in 1988 and the tar colored wagon sat on the bank at
Smackover Creek for 10 years until her brother donated it to the museum. The museum is located at 3853 Smackover Highway and hours are: 8-5
Monday-Saturday and 1-5 on Sunday. For more details on the museum, call 870-725-2877 or visit www.amnr.org.
Mather Lodge Reopens May 8 Following Renovation
May 4, 2012 12:52 PM
The beauty of Petit Jean Mountain inspired the creation of Arkansas’s state parks system in the 1920s, and with it, Arkansas’s first state park. So the history of Petit Jean State Park, constructed in 1933, is as rich as its scenery and facilities, which include the legendary Mather Lodge. The lodge reopens at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, May 8 after having been closed since December 2010 for renovation.
The renovation work replaced the 1960s-era dining room with a more rustic-style design, expanded the kitchen, added a meeting room, relocated the guest registration desk, enhanced the guest rooms, and constructed a new swimming pool. The renovation did not affect any of Mather Lodge’s original Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), and later Works Progress Administration (WPA), work dating from the 1930s.
Overlooking Cedar Creek Canyon, Mather Lodge is the only CCC lodge constructed in an Arkansas state park. Following the lodge’s original construction in 1934 by the CCC, the Works Progress Administration constructed an architecturally compatible addition to the lodging wing in 1939. In the 1960s, a dining room and kitchen addition were added on to the lodge. The demolition and replacement of this addition was the major work done during the renovation.
I commend the Arkansas State Parks personnel for giving us an updated modern facility with minimal impact on the historic building. Now we have the best of both worlds. The renovated portion mirrors the Adirondack-style park architecture of the original 1930s portions of Mather Lodge. And anyone who has hiked the beautiful trails of the park will appreciate the addition of restrooms underneath the pool due to its proximity to one of the park’s most popular hiking trails.
The lobby and restaurant feature exposed log construction, use of natural materials, and extensive glass window walls that provide a full view of the natural beauty surrounding Mather Lodge. The new dining room seats 104 persons and the private dining room for small banquets and group retreats seats an additional 50 to 60 people.
Parking has been expanded from 44 spaces to 81 including four ADA accessible spaces. A new barrier-free walkway connects the parking area to the lodge’s new entrance.
Petit Jean lies in a unique area between the Ozark and Ouachita Mountain ranges in west central Arkansas. Situated on Petit Jean Mountain, the park encompasses 2,658 acres of rare natural beauty. Thick woods, ravines, streams, springs, spectacular views and interesting geological formations are preserved almost as French explorers found them 300 years ago.
The park trails system features 20 miles of interconnected trails and quintessential Arkansas scenery. Trails range in length from one-quarter mile to 12 miles.
These hikes are not simply walks in the woods. They illuminate history and nature. One can visit a cabin constructed in 1853 by slaves and tenant farmers, or walk on stone steps cut and laid in the 1930s by men using only hand tools and teams of mules. These hard working men of the CCC drew a wage of only a dollar a day.
The park’s unique “carpet rock” formed when crisscrossed fractures in sandstone were filled by quartz cement. Since quartz is very resistant to weather and erosion, the filled fracture lines now stand out in relief like a man-made pattern imprinted in each boulder’s surface. Equally intriguing are the huge “turtle rocks,” which appear to be just what their name implies.
Just as flowing water over countless centuries has carved the valleys, so have lichens, living on the surface of bare rocks and producing acidic secretions, dissolved rock and created fissures, eventually breaking larger stones into smaller ones.
Wildlife watchers can observe mink, kingfishers, herons and raccoons foraging the creeks for meals, which might include fish, frogs, crayfish and mussels.
Birding enthusiasts frequent the park to see the double-crested cormorant, great blue heron, ring-necked duck, bald eagle, wild turkey, spotted sandpiper, pileated woodpecker, Carolina chickadee or golden-crowned kinglet. Field checklists are provided by the park.
The park drew its name from the legend of a young French girl who disguised herself as a cabin boy so she could secretly accompany her fiancé to the “New World.” Petit Jean, or “Little John,” became fatally ill and requested to be buried on the mountain. Many believe she is in fact buried at a point overlooking the Arkansas River Valley. The “gravesite” is one of the most popular sites to visit at the park. The spirit of Petit Jean is said to hover over the mountain, giving it an air of strange enchantment.
As Petit Jean State Park reveals its history, legend and nature, it also provides peaceful and serene venues.
Lush tree canopies shelter plants such as wild hydrangeas, violets, mosses, ferns and liverworts. Running water along Cedar Creek Self-Guided Trail tempts passers-by to cool their feet in the summer. A 94-foot waterfall gives hikers of Cedar Falls Trail a refreshing spray, while Cedar Falls Overlook provides a magnificent view of the falls from above.
Other natural attractions at the park include Rock House Cave, Bear Cave, and a natural bridge along Seven Hollows Trail. The hollows inspired those who wanted to preserve the area as a state park. Sunsets over the river valley are spectacular from Palisades Overlook.
Mary Ann Richter Overlook provides a scenic view of the peaks of Mt. Nebo, Mt. Magazine and of Dardanelle Rock on the south bank of the Arkansas River. The flatlands visible in the distance include Carden Bottoms and Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge.
The CCC Overlook with a view of Petit Jean River to the west, gives visitors an opportunity to watch black and turkey vultures as they soar the windy bluffs and roost on the sheer canyon walls below.
In addition to the new lodge, the park offers cabins, individual campsites and pull-thru sites, all with water and electrical hookups. Modern bathhouses are also available. You can also Rent-A-Camp and Rent-A-Teepee.
Picnic and grocery supplies, firewood, horseback riding and arts and crafts shops are located near the park. Some facilities are open seasonally only. Petit Jean is Arkansas's only state park with its own airport, open for daytime use only.
also on the mountain, The Museum of Automobiles is a must for automobile lovers. Numerous antique and classic autos are displayed. The museum is open daily and a small admission fee is charged.
Directions
Take Hwy. 9 (Exit 109) off 1-40 at Morrilton south nine miles to Oppelo. Then head west 12 miles on Hwy. 154 to the park. Or, visitors approaching from the west can head south on Hwy. 7 at Russellville off I-40 to Centerville, then east 16 miles on Hwy. 154 to the park. Visitor’s approaching from the southwest can take Hwy. 7 off I-30 north through Hot Springs to Centerville, then east 16 miles on Hwy. 154 to the park. Or, from Hwy. 7 off 1-30 north through Hot Springs take Hwy. 10 east to Casa and Hwy. 155 north to the park.
Musical Connections at the Buffalo National River
May 4, 2012 9:08 AM
In the continuing, year-long celebration of the 40th anniversary of the
Buffalo National River, the country's first national river, the Buffalo National River Partners will present the program “Musical Connections from Scotland to the Ozarks” at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, May 5 at the Tyler Bend amphitheater.
The Crooked Creek Ceili Band will provide the program that builds a musical bridge from Scotland and Ireland to traditional Ozarks bluegrass. You’ll discover the roots of local cultural heritage through traditional instruments and arrangements of familiar and unfamiliar tunes.
This is the first in a series of programs called “Storytellers in the Park: Tales from the Buffalo.” The series will be presented throughout the summer in various locations of the national park, and is made possible by a donation from the Ozarks Wilderness Waterways Club in memory of Harold and Margaret Hedges. The Hedges worked tirelessly to conserve the Buffalo River and played a significant role in the designation of the Buffalo as a National River. It is to honor their memory that “Storytellers in the Park: Tales from the Buffalo” is dedicated.
In case of rain this program will be re-scheduled. For more information, contact Sybil Craig at 870-704-9114 or by email at
BNRPinc@gmail.com.
Mather Lodge reopens May 8
May 4, 2012 12:00 AM
At a press conference this week we got a preview of the $4.3
million renovation of Mather Lodge at Petit Jean State Park, located atop
Petit Jean Mountain near Morrilton. Petit Jean State Park became Arkansas’s first state
park in 1923.
The lodge, which has been closed since Dec. 2010 for the project, will
reopen Tuesday May 8. New additions include a new dining room, an expanded kitchen, a new
entryway, a swimming pool, and a meeting room. The lobby and dining area feature exposed log construction and glass window walls to provide a full
view of the
natural beauty surrounding the lodge. The renovation was designed to not affect or impact the lodges original Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and Works Progress Administration (WPA) work from the
1930s. This is important because Mather Lodge is the only CCC lodge which was either completed or still exists in the Arkansas State Parks system. In 1992, Mather Lodge was placed on the National Register of Historic
Places.
As to a bit of history, Petit Jean Mountain received its name from the legend of
Petit Jean, the story of a French girl who disguised herself as a boy and
secretly accompanied her sweetheart, a sailor, to America.The park, which lies in an area between the Ozark and Ouachita Mountain ranges, is well known for Cedar Falls. This 95-foot
waterfall spills into Cedar Creek and can be accessed via the Cedar Falls
Trail, which winds through Cedar Creek Canyon. For more details on the park and lodge
visit www.petitjeanstatepark.com.
Village Creek State Park's Pickin' in the Park Starts Today
May 3, 2012 3:46 PM
Music has always played an important part in the culture of the Arkansas Delta. Throughout Arkansas, if you get more than a few talented folks together, there’s always a chance that they’ll pull out their instruments and start playing. The perfect example of Arkansans’ love of music is Pickin’ in the Park.
You can wile away a few hours or a few days enjoying live bluegrass, gospel and country music during
Village Creek State Park’s annua
l Pickin’ in the Park in
Wynne. The event starts today and goes through Saturday. You’ll find musicians and vendors galore at this family-friendly event. This is a wonderful event for kids, especially if they enjoy music. Vendors offer a variety of food and drink, so grab the family and spend a few hours enjoying the music and being outside!
Bring your lawn chair and listen as professional and amateur musicians play their favorite tunes. If you play an instrument, make sure and bring it along! The event is held in Campground A. To learn more contact, Village Creek State Park at 870-238-9406.
And don’t forget your instrument if you play!
Art and Nature Celebrated With Artosphere Festival, New Crystal Bridges Exhibit
May 3, 2012 1:51 PM
You can’t look at “Arkansas, The Natural State” as just a slogan. It really is a way of life. Just look at what’s going on in northwest Arkansas this week and you’ll see how the beauty of the landscape influences and inspires a way of living.
In the days ahead, you’ll find an emphasis on the marriage of art and nature. Artosphere 2012 kicks off today (May 3) at 4 p.m. “The Hudson River School: Nature and the American Vision” opens to the public on Saturday, May 5 at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.
Artosphere is an arts and nature festival running for two months. It celebrates not only the arts in all forms, but also artists, influenced by nature, who inspire people to live more sustainable lives. Presented by the
Walton Arts Center in
Fayetteville, events and performances take place throughout northwest Arkansas at traditional locales as well as unusual settings. Music, theater, dance, visual arts, lectures and more can be found on stages and in auditoriums as well as on bike trails. This is the third year for the multi-week event, which has dozens of free and low cost programs.
Loosely structured around the theme "Sticks & Stones", this year’s festival will feature an installation piece by Stickwork Artist Patrick Dougherty, dance and theater pieces that explore buildings and structures, and a rich tapestry of classical music programming exploring man's connection to place and identity. Popular programs will return and expand, including the Artosphere Festival Orchestra performing in Siloam Springs and Fayetteville, the Trail Mix Concert Tour in Fayetteville and Bentonville, and the first year of the Artosphere Partner Grant program, which offered $4,000 to two artists/arts organizations to develop unique projects specifically for Artosphere.
The festival has two phases: May programming, which focuses on dance, children's theater and outdoor music, and June programming in classical and chamber music. It kicks off today at the Fayetteville square for First Thursday, an art event, then with a gallery opening and lecture with Michael Pollan, author of “In Defense of Food,” and “Food Rules” at the Walton Arts Center on Dickson Street. There will be a special Farmer’s Market on Tyson Plaza, and a beer garden by Hog Hause Brewery featuring local beers. The event, which includes live music, is free. Bring a jar of nuts or peanut butter and get free event parking (in the lot across from WAC only). We'll donate it all to local food shelters in an effort to stock the shelves with real food, inspired by Michael Pollan. Today from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. is also the opening reception for “Structuring Nature,” consisting of 27 carved and burned wood panels, in WAC’s Joy Pratt Markham Gallery.
This is a rare opportunity to view these works while the Society’s permanent gallery space in New York is under renovation. They will appear at only four museums around the country.
Murphy said Crystal Bridges does have a very nice collection of paintings of the artists in the Hudson River School exhibition but this collection “will give depth and fullness of the School as a whole. The scope of the collection is large compared to the single representative painting we have in our permanent collection.” In addition to well-known works by artists such as Albert Bierstadt, Frederic Church, Thomas Cole, Jasper Cropsey, Asher B. Durand, Martin Johnson Heade, and John Frederick Kensett, the exhibition includes all five paintings in Thomas Cole’s allegorical series, “The Course of Empire.”
The exhibition, which will be on view through Sept. 3, will require timed, reserved tickets for entry. Tickets are $5 for non-Members ages 18 and up, and free for guests ages 17 and younger. Museum members receive complimentary admission, but reserved tickets are still required for entry. Tickets may be reserved online at
www.crystalbridges.org/Exhibitions/Hudson-River-School.
Murphy said Crystal Bridges invites the public to view, absorb, and think of the history of collecting, then go out in the nature around the museum and take photographs to share and be displayed with Crystal Bridges. The museum sits on a 120-acre park with trails and gardens. The Artosphere festival encourages the public to participate in a photography element as well.
And so, with the knowledge of the kick off of Artosphere and the opening of the Hudson River School, I leave you with the words of Asher B. Durand (1855), “Go not abroad then in search of material for exercise of your pencil, while the virgin charms of your native land have claims on your deepest affection.” Or, in other (my) words, "Arkansas, The Natural State" take advantage of all it has to offer.
Celebrating African Culture in the Ozarks
May 2, 2012 4:53 PM
Feel the beat of the African drum calling you tomorrow when Kouakou Yao (“Angelo”) and his
Afrique Aya Dance Company put on a unique and unforgettable experience of the culture and art of West Africa during Africa in the Ozarks, held in
Eureka Springs May 3-6.
This is the fifth year for the event led by master-level African performers and teachers from around the country. It begins at 6 p.m. Thursday with an African feast at Caribe Restaurant, located at 309 W. Van Buren.
You can catch performances of world-class drummers and dancers at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday at The Auditorium on 32 S. Main. There will also be mask stilt walking.
The event is part of Eureka Spring’s May Festival of the Arts, so you can catch the Afrique Aya Dance Company at 2 p.m. Saturday during the Artrageous Parade with a free demonstration in Basin Springs Park at 3 p.m.
Take drum and dance classes at 10 a.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at The Auditorium. All adults and children 10 years old or older are welcome.
A closing ceremony, at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday is free and open to the public. An African-style bazaar will also be open all weekend in Basin Springs Park, featuring African clothing, jewelry, musical instruments, and art.
Head to Conway This Weekend for Toad Suck Daze
May 2, 2012 3:00 PM
When was the last time you had a “toadally fantastic weekend?” Get ready to have that experience
May 4-6 as
Conway’s 31st Annual Toad Suck Daze rolls around. All the festival favorites are back, such as Stuck on a Truck, arts and crafts, 5K and 10K races, the Toad Market, the Toadal Kids Zone, the Toadal Game Zone, and Mardi Daze parade. Also taking place are performances by the Faulkner
Academy of Arts members, Toad Suck car show, the Toad Daze pageant and the kid’s crawl, drag and squirt. New this year is a bicycle safety rodeo and tune-up shop.
Special guest entertainers this year are En Vogue on Friday evening, Indian Rodeo, Drake White, Randy Houser and Jamey Johnson on Saturday, and Jonny Diaz and Todd Agnew on Sunday. Highlight of the event is, as always, the World Famous Championship Toad Races.
All proceeds fund scholarships for Faulkner County students.
Downtown Conway is home base for the festival. Admission is free. Visit
www.ToadSuck.org for a full schedule or phone 501-327-7788 for more information.
Vote for Your Favorite Cheese Dip This Saturday at Fayetteville Sip & Dip
May 1, 2012 10:55 AM
I absolutely, positively love cheese dip. I could eat it every day, and come really close to doing so some weeks. I like all types – simple Rotel mixed with Velveeta to the real cheeses laden with spices, peppers and even meat – which is why you’ll find me this Saturday (May 5) at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Fayetteville for the
Northwest Arkansas Cheese Dip Classic.
The cheese dip competition takes place from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Local celebrities, food critics, and political dignitaries will join the public in voting to decide which cheese dip will best represent the northwest Arkansas region at the 3rd annual
World Cheese Dip Championship on Oct. 20 in Little Rock.
The cheese dip classic is divided into amateur and professional divisions. Winners receive cash prizes as well as trophies created by a local artist. The professional division winner also receives free entry into the 3rd annual World cheese Dip Championship and hotel accommodations for the championship weekend in Little Rock.
Some of the restaurants signed up for the professional division include: The Flying Burrito Company, Qdoba, Northwest Arkansas Chef’s Association, Farrell’s Lounge, Ella’s, and Legacy Blues Club. There will also be a University of Arkansas Greek cheese dip competition. Sororities and fraternities will partner and battle it out to be crowned campus champions.
And in case you didn’t realize it, this Saturday is Cinco de Mayo, and what better way to celebrate than by eating and voting on your favorite cheese dip.
The Northwest Arkansas Cheese Dip Classic is also partnering with
Fayetteville Foam Fest to create a new and unique for the area. Fayetteville Foam Fest takes place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Washington County Fairgrounds. It is a craft beer appreciation festival, and a non-profit festival dedicated to raising money for FEED FAYETTEVILLE.
In addition to create beer and cheese dip, there will be live music from local and regional artists and other food and beverages for sale. Three of the food vendors for the event are Hammontrees, Mellow Mushroom and Hog Haus Brewing Company.
Proceeds from the Northwest Arkansas Cheese Dip Classic will benefit the Single Parent Scholarship Fund of Northwest Arkansas, whose mission is to create brighter futures for single-parent families by offering encouragement and access to higher education through community supported efforts.
Admission to the Northwest Arkansas Cheese Dip Classic is $10 for adults, $5 for students with a valid school ID and FREE for children 10 and younger. Advance tickets can be purchased at some Arvest Bank locations, including the main bank and branches on Crossover, Green Acres, Joyce, University, Wedington, West Sixth, and the Walmart Supercenters on Mall Avenue and Martin Luther King Boulevard.
Tickets for the Fayetteville Foam Fest are $30. Entrance tickets for both events can be purchased together for $35. Registration to compete in the Northwest Arkansas Cheese Dip Classic is now open to the public. For more information, visit
www.CheeseDip.net..
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Gumbo and Catfish...Oh, My!
April 27, 2012 11:38 AM
Looking for something to do tomorrow that’s fun and tasty?
Saracen Landing in
Pine Bluff hosts the
5th annual Harbor City Festival & Cook-Off tomorrow, April 28.
Gates open at 10 a.m. The event features teams competing in the gumbo and catfish cooking divisions, as well as arts and crafts, food vendors, and a “Kidz Zone” with activities for the youngsters.
Beginning at 2 p.m., there is live music from Saints of Yesterday, Legoria Payton and Friends, the Joe Pitts Band, Liquid Groove Mojo,
Blue Thirds, and Maya Ellington with Ear Candy. Also that afternoon, attendees can sample the gumbo and catfish creations of those competing.
Admission is $3 for adults and kids under 12 are admitted free. After 2 p.m., admission is $10 per person and includes the live entertainment.
For more information, phone 870-536-0920.
Cabot’s Strawberry Festival is this Weekend
April 27, 2012 11:00 AM
With apologies to The Beatles, strawberry fields are not forever so you need to make sure you don’t miss
Cabot’s 10th Annual Strawberry Festival,
April 27 and 28. Strawberries, especially Arkansas-grown, are my all-time favorite fruit. They are a pure taste delight. Here’s your chance to stock up your freezer so you can have them year-round.
The Cabot Community Center is where
local strawberry growers show off the best of their crop for all to taste and purchase. A carnival is open Thursday and Friday, 6 pm.-9 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Vendor booths are open 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. The festival pageant is 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
There will be games and entertainment for the whole family. The center is located at 508 North Lincoln in Cabot. Admission is free. Festival proceeds benefit children in the community. Visit
juniorauxiliaryofcabot.com/strawberryfest.html or call 501-628-4044 for more information.
Mayhaws in El Dorado
April 26, 2012 12:00 AM
Mayhaws have a reputation as a celebrated delicacy of
Southern U.S. cuisine.
“From the time I was a little girl we grew up eating mayhaw jelly,” said
Elizabeth Eggleston, executive director of the El Dorado Historic District
Commission. “It’s a very unique taste, very sweet. They don’t mass produce it
like strawberry or grape or some of those, so it’s more of a local and regional
jelly.”
“A lot of people in town go to the Mayhaw Festival (May 5) and buy mayhaw jelly
by the case,” continued Eggleston, who is from El Dorado. “And that lasts for
the year. Some people still do the canning jars too.”
For people who want berries to make their own jelly, an option is Paul’s Mayhaw
Orchard, a local business.
“Many people still have native trees around here,” said Paul McLaughlin,
president of the Louisiana Mayhaw Association and owner of Paul’s in El Dorado.
“They’ll go out to the river bottoms, they’ll get a tree, bring it back home
and plant it. And they are a really a hearty tree, real tough. They’ll grow
just about anywhere.”
Historically, wild mayhaws, which are indigenous to the Southern U.S., have
been harvested in places like river bottoms and backwoods sloughs. Boats were
often in the process. To get the berries, the limbs of the mayhaw bushes were
shaken over the boat and nets or sheets were used to scoop them out of the
water.
Commercial and home orchards are now being created with grafted mayhaws.
McLaughlin’s orchard is an example of this.
Established in 2003, the orchard is located directly behind his welding shop on
Nick Springs Road. He has 100 trees and the varieties include New Majesty,
Spectacular, Royal Star, Cajun, Maxine, Royalty, Texas Star and Native. “The bottom
part of the tree is a native hawthorn tree,” he said. “You get a different
variety on top of it. That’s for an orchard setting.”
He noted the varieties taste different too. “The Spectacular are dark deep red
and are the sweetest berries with the highest sugar content,” he said. “The
Royal Star are tart. And the Maxine are the middle of the road between sweet
and tart.”
McLaughlin said he usually harvests in May hence where mayhaws get their name.
“After harvesting we freeze the berries to have them for sale year-round
because people like to make jelly to give as gifts,” he said. “We also keep
mayhaw jelly for purchase along with pepper jelly made with mayhaw juice that
is a big hit around Christmas.” The versatile fruit can be used for everything from
jam to wine.
McLaughlin has had to be resilient in his efforts with the orchard. He planted
200 trees the first time. “I grafted them in the field, all kinds of mayhaw
trees,” he said. “And the deer came and wiped them out in two nights. It threw
me off a couple of years.”
After this initial try, he came back and grafted trees in a nursery situation
where they could get the height on them until the bark toughened up so the deer
wouldn’t bother them. “Then I planted them,” he said. “It’s still a young
orchard. It will produce a lot of mayhaws when we finally get it going.”
“It’s hard to grow mayhaw trees further north than out here,” he continued. “In
Camden they have them in river bottoms but now with this new variety (Maxine)
doesn’t bear until June. And mayhaws usually bear in May. The Maxine are
disease resistant to fire blight and are a really good berry that’s the coming
thing right now.”
Witnessing a friend’s success with pecan orchards initially sparked the idea to
start an orchard of his own. He began researching the possibility and one day,
while working at the home of Charlie Murphy, (of Murphy Oil) McLaughlin shared
his idea of a mayhaw orchard. When he finished, Murphy asked him if he had
started the orchard yet.
“And I thought, “Well I guess I better do it,” he said. “This man is pretty
sharp!”
McLaughlin then got involved with the Louisiana Mayhaw Association. He’s been
involved for 12 years and has served as president the last two. “I’ve learned a
lot about the business,” he said. “I would like to start an Arkansas Mayhaw
Association. The jelly itself promotes the fruit. Once you taste it you will
want some more.”
Many festivals in the South highlight the berry including the South Arkansas
Mayhaw Festival in El Dorado. The event is headquartered at the Newtown House
Museum and is scheduled for May 5 this year.
“We have the house open so you get some history, and bluegrass music, which is
a part of Southern culture. You get the cultural aspect and the arts plus some
Arkansas history,” said Patrick Hotard, executive director of the South
Arkansas Historical Foundation (SAHF), which produces the festival. “It’s also
a street fair so you can just have general fun. We sell our own mayhaw jelly
and we have museum tours.”
The Newton House Museum is a Greek- revival two-story home from the mid-1800s.
It is the only house open to the public in El Dorado that was built before the
Civil War.
The annual festival, now in its 20th year, serves as a fundraiser for SAHF and
is reminder of the pioneer history of the town. “The object was to have
something on the grounds,” said Hotard. “It’s a part of the community which
allows us to incorporate different things into a one day event.”
There are four mayhaw trees behind the museum and some of the berries are used
in the jelly sold at the festival. “It’s a local variety so its fruit is
something that has been picked and used, specifically for jelly, for a long
time,” said Hotard. “It’s a local favorite product.”
The recipe used for the festival’s jelly is from a recipe from Rachel McKinney,
who was from a prominent El Dorado family and helped start the festival in
town.
“I vividly remember Rachel McKinney as the organizer of the festival,” said
Eggleston, who served on the Mayhaw Festival Board. “Rachel always wore pink.
She loved pink. And she was instrumental in keeping the group together each
year to produce the Mayhaw Festival. She always wanted it to be centered around
the John Newton House to include the history of the Newton family and their
contribution to El Dorado and Union County.”
Eggleston said the tradition of making the jelly is indigenous to the area and
can be traced back to Native Americans. “It’s part of our culture,” she said.
“And I don’t want it to be a dying art. That’s why I want to stay involved. So
that the younger generation will know the importance of the mayhaw berries to
the region.”
The Newton House Museum is located at 510 N. Jackson. More about the South
Arkansas Historical Foundation and the South Arkansas Mayhaw Festival can be
found by visiting
www.soarkhistory.com and
www.mayhawfestival.com or by
phoning 870-862-9890.
Paul’s Mayhaw Orchard is located at 279 Nick Springs Road, 1/2 mile east of
town off of 82 East (Strong Hwy.) The orchard is located on the right behind
Paul's Welding Shop. Along with selling berries, tours of the orchard are also
available. More information can be obtained by calling 870-862-1931.
Delicious Looking Fresh Produce Now at Farmers Markets
April 25, 2012 11:00 AM
A sure sign of spring and summer is when farmers markets around the state begin selling their wares. There is something special about selecting from fruits and produce that are fresh off the farm – a little home-grown quality control, if you will. And what a wonderful opportunity to introduce your kids to vegetables; letting them choose what they want is a great way to get them to eat more foods that are good for them. Let’s face it…nothing tastes as good as something fresh. 
Nearly all feature fresh produce along with plants, flowers and some crafts. The Certified Arkansas Farmers Market in North Little Rock and the River Market Farmers Market in Little Rock have both recently opened.
The CAFM outdoor shopping venue awaits visitors from 7 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. Located across from the Argenta Market in North Little Rock’s historic district, it is also on the River Rail trolley route. An abundance of free parking is available. Check out the latest in locally grown produce and other items at the corner of Main and 6th Street. Visit http://certifiedarkansas.com/ or phone 501-379-9980 for details. 
The Little Rock farmers market is one of the state’s oldest, having been around since 1974. The two open-air pavilions in the River Market are full of vendors every Tuesday and Saturday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. in season. In addition to Arkansas crops, there’s also a wide variety of handmade arts and crafts.Visit http://www.rivermarket.info/learn-more/farmers-market.aspx for more information.
You can find more information on other Arkansas Farmers Markets on the Arkansas Agritourism website.
First Ever Thea Arts Festival Debuts in Argenta
April 24, 2012 12:00 AM
The first ever Thea Arts Festival is this
weekend ( April 28) from 10-6 on Main Street in the Argenta Arts District of
North Little Rock. The free festival celebrates the arts and money raised
through sponsorship of the festival helps support the arts in schools across
Arkansas.
Around 30 artists from Arkansas (including
Jane Hankins, V.L. Cox, Fletcher Larkin, and Jennifer Wilson) will be on hand
to display their work during the event. Dance performances from Ballet Arkansas, live painting
and sculpture demos, hands on arts activities, food, and live music ( including
performances by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra String Quartet, Michael
Eubanks, and more musicians
throughout the day) are also scheduled for the day.
If you are planning to go, a quick heads up that Main Street will be blocked to traffic from
Broadway to Sixth Street, but the trolley will still be running. Local
businesses will also be open.
The event is part of the THEA Foundation, a nonprofit, public
foundation founded in 2001 by the parents of Thea Kay Leopoulos, Linda and Paul
David Leopoulos. The goal of the foundation is to carry Thea’s legacy forward through advocating the importance of the arts
in the development of youth and to encourage individual participation in art. For more details
on the festival and the foundation, check out theafoundation.org/
2012 Earth Day Festival is Saturday at Heifer Village
April 20, 2012 12:00 PM
If you've never visited Heifer International's campus in downtown Little Rock, tomorrow will be a great day to go do so. It is a fascinating place. Experience
Earth Day as it comes to
Heifer International Village Saturday,
April 21 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Animals from
Heifer Ranch in
Perryville will be on hand and there will be earth friendly activities for visitors. This family fun day also includes exhibit hunts, crafts and other happenings which are positive learning experiences for all. There will be hands-on demonstrations demonstrating how to be earth-conscious by recycling and reusing whenever possible. The Elevate Stage, where visitors learn about all sorts of green topics, from yoga to raw food, returns
this year. Music, lectures on ways to green your life and samples of holistic health services will be part of the festivities. Food items will be available for purchase.
Events just for kids include a rock-climbing wall, tie-dyeing and crafts like making a recycled musical instrument. The Arkansas Sustainability Network will choose the winning entries from its Innovation Alley creative contest for children grades K-12.
At 11 a.m. the second annual Great Cloth Diaper Change takes place. Purpose of the event is to help spread the word on the many benefits to baby, budget and the earth when a family chooses cloth diapers. Arkansas parents join with others around the globe to try to break the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest simultaneous worldwide diaper change.
Learn more at
www.ArkansasEarthDay.org or
www.heifer.org/heifervillage or call 501-907-8800.
National Park Week!
April 20, 2012 12:00 AM
National
Park Week starts tomorrow (April 21) and lasts until the 29th. During this time entry to
all 397 national parks in the nation is free with special activities offered
in many.
National
Park Service sites in Arkansas include:
Arkansas
Post National Memorial
The first
semi-permanent European settlement in the lower Mississippi Valley region,
Arkansas Post became part of the United States during the Louisiana Purchase of
1803. By 1819, the post was a thriving river port and the largest city in the
region and selected the capital of the Arkansas Territory. The park contains
the January 11, 1863 Arkansas Post battlefield. The
battle, as well as the rest of Arkansas Post's rich history, is interpreted at
the park museum. The Arkansas Post National Memorial is located at 1741 Old Post Road in Gillett.
Buffalo
National River
In the
heart of the Ozarks, the Buffalo River was America's first national river in
1972. The 150-mile-long free flowing Buffalo offers both swift-running and
placid stretches, sand/gravel bars, towering limestone bluffs,
woodlands, protected wilderness areas and nature watching opportunities,
including deer and elk. Fishing is also available along the river. Over 100
miles of trails have been blazed for public use. Designated horseback riding
trails are located in each district of the river, under the auspices of the
National Park Service. Resorts and outfitters are located throughout the river
region. Camping is available at most access points and primitive camping is
allowed along the stream. The Tyler Bend Visitor Center, off U.S. 65 north of Marshall, provides
exhibits and materials to the public. Other centers/ranger stations are located
at Buffalo Point and Pruitt. The Ponca Elk Education Center is another
interesting stop located in the area.
Fort
Smith National Historic Site
Fort
Smith National Historic Site embraces the remains of two frontier forts, plus
the Federal courtroom of the Western District of Arkansas. Hanging Judge Isaac
C. Parker's court and jail have been restored as reminders of 80 turbulent
years in the history of the government's Indian policies (1817-1896). The
museum exhibits illustrate the court's impact on the Indian Territory
(Oklahoma), U.S. Marshals, outlaws and regional history. The park is located at Third and Garland Street in Fort Smith.
Hot
Springs National Park
The rare
natural features of Hot Springs National Park were first protected when
Congress declared the area a "reservation" in 1832, some 40 years
before Yellowstone became the world's first national park. While preserving an array of 47 hot springs and their watershed, the park provides hiking opportunities scenic drive, and camping. The park is located in and around downtown Hot Springs.
Little Rock Central High School National
Historic Site
The site
of a major test in 1957 of the Civil Rights act where nine (the Little Rock
Nine) African-American students integrated the all-white school. The museum
across the street depicts the struggle through exhibits and photos. This is
still a working high school, one of the top schools in the state. The school is located at 2120 Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive in Little Rock.
Pea Ridge National Military Park
Pea Ridge
National Military Park preserves the site of an 1862 Civil War battle that gave
the Union total control of Missouri and led directly to the federal occupation
of Arkansas. During the Battle of Pea Ridge, some 26,000 soldiers clashed
during the two-day battle, with Confederates under Gen. Benjamin McCulloch and
Union forces under Gen. Samuel R. Curtis. The Confederate army also included
about 800 Cherokees. Today, the Pea Ridge Military Park the park encompasses
4,300 acres and features a reconstructed Elkhorn Tavern, visitors center,
museum, self-guided tours and a 2.5-mile segment of the "Trail of
Tears."The park is located at U.S. 62 East in Pea Ridge.
President
William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace Home National Historic Site
The home
where the 42nd president spent the first four years of his life with his
widowed mother and grandparents. This historic site preserves President Clinton's home and tells the story of his early life in Hope. The home is located at 117 South Hervey Street in Hope.
Yarnell's Returns To Shelves in Arkansas
April 19, 2012 12:15 PM
This is a guest blog by Kat Robinson, Communications Manager for the Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism.
It’s been a saga that perhaps my friends in other states haven’t quite understood. How could one state get so worked up over one ice cream manufacturer?
When the Yarnell family announced suddenly on June 30th of last year that they were closing the doors to the 80 year old Searcy plant, there was much wringing of hands and breaking of hearts. Just days before the most ice cream-friendly holiday of the year, Yarnell’s ceased to exist. The doors were locked, the employees told to go home, and all that ice cream already produced was left in a freezer.
Someone distributed it -- while it disappeared from shelves in Little Rock within hours, I found cartons at CVs and Wal-Mart in Fort Smith through early September, and purchased my last carton of Ozark Black Walnut at a Mountain Home Wal-Mart in October. That carton has been carefully preserved and saved.
Thing is, Searcy and Arkansas both love Yarnell’s, and through the work of a whole lot of people, Yarnell’s has come back. The legendary Schulze & Burch Biscuit Company -- which already owns a snack manufacturing plant in town -- purchased the whole kit and kaboodle of the Yarnell’s empire: name, logo, plant, equipment, truck fleet and recipes.
Today I attended a press conference at the State Capitol where Schulze & Burch CEO Kevin Boyle, Searcy Mayor David Morris and Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe celebrated the return. Governor Beebe got the first bite of Homemade Vanilla from off the line -- presented to him by Scoop, the new ice cream dude that will represent the Yarnell’s brand.
So, best news? Yarnell's is back! The introductory flavors: Butter Pecan, Cookies and Cream, Death by Chocolate, Homemade Chocolate, Homemade Vanilla, Homemade Strawberry, Real Vanilla, Rocky Road and my favorite -- Ozark Black Walnut! Yarnell's will also offer frozen yogurt in five flavors -- Blueberries & Cream, Peaches & Cream, Strawberry, Chocolate and Vanilla -- and Guilt Free in Butter Pecan, Chocolate and Vanilla. Plus, the chocolate and vanilla Ice Cream Sandwiches are coming back, too!
The ice cream carton is different. Though the cartons retain that fabulous familiar deep red color, they’re now sqround -- both square and round, with a plastic top on them. The new cartons are bigger -- 56 ounces compared to 48 -- and they seal better, which is good news for you if you actually manage to keep ice cream in your freezer for more than a day or two. The new package also extends the shelf life... which, you know, I’m thinking might mean an eventual push outside the MidSouth for the ice cream. Can you imagine -- Yarnell’s in Chicago, San Francisco, China? Who knows?
It’s also more “scoopable,” I’m told. I’ll take their word on it.
So, after the announcement, folks lined up for cups of chocolate and vanilla. I tried both -- the vanilla first, which that very moment brought back so many memories. It is indeed the exact same homemade Vanilla I remember, though several people I saw there swore it was better. The chocolate? Yep, still the same. Same, though, is such a good thing. I am so glad they kept to the standard recipes.
And then... well, I was getting ready to leave and realized that while everyone was flocking to the ice cream cups being filled from giant tubs, that there were actual cartons of the other great flavors up on a table up front -- being ministered to by a crew of dignitaries who were sort of halfway making their way through samples while being interviewed by the press. I stood up there with my puppydog eyes looking longingly at the Ozark Black Walnut until one of the Yarnell’s employees noticed me and graciously doled up a scoop for me. Oh, sweet heaven, thy middle name is walnutty goodness.
They'll be available at Wal-Mart next week and within the next month at Kroger, Harp's and many independent Arkansas grocers. Keep your eyes open!
New Natural Area Protects Rare Species
April 19, 2012 12:00 AM
Natural areas can be found across Arkansas and they protect
the diverse ecosystems that are found in the state. The Longview Saline Natural
Area in Ashley County is a new addition to the lineup.
The area borders a stretch of the Saline River that harbors endangered mussels.
It also conserves plant communities, including pine flatwoods, that provide
habitat for an endangered bird species.
“This particular natural area has several natural communities that are rare in
the state,” said Chris Colclasure, Deputy Director of the Arkansas Natural
Heritage Commission (ANHC), which manages the System of Natural Areas in the
state. “And it supports three federally endangered species.”
These include the Red-cockaded Woodpecker, one of the few bird species endemic
to the U.S., and two aquatic mussels found within the stretch of the Saline
River that borders the natural area: the winged mapleleaf and pink mucket.
A tiny red line
can be found on either side of the head of male red-cockaded woodpeckers. A
cockade is a ribbon worn on a hat and this red stripe is the ‘cockade’ of the
bird. It may be hidden and is very difficult to see in the field.
“The area conserves a portion of the lower Saline River and
has countless other species and natural community types that are rare in the
state,” said Colclasure.
“This natural area also serves as a wonderful example of
public and private partners coming together and working for our state’s long
term ecological success,” added Karen Smith director of ANHC.
The Saline River flows southeast from Benton before joining the Ouachita River
at Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge near the Louisiana border. It is one of
the most biodiverse and species-rich river systems in the state. The river is
also known for its abundance and diversity of mussels, which have important
functions in aquatic environments. They are a link in the food chain and help
maintain water quality. Because they are long-lived and sensitive to changes in
water quality, they are important indicators of aquatic ecosystem health. The
disappearance of mussels from a river often signals that other aquatic species
are at risk.
“It’s a very unique area and because the area is rather large with several
miles of Saline River frontage it became a targeted area [for protection],”
said Joe Fox, a Forestry Director at the Arkansas Field Office of The Nature
Conservancy, which was a partner in the project.
As of now, 527 acres of the natural area are open to the public and work is in
progress to include an adjoining 1,696 acres to the area. Which equals a large
tract of land for the public to explore. It offers outdoor options like hiking
and birding. It also hosts access to the Saline River so fishing, kayaking and
canoeing are possible. Walk-in hunting will also be allowed. The goal is to
have the land transferred in time for an April 30 dedication of the natural
area.
Fox also noted a potential to expand the area in the future. “The possibility
exists that it could be a few thousand more acres in 2 or 3 more phases,” he
said. “If [certain] negotiations are successful the natural area could
grow.”
The project has been a cooperative effort between the
Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission (ANHC), the Arkansas Field Office of The
Nature Conservancy, Molpus Timberlands Management, LLC, and the Arkansas Game
and Fish Commission. For more information on The Longview Saline Natural Area
and other natural areas across Arkansas, visit
www.naturalheritage.com. For more
information on The Nature Conservancy, visit
www.nature.org. Photo of Red-cockaded Woodpecker taken by Ron Howard.
The Buffalo River Trail: How It Began and Where It's Going
April 17, 2012 9:54 AM
Another event associated with the year-long celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Buffalo National River is coming up on April 24 with a presentation by Ken Smith on “The Buffalo River Trail: How it Began and Progress on the Trail,” from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Boone County Library in Harrison.
Smith will discuss the origins of the trail, the work that has been completed, and the challenges that trail builders currently face. The event is sponsored by the Buffalo National River Partners.
Smith grew up in Hot Springs and, in 1952, enrolled at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville as a mechanical engineering major. During his freshman year he joined a university hiking group, through which he developed his great love for the Buffalo River country. After leaving the University, he accepted a position with the National Park Service and worked for 12 years as a civil engineer in western parks and as a park planner in Washington, D.C. In 1974, Smith left the National Park Service and returned to Fayetteville, where he became a freelance writer, photographer and researcher. Through the years, he has become instrumental in building the Buffalo River Trail.
The Buffalo National River flows for 135 uninterrupted miles through the Arkansas Ozarks. On March 1, 1972, Arkansas’s Buffalo River was named the first national river in the United States. In addition to the natural beauty, you can enjoy superb canoeing, fishing, hiking, backpacking, and wildlife watching. A huge herd of elk roam the area and are a popular draw. Cabins, camping, resorts, and lodging in small towns are available.
For more information on this and other programs or the BNR Partners, contact Sybil Craig at 870-704-9114, by email at BNRPinc@gmail.com, or by visiting
www.bnrpartners.org.
Find out more about the river by visiting the Buffalo River Chamber of Commerce comprehensive website,
www.buffaloriverchamber.com.
Or, check out the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism new interactive section dedicated to the river and its visitors at
www.arkansas.com/outdoors/buffalo40. The new section features an interactive map that shows the river and all of its landings, along with GPS coordinates and nearest towns. There are also lots of photos of the Buffalo, and a place to share your photos.
The website includes information on floating the river; where to rent a canoe, kayak or raft; a list of guides and outfitters and handy reference points on finding places to eat and stay.
Battle of Jenkins Ferry Day in Sheridan
April 17, 2012 12:00 AM
The Grant
County Museum in Sheridan will be the set for the Battle of Jenkins Ferry Day
on April 28 from 10-2. The battle was fought in 1864 in Grant County during the
American Civil War.
Museum director DJ Wallace
sent a news release outlining the day. Included is news that the Southern
Brigade of the Sons of Confederate Veterans, and other re-enactors, will be on
the Heritage Square to provide historical re-enactments from the battle. This
includes living history demonstrations of cannons, small arms, medical
treatment procedures, and battlefield encampments. Local experts on the history
of the battle will also be on hand. The Bottle Room and Blacksmith Shop will
also be open and the museum’s blacksmith will demonstrate the working of the
craft and his shop throughout the day. The day starts with the opening of the museum’s Postal
Display. The display, housed in the McDonald Law Office, features artifacts
from many of the early Grant County Post Offices. There is no admission charge to the
event but donations are appreciated.
I had the
chance to visit the museum, which preserves the history of the Timberlands, a
few years ago and I remember it being packed with information. For instance, on
my visit there I learned of Littleton Meek Veazey (who gave land for the city
of Sheridan in 1869), saw relics from the Battle of Jenkins’ Ferry (one of the
bloodiest battles of the Civil War), learned of the logging technique of river
rafting, saw the tools of the trade of local beloved veterinarian William
DeKalb Wylie, saw one of the nation’s largest displays of military vehicles at
the Richard G. Harrison Military Vehicle collection, took in a collection of
World War II artifacts, toured Heritage Square (a collection of original
buildings once found in town) and learned of local tales such as that of
Dr. Richard Rhodes, (the first Doc in the territory) who was murdered in town
(by being hanged twice!) by Jayhawkers in 1867 and the 1939 kidnapping of Witt
Stephens.
And
that’s only glossing the surface of what’s housed there.
For more details on the museum, visit www.grantcountymuseum.org or call 870-942-4496.
Top Authors Showcased This Weekend
April 13, 2012 9:00 AM
Over 90 authors are on the docket for
9th annual Arkansas Literary Festival, which began yesterday and runs through
April 15. Among those scheduled to appear are Hope Coulter, Jay Russell, Roy Blount Jr., Kevin Brockmeier, John T. Edge, and Gwyneth Bolton.
Photos: Hope Coulter (top right)
John T. Edge (left)
Gwyneth Boulton (bottom right)
This Weekend in the Arkansas Delta
April 12, 2012 4:37 PM
Happy Thursday, blog readers! The weather has been beautiful this week and we expect the same this weekend!
If you’re looking for something fun to do, check out these events going on in the Arkansas Delta!
Travel to a magical land with a blonde-haired girl, a family of bears and a young lady with a red cape as the Grand Prairie Center in
Stuttgartpresents the Arkansas Children’s Theatre’s
Goldilocks and Little Red Riding Hood on
April 14. The performance features the classic stories of the fairytale characters in a humorous, musical event. Tickets are $13 for adults and $9 for children. Log on to
www.pccua.edu or phone 870-673-4201 for performance information.
Learn to make beautiful works of art from gourds when the
Lower White River Museum State Park in
Des Arc offers a
Beginner Gourd Workshop on April 14. Participants learn to decorate and shape the versatile and unusual gourd. The $10 fee includes gourds, materials and instructions. Contact the park at 870-256-3711 for details.
Cooking an entire meal outdoors is a wonderful way to make memories with your family.
Crowley’s Ridge State Park in
Paragould hosts a
Dutch Oven Basics Workshop on April 14. Participants learn the history of the cookware, how to take care of the oven, and how to make
a variety of recipes in the cast iron crock. The $15 fee includes a meal and a Dutch oven booklet. Reservations are required and can be made by calling the park at 870-573-6751.
Dr. Dig-It returns to
Hampson Archeological Museum State Park in
Wilson for
Digging History on April 14. Participants learn how archeology helps recover the stories of the past, and join in a short “dig” to see methods used and how the story of the past is discovered. This workshop is suitable for all ages. To learn more, contact the park at 870-655-8622.
Kids of all ages are welcome at
Lake Poinsett State Park in
Harrisburg for
Kids and Horses on April 14. Spend the day horseback riding and munching on fresh-popped kettle corn. Park personnel will hand-lead rides for the youngsters in the park’s playground area. Helmets are required and provided by staff. The cost is $3. More information can be obtained by contacting the park at 870-578-2064.
Wherever you go and whatever you do...be safe! Have a great weekend!
Cinderella Presented by PCCUA and Helena Little Theatre April 12-14
April 10, 2012 4:06 PM
The magical fairy tale "
Cinderella" comes alive again as a lavish new production by Phillips Community College and
Helena Little Theatre takes the stage of the
Lily Peter Auditorium on the campus of PCCUA in
Helena-West Helena. Performances are scheduled for April 12-14, beginning at 7:30 p.m.
The beloved tale features the songs and music of Rodgers and Hammerstein originally
made famous by the legendary Julie Andrews in 1957. The adaptation features great warmth, a touch of hilarity and magic, and the “happily ever after” that audiences, young and old, adore.
Premium reserved seats are $12, and standard reserved seats are $8. Tickets may be purchased by calling 870-338-6474, ext. 1373, or visiting the box office located in the PCCUA Fine Arts Center.
Grab Your Kilt! Batesville Hosts 33rd Annual Arkansas Scottish Festival April 13-15
April 10, 2012 7:00 AM
The festival, honoring Scottish heritage and traditions, features a vast array of events
and exhibits, pipe bands competition, food vendors offering traditional Scottish dishes, Celtic music, sheepdog demonstrations, and, of course, bagpipes.
A traditional Feast and Ceilidh is celebrated on Saturday evening and an Iona Worship Service takes place on Sunday morning. For more information, visit
www.lyon.edu/scotfest or phone 870-307-7242.
Historic Helena Offers Live on the Levee Concert and Helena Second Saturday This Weekend
April 9, 2012 3:00 PM
This Saturday, April 14, marks the first
Live on the Levee concert series, a partnership between King Biscuit Blues Festival, Sonny Boy Blues Society and the Delta Bridge Project. The concert features music by 2 Mule Plow and Lisa Haley & the Zydekats.
The concert will be held at the Cherry Street Pavilion in historic downtown
Helena. Gates open at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased at
www.KingBiscuitFestival.com or at the gate. Food, beverages and merchandise will be available for purchase at the event. In honor of the Zydeco music, one vendor will be offering a Cajun crawfish boil dinners for purchase.
The group 2 Mule Ploy is considered one of the finest collection of Memphis’ bluegrass 
talent ever assembled. Their three-part harmonies and instrumentals are a highlight of every show. While the group’s shows consist of mostly traditional bluegrass music, they have “bluegrassed” songs by the Beatles, the Allman Brothers, Lynard Skynard, Elvis, Eric Clapton and Jerry Lee Lewis.
Lisa Haley is a Grammy-nominated fiddler, dancer, vocalist and songwriter known for her moving Louisiana bayou rhythms. Haley and her band, the Zydekats, have performed together for 15 years, including appearances at the Grammy Museum Concert Series and the Hollywood Bowl Summersounds Concert Series, as well as concerts in over 20 countries.
April 14 is also
Helena Second Saturday! The event brings local artisans, musicians, merchants, farmers and visitors together the second weekend of each month in downtown Helena. The event, held along historic Cherry Street, is a great opportunity for shopping, eating and exploring. Many of the businesses along historic Cherry Street participate and offer extended hours on Second Saturdays. You’ll find artists, musicians and craftspeople located along the street, playing live music or create a masterpiece in front of your eyes.
For more information, log on to
www.PhillipsCountyChamber.org or phone 870-338-8327.
Walmart Northwest Arkansas Championship Tickets On Sale Now
April 9, 2012 10:29 AM
I used to think golf was the most boring sport to watch on television. That was before I owned my own set of golf clubs and developed an appreciation for the sport. Now I happily spend days like yesterday watching The Masters and rooting for Bubba.
I’ve never been to a golf tournament and it always looks like such an interesting process when I watch it on TV. I mean, would I want to stay in one place? Follow a favorite from hole to hole? What is it like? Then this morning’s inbox came with information on a perfect way to find out – the
Walmart Northwest Arkansas Championship, the official LPGA Tour event, returns to
Pinnacle Country Club in
Rogers June 25-July 1 and brings the world’s best female golfers to the area.
Tickets are now on sale and as a first for the tournament, sponsored by P&G, anyone who purchases a ticket online over the next two weeks will be entered in a drawing to win four Malibu Party Deck VIP hospitality tickets to the final round on Sunday, July 1. The winners will be announced on the tournament website on Monday, April 23.
Tickets are on sale at
http://nwachampionship.com/, or by calling 479-715-6100. Daily tickets are $25, valid any one day, Friday, June 29 – Sunday, July 1. Weekly grounds passes, valid all week, can be purchased for $50. Admission is free to the public Monday, June 25 – Thursday, June 28. Children 17 years old and younger are admitted free with a ticketed adult.
Video Games Live in El Dorado
April 9, 2012 12:01 AM
Halo. Zelda. Mario. Final Fantasy. If these names mean
anything to you, then read on!
Video Games Live is heading to the El Dorado Municipal
Auditorium April 14 with backing by the South Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.
The event is a concert experience featuring music
from popular video games. During the show, orchestras ( in this case the South
Arkansas Symphony Orchestra)
perform along with video footage and music arrangements,
synchronized lighting, solo performers, electronic percussionists, and live
action for the show that highlights gaming.
“We are introducing a whole new generation to the music of a
symphony orchestra,” said veteran video game composer and Video Games Live CEO
Tommy Tallarico.
Here is how the event is described by the Video Games Live folks: “Picture the energy and excitement of a rock concert mixed with the power
and emotion of a symphony orchestra combined together by the technology,
interactivity, stunning visuals and fun that only video games can provide.”
The debut performance was launched on July 6th, 2005 at the
Hollywood Bowl in L.A. with the LA Philharmonic. Over 11,000 people
attended making it the biggest video game concert in the world.
For more details on the show, visit www.southarkansassymphony.orgor call 870-862-0521.
Upcoming Programs at Lake Ouachita State Park and Lake Catherine State Park
April 8, 2012 12:00 AM
Spring is the time for chirping birds and blooming flowers
and there are plenty popping up around Lake Catherine State Park in Hot
Springs. To celebrate, the
Outdoor Adventure Series-Birds and Bloom Weekend is
April 13-15 at the park. Guided wildflower and bird hikes and educational
nature programs that weekend explore the many birds and blooms in this Ouachita
Mountain landscape. Also on the agenda at the park is
a kayaking adventure
April 18 or
April
25 known as
Kayak Cove Adventure. No experience is necessary, but you should be
comfortable around water. Kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are also provided.
Cost is $15. Visit
www.arkansasstateparks.com
or contact the park at 501-844-4176 for more information on either program.
ONE Day is
April 14 in Mountain Pine at Lake Ouachita State
Park. ONE stands for Ouachita Nature Experiences. This
family-friendly day of activities and skills training is designed for those who
want to learn camping skills or improve on skills they have learned but haven’t
practiced in some time. A $10 fee includes a Dutch oven lunch. Paddle the
shorelines of Lake Ouachita with a park interpreter as your guide
April 21
during a
Kayaking Day Trip. Experience the lake in a new way while learning
about the history, geology and wildlife of the area. No prior paddling
experience is required, but you should be comfortable around water and be fit
enough to paddle (at a leisurely pace) for several hours. A $30 fee includes
use of a kayak, paddle and PFD. For more information on either event,
visit
www.arkansasstateparks.com
or contact the park at 501-767-9366.
A Visit to Dryden Pottery
April 6, 2012 12:00 AM
Dryden Pottery in Hot Springs houses the largest showroom of handmade
pottery in the state and is known for colorful handmade pieces such as plates, bowls, cups and vases.
Materials used for the pottery include Ouachita
Mountain clays and Arkansas quartz crystal.
Dryden's is a four-generation family business. It was
founded in Kansas by Alan James Dryden in 1946. Ten years later he relocated
the business to Hot Springs. Dryden’s son, James (“Kimbo”), learned wheel-made
pottery and is at the helm of the operation today. Kimbo’s sons are all potters
too including Cheyenne, who was at the shop the day I visited. His wife Kelly
also works at the store and is a potter too. And their kids are learning the
art form too. “My kids have been on the wheel since they could stand,” said
Kelly.
The day I stopped by, Kimbo was in the back throwing and
Kelly said when people visit the shop if he is back there they can watch him at
the wheel.
Cheyenne does a lot of
the glazing and showed me to the back of the shop where this work is done.
“My grandfather started it [the business] in ‘46 but we
started in Kansas and we moved over here,” said Cheyenne. “We get people who
come in maybe they have heard about us and maybe they haven’t.” Regardless of
how a person comes to find themselves at the shop ( the colorful mural that
wraps around the outside of the shop enticed me to stop in that day), the
Drydens are happy to share their knowledge of the business and the art form.
Cheyenne said they also give some classes on the weekends
for people interested in learning about the craft. He said learning to throw
takes some time though. “People come in every day and they want to throw on the
wheel,” he said. “They always want to go right to that.”
If you want to visit Dryden Pottery sometime, the shop is
located at 341 Whittington Avenue. They can be reached at 501-623-4201. Tell
all the Dryden’s I said hello!
A Visit to Fox Pass Pottery
April 5, 2012 12:00 AM
Since 1973, Fox Pass Pottery has been a landmark of the Hot Springs
arts community.
The studio is set
in a woodland setting nestled against Hot Springs National Park and features
handmade
pottery by Jim and Barbara Larkin. The Larkin’s specialize mainly in functional
work and Barbara does sculptural work. Jim’s work is made on the potter’s wheel
and Barbara’s is hand built.
Over the years, their gameplan has been to stay small and
specialize in hand crafted specialized items. “We started in ‘73 with the idea
of doing something we love, working with our hands and our minds,” said Jim
Larkin.
There is a wood fire kil that he and his son built ( in
2001) in the back of the studio. “A lot of our work is fired in that,” said
Jim.
When people come in, the Larkin’s said the main question
they get is “where do they get the clay.”
They mix their clay from several different clays and
minerals. 'It’s our own formula that we’ve worked up over the years to fit the
firing temperature, durability, glaze fit, color, elasticity, various criteria
that we have,” said Jim.
They also mix their own glazes, which are formulated for
specific colors and surface qualities. After glazing, the pottery is fired in
either a gas or wood fired kiln to 2350 degrees F. The finished pieces are
durable and safe for putting into dishwashers, ovens, or microwaves.
The second question, or the ‘big’ question they usually get
is “You do this for a living?”
“Because I think for so many people that would be their
dream if they could do something like this for a living,” said Jim. “They can’t
quite believe that we do. And for 39 years.”
The most popular items they make are mugs. “I love to make
them because I know people are going to use them,” said Jim. “We look at other
cultures and we talk about their rituals as if we don’t have our own. But they
are so common to us we sometimes take them for granted. But getting up in the
morning and having your coffee…I collect mugs from other potters and I’ll look
them over and I’ll pick a mug out that just feels good, there is something to
it that I really enjoy. And that morning cup of coffee just sort of relaxes me
and gets me ready for the day and there is that ritual involved with that.”
When he makes a mug, “I want it to be one that brings someone some bit of
pleasure,” he said. “And that’s true with all the pottery we make.”
The studio is surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest so
the outdoors are an inspiration for the Larkin’s. “When you are making pottery
you are involving the earth, water, and fire—you’ve got all those elements
going into your craft…so it’s very
nature oriented,” said Barbara. “We take a walk, we are surrounded by a
national park to the rear of us, we have a lot of beauty, we have mountains all
around us.”
Jim explained the inspiration behind a few of the crafts
inside the studio. “Things like that plate over there, with that white streak
and the
patterns off of it,” he said as he pointed to a plate hanging on the
wall. “ I like to kayak and canoe the Ouachita, Caddo and the rivers around
here and the creeks I fish like the South Fork and Fourche and so on. When you
come around a bend in a creek or a river where the water has flooded and it’s
washed out tree roots and they are stuck down, well those kind of drifty patterns there are inspired by those root patterns you see. Or the one with the
bowl in the center. [ Jim points to another piece of pottery on the wall.] We
call that Ouachita Mountain glaze. I’m not trying to do a literal painting of
that but those are the inspirations. Patterns in rocks or trees. I can pick up
a rock and look at it and do something on a pot and maybe that will evolve into
something else and 15 years later it becomes something all together different
but it started there.”
The Larkin’s children are also artists. Their son Fletcher
is a potter in Little Rock ( he often comes to Fox Pass to fire work in the
wood kiln there) and teaches
pottery at the Arkansas Arts Center Museum School. Their daughter Erin is a
costume designer at the Arkansas Arts Center. “They grew up in this atmosphere of being an artist,” said
Barbara.
They also enjoy the support from the community ( “We love
Hot Springs,” said Barbara. “We
have the lakes, the hiking, camping.”) and the pottery presence in town such as
Dryden Pottery. “We work together real well, we buy supplies together,” said
Jim.
They also receive cooperation from the overall craft
community, people in the galleries and other potters. “I find that all across
the state,” said Jim. “People help spread the word. That’s how you survive. We
have people come in from Eureka Springs or different towns and they say we were
in this potter shop there and they told us about you.”
The Larkin’s have been in the pottery scene for 39 years and
their love for the craft continues to fuel their business.“We like to see people enjoying handmade crafts,” said
Barbara.
If you’d like to visit the studio sometime, Fox Pass Pottery
is located at 379 Fox Pass. For more details call 501-623-9906 or visit www.foxpasspottery.com
Easter Celebrations in Little Rock This Weekend
April 4, 2012 11:00 AM
What are your plans for Easter? Hunting for Easter Eggs? Attending church services? A big family dinner? Or are you just not sure yet? There are numerous activities going on that you may want to add to your list or make them your celebration of your day.
The Easter Bunny makes an early appearance in
Little Rock’s River Market on Saturday,
April 7 at 9 a.m. Come help him find his way to the Trolley Barn where you can have your photo made (bring your own camera) and enjoy refreshments. In honor of the holiday, rides on the
River Rail Eggspress will be free from 8:30 a.m.-midnight. A River Rail Eggspress Promotions is available providing great deals along the trolley route from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. You also have a chance to wind one of six golden eggs worth $15 at
River Market and
Argenta businesses.
Also on Saturday,
April 7, you can have either breakfast (9:30 a.m.- 11 a.m. ) or lunch (1:30 p.m.-3 p.m.) with the Easter Bunny at the
Little Rock Zoo. You’ll enjoy a meal in
Café Africa, decorate Easter egg shaped cookies, make an Easter basket, and have your picture taken with the Easter Bunny. At 11 a.m. you can watch the Easter Bunny deliver large egg shaped toys to the big cats and otters. Advanced reservations for breakfast or lunch are required and can be made by calling (501) 661-7218. Cost is $9.95 for children and $14.95 for adults for zoo members and $18.95 per person for non-members.
Sunday morning,
April 8 brings the annual
Community Easter Sunrise Service at 7 a.m. in Riverfront Park. Sponsored by Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church, the gathering has guest speakers, musicians and local musicians. Worshippers are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs.
The
Arkansas Queen is offering an
Easter Lunch Cruise on the Arkansas River. Boarding for the Sunday event begins at 12:30 p.m., departure at 1 p.m., with a 3 p.m. return. The menu includes salad, roasted pork tenderloin or queen’s chicken, scalloped potatoes, Southern-style green beans, whole kernel corn, dinner rolls, the captain’s dessert, tea, water and coffee. Additional beverages available for purchase. Visit
www.ArkansasQueen.com for phone 501-372-5777 to make reservations.
This Weekend in the Arkansas Delta
April 3, 2012 2:34 PM
It’s going to be a beautiful weekend in the Arkansas Delta! Check out these great events going on throughout the region!
Head to
Pine Bluff and the
Arts and Science Center for Southeast Arkansas for a evening of live music, including jazz, blues and rock, by the
Joe Pitts Band on April 6. The performance is part of
Live@5, a monthly music series sponsored by the center. Admission is $5 for members and $10 for non-members. Log on to
www.artssciencecenter.org or call 870-536-3375 for more information.
It’s bargains galore in Halley on April 6 and 7 during the
15th annual Halley Fire Department Rummage and Bake Sale. Held at the Halley Fire Station, the yearly event serves as a fundraiser for the community fire department. Local communities and individuals donate items for the sale, which is also a great opportunity to snag some yummy baked goods! Phone 870-538-9352 for more information.
It’s wonderful weather to get out and do some kayaking!
Cane Creek State Park in
Star City offers kayaking opportunities throughout the month of April. April 7 is the date for the
Full Moon Kayak Tour, which allows visitors to experience Cane Creek bathed in
moonlight. Tour participants must not have kayaking experience but should be comfortable around and in the water. A brief paddling lesson is given before the beginning of the tour. Reservations are required and the $15 adult admission ($10 for ages 12 and under) includes kayak rental, lifejacket, paddle and guide service. Check out
www.ArkansasStateParks.com to learn more or phone 870-628-4714.
Young anglers take to the water during
Lake Chicot State Park’s annual
Youth Fishing Derby on April 7 in
Lake Village.. Prizes will be awarded throughout the event. Those fishing must be 15 years old or younger and bring their own pole and bait. Parents are encouraged to come watch and bring their chairs, blankets and umbrellas. The fishing derby starts at 9 a.m. For details, contact the park at 870-265-5480.
Have a great weekend!
Rowdy Adventures Zip Line Park in Okolona Opens This Weekend
April 3, 2012 12:00 AM
Rowdy
Adventures, a 300-acre outdoor adventure park ( that includes zip line tours)
in Okolona is scheduled to open for the 2012 season this weekend ( April 7).
The park bills itself as the South’s largest outdoor adventure park. The zip
line tour takes adventurers on a three-mile tour by harnessing them with all
the necessary equipment to soar through the air and enjoy the scenery.
The
park has 14
zip lines and the longest tree based cable run ( known as the ‘Hole in the
Sky”) that’s been accredited by the
ACCT (Association for Challenge Course Technology). The park also has some
interesting historical ties such as the Old Iron Bridge ( the park is built
around the bridge which crosses the Little Missouri River) and the site of a Civil war skirmish.
New for this season are canoe, kayak, and float rentals for use on the Little
Missouri River.
The park
is open until October 28th but a quick heads up that they are open
at various times/days during that time frame. From April 7-May 27 they are open on weekends only. From May
28- August 5 they are open 7 days a week. From August 9- Sept. 2 they are open
Thursday- Sunday. And from Sept. 8-Oct. 28 it goes back to being open on
weekends only. They are also open on various holidays like Memorial Day, the 4th
of July and Labor Day.
Of note,
group tours ( those with 10 or more folks) can be booked for any day of the
week during the entire season. For more details on the park, visit www.rowdyadventures.com.
Commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
April 2, 2012 11:00 AM
For those of us who lived through the horror, it’s difficult to believe it’s been over 43 years since Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated. April 4, 2102, marks the 44th anniversary of that unforgettable day, which will be commemorated on the
Arkansas State Capitol steps in
Little Rock from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The vigil serves as a reminder of Dr. King’s life and legacy and the sharing of his philosophies of social equality and multiculturalism. The event, which is free, is co-sponsored by the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission and Winthrop Rockefeller Institute.
A barbecue served immediately following the morning ceremony is available to all of those who attend and is expected to have several Arkansas legislators in attendance. This event is free and open to all ages, but prior confirmation of attendance is requested.
Online registration is available. You can also RSVP by phoning 501-683-1300 or by e-mailing
dushun.scarbrough@arkansas.gov.Also being observed this year is the
100th anniversary of the birth of the late
Arkansas Governor, Winthrop Rockefeller. Activities are being held throughout the year in honor of Mr. Rockefeller and his legacy to Arkansas.
Historic Baseball Trail Opens in Hot Springs
March 30, 2012 12:00 AM
Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio, Jackie Robinson. These are just a
few of the high profile baseball legends that came through Hot Springs to play
and train. In honor of the city’s tie to baseball history, the city has created
the Hot Springs Historic Baseball Trail: The Birthplace of Spring Baseball. The
city officially opened the trail during a ribbon cutting ceremony at
Whittington Park yesterday. The site has a special connection to baseball
history because in 1918 Babe Ruth hit the first 500-foot-plus home run while
playing a spring exhibition game at the park. The ball traveled 573 feet and
landed in an alligator pit at the nearby Arkansas Alligator Farm.
The trail was the result of meticulous research by baseball
historians and the project was led by Steve Arrison of Visit Hot Springs.
As part of the trail, 26 historical markers have been placed
across the city at various significant spots so visitors can see places where
American baseball legends trained and played. One of my favorite markers
highlights the spot where Smoky Joe Wood ( in 1912 he led the Boston Red Sox to
the World Series after training in Hot Springs) rode an ostrich at the Hot
Springs Ostrich Farm.
At each location, the plaque contains a QRC code that allows
smartphone users access to audio that adds more information about the plaque’s
significance in American baseball history. There is also a phone number to call
for the audio.
The foundation for the city’s baseball connection was
created in 1886 when Cap Anson brought his Chicago White Stockings (now known
as the Cubs) to the city. What attracted Anson to the city was the health
amenities found in town such as the hot mineral bath spas and mountain trails
for hiking. He thought the resort
atmosphere was the perfect location for a new training approach : annual
spring training for professional baseball. Thus the tradition of spring
training was born in Hot Springs.
In time, five fields were built for the endeavor. From 1886 up to the 1940s, many major
league teams, minor league teams, and individual players (such as Babe
Ruth) trained in Hot Springs. To
put this scope of history in perspective, more than 45 percent of the people in
the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y., either played
baseball or were in someway associated with baseball training in Hot Springs.
For those interested in checking out the trail, there are
three ‘entry points’ to the trail: Hill Wheatley Plaza, Oaklawn Racing &
Gaming and Whittington Park. For more details click
here.
Visiting Scarlett, Rhett, Ashley, Melanie and Mammy in Little Rock
March 29, 2012 12:00 PM
You have exactly one month from tomorrow (March 30) left to visit the
“Reel to Real: Gone With the Wind & The Civil War in Arkansas” exhibit. This stunning collection of "Gone With the Wind" and Arkansas Civil War memorabilia has been on display at the
Historic Arkansas Museum in
Little Rock since May of last year. I’ll admit I love old movies and the Shaw Tumblin Collection blew me away. It’s incredible the condition these items are in to be as old as they are. And the variety is amazing, including scripts, behind-the-scenes photos, and Academy Awards. Film buffs will recognize the costumes on display, including Scarlett’s signature bonnet worn at the Twelve Oaks barbecue and Bonnie Blue’s blue velvet outfit.
A part of the facility’s commemoration of the sesquicentennial of the Civil War, this exhibit compares the romanticized idea of the “Old South” with the often gruesome reality of life as it really was for many Arkansans from 1861-1865. Reel to Real: Gone with the Wind and the Civil War in Arkansas pairs up rarely seen items from GWTW with actual objects and firsthand accounts of the monumental battle in Arkansas.
The Shaw-Tumblin Gone with the Wind Collection (Reel) is fascinating for everyone; from those who love movies to those whose interest is history. You enter into the film world of Scarlett O’Hara and Rhett Butler via costumes, photos and movie outtakes. The exhibit explores the influence of movies on the perspectives and attitudes of the public.
The Real portion portrays the true nature of the conflict with Arkansas slave narratives, women’s diaries, letters home from soldiers as well as uniforms and weaponry, all from the museum’s permanent collection. It brings the realities of war to life, with the words, stories and songs of those who endured the ordeal of war in Arkansas.
Time is running out; the exhibit ends April 30.
Tour America’s Treasures Features Arkansas Locations
March 28, 2012 1:00 PM
Over the next two weeks, the “Tour America’s Treasures” blogs cover six “Save America’s Treasures” sites in Arkansas. First on the list is
Lakeport Plantation, located just outside
Lake Village. Lakeport is the last remaining antebellum house on the Mississippi River in Arkansas that hasn’t been extensively altered. Thanks to Arkansas State University, this treasure has been restored and is open to the public.
Read Lee Price’s blog about this gorgeous piece of architecture and surrounding grounds on the Tour America Treasures blog page. You’ll learn plenty about this piece of American and Arkansas history; so much so, you’ll start planning a visit.
While you’re in that part of the state, stop at Lake Chicot State Park, situated on the shores of Lake Chicot. It offers fully equipped cabins, fishing dock, bicycle, boat and party barge rentals, special programs and tours, plus Civil War history. Terrific shopping is available at the Paul Michael Company, Nonie’s Antiques and others. When you get hungry, check out Rhoda’s Famous Hot Tamales, the Cow Pen Restaurant, the LakeShore Café and others.
Hiking at Lake Catherine State Park
March 28, 2012 12:00 AM
The weather has been gorgeous lately and a great chance to
explore the Arkansas outdoors. Towering pines, lush hardwoods, large lakes,
flowing waterways, abundant wildflowers, streams, and a variety of wildlife
provide a nice backdrop for spring day hikes. Arkansas has
over 250 hiking
trails scattered through the state's Corps of Engineers recreation areas,
National Forest areas, National Parks, and State Parks.
Yesterday, I took my
pup Kip to Lake Catherine State Park to hike Horseshoe Mountain Trail ( 3
miles) and also the parks token hike: Falls Branch Trail ( 2 miles), which is a
nice quick hike and home to a seasonal waterfall. Kids ( and adults and pups
too!) will also get a kick out of walking across the swinging bridge, which is
around 45 feet long and built to prevent erosion on the trail. If you’ve never
been to the park before, all the trails ( there are 3) start at the same trailhead. Nestled in
the Ouachita Mountains on 1,940-acre Lake Catherine, the park is also home to
CCC/Rustic Style cabins constructed of native stone and wood by the Civilian
Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. As for directions, from Hot Springs,
take Hwy. 270 east and turn right on Carpenter Dam Road. Turn left on Hwy 290,
and then left on Hwy 171 and follow this into the park. Happy Hiking!
A Whole Bunch of Fish
March 26, 2012 11:00 AM
The next time you catch a fish in Arkansas, it may be one that "grew up" in
Lonoke at the
Joe Hogan State Fish Hatchery. It is the largest and one of the oldest state-owned warm-water pond hatcheries in the U.S. Earlier this month I visited this facility during my trek along U.S. 70. It’s worth a stop if you’ve never been. And it makes a great field trip for schools.
The hatchery is basically a huge patchwork of large square ponds separated by strips of vibrant green grass. From the air, it must be quite a site because it’s pretty impressive from the ground. There seems to be water as far as the eye can see. You can take a self-guided tour offered by the Lee Brady Visitor Center on the grounds. Groups should contact the hatchery prior to their visit. In addition to seeing a lot of fish, there are ample opportunities for wildlife watching. Aquariums and mounted species native to the area are found in the visitor center.
The annual Kids Free Fishing Derby is scheduled for June 9 at the Hogan Hatchery. Hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s for ages 12 and younger and has a limit of three fish per child, one rod or pole per child. The pond is stocked with catchable-size fish before the derby begins and each participant must bring their own tackle and bait. The Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, which sponsors the event, suggests everyone brings something to sit on, cameras, refreshments, sunscreen and hats.
Spring Birding in Arkansas
March 26, 2012 12:00 AM
Located within the Mississippi Flyway,
spring brings the highest diversity and most colorful birds to the state as
raptors, shorebirds, thrushes, warblers, and vireos migrate to their northern
breeding grounds. The bird habits of some species involve staying and breeding
in the state, while others stop only to rest and refuel before continuing their
long journeys.
The first returning residents and migrants
begin arriving around mid-March and peak the first week in May. During this
time shorebirds, more than 35 species of warblers, vireos, orioles, thrushes,
and buntings can be seen.
Late spring brings the opportunity to see
the state's breeding birds, which include the colorful Painted Bunting, the
Mississippi Kite, and the Swainson’s Warbler. Several species of herons and
egrets can be found nesting in rookeries. Least Terns nest on sandbars of the
Mississippi, Arkansas, and Red rivers.
Sandpipers, plovers and other shorebirds
migrate north through the state in early spring and southward during late
summer. Shorebirds and waders require shallow water and mudflats for resting
and refueling during their long migration, they can be seen on wetlands, fallow
agricultural fields, and drained fish hatchery ponds throughout the state.
There are many great places to see the birds
of Arkansas, state parks, wildlife management areas, national wildlife refuges
such as the White River National Wildlife Refuge, or just driving along county
roads. Arkansas is home to 29 Audubon Important Bird Areas (IBA). IBAs
represent some of the most interesting places to find birds in Arkansas and are
located in every region of the state. With its mild climate and variety of
habitats Arkansas is a great place to watch birds and other
native Arkansas animals year-round.
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Seeing Stars and Other Celestial Bodies at Woolly Hollow State Park
March 23, 2012 10:00 AM
The forecast for Saturday, March 24 is sunny with a low in the 50s. It’s going to be a great night for star gazing at Woolly Hollow State Park during the Spring Star Party, March 24. The rural location of Woolly Hollow near Greenbrier makes it a great location to stargaze because it is far from city lights.
Volunteers from the Central Arkansas Astronomical Society are going to be on hand with several telescopes set-up at the beach area. Opportunities include being able to see a planet on one telescope then go to another and see a distant galaxy. Admission is free. Contact the park by phoning 501-679-2098 for additional information.
Photos courtesy Central Arkansas Astronomical Society
This Weekend in the Arkansas Delta
March 23, 2012 8:16 AM
Happy Friday! It's going to be a beautiful weekend in the Arkansas Delta! If you're still looking for something fun to do with the family or friends, check out these events taking place throughout the region.
Spend a beautiful evening paddling and gazing at the stars when
Lake Poinsett State Park in
Harrisburg offers a
Kayak and Dinner Cruise on March 24. Paddle around beautiful Lake Poinsett and then enjoy a scrumptious Dutch oven dinner on the lakeshore, followed by a glow-in-the-dark astronomy adventure. The fee for the program is $15. For details, contact Lake Poinsett State Park at 870-578-2064.
Learn more about outdoor cooking when
Delta Heritage Trail State Park near
Helena-West Helena hosts an Introduction to
Dutch Oven Cooking presentation on March 24. Hear more about using the cast iron utensil, its care and ways to prepare tasty treats for the entire family. The park will host a beginners’ Dutch oven cooking workshop in April. For more information, contact the park at 870-572-2352.
Archeologists often “piece” artifacts together like a puzzle to understand the history of past cultures.
Hampson Archeological Museum State Park in
Wilson presents
Prehistoric Puzzles on March 24. Staff and participants examine the conservation process and piece together some “artifacts” in this kid-friendly program. Admission is free. For more information, contact the park at 870-655-8622.
Enjoy a morning of fishing with your young angler at the
Junior Fishing Derby being held at
Cane Creek State Park in
Star City on March
24. Youngsters ages 15 and under will compete for small prizes. Bring your pole for a morning filled with fun! The fishing derby starts at 8 a.m. and participants will meet at the park’s visitors center. For more information, visit www.ArkansasStateParks.com or phone 870-628-4714.
Get out this weekend and enjoy the beauty of The Natural State in spring!
Dive Arkansas
March 23, 2012 12:00 AM
It might be surprising to learn that there are over 30
different scuba diving
spots to explore in the state including clear lakes, scenic rivers and
deep quarries. “I think there are many unaware of how vast the dive community
is in Arkansas,” said Terri Bernard, a dive instructor at the Dive Shop in
Little Rock.
“Arkansas has some of
the most beautiful lakes and streams in the country. Most, offering excellent
visibility.”
To help spread the news on this fact, the Dive Arkansas
Challenge was created. This mission is to inspire divers to travel Arkansas and explore the diving opportunities here.
Dive facilities across the state have come together for the
project and participation is simple. Sign up at an Arkansas dive shop that is
part of the project. A list can be found
here.
Get your initial logbook stamp then grab one or more of your
certified dive buddies and dive a minimum of 3 verified dives at a minimum of 4
different geographic dive locations. (i.e.
Lake Ouachita,
Greer’s Ferry Lake,
Bull Shoals Lake, etc.:)
Upon completion divers will have at least 12 logged and
verified dives. Or as many as 100 logged and verified dives if they wish. After
a few dives, take your logbook to the dive shop you chose and receive a stamp
on each dive. Each stamp is worth one prize entry ticket at a recognition
banquet on October 6.
The Dive Arkansas project was initiated by Dive Shop owner
Mike McCrory and Bernard. It started with a conversation regarding specific
questions they heard all the time, such as "where is there to dive in
Arkansas?"
“We felt we needed to do something to educate potential and
already certified divers, while also giving them a venue that would
introduce them to the vast opportunities our state has to offer,” said
Bernard.
During their research, they found a program developed for
divers in Texas. “It seemed to
address the very issues we wished to address here,” said Bernard. From that, they developed a very
similar program for the state and named it the 'Dive Arkansas Challenge'.
“I feel like it will be a very important, annual event for
divers living in, or coming to our beautiful state,” said Bernard.
Bernard’s had many memorable dive experiences in Arkansas
including her first lake dive in Bull Shoals Lake, watching the feeding
patterns of bass and crappie and finding herself in the center of hundreds of
schooling white bass. “All experiences are met with wonder every time,” she
said. “It’s hard to nail down just one memorable dive.”
Diving is a form of relaxation for most and “there’s a lot
that can be learned about freshwater marine life when you're down there observing it first hand,” said Bernard. “There are varying types of fish
habitats in our lakes, as well as presence of hydras and jellyfish.” Of note,
Arkansas’ freshwater jellyfish are about the size of a penny. Their stings
cannot penetrate human skin and are harmless to humans.
As for
suggestions for those interested in starting the sport:“Don't procrastinate,” said Bernard. “If you think this is something you
would enjoy doing, do it now.”
For more details on the project, check out www.divearkansas.com.
Railroad Prairie Natural Area
March 22, 2012 12:00 AM
Natural areas can be found across
the state and they protect some of the prime examples of the varied ecosystems
that can be found here. The Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission manages these
lands to preserve and restore natural communities that have become rare in
Arkansas.
On the route to Hazen on Highway 70, folks will notice wooden signs for the
Railroad Prairie Natural Area. This 250-acre area, stretching along portions of
the abandoned right-of-way of the former Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific
railroad, gives visitors a glimpse of the original tallgrass prairie that once
made up the Grand Prairie. Today, less than 1% of these grasslands that
occurred across this region remain and they serve as critical habitat for a
variety of rare plants and animals.
In addition to typical prairie
grasses, such as big bluestem and Indiangrass, the area blooms with colorful
wildflowers such as narrow-leaved sunflower and wild indigo from spring into
fall. Travel on the natural area is limited to foot traffic to minimize erosion
and disturbance to sensitive areas. There are opportunitiesfor low-impact recreation such as bird
watching, hiking and photography.
Revisiting a Favorite Restaurant in Carlisle
March 21, 2012 10:00 AM
I stumbled across
Nick’s Bar-B-Q and Catfish in
Carlisle strictly by accident about 10 years ago. There were numerous signs along I-40 going east toward Memphis but some of the signs were a little faded so I didn't know if the business was still open. It brought to mind the
I Love Lucy episode when the Ricardos and Mertzes are traveling cross-country and are looking for a place to eat. They keep seeing signs for Aunt Sally’s Pecan Pralines. These go on for approximately 200 miles. They finally get to the sign saying “just around the corner,” only to see one right after it saying “You have just passed Aunt Sally’s Pecan Pralines.”
Since Nick’s isn’t visible from the interstate, I had to wonder if they were still in operation. I was transporting a guest-of-state to Memphis and she was hungry. I made the decision we’d go see if we could find Nick’s since we were close to the Carlisle exit, not knowing for sure what I’d discover.
Boy, did I find a winner. Such a winner, in fact, I’ve made several trips to Carlisle since then, just to eat at Nick’s. The locals love it, that’s for sure. On our way home from the Governor’s Conference on Tourism in West Memphis via U.S. 70, my boss Kat and I decided to stop for my Nick-fix. As is the norm, I was not disappointed. We ordered the fried green tomatoes, cheese dip and salsa for starters. The tomatoes are awesome! Thin, crunchy and not greasy. So very, very good.
The cheese dip and salsa aren’t overly spicy so they are enjoyable by all ages. I had a chopped pork sandwich, Kat had the beef brisket, both good choices, accompanied by onion rings and fried, definitely handmade, quite tasty and not greasy.
Neither of us had room for dessert but I can tell you from previous visits, Nick’s fried pies are exceptional. I have a friend who swears by the coconut and the dried apricot. Me…you can’t beat chocolate.
There’s always something new to try at Nick’s. I’ve had the catfish on previous visits and it’s just as amazing as the other items I’ve tried. Take a trip to Carlisle and try Nick’s.
Russellville Marina Boat Repair and Cabins Open for Season
March 21, 2012 12:00 AM
Visit My Arkansas every Wednesday for information on outdoors and sports.
This warm weather makes me yearn for swimming pools and lake activities.
Russellville Marina Boat Repair and Cabins is already gearing up for fun. The marina, located on
Lake Dardanelle and the
Arkansas River in
Russellville, opened for business for the 2012 season on March 1.
If you’re headed out to fish, stop by the marina for some bait – minnows, worms, crickets, frozen shad, chicken livers, and a wide variety of artificial baits. The store is stocked with snacks, sandwiches, cold drinks, ice cream, ice, groceries, camping and boating supplies, water toys, T-shirts, and more. They are ready to fuel boats and are already working on boats in their maintenance shop.
Now through Memorial Day, the marina is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Wednesdays. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, they are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week. From Labor Day to Nov. 1, the marina is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day but Wednesdays.
Three cabins are available for rent. Each has a picnic table, barbecue grill, extra chairs for relaxing outside, and a private dock to fish from or to park your boat at. You’ll also love the sunset and lake view from each cabin.
Tasty Tuesday: Soul Food at Madea's Kitchen in West Memphis
March 20, 2012 12:00 PM
I’m ALWAYS up for trying a new restaurant! So when our boss suggested Madea’s Kitchen in West Memphis, I was more than game! The Arkansas Parks and Tourism Communications Team was in West Memphis for the annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism and we wanted to have a working lunch.
Madea’s Kitchen, which opened in November, is located at 510 N. Missouri in West Memphis. I want to give you the address right at the beginning…because after reading this blog, you are going to want to visit soon!
We knew it was a soul food restaurant. I’d spoken to the owner, Demetrius Jones, a few days before to give him a head count. He’s such a nice gentleman and he’s devoted to making Madea’s Kitchen a soul food destination in the region. And with the food Madea’s serves, he can do it!
We visited on Sunday, which is the Soul Food Surprise menu. It changes regularly. On the Sunday our staff visited, lunch choices included chicken and dressing, baked chicken, fried chicken, spaghetti, turnip greens, sweet potatoes, rice and gravy, corn, fried hoecakes and rolls. Those were your plate lunch choices…but you can also order off the menu, which features barbecue, fried catfish, burgers, hot wings, smoked sausage, and more. Each day features a different plate lunch selection.
To say our ex
perience at Madea’s Kitchen was great is an understatement! The food was wonderful, the staff friendly and the food was wonderful (yes, I realize I said that twice…it was that good!). Kerry and Jill decided to order the catfish plate and both agreed that it was some of the best catfish they’ve eaten in Arkansas. Now THAT, my friends, is saying something! Kat loved the fried chicken and I loved their chicken and dressing SO MUCH that I went back this past Sunday…and it was even BETTER!
Then it was time for dessert. I knew what was on the menu…butter roll. Now, I’m not talking about a roll with butter…this is the dessert butter roll! The traditional Southern dessert is much like a roll or biscuit with sugar, butter and cinnamon in a milky custard. If you’ve never had one, it’s worth the trip to West Memphis just to have Madea’s Kitchen’s version. It’s warm, sweet, and fabulous!
Several friends saw my Facebook posts the first time I was at Madea’s and they wanted to try it…so we went this past Sunday. I couldn’t pass up the chicken and dressing, which is some of the best I’ve ever eaten. But I also sampled the pot roast, which just melts in your mouth. I give it two thumbs-up as well!
You can check out the entire menu at the Madea’s Kitchen website. If you’re near West Memphis or craving true Southern soul food, I suggest you plan a visit soon!
Continuing Along U.S. 70 – No I-40 Construction Delays: Historic Railroad Depots
March 19, 2012 12:00 PM
Some people don’t like getting off the Interstate because they want to fly along without stopping. What a shame. You miss so much of this wonderful state – and country – by doing that. My recent trip along U.S. 70 east drove this point home once again.
We passed through four Arkansas communities with restored railroad depots. They all share a history since they were built by the Rock Island Railroad and all are of the Tudor architectural style.
Lonoke
was our first depot sighting. It sits on its own island of land that divides Northeast Front Street from Southwest Front Street. The red brick, Tudor Revival Rock Island Depot is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today it serves as the home of the Lonoke County Museum where you’ll find displays on county history, including a diorama of the Battle of Brownsville Civil War skirmish, a genealogy room and a gift shop. Markers located near the building give details on Lonoke’s history and the railroad.
Not far from Lonoke is
Carlisle, home of one of my all-time favorite restaurants,
Nick’s Bar-B-Q and Catfish. (More on Nick’s at a later date.) The depot here is another Tudor Revival Rock Island building constructed circa 1920. Located one block north off U.S. 70, the park around the National Register of Historic Places-listed depot sports a “Pride of the Prairie” sign.
Next stop is Hazen where its 1915 Rock Island Depot is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The striking restored building is the only stucco and brick Rock Island Depot with a slate roof in the state. Every time I pass through town, I have to stop and look at this beautiful piece of architecture and Americana.
Farther east at
Brinkley, we found the
Central Delta Depot and Museum. It’s a few blocks off U.S. 70 at 100 West Cypress Street. The former stop for Union trains, this 1912 National Register architectural gem has a main section, with two wings out to each side. I was in seventh heaven when I walked in because there was a whole display area on one of my favorite Arkansas-born performers:
Louis Jordan. A gorgeous bronze sculpture of his head and his saxophone caught my eye. Other items include newspaper articles, album covers, and photographs. The “King of the Jukebox” was born in Brinkley in 1908.
If you’ve never heard any of his classics, you owe it to yourself to check him out. In 2004, Rolling Stone Magazine ranked him #59 on their list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. He’s a member of the Roll and Roll Hall of Fame and the Arkansas Entertainers Hall of Fame. The recent Broadway musical hit, “Five Guys Named Moe” is based on one of Jordan’s songs.
Other exhibits here include information on the Louisiana Purchase and the area’s railroad history. It’s a lovely little museum which tells the tale of the town and the area.
Don't Miss the Art, Music & Hula Hoops at Spark Cafe in Bentonville
March 19, 2012 12:00 AM
Looking for something to do on a Sunday afternoon? Head on over to the Spark Café at the Walmart Visitor Center located on the downtown square in Bentonville. Kids and grownups can explore their creative sides from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. during the café’s Crafts Sunday events.
Here are the topics for upcoming weeks:
March 25 – Coffee Filter Garden. Create a variety of beautiful flowers out of coffee filters.
April 1 – Brazilian Music Makers. Use recycled materials to create new traditional Brazilian instruments: maracas, tambourines, and reco-recos.
April 8 – Coffee Painting. Brazil is the world’s largest coffee producer. Use the Spark Café’s signature product to create monochromatic (and aromatic) paintings.
April 15 – Butterfly Metamorphosis. A beaded caterpillar goes into one side of a paper tube chrysalis, and a butterfly made from coffee filters emerges on the other side.
April 22 – Plastic Bottle Terrariums. Celebrate Earth Day by creating your own terrarium.
April 29 – Rain Forest Creatures. Recycled materials will be used to construct a variety of plants and animals found in the Amazon Rain Forest.
Spark Café also offers free live music from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. every Thursday. What I love about it is the support it shows for young local talent because the performances are by Bentonville High’s most talented student musicians. While you’re there have a cup of Spark blend drip coffee – only 50 cents a cup during show time.
Scheduled to play so far are:
March 15 – The ONE and ONLY Nikki Roark
March 29 – The amazing Tilly Hollaway
April 5 – The talented BHS Guitar Club
Also, during Bentonville’s First Friday event on April 6, Spark Café will offer
Hula Hoopapalooza! The world record for the longest hula hoop is 90 hours. Think you can beat that? Give it a try at the contest only on First Friday at the 5&10. Winners will be announced that evening.
That’s a lot of fun to choose from. Spark Café is located at 105 N. Main St. For more information, call 479-273-1329, ext. 2.
Upcoming Programs at Moro Bay State Park
March 19, 2012 12:00 AM
Several programs are on the agenda at Moro Bay State Park in
Jersey.
The park is located at the
confluence of Moro Bay, Raymond Lake and the Ouachita River, making it a prime
spot to fish and
enjoy water
sports like canoeing or kayaking.
Discover the role fur trapping played in the early history
of Arkansas during Furbearers and Traps, a Piece of Arkansas History March 22.
Become familiar with the major furbearing mammals and different types of traps,
with a demonstration of how they are used. Learn about trading practices
between the French and Native Americans.
A program on The American Alligator is March 22. Learn about
the characteristics of the alligator and how this ancient reptile has been able
to survive since the days of the dinosaur. You also have the opportunity to see
an alligator up-close and watch him feed.
Explore the intersection of three counties and three bodies
of water during a Moro Bay Kayak Tour March 23. Wading birds, turtles, and
belted kingfishers are likely critters to spot on the shoreline. Also, earlier that day there is an opportunity to learn about The History of the Moro Bay Ferry. Join a park interpreter at the Moro Bay Ferry Exhibit and discover the history behind the Moro Bay Ferry and how it and the Ouachita River were such an important part of the lives of those in the community and the surrounding area.
Join a park interpreter as they present an informative
presentation about Arkansas's largest wild mammal during Black Bears of Arkansas
March 24. Learn how these fascinating creatures survive and how they are
connected to the early history of Arkansas.
The park is 29 miles southwest of Warren on U.S. 63. From El
Dorado, travel 23 miles northeast on U.S. 63. For more information on these
programs visit www.arkansasstateparks.com or call 870-463-8555.
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