Arkansas Times

NEWS + POLITICS + ENTERTAINMENT / FEBRUARY 22, 2012 / ARKTIMES.COM

GONE ROGUE IN BRYANT

‘REPUBLICAN’ MAYOR JILL DABBS TAKES A PAGE FROM PALIN.

BY CHEREE FRANCO PAGE 14

Something new – the development of the state’s largest cardiovascular network

Announcing the partnership of Heart Clinic Arkansas, Drs. Watkins, Bauer, and Meadors, and St. Vincent Health System Cardiologists: C. Douglas Borg, M.D., F.A.C.C. Mangaraju (Raj) Chakka, M.D., F.A.C.C. Charles W. Clogston, M.D., F.A.C.C. John A. Colleran, D.O., F.A.C.C. Debasis Das, M.D., F.A.C.C. J. Lynn Davis, M.D., F.A.C.C. Van H. De Bruyn, M.D., F.A.C.C. David M. Evans, M.D., F.A.C.C. Forrest D. Glover, M.D., F.A.C.C. David D. Griffin, M.D., F.A.C.C. David C. Hicks, M.D., F.A.C.C. Randy A. Jordan, M.D., F.A.C.C. Morris E. Kelley, M.D., F.A.C.C. Eleanor E. Kennedy, M.D., F.A.C.C. Valerie McNee, M.D., F.A.C.C. Donald F. Meacham, M.D., F.A.C.C. Tena E. Murphy, M.D., F.A.C.C. Eric J. Robinson, M.D., F.A.C.C. Scott W. Rypkema, M.D., F.A.C.C. Mark A. St. Pierre, M.D., F.A.C.C. Thomas W. Wallace, M.D. Not pictured: Marvin W. Ashford, M.D., F.A.C.C. Leon Roby Blue, M.D., F.A.C.C. Bradley R. Hughes, M.D., F.A.C.C. Andrew G. Kumpuris, M.D., F.A.C.C. Aravind (Rao) Nemarkommula, M.D., F.A.C.C. Rod Parkhurst, M.D., F.A.C.C. Jim E. Shuffield, M.D., F.A.C.C. Sayyadul (Sid) Siddiqui, M.D., F.A.C.C. Cardiovascular surgeons: F. Michael Bauer, M.D. Frederick A. Meadors, M.D. Charles J. Watkins, M.D. Leadership: Peter D. Banko, FACHE St. Vincent President & CEO Jonathan P. Timmis St. Vincent Senior Vice President & Chief Strategy Officer Marcia L. Atkinson, MHSA St. Vincent Vice President/Administrator of the Jack Stephens Heart Institute

SVC 0112 023 HCA AT_10X12.5.indd 1

What this means for heart patients today: • The state’s largest cardiology group • The state’s most experienced heart surgeons • The most advanced diagnostic technology and treatment options available We’re improving heart care for you and for all Arkansans for years to come by: • Investing $36 million in state-of-the-art cardiology facilities at St. Vincent Infirmary and St. Vincent North • Building 7 all-new cardiac cath labs and 4 new operating suites • Creating the state’s first hybrid cardiac cath lab/operating room You’ll still be able to see your trusted physician at the hospital or emergency room of your choice. Plus, you can visit our clinic locations throughout Arkansas.

Learn more about this exciting development at StVincentHealth.com.

ST. VINCENT HEART CLINIC ARKANSAS CLINIC LOCATIONS: St. Vincent Heart Clinic Arkansas – Kanis 10100 Kanis Road, Little Rock 501-255-6000

St. Vincent Heart Clinic Arkansas – NLR 4000 Richards Road, Suite A 501-758-5133

St. Vincent Heart Clinic Arkansas – University 415 N. University Ave., Little Rock 501-664-6841

St. Vincent Heart Clinic Arkansas – Searcy 711 Santa Fe Drive 501-279-9393

SATELLITE LOCATIONS: Arkadelphia | Benton | Cabot | Camden | Clinton | Fordyce | Heber Springs | Jacksonville Little Rock | Malvern | Morrilton | Nashville | Newport | Russellville | Stuttgart | Warren

In an emergency, dial 911.

ST. VINCENT CARDIOVASCULAR SURGEONS 5 St. Vincent Circle, Suite 501, Little Rock 501-666-2894 HOSPITALS AND EMERGENCY ROOMS St. Vincent Infirmary Two St. Vincent Circle, Little Rock 501-552-3000 • 501-552-2680 ER St. Vincent North 2215 Wildwood Avenue, Sherwood 501-552-7100 • 501-552-7190 ER St. Vincent Morrilton 4 Hospital Drive, Morrilton 501-977-2300 • 501-977-2442 ER

1/18/12 1/18/123:14 PM

ARKANSAS’S SOURCE FOR NEWS, POLITICS & ENTERTAINMENT 201 East Markham Street 200 Heritage Center West P.O. Box 34010, Little Rock, Arkansas 72203 www.arktimes.com arktimes@arktimes.com @ArkTimes www.facebook.com/arkansastimes PUBLISHER Alan Leveritt EDITOR Lindsey Millar SENIOR EDITOR Max Brantley MANAGING EDITOR Leslie Newell Peacock CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Mara Leveritt ASSOCIATE EDITORS Cheree Franco, David Koon, Bob Lancaster, Doug Smith ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Robert Bell EDITORIAL ART DIRECTOR Kai Caddy

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FEBRUARY 22, 2012

3

COMMENT

An open letter to Rep. Jeff Miller I welcome you, Chairman Miller of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs. I understand that you are coming for a visit soon. Let me tell you about the homeless in my neighborhood. Yes, the homeless are already entrenched downtown as they are in all metropolitan areas. They come downtown because there is a concentration of services downtown (medical, public transportation, libraries, parks, and safety with lit streets and police presence).

The services for the homeless, therefore, need to be where the homeless actually “reside.” They don’t reside in West Little Rock, Mr. Chairman. To move downtown and complain about the homeless is like moving to Florida and complaining about all the retired people.

Although opponents of the Vet center clinic rattle the chains of free enterprise and ridicule government bureaucracy, their first strategy to keep the clinic from moving to our neighborhood is to use government in order to block the clinic through rezoning. It appears that we want to have it both ways. As a bureaucrat, we will shun you if you don’t do what we want but revere you if you do!

The downtown neighborhood associations have indeed worked hard to rejuvenate Main Street. We had some help, however. Although some neighbors have publicly chastised you and the VA for its “palpable disdain for local government,” the city website says that we’re happily spending federal dollars from the following: Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice, Department of Commerce, Department of Labor, Department of Interior, Department of Energy, Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Health, Arkansas Employment Security Division, Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department and the Arkansas Department of Heritage. Thanks for that, should we fail to mention it.

By the way, I can find no empirical data to suggest that property values decline when homeless services are in the immediate proximity. In fact, in Austin, the Four Seasons, expensive condos and commercial as well as residential properties are within half a mile of a huge complex for homeless services. The same can be said for Santa Monica, Calif. Some of my neighbors may argue that the homeless on the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica distract from the beautiful retail establishments, but check out the price per square to rent one and you’ll see that the presence of the homeless has not detracted from property value.

Aside from the practical (financial) 4

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

debate about this project, one must sometimes make decisions based on what is right. The VA runs a very tight ship (please go visit while you’re here) in the existing Day Treatment program. As a representative of the government that sent these men and women off to war (some without body armor), you should be proud that such a fine program exists to assist them. It provides mental health services, job readiness and assistance with permanent housing. To qualify for these services, the vets have to follow a set of rules and be good citizens. As citizens and as veterans of our armed services, we owe them

no less than to welcome them into our community.

Patty Miller-Marshall Little Rock

Super PACS and hockey goons Some folks have pointed out that President Obama has changed his mind and will now enlist the support of Super PACs. Some are disappointed because he championed the law, pre-Citizens United, on controlling these groups. Others point out he’s a flip-flopper for changing his mind on a point he held so dear and hit others

What’s being auctioned off: Over $100,000 in merchandice already consigned from many individuals We are accepting new and including a large inventory of custom made tack and used equipment for saddles from H bar Saddlery. Over 60 Western Saddles (Roping, Ranch, consignment. If you have Barrel, Silver Show, Pleasure, Youth, stuff that you haven’t used in years, this will be an Pony). Over 100 Bridles Headstalls opportunity to turn it into & Halters, etc. Plus Lots of Custom Made Tack and One Of A Kind Items. cash. If you bring it, we can sell it.

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over the head with. The president knows that presidential politics is not bean-bag, but even bean-bag has rules that you have to play to.

The best analogy I could think of is the NHL rule of allowing fights in hockey.

There are teams that are for it, teams that oppose it. Teams for fighting say it’s tradition and fans love it. Love it so much that you can hire guys known as Goons for your team to hit the ice looking to take out players who may be causing you problems.

Not really sporting, but it’s perfectly legal under the rules of the NHL. The teams that oppose fighting and the use of Goons would love to play hockey free from influence and rely on skill alone.

“Goon Free” hockey is a great thing to watch, with the best example being Olympic Hockey. (Using most of the same players the NHL uses by the way.) But these teams can talk about removing the fighting and the Goons all they want, as long as they remain part of the rules of the game in the NHL, a Goon with minimal hockey skills can take out your best player with one blow.

And so, like President Obama, the coaches and teams of the NHL that are against fights must still hire a Goon or two to carry out punishment to the opposing team because the rules allow it and to win they must use every tool allowed by the rules.

Unlike the NHL however, the Goons of political action committees are not under the control of the coach or team owner (candidate or party).

If they are, then the “coach” or the “team” is breaking current rules as laid out by the Supreme Court.

The only hope for the NHL is to get a rule change by the owners. The only hope for the U.S. election system is to change law or Constitution so that the goons are under control again. Maybe the “owners” (us) will be willing to make that change after this “season” is over.

Steve Heye Little Rock

Love ‘meat’ David Koon’s “Mind over meat” (Feb. 15) piece had me grinnin’ big and laughing out loud. I liked it so much I tore it out and will send it to my kids in Australia. Thank you, Mr. Koon, for sharing your talent, and thanks to the Arkansas Times for making it possible for me to read his work. I’m also a fan of Leslie Peacock and The Observer.

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FEBRUARY 22, 2012

5

EDITORIAL

EYE ON ARKANSAS

Compromise, damn you

Justice is served

S

tate Sen. Bruce Holland, R-Greenwood, sought a Republican-style compromise with the legal system, but didn’t get it. There may be a lesson here for the legislative and executive branches.

Holland sought a government entitlement to drive as fast as ever he wanted on the state’s highways.

He’d promised a fight to the end against charges of fleeing, careless driving and improper passing, all arising from an incident in January 2011, in which the senator fled from a Perry County deputy sheriff at speeds of more than 100 mph, passing terrified fellow motorists en route.

Apparently someone of sounder judgment counseled Holland about the separation of powers, because he showed up in circuit court the other day and pled “no contest” (a weaselly way of pleading guilty) to all charges. He read a statement of apology and was fined $890 and ordered to perform 80 hours of community service. (Under supervision, preferably. Serving others will be an unfamiliar role for Holland.) A perhaps over-confident prosecuting attorney surmised that Holland had learned his lesson.

Possibly so, but we hope the judge told the senator “I don’t want to see you in here again.” Many would rather not see the reactionary Holland in the Senate chamber either, but only voters can impose that sentence.

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FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

BRIAN CHILSON

H

aving previously ruled that “money” is “speech,” and “corporations” are “people,” a marauding U.S. Supreme Court may be about to rule that “aggression” is “cooperation” and “surrender” is “compromise,” and tipped fellow Republicans that the decision is coming.

That would explain why state Rep. John Burris of Harrison, the Republican leader in the House, is insisting that Gov. Mike Beebe step aside and let Burris make the decisions regarding state government, at least the important ones. Burris is fully partisan, but likely even more full of it — partisanship — when somebody higher up gives him cover.

While the legislature was in recess, before the current fiscal session convened, Burris didn’t tell the governor or Democratic legislators that he was preparing his own state budget. It was only after the time-limited session convened that Burris threatened Republican blockage of Beebe’s budget unless substantial cuts were made. He said the governor and Democratic legislators must accept his demands or be guilty of refusal to compromise. His is the sort of “compromise” that Hitler wanted from Poland.

Republicans in the U.S. Congress have made that body dysfunctional by their extreme and unvarying opposition to any Democratic initiative. President Obama has learned, painfully, that no amount of concession will satisfy them. Burris seems to have the same thing in mind for the Arkansas legislature: Bring the people’s government to a halt, before the people get too big for their britches.

RIVER MARKET MARDI GRAS: Tim and Karen Sergio and Jason Sheppherd of Little Rock had planned to go to New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras but had to change plans when Tim’s battle with cancer took a turn for the worse.

Not to be deterred from celebrating, the trio brought a little Mardi Gras cheer to the River Market Tuesday.

North Little Rock’s miracle

N

orth Little Rock, a blue-collar railroad town that has seen little growth the last 20 years, put a big wager down on its future last week.

Its voters gave 57 percent approval to a huge property tax increase to rebuild the entire city school system.

The 7.4-mill increase means a whopping 18 percent increase in taxes on every car, house and commercial property.

The tax increase will provide a significant portion of a quarter-of-BILLION dollar plan to rebuild the entire city school system. No building will be untouched.

Twenty-one campuses will be consolidated into 13. The savings from that consolidation — it will mean smaller staffs for fewer classrooms — along with $66 million from the state will help pay for the plan.

Voter approval followed by only three months the defeat by North Little Rock voters of a sales tax increase, a proposal meant not only to support basic services but also to spend supposedly transformative sums on community development.

The school district is smaller than the city as a whole, but the school tax drew about 1,400 more voters than the city sales tax election. The turnout was high for a special election, about 20 percent of registered voters and as high as 35 to 40 percent in the higher income neighborhoods north of Interstate 40 where school tax support was strongest. The school tax failed in only two precincts, working class Rose City and Levy.

School Board member Scott Miller offered an analysis on his Facebook page. He notes rightly that North Little Rock sometimes benefits from falling off media radar. Grassroots still matter and, today, social media grassroots matter a lot. Miller said it’s akin to the Twitter-fueled Arab spring: “Independent voices and messages are being heard on a wide scale through Facebook and other social media. Mayor Hays’ sales tax largely lost because of a wicked undercurrent of negativity on Facebook. The

opposite was true of the school millage tax, where the social media content was overwhelmingly positive. And this lack of control is growing as the wave of people who didn’t grow up MAX with computers and technology BRANTLEY maxbrantley@arktimes.com exits the scene.”

Miller hopes the new age will be reflected in a school district rebuilt in more ways than buildings. He can even see a school “without lockers” where students are no longer beasts of burden to stacks of books, but wired into tablets.

The North Little Rock investment is courageously optimistic in face of tough demographic odds. School shortcomings often track race and poverty. North Little Rock schools are majority black and a majority of students are in poverty, as defined by standards for participation in federal nutrition programs.

North Little Rock also is in a tenuous situation as it works itself out of the federal desegregation case.

Many think the state is looking longingly at North Little Rock and the Little Rock district as merger partners to rid the state of its trusteeship of the foundering Pulaski County School District, which surrounds the county’s urban core. North Little Rock was uniquely fixed by its relatively compact size and a significant property tax base to attempt this bold restructuring.

The strong sense of community that drove the tax increase wouldn’t be helped by a broad expansion into neighboring territory.

The enthusiasm for city schools — carefully nurtured by a year-long campaign and undeterred by school leaders’ refusal to cave to city leaders’ pressure to share school financial bounty for downtown redevelopment — is all the more remarkable given the circumstances.

Let’s hope the enthusiasm is rewarded with results.

Building starts next year.

OPINION

Santorum applies religious test

T

he rise of Rick Santorum raises the prospect that this year we will get closer to a test of that sentence in the Constitution that says “no religious test shall ever be required” for president or any other office in the land, which was debated hotly in 1787 but only mildly from time to time in the intervening 225 years.

We will not have a true legal test, of course, because the language and meaning are incontestable — no one can be kept off a ballot or denied office because of his or her peculiar religious faith or lack of one. Mitt Romney, Barack Obama and the wandering religious pilgrim Newt Gingrich need not worry.

And though Santorum may violate the spirit of Article VI Section 3, no one, thanks to the First Amendment, will sue to stop him from claiming that his brand of piety gives him superior credentials for the job or that President Obama’s faith makes him deficient. But Santorum’s ascent to the top of the GOP field means that we will have exactly that debate, at least for a while.

Santorum has been raising the issue

of spiritual suitability for some time, although indirectly in the case of Romney’s Mormonism. He ERNEST doesn’t have to DUMAS exploit that issue squarely. It is firmly implanted with evangelicals.

While campaigning in Ohio last week, the former senator, who unlike previous Catholic candidates adheres rigidly to Catholic doctrine and says he will apply it as president, questioned the president’s Christian values. He accused Obama of having “a phony theology, not a theology based on the Bible — a different theology.” His press secretary, Alice Stewart, formerly with Mike Huckabee and then Michele Bachmann, referred to it in a TV interview as “Islamic” theology, then said she misspoke when the interviewer called her on it.

The president’s men cried foul; it was a low blow even for this subterranean campaign. After letting the con-

troversy simmer for two days, Santorum came up with a “clarification.” He wasn’t questioning whether Obama was a Christian (he did that three years ago) but was referring to the environmental stands of the president. Santorum returned to the old attack on conservationists as Earth worshipers.

“I accept the fact that the president is a Christian,” Santorum said. “I just said that when you have a worldview that elevates the Earth above man and says that we can’t take those resources because we’re going to harm the Earth by things that frankly are just not scientifically proven, for example the politicization of the whole global-warming debate.”

If environmentalism is an antiChristian value, then Rev. Pat Robertson and other clerics are going to hell.

Robertson appeared with Al Gore to preach that God expects Christians to preserve the sanctity “of this fragile planet we all live on.”

But painting Barack Obama as a tree hugger had not been Santorum’s intention. It was to reinvigorate the skepticism about Obama’s Christian conversion. Polls show that many people believe he is a Muslim. In 2008, Santorum said Obama had attended church in Chicago for 20 years so he could claim to be a Christian and one day be elected to political office. Obama had to repeat-

edly restate his faith to interviewers.

As a live candidate Santorum is more circumspect. “If he says he is a Christian, I accept that,” he says in a sort of rhetorical wink.

But running for political office on the ground that you are a better Christian, more faithful to biblical doctrine, will prove to be perilous, as Santorum may already be discovering in the debate over insuring birth control medicine and procedures. Polls show that a huge majority of voters, even Catholics, disagree with him on whether health insurance should cover birth control for anyone who wants it.

If Santorum’s momentum continues, he will soon have to deal publicly with a different kind of marital issue from Newt Gingrich’s. He and his wife, Karen, say birth control and abortion are terrible sins against God. So, did Santorum’s wife use contraceptives all those years when she was the livein girlfriend of Dr. Tom Allen, Pittsburgh’s leading abortion doctor, before she met and married Santorum? Dr. Allen, now 92, says Karen told him when she broke off their affair that her new boyfriend was pro-choice and a humanist like them.

Gingrich, Herman Cain and Bill Clinton can tell Santorum there is no zone of privacy for you or your wife when you are running for president.

MEDIA

DOGin’ the VA

W

ith the Republican primary occupying most of the national news cycle and the state fiscal session, despite Minority Leader John Burris’ best efforts, a bore, maybe Paul Greenberg and co. grew restless and simply couldn’t hold the bile inside anymore.

How else to explain the Democrat-Gazette editorial page’s hysterical opposition to the Department of Veteran Affairs plans to open an expanded veterans service center on Main Street? That the D-G opposes the VA’s plan to serve veterans, including homeless veterans, at a former auto shop on 10th and Main streets isn’t especially surprising; the paper’s editorial page is usually on the wrong side of an issue. That it’s directed a level of vitriol at the VA once reserved for the Clintons strikes me as worth noting.

Critics of the VA’s plan, including Little Rock Mayor Mark Stodola, argue that the VA didn’t consult with the city or neighborhood groups before signing a lease on the Main Street property. As the Times has reported, the VA notified the city’s homeless commission that it was looking for property in April, advertised

that interest for eight days in July, and the property owner’s realtor said he advised the city prior to LINDSEY the November MILLAR lindseymillar@arktimes.com sale. No matter, the D-G has sussed out the real insult — insidious federal overreach. “Naturally the plan to plunk down this clinic where it could do the most harm was undertaken without the informed consent of local people or full consultation with local government,” a Feb. 7 editorial argued. “The VA just published a notice informing its subjects what was coming. Now we’re all supposed to fall in and follow orders. Jawohl!” In case it’s been a while since you watched the History Channel (“all Nazis, all the time!”), the allusion in that last word is meant to suggest that the Department of Veteran Affairs is behaving like fascist Germany. Better yet, the editorial also praised city hall for a proposed ordinance that would put the zoning of a wide range of businesses and organizations, including

the VA, under city purview. Because bureaucracy is OK when it does what we want it to.

The notion of the “harm” the clinic would inflict on the neighborhood in the above quote reflects the D-G’s most risible charge: that the VA center would “help kill Main Street.” That line also comes from the Feb. 7 editorial, which additionally argues that the VA’s plans were coming “just as Main Street was getting its groove back.” The D-G expands along that line in a Feb. 17 editorial: “It hasn’t been too long since Main Street was something of a disaster zone, one boarded-up building after another, a picture of slowly spreading neglect … But old Main has made great strides since those not-so-long-ago years.

There are signs of hope, enterprise and investment up and down the street now.

Because good people put their money and energy where their hopes were.”

A picture of a vibrant Main Street from 1958 accompanied the Feb. 17 editorial.

Evidently, the D-G editorialists haven’t walked down Main Street since then. Aside from the state Department of Human Services office, the Arkansas Repertory Theatre, the two hardware stores that provide an antidote to bigbox land, Bennett’s military supply, a

combination wig shop/two-suits-forthe-price-of-one store and a video rental store that specializes in porn, ain’t much happening on Main Street. The jazz cafe that was supposed to be at the vanguard of reviving the street has apparently closed after being served an eviction notice from its landlord and not paying taxes. Maybe a new cigar bar can fill its place.

It’s true; good people are at work at reviving Main Street. But north of the interstate, they don’t have much to show for it. On the south side, Main Street’s revival is well underway. Perhaps so as not to confuse it with the north stretch of the street, area leaders have branded it SoMa. Last Saturday, I stopped by an open house at the Oxford American’s new home in the former Juanita’s location. If the OA can secure funding for its vision of turning the space into a restaurant/venue that regularly hosts nationally known artists, it could be the driver of Main Street revitalization. So it was heartening to hear OA publisher Warwick Sabin say that in a recent grant proposal he’d included a special section about how the magazine wants to exist within the neighborhood, not see it gentrified. That, to me, sounds like a prescription for Main Street to get its groove back. www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

7

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here’s been significant activity across the Razorback athletics the past few days, so we’ll start with two sports that haven’t been given “Pearls” treatment before ending on welltrod ground.

As the men’s basketball team sputters to a forgettable finish, Tom Collen extricated himself from what presumably was a scalding seat mere weeks ago, leading the women’s squad to its 20th win on Sunday.

Collen is by all accounts a competent, eminently likable coach, but his first four seasons in Fayetteville had yielded only two WNIT appearances and seemed to substantiate the notion that Arkansas simply couldn’t crack the upper third of the SEC. There still may be some veracity to that, as this year the league has softened. Tennessee no longer carries its usual cache but still ultimately rules the roost. Kentucky has quietly become a force, and Georgia has always been steady under the guidance of Andy Landers. Arkansas lost to all three of these teams en route to an 0-4 stumble out of the conference blocks, which seemingly doomed Collen. Even for a program that has never been a juggernaut, a run of five seasons without any NCAA tournament bids would have likely been too much for administration to brush aside.

Yet the Hogs almost instantly flipped the switch, pasting Auburn, LSU, Vanderbilt and Mississippi State by an average of 19 points to square up their league record at 4-4 and inject enthusiasm into the program. They followed that with four more wins before finally showing wear in a home loss to LSU, then rebounded by throttling Mississippi State a second time. Arkansas now sits at 20-6 and tied for fourth in the league standings with a 9-5 mark, though to the bewilderment of many, still unranked.

This resurgence probably earned Collen at least another year, and the squad has likely cleared the NCAA tournament hurdle already (although a win on the road at Tennessee this week would firm that up).

Arkansas has veteran leadership and could parlay that into a nice stay in the tourney if it gets there, which would enhance the program’s profile further for recruiting.

Given how long the women’s program has been dormant, a trip to the dance would certainly resuscitate interest from prep talent in Arkansas and abroad. 

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FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

On the other side of Razorback Road and a little to the south, the baseball Hogs seized on their early opportunity to prove that gaudy preseason rankings were, in fact, very much warranted. The diamond Hogs pummeled Villanova in three straight games at Baum Stadium, rack-

ing up 41 runs and getting suffocating starting pitching.

Dave Van Horn’s charmed run as head baseBEAU ball coach has WILCOX reached its 10th season, and fiendish consistency has been his hallmark. The Razorbacks have never won fewer than 34 games in any season and have won at least 13 SEC games each year since Van Horn took the reins of the program from Norm DeBriyn in 2003.

They have been to the NCAA regionals every year and twice fought their way to Omaha (2004, 2009).

But that predictably stable performance has often masked team deficiencies. Van Horn’s teams have never readily embraced much offensive discipline, striking out commonly and occasionally running into outs on the basepaths due to an aggressive approach. Pitching has almost always been a boon, with Dave Jorn being one of the best assistant coaches in America, capable of making hurlers with modest stuff into dependable weekend starters in the most unforgiving conference in the country. That said, the Hogs have historically found themselves wanting for a steady starter on Sundays, when a league series often hangs in the balance.

Against the Wildcats, junior ace DJ Baxendale flashed his standard-issue, MLB-caliber moxie over a quality fiveinning scoreless stint. Ryne Stanek followed suit with dominant work Saturday, but the real revelation of the weekend may have been Barrett Astin’s five innings of no-hit ball in the series finale. ’Nova (20-32 in 2011) hardly ranks among the nation’s elite teams, hitting or otherwise, but the sophomore righty from Forrest City was so stifling that it appears the Hogs may have the lockdown guy they need at the end of the weekend rotation. The Hogs are flush with pitching depth, and now have weeks of friendly non-conference matchups to figure out which players will be capable of carrying a decidedly untested lineup. 

Last things last: this year’s postThanksgiving duel with LSU on the football field will officially transpire in the Ozarks rather than Midtown Little Rock.

The long-rumored shift was unsurprising, and it elicited little outcry. Bygone debates about the virtues of having two home fields sway no one with a rudimentary grasp of economics. War Memorial Stadium still has its place as a gracious occasional host, but a game that has taken on national gravity belongs there no longer.

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Four Tops, yes. Police, no: “Wagner has never been charged, and police plan to reach out to him as part of the re-opened investigation, but they say he is not a suspect.”

A reader complains there’s too much reaching out going on these days, and I share the concern. When the police reach out to me, I shy away, no matter what they’re saying.

Probably reached out to him. And grabbed hold: “Arkansas pulled off a credible defensive job on Vanderbilt’s John Jenkins, the SEC’s leading scorer with 20 points per game.”

Credible means “believable.” The word the writer wanted was creditable – “bringing or deserving credit, honor or esteem.”

“I saw in the paper that Bishop Woosley had been hired as director of the state Lottery Commission. Wasn’t he one of Henry the VIII’s flunkies? Seems like we’d need a younger man for this job.”

There’s a little confusion here. The churchman who served as an adviser to

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

I don’t know much about preparators, but I know what I like: “Sara Segerlin, public programs coordinator, and Chuck Flook, lead preparator, speak Monday during Spotlight Talk: Installing Large Sculptures, discussing Claes Oldenburg’s ‘Alphabet/Good Humor’ sculpture at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville.”

Before I looked in the dictionary and got cultured, I couldn’t have told you that a preparator is “A person who prepares a specimen for scientific examination or exhibition.” I probably would have called such a person a preparer, and how those New York art critics would have laughed.

WEEK THAT WAS

It was a good week for…

It was a bad week for…

RON MATHIEU. The executive director of the Little Rock National Airport got a makeup for a pay raise he missed last year following the controversy over $40,000 he gave to Little Rock Christian, the private school his son attended, to install a new surface for the football field. The airport commission awarded Mathieu a $10,000 bonus, plus a $10,000 pay raise from $180,000 to $190,000.

PASSING A BUDGET. Minority Leader Rep. John Burris held up movement in the fiscal session with his proposal of a budget plan that shaves $21 million from nearly a dozen state departments and borrows from surplus to meet a Medicaid cost increase.

In all, Burris’ proposal would cost 61 state jobs. Governor Beebe has called most of Burris’ ideas a “non-starter,” but said he would talk to Republicans about cuts as long as they didn’t come in the Health Department, the Forestry Commission, the Economic Development Commission or the Department of Higher Education.

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION. The state Supreme Court ruled that the “use-of-force” records prepared by the officer involved in an altercation with a man outside Ferneau Restaurant are a matter of public record, affirming the Pulaski Circuit Court ruling in the case. Judge Wendell Griffen had previously ordered the Little Rock Police Department to turn over use-offorce documents concerning Lt. David Hudson to attorneys for Chris Erwin.

While working as a private security guard at Ferneau, Hudson was filmed on video repeatedly hitting Erwin, a customer, in the face. The city earlier had contended it had provided Erwin’s lawyer all it was required to provide under the Freedom of Information Act and that the use-of-force records were exempt from the state Freedom of Information Act because they were part of an internal affairs inquiry.

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Henry VIII was Bishop Woolsey (also spelled Wolsey), and yes, he would be well past the mandaDOUG tory retirement SMITH dougsmith@arktimes.com age today. The new lotterer puts the s before the l, and in his case, I believe “Bishop” is a given name and not a title.

ALICE STEWART. Having jumped from the frying pan of Michele Bachmann to the fire of Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum as a spokesperson, the former Arkansas newswoman/political operative is already having to clean up after herself — for accusing President Obama of “radical Islamic policies.” Just a slip of the tongue, she said.

POST-THANKSGIVING FOOTBALL IN LITTLE ROCK. As widely expected, the University of Arkansas announced that its football team will play LSU on Nov. 24 in Fayetteville instead of Little Rock, where the game has been played the last nine times the Razorbacks were the home team. In exchange, Little Rock fans will see Ole Miss at War Memorial on Oct. 27. Louisiana-Monroe comes on Sept. 8 as well.

THE OBSERVER NOTES ON THE PASSING SCENE

The Hospital Dog The following is a shortened version of a note sent to The Observer last week by a friend of the Times who is in the midst of saying a long, sad goodbye, but who has been comforted by an unlikely angel. It was just too pretty not to share:

their break time and go back to work.

I have seen him go up to groups of people, gathered around the entrance of the hospital, and sit politely on the perimeter of the circle, just in case someone needs the comfort only petting a puppy can provide. He seems THERE AREN’T MANY BRIGHT SPOTS, sitto know this. More often than not, he ting in a hospital room on cold, dreary is ignored. The people leave in their winter days, watching your father die cars and he goes back to his spot on by inches. the grass, waiting for his next mission.

Day after day, I come to the hospiI have come to know him as the most tal, sit in my dad’s room at a little desk welcome sort of minister — there if you by the window and read news on the need him, not imposing if you don’t.

Shortly after discovering The Hoscomputer, hoping I can escape for a few minutes from the living hell my pital Dog, I began putting a bag of treats father is trapped in at the moment. The in my car. When I arrive in the hoswindow in the room faces the entrance pital parking lot, I say “Puppy” in his of the hospital, so I sit and watch peodirection. He bounds from his locaple come and go. tion and comes to sit politely a The ones comfew feet away ing in are usuI have seen him go up to ally slumped so not to invade groups of people, gathered over, either to my space, but to around the entrance of the shelter themlet me know he hospital, and sit politely on selves from the is here for whatthe perimeter of the circle, wind or cold, or ever I need. He weighted down always appears just in case someone needs by the burden so grateful when the comfort only petting a they are bringing I pull out the bag puppy can provide. in. The patients of treats and give leaving are usuhim enough to sustain him ally a bit happier, just thankful to be going home. through the morning.

Each day when I get up before dayIt was on one such gloomy day that I light and get dressed to come sit with was looking out the window for something, anything that could distract me, my dad, I have a sense of impending when I began to pay closer attention doom that sometimes overshadows to The Hospital Dog. my day. I can’t help it. Even though I had seen this stout little black and I had a tutorial in this, watching my white dog around town on several occamother die three years ago, I wasn’t a sions, always wondering why an owner good student and the lessons I learned would let him run loose that way. But from that seem to escape me now. It after several days here at the hospital, is as though I am learning it all over I began to wonder if this was his home. again, knowing the final exam could The Hospital Dog is here every be days away. morning when I arrive. He usually lies But at least now I know that no matin a patch of grass, waiting for hospital ter how difficult the day, how horrible employees to walk across the street to the sights and sounds around me might a designated area to smoke. He will be, I can walk out the door to the little accompany them and sit patiently, hopgrassy spot and there will be a black ing for a pat on the head or a treat of and white dog, waiting to let me know some sort. Even on the days when he tomorrow is a new day and I must make gets neither, he sits like a gentleman the best of the challenge I have been given ... just like he has done. guardian until his friends have used up

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FEBRUARY 22, 2012

11

Arkansas Reporter

THE

IN S IDE R

Political filing opens Thursday, Feb. 23, and some question marks remain about Democratic congressional candidates in the 2nd and 4th Districts.

At press time, no Democrat had formally announced for the 2nd District seat held by U.S. Rep. Tim Griffin, a Republican.

North Little Rock lawyer Jay Martin, a former state representative, has told the Times he’s likely to make the race. But he apparently is also hanging back for a decision by Bill Halter.

Halter, the former lieutenant governor who lives in North Little Rock, has refused to say anything about his political plans this year, if any. National Democrats have urged him to make a congressional race, in either the 2nd or 4th District.

He was noncommittal when Martin talked with him. Martin finished fourth in the Democratic primary for lieutenant governor that Halter won in 2006. Halter’s silence might actually help Martin if he is indeed firm on the race because the potential entry of Halter might discourage less serious candidates from joining the race.

Sen. Gene Jeffress of Louann has said he will run as a Democrat in the 4th District, but has filed no reports indicating he’s raised any money for the race, even the filing fee. He also didn’t return a call from the Times seeking to confirm he remained in the race. D.C. Morrison has said he’ll run as a Democrat in the 4th and has already erected signs in the district. A candidate for the Democratic U.S. Senate nomination in 2010, he endorsed Beth Anne Rankin for 4th District Congress in 2010, when she lost to Rep. Mike Ross. She’s a Republican candidate again, with three others, Tom Cotton, John Cowart and Marcus Richmond.

Glasgow search Officers with the Little Rock Police Department spent several days in late January guarding a windswept soybean field near England where Faulkner County Jail inmate Jon Brawner said the body of missing construction executive John Glasgow was buried, only to have ground-penetrating radar brought in by the Arkansas Archeological Survey on Jan. 26 turn up nothing but CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 12

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

BRIAN CHILSON

Will he or won’t he?

NURULLAYEV: Uzbek native fears jail at home.

Seeking asylum Student at Bowen law school fears jail if he has to return to Uzbekistan.

BY LESLIE NEWELL PEACOCK

S

itting in an airport in Washington, D.C., with a Coke in one hand and a Big Mac in the other, a 16-yearold just arrived from Uzbekistan was wide-eyed with curiosity. So this is America?

Now, 12 years after his first visit to the United States, Dmitriy Nurullayev, a first-year law student at the William H. Bowen School of Law of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, feels like he is an American. But if Nurullayev, 23, can’t get asylum in the United States, he believes he faces years in prison when his student visa expires and he’s forced to return to the former Soviet state.

America is home to him because “home is where you feel safe,” Nurullayev said in an interview. It is also where his views of Uzbekistan corruption, which he has long been aware of, came into clearer focus.

Nurullayev was 16 in 2005 when he made his first trip to the U.S., on a State Department FLEX (Future Leaders Exchange) scholarship, for a year

of high school. He ended up in Helena. (“I thought I spoke English before I came to Helena,” he said, smiling.) After a year back in Uzbekistan for college, where professors demanded money for good grades, Nurullayev prevailed on an American family that has taken him under its wing and returned to Arkansas in 2007. He graduated from Hendrix in 2010 with a degree in international relations.

Nurullayev — Dima to his friends — has made a mark for someone so young.

He and a friend from Uzbekistan who also traveled to the U.S. on a FLEX scholarship have created Awareness Project International, a not-for-profit that focuses on human rights, environmental and health issues. Three Arkansans sit on the board: Retired Ouachita Baptist University vice president Bill Dixon, University of Central Arkansas professor Mark Mullenbach and Hendrix College President Timothy Cloyd.

Nurullayev, who is an admirer of Bill Clinton, spoke at the Clinton

Global Initiative meeting in Miami in 2010 on the non-profit and the educational “summer camps” it offered in Jizzakh, Uzbekistan, in 2007, 2008 and 2009. The camps broached such topics as the Uzbekistan president’s unconstitutional third term in office, the mistreatment of women and the country’s notorious forced child labor in government-owned cotton fields.

In December last year, Nurullayev and Awareness Project International co-founder Aziz Yuldashev traveled to Uzbekistan to visit family. On Jan. 2, Nurullayev said, police told him was to come to the main police office the next day for questioning. There, two members of the Uzbek secret service asked him about the non-profit he’d created and the camp teachings and told him he was acting as an enemy of the state.

It was the first of several days and many hours of questioning. He was told he faced a prison sentence of 17 years unless he signed what he called a “promissory note” saying he works for the Uzbek secret service. He was allowed to return to the U.S. on the condition that he report in to the Uzbek police on his activities here. He was also told that should he share his story with U.S. officials, he would be jailed on his return to Uzbekistan. He signed the note, and was able to leave the country.

Nurullayev believes it’s in his best interest to publish what happened to him in Uzbekistan — that it could help him gain asylum. He is working with a lawyer in Memphis and gathering affidavits of support.

Bill McGurk, a retired Connecticut banker whose son, Brendan, was a Peace Corps volunteer in Uzbekistan and who lived with Nurullayev’s family there, has sponsored the Uzbeki student here, paying his tuition at Hendrix, a pricy private college, and law school. “I think he’s going to be quite successful down the road,” McGurk said. “We think highly of him, and we put our money where our mouth would be.” Brendan McGurk, now a field program advisor for an Afghani business, Development Initiatives, has written a statement in support of Nurullayev’s request for asylum.

Nurullayev is optimistic that he will be granted asylum and when he is, “I’ll find peace. … I’m tired of worrying.”

LISTEN UP

THE

BIG PICTURE

HISTORY MAKERS The state Capitol, in observance of Black History Month, is exhibiting 45 portraits of African-Americans who served in the state legislature during Reconstruction, 18681893. A total of 85 black legislators, most in the House of Representatives, served after the state Constitution was amended in 1868 to give African-American men the right to vote and hold public office. Laws designed to squelch black voting rights, including the poll tax, ended the African-American ability to get elected; there were no blacks in the legislature in the 80 years between 1893 and 1973.

WILLIAM H. GREY 1868-1869 (House) Phillips County

JAMES T. WHITE 1868-1869 (House) 1871, 1873 (Senate) Phillips County

CARL R. POLK 1871, 1881 (House) Jefferson County

Tune in to the Times’ “Week In Review” podcast each Friday.

Available on iTunes & arktimes.com

INSIDER, CONT. some ancient Native American sites and a little farming debris.

Glasgow disappeared without a trace after leaving his Little Rock home on Jan. 28, 2008. His car was later found at Petit Jean State Park near Morrilton.

So what did the search operation in England cost, and what’s the potential fallout for Brawner?

Lt. Terry Hastings said the department doesn’t have a total yet, but the police overtime pay alone amounts to $32,210.24.

“That doesn’t count the onduty, regular time personnel,” Hastings said. “We don’t have a count on that. That was strictly the overtime for guys to watch that [field] while we were searching.” Hastings said there were detectives and other officers on duty at the field during the scanning process, and the LRPD hasn’t received a bill yet for a day’s use of the ground-penetrating radar unit and operators.

As for Brawner, Hastings said: “We are looking at the possibility of charging him with [making] a false police report.”

Police have not said what, if any, other information Brawner provided that encouraged them to take his account seriously, beyond the absence of any advantage to Brawner of making a false claim.

Local flavor at the airport JOHN H. JOHNSON 1873 (House) Woodruff County

ISAAC T. GILLAM 1879 (House) Pulaski County

MARSHALL MURRAY 1883 (House) Lafayette County

Some local businesses will add a little taste of the territory in the offerings at Little Rock National Airport.

HMSHost, the airport concessionaire, is adding Whole Hog Cafe to the lineup of eateries.

Whole Hog has taken its ribs, pulled pork and other smoked meats into multiple cities since its successful launch in Little Rock by barbecue contest smokers.

Travelers can wash it down with local firewater as well. HMSHost said it will add products of Rock Town Distillery, the Little Rock-based craft spirits maker, to the lineup at several bars and restaurants.

Ask the Times DANIEL W. LEWIS 1883 (House) Crittenden County

ISAAC G. BAILEY 1885 (House) Desha County

JOSEPH H. BRADFORD 1885 (House) Mississippi County

For years we ran a feature called “Ask the Times,” where we answered a wide range of readers’ questions. We’re reviving it as part of our Big Picture feature.

If you have questions in need of answers send them to lindseymillar@arktimes.com with the subject line “Ask the Times.” www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

13

WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON IN BRYANT?

Jill Dabbs mounts a Republican revolution.

S

BY CHEREE FRANCO

MARK GREGORY

he’s about 5’4” with blonde-streaked hair and, on some days, bottletan skin. She supports conceal and carry rights, touts Christianity on Facebook, makes public appearances in polyester blend and employs phrases like “gotcha” when presiding over city council meetings. Once she juggled a dual management role, overseeing both her daughter’s swim team and her husband’s business. She spends her days composing termination letters for directors of city departments and peppering city hall with GOP figureheads. Dollar Store buzz is she’s got her sights on the mansion. No, not the Hurricane Lake mansion.

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FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

“People don’t want change, or they want it, but they want it slower.

Sometimes if that wheel is out there and it’s squeaking, you’ve got to grease it.”

sive mahogany desk in his office. He has the fabled cop-belly and shoulders slack from too many hours behind a computer. Bryant is not a hotbed of crime.

In fact, Kizer can only recall two homicides in the past decade, and at least one was domestic and committed by a non-Bryant resident.

“I’ll tell you anything you want to know,” Kizer said affably. “I’ve known the mayor 10 years. I met Allen [Dabbs, the mayor’s husband] when he was on the City Council, and I was a sergeant at the police department. And we’re on Quorum Court together.”

Besides being police chief, Kizer, along with Allen Dabbs, is a Republican member of the Saline County Quorum Court. Kizer and Dabbs also volunteer as deputies for the Saline County Sheriff’s Office. Mayor Dabbs has been criticized for hiring Mark Kizer, who started pulling a city paycheck on the same day that she did. The former chief, Tony Coffman, resigned in order to keep his vacation pay. (“I’d heard that Mayor Dabbs was planning to fire me and hire Mark Kizer,” he said.)

Chief Kizer leaned forward, elbows on his desk. “Anytime you have a position as strong as police chief, you need to have some kind of friendship with that person. You need to know what they are capable of,” he said.

“Allen rode with me as a reserve, he knew the job I did ... And as long as job is being done efficiently, what does it matter?”

Kizer served on the Bryant police force from 1999 till 2003. “I had a couple of cases involving the police chief’s children.

His daughter was arrested twice for narcotics on my shift. So it became a hostile work environment,” he said. His problems were with an earlier chief, but he left the force shortly after Coffman became chief. After two years with the Saline County Sheriff’s Office, Kizer started his own business, selling law enforcement equipment.

Kizer’s chief’s salary was set at $74,092, $7,400 higher annually than Coffman’s. On his employment application, he listed previous positions in sales. He was chosen over 14 other applicants, all of whom had listed law enforcement positions. Two applicants had over 30 years experience in law enforcement.

Since Kizer became chief, aldermen have accused the force of frivolous spending, including the purchase of two Hummers and a skylift (an adjustable crowd surveillance platform). “These were bought at deep discount from a federal surplus,” Kizer explained. “It’s over $400,000 of equipment that the city was able to purchase for less than $5,000, and there is a need for it. The Hummers help with interstate rescue in inclement weather … we got the MARK GREGORY

This is not Sarah Palin, circa 1999. It’s Jill Dabbs, speak with me or has any concerns about what we circa 2012. She’s the first female mayor of Bryant are doing can call Gail.” (Gail was unable to help — land of strip malls, shiny housing developments, the Arkansas Times.) suburban amenities and recently, three-ring pubWhen the KTHV reporter asked Dabbs about the lic meetings. fast-disappearing city employees, Dabbs flashed a toothy pageant smile. “I get along great with all the Dabbs, 39, has been a neon billboard from the beginning. While campaigning in late 2010, she city employees, but I would like to say, I terminated sued Saline County to change her name so the nonthree department heads at the beginning of the year, partisan ballot would read “Republican” Jill Dabbs. and at the end of 2011, I asked for the resignation of She lost the suit, won the election, and garnered a two. That’s a total of five. [Then] there were some stern scolding from the state Ethics Commission for people in those departments that did not want to misreporting campaign funds. (Somehow, fish fry work in my administration.”

In all fairness, Dabbs, 39, has a tough job. Four admission fees never made it to the official donayears of studying English and speech at the Univertion record.)

In January 2011, her first month in office, she sity of Arkansas at Little Rock couldn’t have prepared replaced the chief of police (an 18-year force vether for the urban planning nightmare she now faces. eran) with Mark Kizer, the husband of her friend Bryant mushroomed from a population of 387 in and colleague, City Clerk Heather Kizer. Then she 1950, to a grand white-flight tally of 1,199 by 1970. gave herself and Clerk Kizer pay raises, without A few decades later, around the time HBO aired the approval of the City Council. (The money was “Gang War: Bangin’ in Little Rock,” Bryant nearly quickly returned, after another Ethics Commission wrist-slap.) Shayne King, the city’s human resources director of 12 years, questioned the raises before the Commission caught wind.

King was fired for her efforts and is now suing the mayor and the city for $333,104 in wrongful discharge.

King is one of 47 full-time city employees who have been fired or resigned since Dabbs took office. Last month, an alderman introduced a recall petition to have BRYANT POLICE CHIEF the mayor removed.

MARK KIZER Dabbs is unwilling to discuss any of this with the Arkansas Times because she dislikes the Arkansas Blog’s reportage on her administration.

After dodging interview requests for months, she came clean at a town hall doubled again, from 5,269 in 1990 to 9,764 in 2000. meeting in early February: “It’s against my convicNow the tally hovers just below 17,000, and the city tions to speak to Arkansas Times, or any paper that infrastructure struggles to keep up. Older residents publishes lies,” she said coolly. resent taxes and codes that come with annexation.

But in a Jan. 5 interview on KTHV, Ch. 11, Dabbs They don’t want new roads creeping close, devaluing addressed the recall effort: “There has been some their property. But nearly 60 percent of the town’s false allegations against me and my administration workforce commutes beyond Saline County. These from people that oppose me, and that just comes with younger professionals, who shop, play and worship the job. ... They’ve talked about this [recall petition] in the capital city, want clean schools, low crime and since this time last year. Why they’re getting traction free-flowing roads. on it at this point in time is beyond me.”

She also mentioned Alderman Adrian Henley, ■ ■ ■ who initiated the recall effort. “I have invited you individually, Adrian Henley, Alderman Henley, I “PEOPLE DON’T WANT CHANGE, or they want have invited you to my office to come and discuss it, but they want it slower. Sometimes if that wheel with me what your concerns are, and he has yet to is out there and it’s squeaking, you’ve got to grease do so. I offer my office to anyone who wants to come it,” Police Chief Kizer said in a recent interview and visit with me. This is the people’s office, it’s not with the Times. mine. My assistant is Gail. Anyone that wants to Kizer appeared comfortable behind the mas-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

15

■ ■ ■

IN FEBRUARY 2010, two months into her term, Dabbs fired the city engineer and the information technology manager. Late last year, she asked for the resignation of Gary Hollis, head of finance (who was reinstated by the Council in an emergency meeting on Jan. 4 and then resigned again Jan. 19), and Nga Mahfouz, city attorney. Dabbs insinuated that the two were under investigation in connection with an IT contract fraud that has cost the city nearly $50,000. But according to Ken Casady, county prosecutor, no Bryant employee, current or former, is undergoing criminal investigation.

Dabbs replaced Mahfouz with Doyle Webb, chair of the Arkansas Republican Party — again, without the approval of the council and despite the fact that he plans to keep his full-time GOP. gig.

The prolonged game of employee musical chairs has ignited furious debate amongst Bryant residents on online forums, and recent council meetings have been rife with climactic moments.

Once, Dabbs walked out of a meeting after Alderman Brenda Miller asked her to explain a recently surfaced photo taken in the summer of 2011. The photo shows Dabbs sitting next to a man with an open beer, at a city park in a dry county. “This is a big ole ‘gotcha’ moment, but I’m here to discuss city business,” Dabbs said, rising from her chair.

“This is city business,” several aldermen protested, even as Dabbs stormed off.

Alderman Henley announced the recall effort in a KATV interview following January’s emergency meeting. If Henley collects 2,400 signatures, the recall will earn a spot on the ballot in November 2012. If the recall passes, Dabbs would leave office in December 2012. The council would appoint an interim mayor until new elections could be arranged.

At a bakery, the morning after the announcement, Henley tried to explain why he initiated the recall.

“Last night I had a guy come up, get in my face, tell me he’s going to recall me,” Henley said. “But this is a professional thing, and there are laws that allow recall. At least 50 or 60 people asked me, what can we do to remove her? There was a big outcry. I wouldn’t have stepped out otherwise. I represent the citizens, and I’m supposed to be the guy out there on point.”

Some people think Henley just wants Dabbs’s job.

16

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

“I’m not interested in being mayor. Not at this time; maybe in the future.” Henley’s voice was muffled, because he was half under the table gathering the crackers his 2-year-old son had flung there. At 34, Henley has three kids and homework. He’s roughly halfway through a political science degree at UALR, and it does seem that he has enough on his plate without trying to oversee an imploding city.

According to Henley, Bryant has been through four IT directors and three human resource directors since Dabbs took office. “And she remodeled her office and the clerk’s in her first week. Twentysix hundred dollars worth of furniture! No other administration came in and just started spending money like that,” he said.

responsibility.” With Bryant, Penn drew an annual salary of $91,000, but Alderman Henley claims that the city has spent at least $300,000 outsourcing engineering projects since Penn left.

In the KTHV interview, Dabbs called Henley an obstructionist. “Mr. Henley comes to meetings, he votes ‘no’ on absolutely everything. He voted ‘no’ on a stop sign in a neighborhood with lots of children in it. … There’s some things you just can’t do anything about, and that’s one thing I have to live with: Alderman Henley.”

The stop sign claim is simply confusing to Henley.

“I’m not sure what she’s talking about. We don’t vote for stop signs,” he said.

But he does understand why Dabbs is desperate to depict herself as a conservative Republican. He ■ ■ ■ thinks Bryant’s morphing political views represent a microcosm of the state’s. “It’s become very BEFORE HIS TERMINATION, city engineer Richconservative in Bryant. It’s changed along with ard Penn served Bryant for eight years under three Arkansas. Arkansas was always a Democratic state, but I believe it’s on the forefront of the Republican move right now. And Saline County’s made a big move in that way in the last 10 years. Right here and now, they’ve got a lot of Republicans from Saline County moving to Bryant … [state Rep.] Ann Clemmer, [former state Rep.] Jeremy Hutchinson, Doyle Webb, BRYANT ALDERMAN all from this area.”

ADRIAN HENLEY Even so, he wonders, how far are the new breed of Bryant Republicans willing to go, and how petty are they willing to be?

Recently an anonymous commenter posted crude personal attacks against Henley and to a lesser degree, Alderman Danny Steele, at Henley’s website, ImprovingBryant.com. One of the milder comments, in response to mayors. “Mayor Dabbs asked all department heads to a post on increased water rates, reads: “You guys provide some information, and then she fired some of wouldn’t have a problem with this increase if she us,” Penn said. He was called to Dabbs’ office, given [Dabbs] had included Rogaine for Danny Steele and a termination letter and escorted back to his office Twinkies for Adrian Henley in 2012 budget.” Most by two cops who watched him gather his things. of the comments aren’t printable.

He didn’t argue with the mayor. “I was leaving Henley has traced these comments to an IP a lot of work, but I didn’t feel I would be successful address belonging to Southwest Power Pool. Brett with those projects under her leadership. It was an Hooton, who chaired the Saline County Republican unsettled environment,” he said. “The mayor said Party until last year, works at Southwest Power Pool. she would not continue business as usual, and none Both Henley’s lawyer and Southwest Power Pool’s lawyer are working to determine the troll. of us had any understanding of what that meant. We were concerned on a daily basis that someone else would be asked to leave.”

■ ■ ■ There was no severance package and no unemployment, but Penn was lucky. After a few months DESPITE HER PROFESSED NONCHALANCE, as in private practice, he was hired by Hot Springs as soon as Henley announced the recall petition, Mayor director of utilities. “I’m not distressed by the overall Dabbs lined up a series of town hall meetings. Duroutcome,” Penn said. “Hot Springs is a larger system ing the first one, at First Pentecostal Church, Dabbs CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 with a larger budget. I’m excited to take on greater

“I’m not interested in being mayor.

Not at this time; maybe in the future.”

BRIAN CHILSON

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seemed visibly relaxed, in snug, boot-cut khakis and a matching blazer. She chatted with constituents, introducing them to her preteen daughter.

According to Kizer, Dabbs is an excellent mother to her two daughters, Emily, 17, and Reagan, 11.

“Even as mayor, she comes home at 7:30 and cooks for her children and her family,” he said. The newlyelected Dabbs also helped her oldest daughter nab a life-guarding position at the city’s Bishop Park, and she slipped city-paid coaches into a park contract for the Bryant Barracudas, her daughter’s swim team — a privilege that no other Bryant swim team warranted. (The contract was amended before any coaches were actually hired.)

At First Pentecostal, Reagan was exceptionally composed. She helped attendees with nametags, smiled when appropriate and occasionally riffled through a paperback of “Roll of Thunder, Hear my Cry.” Later Dabbs stood in front of the church with a free-handed mic, exchanging public pleasantries with a few aldermen before launching into a pep talk about beautifying parks. A litter-free Bryant is, apparently, a primary goal of her administration.

bers — athletic men in their early 40’s — sat behind a folding table piled with T-shirts. They shared onion rings and discussed the pros and cons of Bryant.

“There’s no industry, it’s all retail. There’s no town or main street,” said Dan Cowart, a representative for Neff sporting goods company. His family moved to Bryant from Little Rock in the mid-’90s.

“I moved here in 1997,” said James Scoggins, director of nursing at Arkansas State Hospital.

“I liked the quiet and there’s not so much traffic, though it is more bustling than it used to be. My wife grew up in Benton, but we chose Bryant because it just seemed to be more active, to be growing better.”

“Bryant has grown faster than the city can handle,” said Cowart. “Slowly but surely they’re working it out, doing some work on the roads.”

Scoggins admitted to hearing rumors about the mayor “firing people and misusing funds.” But without knowing both sides of the story, he wouldn’t sign any petition.

primaries (this bunch is virulently anti-Obama) to the price of eggs and milk.

They don’t know the mayor personally, nor do they know Henley, although he did drop by one morning. About half of them signed his petition.

Collectively, these men have a long memory. They moved from Little Rock in the ’60s, when everyone knew everyone and metal companies Reynolds and Alcoa were the biggest employers in town.

“I’m proud that McDonald’s is here. This used to be nothing but a thicket,” said tile-worker Roger Urrey, his blue eyes piercing beneath the brim of a black cowboy hat. “But there were big changes because of the school district, I guess. We’ve got some Yankees, moved in from up north.” He winks.

He means Little Rock.

A former volunteer firefighter, Urrey served on the City Council in the mid-1980s under Mayor Dean Boswell Jr. “We kept it in the City Council.

We tried to work things out before it got to the public. I think that’s the best way,” Urrey said.

■ ■ ■

BRIAN CHILSON

BUT MAYOR JILL DABBS OPERATES in a world where the personal is public. Her Internet persona is in parts, ■ ■ ■ sentimental, political and defensive. She openly supDABBS’ IMMEDIATE ports a “Santorium[sic]/ COMPATRIOTS — felGingrich ticket” and low Bryant professiontweets “OMG=Obama Must Go away.” Other als with young families — are conspicuously absent recent tweets: “Beautiful from both City Council streets can honor traffic and town hall meetings. & respect the pedestrian But they fill up the stands and improve economic sustainability in a comat Friday night basketball munity” (tweeted from games, in Bryant’s clean an Arkansas Municipal hyper-lit high school gym.

Stacey Newburn and League conference) and her husband both work in a retweet: “Leo’s may be ‘REPUBLICANS’ DABBS, KIZER: The mayor and city clerk were scolded by the Ethics Commission for trying to Little Rock. She’s a haira bit bossy, but those who change their names for a non-partisan race. dresser and he’s in insurknow them understand ance. They moved to Brythis comes from a source ant five years ago in search of better schools. “You need to do good, not (usually) from an inflated ego.”

Those who do keep up seem reluctant to speak get more for your money out here,” Newburn said. on record.

Her physical persona is a bit more faltering. With “And we want our children to be OK playing outside.”

“I work for the school,” said a woman in the the exception of the “gotcha moment,” Dabbs rarely Newburn’s family is among Bryant’s 6.7 percent bleachers. “I want to continue to work for the school. raises her voice at council meetings. But her tone black population, which is, according to Newburn, But that one, he’s opinionated.” She indicated a often veers between chirpy and snippy, and her a non-issue. “But I do think diversity is increasing,” heavyset man intently logging each play on an iPad. expression betrays flashes of rage or panic. she said. “When we first moved here, there weren’t “I bet he’ll talk.”

During the public comments section of the Jan. 26 many blacks at all.”

During the break between third and fourth quarcouncil meeting, a process server presented Dabbs Her voice was underscored by incessantly poundters, the man set his iPad aside, crossed his arms and with a packet of legal documents, courtesy of Shayne ing sneakers. Seated alone, she watched ponytailed shook his head firmly. “That woman [Mayor Dabbs] King’s lawyer. There was no mistaking the mayor’s girls in blue and white shorts fly across the court. has been harassed enough by the media. I’m not momentary shock. Her eyes widened, and there In a few minutes, the boys’ basketball game would going to say anything. I’m on her side,” he huffed. was a barely perceptible delay in the server’s profbegin. She was there to see her son.

The early morning patrons at McDonald’s aren’t ering of the envelope and Dabbs’ move to accept Newburn hadn’t heard about the recall petiafraid to talk. They come in unofficial shifts, wearing it. Dabbs skimmed the documents and recovered tion. “I don’t keep up with city government,” she buttoned-downs and jeans, nearly filling the right quickly — “I’ve been served,” she quipped, flashexplained. “I wait for my husband to tell me if someside of the restaurant. Some of them eat and head off ing another pageant smile. Then Republican city thing’s going on.” to subcontracting jobs. The others — retired truck attorney Doyle Webb relieved Republican mayor Others are similarly detached. drivers, dairy farmers and construction workers — Jill Dabbs of the envelope, and Dabbs called for the In the gym’s entryway, two Booster Club memlinger for hours, discussing everything from the GOP next commenter.

18

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

Round 3 Winner Joey Farr & the Fuggins Wheat Band

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» Trasspassers (9:30pm) » Laundry for the Apocalypse (10:30pm) » Ben Franks & the Bible Belt Boys (11:30pm) » Jab Jab Sucker Punch (12:30am)

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Fuggins’ smoking guitar heroics carry Joey Farr.

BY NATALIE ELLIOTT AND ROBERT BELL

I

t’s almost worthless to try to pinpoint the myriad influences on the Round 4 Showcase winners, the technically brilliant and genre-exploding Joey Farr and the Fuggins Wheat Band (though Mr. Bungle, Ween, and Frank Zappa come quickly to mind).

Surprisingly, their set was mostly instrumental, allowing guitarist Farr to endlessly explore skillful, effectsdrenched noodling that somehow never quite felt as navel-gazing as a too-long jam-band solo. Their songs leapt blissfully between genres — sometimes within the same number. I distinctly recall a Latin-tinged jam that switched effortlessly to Western-swing-picking breakdowns. Some tunes verged on steady-handed white-people blues and reggae, but it never seemed ingratiating and would inevitably showcase the band’s adept musicianship — there were at least two of Farr’s solos that were met with standing ovations from the judges.

Thursday’s round opened with buoyant melodies from Conway-based college-rock three-piece Wooden Toys and a dose of ever-peppy show(wo)manship from presiding frontlady Lira Mondal. The band’s minimalist song construction — balanced mostly between tasteful, distortion-heavy guitar work and Mondal’s charmingly just-off-key singing — dutifully resuscitated the best of ’90s indie rock with confidence and vigor. Mondal’s vocals were bright and clear, delivering semi-poetic, totally distinguishable lyrics dealing with lukewarm romantic encounters (we think there were at least three mentions of someone driving or walking away disappointedly) and even when her voice faltered or rang a bit leaden, her sheer chutzpah and team spirit were absolutely thrilling.

Swampbird lit out onstage with some raw-throated, demolition-derby country-rock — the old “take no prisoners” cliche almost falls short of their whiskey-swilling millennial-outlaw shtick. With songs about failed relationships with good women, marijuana use, trainhopping, pistol-toting and lessons in the geography of

the Southeastern United States, Swampbird’s obvious forebears are popular Southern blue-collar poets like The Drive-by Truckers and Lucero. They’re boldly devoted performers, and would have to be, selling us on their hard-living and bad-decision-making personas.

In a rather bold move, Quadkiller opened its set piping in “Ride of Valkyries,” with rhyme-sayer Anthony Thomas chanting from behind a tinted window in a brickwall prop. He later emerged to join Adam Lansky onstage, rapping through a distortion-enhanced handheld mic. Thomas’s flow was technically impressive and selfassured, perhaps leaning a little too hard on relationship metaphors and hater-ism but, thankfully, he wasn’t preoccupied with intimidation. The duo, as perilously serious as they may seem, show a lot of ingenuity and promise, and I can’t wait to see what they conjure up in the future.

ROUND 5 LINEUP: Trasspassers is a duo from Fayetteville made up of Greg Moore and Michael Jordan, who make brightly colored, squiggly keyboard jams. “Orrinbee,” from the group’s recent EP “No Dumpling,” sounds at times like an Ariel Pink song recorded onto a primitive sampler that’s slowly dying, while “Time is Right” echoes MGMT’s earlier goodtime electro pop and the ecstatic singing of Animal Collective’s Avey Tare. “6am” is a bit on the darker side, starting off with a skittery drumbeat before melting into chopped and screwed vocals and burbling synths.

Laundry for the Apocalypse is former Dangerous Idiots and Techno Squid Eats Parliament member Aaron Sarlo’s new outfit, with Matt Rice, John David Hilliard, Drew Wilkerson and Adrian Brigman. Sarlo’s vocals

Ben Franks & The Bible Belt Boys formed last year in Hot Springs. The trio — all men of the cloth — is made up of Rev. Benjamin Franks, Rev. Benjamin Robbins and Bro. Michael Stewart. They play pop tunes with simple instrumentation — banjo, acoustic guitar and a basic drum kit, though they’ve hinted about saxophones and fiddles, so don’t be surprised if those show up Friday. “Our Story,” from the band’s recent EP, is a sweetly sentimental ode to the trials of youthful love.

“Sad Song” is just that, though its topic — the sting of separation — is leavened a bit by an upbeat air.

JOEY FARR & THE FUGGINS WHEAT BAND

BRIAN CHILSON

SHOWCASE KEEPS A-ROLLIN’

sometimes recall those of Pere Ubu front-weirdo David Thomas, while the band’s tunes range from the mournful, plaintive “Murdertarp for the Apocalypse” to the slowbuild emotional fireworks of “No Despair.” Changing directions a bit, “Rob Zombie’s Halloween 2” is a punky paean to the shock rocker/low budget horror master.

Jab Jab Suckerpunch boasts personnel that will be familiar names for longtime Little Rock party survivors: Brett McKnight and Brian Hirrel were in the notorious ’90s quartet Big Boss Line, known far and wide for eardrum- and liver-destroying rock ’n’ roll fortitude and still talked about for their chaotic, tomato-covered live shows and ubiquitous band T shirts sporting the message: “Legalize Heroin and Murder.” Bassist Brian Rodgers was in the long-running postpunk stalwarts The Moving Front and drummer Ryan Scott served in the ranks of Ashtray Babyhead and The Kicks.

THE JUDGES’ TAKE ON ROUND 4 WINNER JOEY FARR & THE FUGGINS WHEAT BAND

Guest judge Stephen Compton: “Unparalleled musical quality, talent in the whole band, cohesive sound and feel.”

20

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

Epiphany: “Whenever you can get random women to do luau dances and air-drum, you’re doing something right.”

Clay Fitzpatrick: “I dug it hard. I felt like a space cadet with the blues.”

Cheyenne Matthews: “Super super!”

Sammy Williams: “What Santana would sound like if Rob Thomas wasn’t ruining it all.”

arktimes.com

A&E NEWS ANYONE RESPONSIBLE ENOUGH TO HAVE ever felt the frustration of

realizing you’re probably too drunk to safely drive home will appreciate this: A new company is coming to Little Rock that will offer cheap chauffeur and take-home services for those stuck out after having too much to drink. Still better: They’ll bring your car home, too. Better still: They’re hiring!

According to a press release, BeMyDD is a chain with outlets in 42 cities. The company offers two forms of drunk-transpo: a personal driver service for $15 per hour, and a pickup service for $25 (plus mileage) in which two drivers are dispatched, one to take your drunk ass home, and another to follow in your car so it doesn’t get stripped and melted for scrap metal in the middle of the night by opportunistic thieves. They also plan to offer medical, business, and elder transport.

The company is currently looking to hire 100 part-time drivers for the new office they plan to start in central Arkansas. Applicants have to pass a background check and have a valid license. According to the BeMyDD website, employees will be able to set their own schedule, pick the zip codes they’re willing to drive to, and will work “professionally dressed” (fingers crossed for bunny suits, which will make the ride home extra entertaining). The company will be conducting interviews at the end of February. You can apply at www.bemydd.com.

Lots better than a ride from the boys in blue. Cheaper, too.

PSYCH OF THE SOUTH LABEL HONCHO and garage rock scholar

Harold Ott sent word to the Times that one of the songs featured on Lost Souls Vol. 1 was included in the soundtrack to Billy Bob Thornton’s latest film, the Vietnam-era ensemble comedy/family drama “Jayne Mansfield’s Car.” The tune is a two-minute nugget of dark, folk-based psych from 1967 titled “LSD.” It was recorded for the Zay Dee label by the North Little Rock band The Villagers, who changed their name to Suspension of Belief for the recording, according to Psych of the South.

Thornton’s film just debuted at the Berlin International Film Festival, though no U.S. release date has been set so far.

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FEBRUARY 22, 2012

21

THE TO-DO

LIST

BY ROBERT BELL & LINDSEY MILLAR

WEDNESDAY 2/22

FREDDIE GIBBS

8 p.m. Hendrix. Free.

I chose where I attended college — among similar schools — mainly because every year the student activities board managed to bring bands like R.E.M. and A Tribe Called Quest to play for the tiny student body in Podunk, Va. I was a moron. But so are a lot of 17-year-olds. If those sorts of rising seniors are considering Hendrix, they should be in good shape. In recent years, there’s been no better venue in Central Arkansas. Spoon, Clipse, Girl Talk, Grace Potter and The Nocturnals, Deerhunter, Big Boi and Yelawolf have all made appearances in recent years. Freddie Gibbs’ name might not pop like some of those mentioned, but that’ll probably change. The Gary, Ind., native was signed, briefly in the mid aughts, to Interscope. Before that and with more urgency afterwards, he’s flooded the Internet with double-time raps about street life. Last year, he signed to Young Jeezy’s imprint, CTE Music. Nothing he’s done that I’ve heard sounds particularly unique; rather, as the critic Tom Breihan has suggested, Gibbs is a master synthesist, pulling technique from all sorts of greats.

Here’s betting that technical skill and persistence put him more into the mainstream in the years to come. LM

‘MASTER SYNTHESIST’: Rising rapper Freddie Gibbs plays Hendrix College Wednesday night.

WEDNESDAY 2/22

THURSDAY 2/23

PRETTY THINGS PEEP SHOW

JAMES MCMURTRY

A confession: When this whole burlesque show revival whatchamacallit started gaining traction a while back, I immediately tucked it away into the Yet Another Eye-Roll-Inducing Retro Affectation I Can Safely Ignore folder in my ol’ mental file cabinet, right alongside sock-hops, hot-rods, twirl-y mustaches and arcane cocktails from the 19th century that were only invented to mask the flavor of toxic, rotgut hooch. But then I went to a burlesque performance down in New Orleans last summer and figured something out that I’d overlooked in my jaded, dismissive zeal: Quite often, these shows consist of very attractive women dancing sensuously while stripping down to almost nothing, which is somehow even more appealing than simply nothing. So, uh, count me in. If you require further enticement, I would suggest searching YouTube for “Go-Go Amy,” who will

perform with the Pretty Things Peep Show, along with the sword-swallowing sweetheart Heather Holiday, the diminutive damsel Little Miss Firefly, the six-string solo superman Eddy Price & His One-Man Band and, of course, your host, the fire-eating, sharp object-juggling Donny Vomit. RB

James McMurtry’s tune “We Can’t Make it Here Anymore” has garnered the singer/songwriter a lot of attention since its release on his 2005 album “Childish Things,” particularly since the Great Recession began grinding jobs and lives into dust back in 2008. The title is a double entendre, referring to both the diminishing prospects of the middle class in America and the dwindling manufacturing jobs that made such lives possible. In a recent post on his blog titled “We Can’t Make it Here Naivete,” McMurtry elaborated on the song a bit in light of reading a New York Times story about how iPhones are produced, and why, in so many words, we can’t make them here. Factory hands in China toil around the clock for low wages. At gunpoint, workers extract precious metals from the ground in the Congo, metals that eventually become bundles of tiny circuits

in your pocket, transmitting the ephemera of your day-to-day life to other bundles of tiny circuits in other people’s pockets.

“We can’t make iPhones in this country because we don’t want to tolerate slavery within our own borders,” he wrote. “So we outsource our slavery.” It’s the rare musician who’ll examine his own work in so frank a manner and put it in a realworld context like that. But if McMurtry’s proved anything in the last many years, it’s that he is just that: a rare and thoughtful songwriter. In terms of sound, his highly enjoyable 2008 album “Just Us Kids” is pretty indicative. He draws influence from the winding lyrical poetry of Bob Dylan, the down in the groove rocking of Tom Petty, the sardonic bite of John Prine and the plainspoken everyman appeal of John Mellencamp. But McMurtry always puts his own stamp on it. He’s one of the best singer/songwriters going.

Jonny Burke opens the 18-and-older show with some excellent roots-inspired, swaggering power-pop. RB

for more than a decade the Pine Bluffraised rapper has made all the right moves.

That includes (but isn’t limited to) hustling national artists for features, selling mix CDs in club parking lots, hosting regular concert series, touring the South, releasing concept mixtapes, recording companion

videos and making inroads with rap bloggers (who carry way more weight than radio programmers today). Now with “Such is Life” he’s managed something that few in the local rap scene have pulled out — a cohesive album that sounds like a national release. Which doesn’t mean

that he’s traded introspection for paintby-numbers rhymes. Rather, he’s managed the rare feat of existential hip-hop that you’d want to party to. Look for Piph to be backed by a live band and get support from vocalists Bijoux and Dee. The Labratz opens. LM

8:30 p.m. Revolution. $5-$15.

8:30 p.m. Stickyz. $12 adv., $15 d.o.s.

PEEP THIS: Burlesque troupe The Pretty Things Peep Show comes to Revolution Wednesday night.

THURSDAY 2/23

EPIPHANY

9 p.m., Revolution. $10.

If Epiphany’s new release, “Such is Life,” doesn’t push him into the national conversation, there’ll be one explanation: Only the lucky succeed. That’s because 22

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

IN BRIEF

THURSDAY 2/23

FRIDAY 2/24

PALLBEARER

9 p.m. Juanita’s.

Pallbearer laid down a threesong demo in 2010 that turned many, many heads in the doom metal world, especially for a brand-new group. Of course, the band is indebted to Black Sabbath, but their take on that sound is so fresh and expansive and inspired that they’re already being hailed as one of the finest bands in what has, over the last few years, become a very crowded field.

This week saw the release of “Sorrow and Extinction,” Pallbearer’s debut fulllength on Profound Lore, one of the best metal labels around. It’s a beast, too, filled with killer riffs, natch, but also some memorably melodic playing, a few gorgeously sparse post-rock moments, soaring, emotionally resonant singing from vocalist/guitarist Brett Campbell and dexterous, swinging playing from drummer Zach Stine (note: Chuck Schaaf, of Deadbird renown, is now

the band’s drummer). The album is a rich, rewarding listen, with an emotional heft that few of its contemporaries can touch. This show includes Pallbearer’s buddies in Loss, a Nashville doom outfit that earned widespread acclaim for last year’s “Despond,” as well as locals Black Orchid, made up of musicians from several other veteran Arkansas metal acts. On Saturday, Pallbearer heads on over to Music City for another show with Loss. RB

back to the Roaring ’20s with a speakeasy vibe. Look for lots of flapper dresses, garters and doing of the Charleston.

There’ll be hooch, too, of the variety that wasn’t made in a bathtub, as well as music from Adam Faucett & The Tall Grass, Laundry for the Apocalypse and DJs Poebot and Calico Arms, all hosted by the always charismatic Miranda Meridian. There’ll be free HIV

testing, a picture booth and more. With a $12 donation, you drink beer for free.

The event is LGBT-inspired, of course, but it’s open to all friendly and openminded folks, regardless of sexuality. A portion of proceeds will go to helping a local transman and the rest will go to organizing an LGBTQI prom for high school students this summer. Dedicated is located at 320 W. 7th St. RB

SATURDAY 2/25

QUEER PROM 2012

9 p.m. Dedicated. $5-$12.

It’s really good to see the people taking back prom from the clutches of authority and lameness, especially for a worthwhile cause. Case in point — Queer Prom, now in its third year in Little Rock.

Last year’s theme was “Dirty South,” but this year the organizers are taking things

SUNDAY 2/26

EARL & THEM WITH EARL CATE

7 p.m. Juanita’s. $10.

Earl Cate was, of course, co-founder of The Cate Brothers, with his twin Ernie. The Fayetteville act was one of the premier white-boy soul outfits of its day, releasing four albums on Asylum Records that featured such luminaries as Steve Cropper, Duck Dunn, Levon Helm, Timothy B. Schmidt and others. If you’re from Arkansas and you were born between 1973 and, say, 1981, odds are good that your parents have a Cate Brothers story or two, or at the very least a couple of the band’s albums in their stack of LPs, which I would suggest you go get and listen to on your next gently hungover Sunday morning. Earl & Them is Earl Cate’s current outfit, with Cate Brothers veteran Terry Cagle on drums, Jason Davis on vocals and guitar and Mike Murray on bass. Sunday’s show features guests, including blues guitar master Jimmy Thackery, saxophonist David Renko and RJ Mischo on harmonica. All three played on Earl & Them’s latest album, “Special Blend.” RB

ALIEN R&B: Minnesota’s Poliça headline an evening of skronky, synth-heavy weirdness at Stickyz Sunday night.

SUNDAY 2/26

POLIÇA

8 p.m. Stickyz. $10.

Poliça is a newish outfit made up of folks from Gayngs. It’s woozy, drugwarped synth-funk mixed with stuttering drum patterns and art-rock tendencies, all reverbed to infinity and coated with thick, heavily Auto-Tuned vocals from Channy Leaneagh. The Internet keeps describing Poliça with the term “R&B,” though if this band plays R&B, it’s R&B tailor-made for a night of doing keybumps of Plutonian Nyborg with the cool kids in the bathroom of the hippest bar on planet Zorffneb 9 in the year X47-K. Replace “R&B” in that equation with “spaghetti western trance dub?” and now we’re talking Marijuana

Deathsquads, which also performs at this show. Remember “Brownout in Lagos,” the opening track from the mighty Oneida’s 2009 masterpiece “Rated O?” No? Well, anyway, Marijuana Deathsquads reminds me a bit of a spazzier take on that song, only stretched out into ultra-stoned time-warp tunnel taffy. OK, now replace “spaghetti western trance dub?” with “hardcore” and you’re getting close to opening act Total Fucking Blood. All of this music makes for an alien and disorienting experience, but you’ll probably come out the other side OK. This 18-and-older show will be one of the weirdest nights to come to town in a good minute or so, so don’t snooze on it, weirdoes. RB

Civil rights icon Jesse Jackson speaks at UCA’s Reynolds Performance Hall at 7:30 p.m., $5-$10. Jim Mize — unquestionably one of Arkansas’s musical treasures — plays White Water Tavern with Shreveport slide blues master Buddy Flett, who’s played with his band The Bluebirds for years and has toured with Kenny Wayne Shepherd, 9 p.m. Mize and Flett play Maxine’s Saturday night. “Culture Shock: ’90s” includes drinks, dancing, music from DJ Hollywood and an exhibition of works the Arkansas Arts Center acquired in the 1990s, AAC, 7 p.m., $10-$19.90.

FRIDAY 2/24 Monthly dance party Cool Shoes kicks off at Downtown Music Hall at 9 p.m., with DJs Wolf-E-Wolf, Kichen, Cam Holifield and That Other Guy. Revolution has a night of Red Dirt rockin’ with Wade Bowen, Greg Gardner & Voodoo Cowboy and Dry County, 18-and-older, 8:30 p.m., $10 adv., $12 d.o.s. The FOCAL book sale kicks off at Main Library, 10 a.m., through Sunday.

SATURDAY 2/25 Arkansas Symphony Orchestra’s “Ode to Joy” includes Schoenberg’s “A Survivor from Warsaw, Op. 46” and Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 9 in D Minor, Op. 125.” Featuring narration by George Takei, soprano Katherine Whyte, alto Christin-Marie Hill, tenor Eric Barry and bass Robert Aaron Taylor, Robinson Center Music Hall, 8 p.m., also 3 p.m. Feb. 26, $14$52. Youth Home of Arkansas benefit Chili with a Kick! kicks off at 11 a.m. at Dickey-Stephens Park, with a chili cook-off, jalapeno eating contest and music from Suburban Legend, War Chief, Echo Canyon, Whale Fire, The Year of the Tiger, DNR, Elise Davis Band, Falcon Scott and Booyah! Dad, $5 (more on page 33).

SUNDAY 2/26 North Carolina’s Malcolm Holcombe makes a welcome return to White Water Tavern for a rare Sunday night show. Holcombe is easily one of the best songwriters in the country, effortlessly melding folk, blues and country influences into his songs of everyday observation. His gruff voice grumbles and growls with the gravelly bestof-them, but emotion is never lost in the mix. He’s also a badass guitar player, and between songs, he’ll tell rambling, circular stories that don’t make conventional “sense,” but will nonetheless crack up audience and performer alike. A don’t-miss show, 8 p.m. The Johnny Cash Birthday Tribute features Cash family members singing, offering personal tributes and reminiscences, followed by light refreshments at the Johnny Cash Boyhood Home in Dyess. Shuttles depart from Dyess Community Center, which will host the event in case of inclement weather, 2 p.m.

www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

23

AFTER DARK All events are in the Greater Little Rock area unless otherwise noted. To place an event in the Arkansas Times calendar, please e-mail the listing and all pertinent information, including date, time, location, price and contact information, to calendar@arktimes.com.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 22

MUSIC

Acoustic Open Mic. The Afterthought, 8 p.m., free. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www. afterthoughtbar.com.

Alternative Wednesdays. Features alternative bands from Central Arkansas and the surrounding areas. Mediums Art Lounge, 6:30 p.m., $5.

521 Center St. 501-374-4495.

Bolly Open Mic Hype Night with Osyrus Bolly and DJ Messiah. All American Wings, 9 p.m.

215 W. Capitol Ave. 501-376-4000. allamericanwings.com.

Brian & Nick. Cajun’s Wharf, 5 and 9 p.m., $5 after 8:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-3755351. www.cajunswharf.com.

Dirtfoot. 18-and-older show. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 8 p.m., $8. 107 Commerce St. 501-372-7707. www.stickyfingerz.com.

Dr. Acula, The Devastated, Design the Skylines. Downtown Music Hall, 7 p.m., $10.

211 W. Capitol. 501-376-1819. downtownshows. homestead.com.

Freddie Gibbs. Hendrix College, 8 p.m., free.

1600 Washington Ave., Conway. 504-450-1291. www.hendrix.edu.

Grim Muzik presents Way Back Wednesdays.

Cornerstone Pub & Grill, 8:30 p.m. 314 Main St., NLR. 501-374-1782. cstonepub.com.

Jim Dickerson. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

Karaoke at Khalil’s. Khalil’s Pub, 7 p.m. 110 S. Shackleford Road. 501-224-0224. www.khalilspub.com.

Karaoke. Maxine’s, 8 p.m., free. 700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. maxinespub.com.

Karaoke with Big John Miller. Denton’s Trotline, 8 p.m. 2150 Congo Road, Benton. 501-3151717.

Open mic jam with Kat and Chuck. Thirst n’ Howl, 8 p.m.; Feb. 29, 8 p.m.; March 7, 8 p.m.; March 14, 8 p.m.; March 28, 8 p.m., free. 14710 Cantrell Road. 501-379-8189. www.thirst-n-howl. com.

Ricky David Tripp. Ferneau, 5:30 p.m. 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-603-9208. www.ferneaurestaurant.com.

Scrote, Branden Harper. White Water Tavern, 9:30 p.m., $5. 2500 W. 7th. 501-375-8400. www. whitewatertavern.com.

Ted Ludwig Trio. Capital Bar and Grill, 5 p.m., free. 111 Markham St. 501-374-7474. www.capitalhotel.com/CBG. University of Central Arkansas Percussion Ensemble. University of Central Arkansas, Snow Fine Arts Center Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m., free. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway.

COMEDY

Alex Ortiz, Joe Fox. The Loony Bin, 8 p.m.; Feb. 24, 10:30 p.m.; Feb. 25, 7, 9 and 11 p.m., $7-$10.

10301 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501-228-5555. www.loonybincomedy.com.

EVENTS

Pretty Things Peep Show, Eddie Price & His One Man Band. Revolution, 8:30 p.m., $5 21

24

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

TRIPLE DATE: Veteran Memphis rockers Lucero play a trio of dates in Arkansas this week: Feb. 23 at Maxine’s with Adam Faucett & The Tall Grass and Feb. 24 and 25 at George’s Majestic Lounge with, respectively, American Aquarium and Graham Wilkinson. If you want to catch the band after that, you’ll have to head up to Alaska, where the band plays March 1-3 at the Sitzmark Bar & Grill in Anchorage. and older, $10 18-20, preferred seating $5 extra.

300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. revroom.com.

Science After Dark. Math, science and technology educational series for adults with cash bar.

Museum of Discovery, 6 p.m., $10. 500 Clinton Ave. 396-7050. www.amod.org.

FILM

“Do the Right Thing.” Part of Black History Month at UALR. UALR, 6 p.m. 2801 S. University Ave. 501-569-3308.

LECTURES

Brown Bag Lunch Lecture: “A Walk through History.” Presentation on the Little Rock Nine from Kimble Talley, education specialist at the Central High School National Historic Site. Old State House Museum, 12 p.m., free. 500 Clinton Ave. 501-324-9685. www.oldstatehouse.com.

Dr. Dina Zeckhausen. Zeckhausen will discuss disordered eating in the college community.

University of Central Arkansas, 6 p.m., free.

201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. www.uca.edu.

“Solar Energy Opportunities in the United States.” Panel discussion on the current economic implications and future of solar energy in America. Clinton School of Public Service, 12 p.m., free. 1200 President Clinton Ave. 501-683-

5239. www.clintonschool.uasys.edu.

SPORTS

UALR Women’s Trojans vs. North Texas. Jack Stephens Center, UALR, 7 p.m., $4-$35. 2801 S. University Ave.

BOOKS

ArkaText Literary Festival. Craft talk from Onion A.V. Club writer Noel Murray, followed by a public reading at 2 p.m. University of Central Arkansas, 11 a.m. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. www.uca.edu.

THURSDAY, FEB. 23

MUSIC

Bryan Ramsey Band. The Afterthought, 8 p.m., free. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www. afterthoughtbar.com.

Epiphany and One Night Stand. Ladies $5 before 10:30. Revolution, 9 p.m., $5-$10. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. revroom. com.

“Inferno.” DJs play pop, electro, house and more, plus drink specials and $1 cover before 11 p.m. Sway, 9 p.m. 412 Louisiana. 501-907-2582.

James McMurtry, Jonny Burke. 18-and-older show. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 8:30

p.m., $12 adv., $15 d.o.s. 107 Commerce St. 501-372-7707. www.stickyfingerz.com.

Jim Dickerson. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

Jim Mize, Buddy Flett. White Water Tavern, 9 p.m. 2500 W. 7th. 501-375-8400. www.whitewatertavern.com.

Karaoke. Zack’s Place, 8 p.m. 1400 S. University Ave. 501-664-6444. www.zacks-place.com.

Lucero, Adam Faucett & The Tall Grass.

Maxine’s, 8 p.m., $15 adv., $17 d.o.s. 700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. maxinespub.com.

Matt and Jimi. Thirst n’ Howl, 8 p.m., free. 14710 Cantrell Road. 501-379-8189. www.thirst-n-howl. com.

Mayday By Midnight (headliner), Steve Bates (happy hour). Cajun’s Wharf, 5 and 9 p.m., $5 after 8:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-3755351. www.cajunswharf.com.

Michael Eubanks. Lulav, 6:30 p.m. 220 A W. 6th St. 501-374-5100. www.lulaveatery.com.

Port Arthur Band. Parrot Beach Cafe, 9 p.m.

9611 MacArthur Drive, NLR. 771-2994.

Revocation, Fallen Empire, Wraith, Moment of Fierce Determination. Downtown Music Hall, 7 p.m. 211 W. Capitol. 501-376-1819. downtownshows.homestead.com.

Saline County Ron Paul Fundraiser. Denton’s Trotline, 6 p.m. 2150 Congo Road, Benton.

501-315-1717.

Ted Ludwig Trio. Capital Bar and Grill, 5 p.m., free. 111 Markham St. 501-374-7474. www.capitalhotel.com/CBG. “VIP Thursday.” Juanita’s, 9 p.m. 614 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-1228. www.juanitas.com.

COMEDY

Alex Ortiz, Joe Fox. The Loony Bin, through Feb. 24, 8 p.m.; Feb. 24, 10:30 p.m.; Feb. 25, 7, 9 and 11 p.m., $7-$10. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501-228-5555. www.loonybincomedy.com.

DANCE

CORE Performance Company. University of Central Arkansas, 5, 5:30, 6 and 6:30 p.m., free.

201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. www.uca.edu.

EVENTS

Arkansas Civil Rights Symposium: Little Rock Central 55 Years Later. Includes screening of the documentary “The Crisis Mr. Faubus Made: The Role of the Arkansas Gazette in the Central High Crisis” and a panel discussion with Elizabeth Eckford, Jerry Dhonau, Bill Lewis, Ernest Dumas and Wadie Moore. University of Central Arkansas, 2 p.m., free. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. www.uca.edu.

Boulevard Beer Tasting. Cregeen’s Irish Pub, 6:30 p.m. 301 Main St., NLR. 501-376-7468. www.cregeens.com.

“The Color Variable.” This discussion is part of Black History Month at UALR. UALR, 12 p.m.

2801 S. University Ave. 501-569-3308.

“Culture Shock: ‘90s.” This 1990s themed party includes drinks, dancing, music from DJ Hollywood and an exhibition of works AAC acquired in the ‘90s. Arkansas Arts Center, 7 p.m., $10-$19.90. 501 E. 9th St. 501-372-4000. www.arkarts.com.

Winter Beer Tasting. Taste seasonal beefs from Vino’s, New Belgium, Boulevard Brewing and Goose Island and keep the glass. Vino’s, 6 p.m., $12. 923 W. 7th St. 501-375-8466. www.vinosbrewpub.com.

LECTURES

George Takei. The “Star Trek” actor and human rights activist will discuss his work. Clinton School of Public Service, 6 p.m., free. 1200 President Clinton Ave. 501-683-5239. www. clintonschool.uasys.edu.

Jesse Jackson. Reynolds Performance Hall, University of Central Arkansas, 7:30 p.m., $5-$10.

201 Donaghey Ave., Conway.

Susan Eisenhower. The international affairs expert, author and granddaughter of President Dwight D. Eisenhower will discuss her work at The Eisenhower Institute, among other topics.

University of Central Arkansas, 11 a.m., free.

201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. www.uca.edu.

SPORTS

UALR Men’s Trojans vs. North Texas. Jack Stephens Center, UALR, 7 p.m., $4-$35. 2801 S. University Ave.

BOOKS

ArkaText Literary Festival. Craft talk from Ben Davis, writer, web designer and running enthusiast, followed by a reading at 1:40 p.m. University of Central Arkansas, 10:50 a.m. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. www.uca.edu.

CLASSES

Arkansas Craft School Session II. “Pottery” with David Dahlstedt, for all skill levels, 6:309:30 p.m., $225, Arkansas Craft School; “Jewelry Making” with Dona Sawyer, basics, 6:30-9:30 p.m., $225, Arkansas Craft School; “Web Designs for Artisans” with Shawn Hoefer, website creation, 5-8 p.m., Ozarka College, Mountain View, $225. Arkansas Craft School, Continues through March 2. 110 E. Main St., Mountain View. 870-269-8397. www.arkansascraftschool.org.

FRIDAY, FEB. 24

MUSIC

2012 Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase.

Featuring Trasspassers, Laundry for the Apocalypse, Ben Franks & The Bible Belt Boys, Jab Jab Sucker Punch. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 9 p.m., $5 21 and older, $8 18-20. 107 Commerce St. 501-372-7707. www. stickyfingerz.com.

5 Point Cove, Nailin’ David Down, Burning the Past, Jessica 7, Odds Against One. Vino’s, 7 p.m., $10. 923 W. 7th St. 501-375-8466. www. vinosbrewpub.com.

ASU Wind Ensemble. Arkansas State University, 7:30 p.m., $5-$8. 2713 Pawnee St., Jonesboro.

870-972-2781. www.astate.edu.

Big John Miller (headliner), Richie Johnson (happy hour). Cajun’s Wharf, 5 and 9 p.m., $5 after 8:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-3755351. www.cajunswharf.com.

Brian Nahlen. Flying Saucer, 9 p.m., $3. 323 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-7468. www. beerknurd.com/stores/littlerock.

Cool Shoes Monthly Dance Party. Featuring DJs Wolf-E-Wolf, Kichen, Cam Holifield and That Other Guy. Downtown Music Hall, 9 p.m.

211 W. Capitol. 501-376-1819. downtownshows. homestead.com.

DJ Silky Slim. Top 40 and dance music. Sway, 9 p.m., $5. 412 Louisiana. 501-907-2582.

“The Flow Fridays.” Twelve Modern Lounge, 8 p.m. 1900 W. Third St. Ghost Town Blues Band. Midtown Billiards,

12:30 a.m., $5. 1316 Main St. 501-372-9990. midtownar.com.

Graham Wilkinson. White Water Tavern, 10 p.m. 2500 W. 7th. 501-375-8400. www.whitewatertavern.com.

Jason Campbell & Singletree. Denton’s Trotline, 9:30 p.m. 2150 Congo Road, Benton. 501-3151717.

Jeff Coleman. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, Feb. 24-25, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

The Legendary Shack Shakers, The Dirt Daubers. Maxine’s, 8 p.m., $8 adv., $10 door.

700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. maxinespub. com.

Lucero, American Aquarium. George’s Majestic Lounge, 10 p.m., $24. 519 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-442-4226.

Mayday By Midnight. Shooter’s Sports Bar & Grill, 9 p.m., $5. 9500 I-30. 501-565-4003. www. shooterslittlerock.com.

Mockingbird Hillbilly Band. Hibernia Irish Tavern, 8 p.m., free. 9700 N Rodney Parham Road. 501-246-4340. www.hiberniairishtavern. com.

The P-47s. Dugan’s Pub, 9 p.m., free. 403 E. 3rd St. 501-244-0542. www.duganspublr.com.

Pallbearer, Loss, Black Orchid. Juanita’s, 9 p.m.

614 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-1228. www. juanitas.com.

Rodney Block & The Real Music Lovers. The Afterthought, 9 p.m., $10. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www.afterthoughtbar.com.

Sister Rock. Hardrider Bar & Grill, Feb. 24-25, 8 p.m. 6613 John Harden Drive, Cabot. 501982-1939 ‎.

A State Boys. Cornerstone Pub & Grill, 9 p.m.

314 Main St., NLR. 501-374-1782. cstonepub. com.

Ted Ludwig Trio. Capital Bar and Grill, 9 p.m., free. 111 Markham St. 501-374-7474. www. capitalhotel.com/CBG. Velcro Pygmies. West End Smokehouse and Tavern, 10 p.m., $5. 215 N. Shackleford. 501224-7665. www.westendsmokehouse.net.

Wade Bowen, Greg Gardner & Voodoo Cowboy, Dry County. 18-and-older show.

Revolution, 8:30 p.m., $10 adv., $12 d.o.s. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. revroom. com.

COMEDY

Alex Ortiz, Joe Fox. The Loony Bin, through Feb. 24, 8 p.m.; Feb. 24, 10:30 p.m.; Feb. 25, 7, 9 and 11 p.m., $7-$10. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501-228-5555. www.loonybincomedy.com.

DANCE

Star Power National Talent Competition.

Dance competition. Hot Springs Convention Center, Feb. 24-25, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Feb. 26, 5-8 p.m. 134 Convention Blvd., Hot Springs. 501321-2027. www.hotsprings.org.

EVENTS

60th Annual Home Show. Verizon Arena, Feb. 24, 12 p.m.; Feb. 25-26, 10 a.m., $8. 1 Alltel Arena Way, NLR. 501-975-9001. verizonarena.com.

Arkansas Flower and Garden Show. Statehouse Convention Center, Feb. 24-26, 10 a.m., $6-$8.

7 Statehouse Plaza.

Hot Springs Boat, Tackle, and RV Show.

Summit Arena, Feb. 24-26, 10 a.m., $5. 134 Convention Blvd., Hot Springs. 501-765-1423. www.summitarena.org.

LGBTQ/SGL Youth and Young Adult Group.

Diverse Youth for Social Change is a group for LGBTQ/SGL and straight ally youth and young adults age 14 to 23. For more information, call 244-9690 or search “DYSC” on Facebook. 800 Scott St., 6:30 p.m. 800 Scott St. Locomotion. One-day presentation of the Kennedy Center’s presentation for young audiences. Call for reservations. Wildwood Park for the Performing Arts, 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., $10.

20919 Denny Road. 501-821-7275.

Mardi Gras in Arkansas. Complimentary wine and beer, cash bar, music from Boom Kinetic and more. Next Level Events, 8 p.m., $20 adv., $25 door. 1400 W. Markham St. 501-376-9746. www.nextleveleventsinc.com.

BOOKS

ArkaText Literary Festival: Thomas Cochran.

Craft talk from Thomas Cochran, a poet and young adult novelist, followed by a reading at 1 p.m. University of Central Arkansas, 10 a.m.

201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. www.uca.edu.

ArkaText Literary Festival. Launch celebration for UCA’s Toad Suck Review literary magazine. University of Central Arkansas, 8 p.m.

201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. www.uca.edu.

FOCAL used book sale. Main Library, Feb. 24-26, 10 a.m. 100 S. Rock St. www.cals.lib.ar.us.

Wayne Hancock. The author of “Along Came Bill” will sign copies of his book. Faulkner County Library, 1 p.m., free. 1900 Tyler St., Conway. 501-327-7482. www.fcl.org.

SATURDAY, FEB. 25

MUSIC

American Aquarium, Whiskey Folk Ramblers.

18-and-older show. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 9 p.m., $7. 107 Commerce St. 501-3727707. www.stickyfingerz.com.

Amy Garland Band. White Water Tavern, 9 p.m., $5. 2500 W. 7th. 501-375-8400. www.whitewatertavern.com.

Arkansas Symphony Orchestra: “Ode to Joy.” Includes Schoenberg’s “A Survivor from Warsaw, Op. 46” and Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 9 in D Minor, Op. 125.” Featuring narration

by George Takei, soprano Katherine Whyte, alto Christin-Marie Hill, tenor Eric Barry and bass Robert Aaron Taylor. Robinson Center Music Hall, Feb. 25, 8 p.m.; Feb. 26, 3 p.m., $14-$52.

Markham and Broadway. www.littlerockmeetings.com/conv-centers/robinson.

The Awakening. Cornerstone Pub & Grill, 8:30 p.m. 314 Main St., NLR. 501-374-1782. cstonepub.com.

The Blanks. Known as Ted’s Band on the syndicated television show “Scrubs.” Arkansas State University at Mountain Home, 7:30 p.m., $6-$30. 1600 S. College Ave., Mountain Home.

Cinders to Ascension, Fist Hammer. Vino’s, 9 p.m., $8. 923 W. 7th St. 501-375-8466. www. vinosbrewpub.com.

DJs Ewell, Jacob Reyes, Jared Lawler and Hollywood. Performers include Dominique and Whitney. Discovery Nightclub, 9 p.m., $10.

1021 Jessie Road. 501-664-4784. www.latenightdisco.com.

Don’t Stop Please. The Afterthought, 9 p.m., $7. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www. afterthoughtbar.com.

Dr. Barry McVinney Quartet. Maxine’s, 5 p.m., $5. 700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. maxinespub.com.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

25

AFTER DARK, CONT.

Dreams of a truer democracy An interview with George Takei.

BY PHILIP M. PROVOST

Constitution. That was the thing that was most violated. A few months ago, President Obama signed the National Defense Authorization Act, which has a clause in it that still allows the president to detain American citizens without charge, without trial, with no due process. When President Obama signed it, he said he doesn’t intend to use it, but it’s there on the books and can be used again. When 9/11 happened, we Japanese Americans immediately sensed what might happen to Arab Americans

Arkansas Times: What do you remember from your family’s time at the Rohwer War Relocation Center in southeast Arkansas?

George Takei: I was very young at that time. I got there when I was 5 years old. I must confess, my real memories are fun memories. Catching pollywogs in the creek, catching ants and putting them in pickle jars. My father was a block manager, one of the representatives of each block there. I don’t really remember how it was, but he was able to borrow a jeep from the camp administrator. He took us, our family, for a ride outside of the barbed wire fence. We visited a hog farm, and that was the first time I had seen anything that huge, that ugly, that smelly. I thought, surely that must be the descendant of some dinosaur. I started school, and they taught us the Pledge of Allegiance. From TAKEI: The system is fragile. my schoolhouse window, I could see the barbed wire fence and the here. The FBI, again, rounded up some sentry tower. I recited the words “with of the leaders of the Arab American liberty and justice for all,” without ever community without letting the families realizing how strongly ironic that was. know where they were being taken, When we came back to Los Angeles, the why they were being taken. They were two most difficult things to get at that detained for months with no explatime were a job and housing. Our first nation. It’s very, very important that home was on Skid Row in Los Angeles.

Americans realize how fragile our system is. We need to remind Americans That was the most terrifying part of the that we are imperfect, and we need to whole internment experience — getting back on our feet. For us kids … living on continually try to make our democracy Skid Row was terrifying. The stench of a truer democracy. urine was everywhere, the street, the hallways. My sister would say, “Mama, AT: What went through your head let’s go back home,” meaning behind when you heard about Midland School the barbed wire fence.

Board member Clint McCance’s inflammatory words against gay students in 2010?

AT: Why is it important for us to remember the internment camps?

GT: Because I feel a bond with GT: The real victim was the U.S. Arkansas, and we were put into intern26

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

ment camps because of stereotypes, I had to call him to task. Particularly because he’s making policy for the education system — it was outrageous. I had decided, well, sometimes, you can catch more flies with honey. I thought I’d do something a little tongue-in-cheek.

And it worked. [Takei made a funny, but serious, video in which he called McCance a “douchbag” and said he was counting down the minutes until McCance was caught with a “rent boy from a South American country.”]

AT: What would you say about our country’s progress towards LGBT rights and acceptance, especially in light of recent events like the legalization of gay marriage in Washington?

GT: What’s happening in Washington, and what’s happening in New Jersey, and what’s happening in Maryland — it’s very, very heartening. All developments are heartening. We’re getting a truer democracy for LGBT people, and our democracy on the whole is becoming that much truer.

AT: What needs to happen in this country to get us to where we need to be, in terms of LGBT rights?

GT: For LGBT people to have equality like anybody else — the people opposed, they claim we’re trying to jam our values down their throat. But they’re trying to jam their particular values onto all Americans.

If they want respect, they’ve got to be respectful of all other people as well.

There are enough fair-minded, decent people — also people of faith — who are opposed to that kind of behavior. Our Constitution was the shining guide for us, and our goal is to get to the point where it’s just a part of a good, equal, fair, decent society.

GAGE SKIDMORE

G

eorge Takei, a human rights activist and actor best known for his portrayal of Hikaru Sulu on “Star Trek,” visits Arkansas this week to speak at the Clinton School of Public Service (6 p.m. Feb. 23) and narrate Arnold Schoenberg’s “A Survivor from Warsaw, Op. 46,” with the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra (8 p.m. Feb. 25 and 3 p.m. Feb. 26). A Q and A with Takei follows:

AT: What did you think of 2009’s Star Trek?

GT: I thought it was a terrific movie, and now they’re filming another one.

All of our characters will be there, with Sulu in the guise of a younger John Cho. Soon I’m going to be known as the old guy who played John Cho’s part.

Eclipse The Echo. West End Smokehouse and Tavern, 10 p.m., $5. 215 N. Shackleford. 501-2247665. www.westendsmokehouse.net.

The Fragile Elite. Cregeen’s Irish Pub, 8 p.m. 301 Main St., NLR. 501-376-7468. www.cregeens. com.

The Freds (headliner), Some Guy Named Robb (happy hour). Cajun’s Wharf, 5 and 9 p.m., $5 after 8:30 p.m. 2400 Cantrell Road. 501-375-5351. www.cajunswharf.com.

Jeff Coleman. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

Jim Mize, Buddy Flett. Maxine’s, 8 p.m., $5 adv., $7 door. 700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. maxinespub.com.

Karaoke at Khalil’s. Khalil’s Pub, 7 p.m. 110 S. Shackleford Road. 501-224-0224. www.khalilspub.com.

“KISS Saturdays” with DJs Deja Blu, Greyhound and Silky Slim. Sway, 10 p.m. 412 Louisiana. 501-907-2582.

Lucero, Graham Wilkinson. George’s Majestic Lounge, 9 p.m., $24. 519 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-442-4226.

Michael Eubanks. Newk’s Express Cafe, 5 p.m.

1412 Higdon Ferry Road, Hot Springs. 501-3214221. www.newkscafe.com.

Penguin Dilemma. Dugan’s Pub, 9 p.m., free. 403 E. 3rd St. 501-244-0542. www.duganspublr.com.

Peter, Paul, Pelphrey. Midtown Billiards, 12:30 a.m., $5. 1316 Main St. 501-372-9990. midtownar. com.

Rodge Arnold. Flying Saucer, 9 p.m., $3. 323 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-7468. www.beerknurd.com/stores/littlerock.

Ryan Couron. Denton’s Trotline, 9:30 p.m. 2150 Congo Road, Benton. 501-315-1717.

Sister Rock. Hardrider Bar & Grill, 8 p.m. 6613 John Harden Drive, Cabot. 501-982-1939.

The Supporting Cast, Dreamfast, Sick Sarcasm, Your Favorite Pastime, Fly Away Fall. Juanita’s, 9:30 p.m., $8 adv., $10 d.o.s. 614 President Clinton Ave. 501-372-1228. www.juanitas.com.

Ted Ludwig Trio. Capital Bar and Grill, 9 p.m., free. 111 Markham St. 501-374-7474. www.capitalhotel.com/CBG. Wrangler Space (Widespread Panic Tribute).

18-and-older show. Revolution, 8 p.m., $10.

300 President Clinton Ave. 501-823-0090. revroom.com.

COMEDY

Alex Ortiz, Joe Fox. The Loony Bin, 7, 9 and 11 p.m., $7-$10. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road.

501-228-5555. www.loonybincomedy.com.

DANCE

Star Power National Talent Competition. Dance competition. Hot Springs Convention Center, through Feb. 25, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Feb. 26, 5-8 p.m. 134 Convention Blvd., Hot Springs. 501321-2027. www.hotsprings.org.

EVENTS

26th Annual Depression Era Glass Show and Sale. Presented by Arkansas Glasshoppers, Inc. Arkansas State Fairgrounds, Feb. 25, 9 a.m.; Feb. 26, 11 a.m., $5. 2600 Howard St. 501-372-8341 ext. 8206. www.arkansasstatefair.com.

60th Annual Home Show. Verizon Arena, through Feb. 26, 10 a.m., $8. 1 Alltel Arena Way, NLR. 501-975-9001. verizonarena.com.

8th Annual Midsouth Summit Black Expo.

Presented by the Cancer Control Program at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, this event will celebrate black history month and highlight the importance of cancer screenings and education. Prostate cancer screenings for men age 40 and older who qualify and mammograms for women age 40 and older who qualify will be available. Call to register Clear

AFTER DARK, CONT. Channel Metroplex, 10 a.m. p.m., free. 10800 Colonel Glenn Road. 800-259-8794.

Arkansas Flower and Garden Show.

Statehouse Convention Center, through Feb. 26, 10 a.m., $6-$8. 7 Statehouse Plaza.

“Chili with a Kick!.” Includes chili cook-off, live music, kickball and other games, a jalapeno eating contest and more to benefit Youth Home of Arkansas. Dickey-Stephens Park, 11 a.m. p.m., $5. 400 W. Broadway St., NLR. 501664-1555. www.travs.com.

“Dental Day.”. Learn about proper oral healthcare and receive dental products such as toothbrushes and floss. Museum of Discovery, 9 a.m. p.m. 500 Clinton Ave. 396-7050. www. amod.org.

Falun Gong meditation. Allsopp Park, 9 a.m., free. Cantrell & Cedar Hill Roads.

Hot Springs Boat, Tackle, and RV Show.

Summit Arena, through Feb. 26, 10 a.m., $5.

134 Convention Blvd., Hot Springs. 501-7651423. www.summitarena.org.

Queer Prom 2012. Roaring ‘20s theme, with music from Adam Faucett & The Tall Grass, Laundry for the Apocalypse and DJs Poebot and Calico Arms, emceed by Miranda Meridian.

Includes free HIV testing. Dedicated, 9 p.m., $5-$12 (suggested donation). 320 W. 7th St.

FILM

“A League of Their Own.” Includes panel discussion after the film, with former All-American Girls Professional Baseball League players Sue Kidd, Mary Lou “Studnicka” Caden, and Delores “Dolly” Brumfield White. Laman Library, 1 p.m., free. 2801 Orange St., NLR. 501-758-1720. www.lamanlibrary.org.

POETRY

2nd Annual Ekphrastic Poetry Slam. Arkansas Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $5. 501 E. 9th St. 501372-4000. www.arkarts.com.

SPORTS

UALR Men’s Trojans vs. Arkansas State. Jack Stephens Center, UALR, 7 p.m., $4-$35. 2801 S. University Ave. UALR Women’s Trojans vs. Arkansas State.

Jack Stephens Center, UALR, 4:30 p.m., $4-$35.

2801 S. University Ave.

BOOKS

FOCAL used book sale. Main Library, through Feb. 26, 10 a.m. 100 S. Rock St. www.cals.lib. ar.us.

SUNDAY, FEB. 26

MUSIC

Arkansas Symphony Orchestra: “Ode to Joy.” See Feb. 25.

Earl & Them featuring Earl Cate. Juanita’s, 7 p.m., $10. 614 President Clinton Ave. 501-3721228. www.juanitas.com.

Karaoke. Shorty Small’s, 6-9 p.m. 1475 Hogan Lane, Conway. 501-764-0604. www.shortysmalls.com.

Little Rock Wind Symphony: “Carmina Burana.” Second Presbyterian Church, 3 p.m., $8-$10. 600 Pleasant Valley Drive.

Malcolm Holcombe, Adam Faucett. White Water Tavern, 8 p.m. 2500 W. 7th. 501-3758400. www.whitewatertavern.com.

Polica, Marijuana Death Squads, Total Fucking Blood. 18-and-older show. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, 8 p.m., $10. 107 Commerce St. 501-372-7707. www.stickyfingerz.com.

Stand and Deliver Records WINTOUR 2012. Featuring Society’s Plague, SkinKage, Sychosys, Driven to Madness, Killing Souls, Decay Awaits, Fates Undertaking, InGround Zero, The Muddlestuds, Every Knee Shall Bow,

Moment of Fierce Determination and Red Devil Lies. Downtown Music Hall, 2 p.m., $10. 211 W. Capitol. 501-376-1819. downtownshows. homestead.com.

Sunday Jazz Brunch with Ted Ludwig and Joe Cripps. Vieux Carre, 11 a.m. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www.vieuxcarrecafe.com.

COMEDY

Luke Francis. UARK Bowl, 7 p.m., $5-$7. 644 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-301-2030. www. uarkballroom.com.

DANCE

Star Power National Talent Competition.

Dance competition. Hot Springs Convention Center, 5 p.m. 134 Convention Blvd., Hot Springs. 501-321-2027. www.hotsprings.org.

EVENTS

26th Annual Depression Era Glass Show and Sale. Presented by Arkansas Glasshoppers, Inc. Arkansas State Fairgrounds, 11 a.m., $5.

2600 Howard St. 501-372-8341 ext. 8206. www. arkansasstatefair.com.

4th Annual Seed Swap. Bring open-pollinated (heirloom) seeds, bulbs, plants and stories to swap with other seed savers. Faulkner County Library, 1:30 p.m. 1900 Tyler St., Conway. 501327-7482. www.fcl.org.

60th Annual Home Show. Verizon Arena, 10 a.m., $8. 1 Alltel Arena Way, NLR. 501-975-9001. verizonarena.com.

Arkansas Flower and Garden Show.

Statehouse Convention Center, 10 a.m., $6-$8.

7 Statehouse Plaza.

Captured Live from The Met: Verdi’s “Ernani.”

Reynolds Performance Hall, UCA, 2 p.m., $5-$15. 350 S. Donaghey, Conway.

Hot Springs Boat, Tackle, and RV Show.

Summit Arena, 10 a.m., $5. 134 Convention Blvd., Hot Springs. 501-765-1423. www.summitarena.org.

Johnny Cash Birthday Tribute. Features Cash family members singing, offering personal tributes and reminiscences, followed by light refreshments. Shuttle departs from Dyess Community Center, which will host the event in case of inclement weather. Johnny Cash Boyhood Home, 2 p.m. 4791 W. CR 924, Dyess.

870-972-2803.

February 26, 2012 Join us at The Peabody Hotel in Little Rock to walk the red carpet and celebrate a night of great films and advocacy for a one-of-a-kind, once-a-year event that helps support a very important place of hope.

Sponsorships for a table for 10 are 20K, 10K, 5K, and 3K • Bronze $1,750 • Bronze Elite Seating $600 Individual seats are $150 - Call to be added to the invitation list All proceeds benefit the Wolfe Street Foundation, Inc.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Please visit us online at www.wolfestreet.org or call us at 501.372.5662 THE ONLY EVENT IN ARKANSAS Sanctioned by ©A.M.P.A.S. ® “The Wolfe Street Foundation saves lives; offering a solution to families suffering from the effects of alcoholism.”

Kathy C. Swanson, Chair Paula Gean, Co-chair

FILM

Oscar Night America Viewing Gala. The Peabody Little Rock. 3 Statehouse Plaza. 501906-4000. www.peabodylittlerock.com.

“Party Like a Hollywood Star in Conway.”

Hosted by actor and comedian Michael “Doc” Davis, with a red carpet entry, food, champagne and viewing of the Academy Awards ceremony.

All proceeds benefit the UCA Foundation Feature Film Fund. The Ford Theater, 5 p.m., $35-$60. 1020 Front St., Conway. 501-358-1755. thefordtheater.com.

BOOKS

FOCAL used book sale. Main Library, 10 a.m.

100 S. Rock St. www.cals.lib.ar.us.

MONDAY, FEB. 27

MUSIC

Art of the Drum. Reynolds Performance Hall, University of Central Arkansas, 7:30 p.m., $23$40. 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway.

Brandon Dorris. The Afterthought, 8 p.m., free.

2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www. afterthoughtbar.com.

Karaoke. Thirst n’ Howl, 8:30 p.m. 14710 Cantrell Road. 501-379-8189. www.thirst-n-howl.com.

Touch, Grateful Dead Tribute. Stickyz Rock ‘n’ CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

&

www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

27

Thanks Arkansas For Voting For Us!

MOVIE LISTINGS

FEB. 24-25

BEST FRIED CHICKEN best home cooking

Bobby’s Country Cookin’ 501-224-9500 • 301 N.Shackleford Road West Chase Plaza at the corner of N. Shackleford & W.Markham bobbyscountrycookin.com

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FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

Market Street Cinema times at or after 9 p.m. are for Friday and Saturday only. Rave times are valid for Friday only. Breckenridge, Lakewood 8 and Movies 10 showings were not available as of press deadline. Find up-to-date listings at arktimes.com.

NEW MOVIES Act of Valor (R) – This action thriller stars real-life U.S. Navy SEALs. Chenal 9: 10:10 a.m., 1:10, 4:10, 7:10, 10:10. Rave: 11:15 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 2:00, 2:45, 4:45, 5:30, 7:30, 8:15, 10:15, 11:15, 11:50. Riverdale: 11:40 a.m., 2:05, 4:35, 7:10, 9:45.

Albert Nobbs (R) – Some capital-“A” Acting from Glenn Close, who portrays a woman who must live as a man in stifling 19th century Ireland.

Market Street: 1:45, 4:15, 6:45, 9:15.

Gone (PG-13) – Scary psychological suspensethriller starring the always freaked-out looking Amanda Seyfried as she tracks a kidnapper.

Rave: 11:40 a.m., 2:30, 5:15, 8:00, 10:45, midnight.

Tomorrow, When the War Began (R) – “Red Dawn” goes to Australia. Market Street: 1:45, 4:00, 7:00, 9:15.

Tyler Perry’s Good Deeds (PG-13) – Worlds collide for a successful businessman who meets a down-on-her-luck single mom who cleans the office building where he works. Chenal 9: 10:20 a.m., 1:30, 4:30, 7:30, 10:30. Rave: 10:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:00, 1:30, 2:15, 3:00, 4:15, 5:00, 5:45, 6:30, 7:00, 7:45, 8:30, 9:45, 10:30, 11:20, 11:45. Riverdale: 11:00 a.m., 12:55, 2:50, 4:45, 6:40, 8:35, 10:20.

Wanderlust (R) – Paul Rudd and Jennifer Aniston play a stressed-out yuppie couple who stumble upon a nudist colony. Rave: 10:50 a.m., 1:40, 4:40, 7:20, 10:00, 12:15 a.m.

RETURNING THIS WEEK The Artist (PG-13) – This meta-homage to the black-and-white silent films of yore concerns a silent film star whose career is jeopardized by the advent of talkies. With Jean Dujardin.

Market Street: 2:00, 4:20, 7:00, 9:15. Riverdale:

11:00 a.m., 1:15, 3:30, 5:50, 8:05, 10:15.

Chronicle (PG-13) – A trio of teen-agers gain mysterious superpowers from a meteorite, but will they use their newfound abilities wisely? Rave: 10:15 a.m., 12:35, 3:50, 6:45, 9:25.

A Dangerous Method (R) – Cronenberg’s latest is about Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung and Sabina Spielrein, a former patient who had a romantic relationship with Jung. Market Street: 2:15, 4:25, 6:45, 9:00.

Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance (PG-13) – Starring Nicolas Cage in a reprisal of his role as Marvel’s Ghost Rider. Also starring Idris “Stringer Bell” Elba. Chenal 9: 10:30 a.m., 1:30, 4:30, 7:30, 10:30. Rave: 3:20, 5:55, 8:25, 11:25 (2D), 10:25 a.m., 1:25, 4:25, 7:25, 10:25 (3D). Riverdale: 11:25 a.m., 1:30, 3:35, 5:40, 7:50, 10:00.

The Iron Lady (PG-13) – Has Meryl Streep ever been bad in a movie? This movie about Margaret Thatcher hasn’t gotten very good reviews, but apparently Streep’s performance redeems it. Riverdale: 11:10 a.m., 1:55, 4:30, 7:05, 9:40.

Journey 2: (PG) – When you were watching “Land of the Lost,” did you find yourself wishing they’d cast The Rock instead of Will Farrell? Well, here you go. Chenal 9: 10:00 a.m., 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:45 (IMAX 3D). Rave: 10:10 a.m., 12:50, 3:30 (2D), 11:00 a.m., 1:50, 4:55, 7:40, 10:40 (3D).

Riverdale: 11:00 a.m., 1:15, 3:30, 5:50, 8:05, 10:15.

My Week with Marilyn (R) – Starring Michelle Williams as Marilyn Monroe circa 1956. Market Street: 2:00, 4:15, 7:15, 9:15.

Red Tails (PG-13) – The story of the AfricanAmerican WWII pilots of the Tuskegee training program. With Cuba Gooding Jr. Riverdale: 11:15 a.m., 1:50, 4:25, 7:00, 9:35.

Safe House (R) – Aka, “Doesn’t Denzel Washington Make a Scary Bad Guy?” Chenal 9: 10:15 a.m., 1:15, 4:15, 7:15, 10:15. Rave: 10:00 a.m., 11:05 a.m., 1:00, 2:25, 4:00, 5:25, 7:10, 8:45, 10:10, 11:40. Riverdale: 11:20 a.m., 1:45, 4:15, 6:55, 9:50.

The Secret World of Arrietty (G) – Animated tale about a family of tiny fairies who must survive

the challenges and dangers of the suburban garden in which they dwell. Chenal 9: 10:25 a.m., 1:25, 4:25, 7:25, 9:45. Rave: 10:55 a.m., 1:30, 4:00, 6:40, 9:20.

Star Wars: Episode 1 (PG) – Again? Really? Sigh.

Chenal 9: 10:00 a.m., 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 10:00.

Rave: 10:00 a.m., 1:15, 4:35, 7:50, 11:10 (3D).

This Means War (PG-13) – Tension, and deadly pranks, escalate between two beefy CIA dudes who discover they’re both dating Reese Witherspoon. One of the dudes is somehow British. Chenal 9: 10:20 a.m., 1:20, 4:20, 7:20, 10:20. Rave: 10:05 a.m., 10:35 a.m., 1:05, 4:05, 7:05, 10:05. Riverdale: 11:35 a.m., 1:35, 3:40, 5:55, 8:00, 10:05.

Underworld: Awakening (R) – Ass-kicking vampire girl action flick from directors Mans Marlind and Bjorn Stein. With Kate Beckinsale. Rave: 12:55 p.m. (3D).

The Vow (PG-13) – Something sad and beautiful and sadly beautiful happens to the sad, beautiful Rachel McAdams and the former male stripper Channing Tatum. Chenal 9: 10:05 a.m., 1:05, 4:05, 7:05, 10:05. Rave: 11:10 a.m., 2:10, 5:20, 8:10, 11:00. Riverdale: 11:30 a.m., 2:10, 4:50, 7:20, 9:55.

Woman in Black (R) – Man, now they’ve got that Harry Potter dude starring in horror movies about creepy old castles haunted by old-lady ghosts. Rave: 9:15 p.m.

Chenal 9 IMAX Theatre: 17825 Chenal Parkway, 821-2616, www.dtmovies.com.

Cinemark Movies 10: 4188 E. McCain Blvd., 945-7400, www.cinemark.com.

Cinematown Riverdale 10: Riverdale Shopping Center, 296-9955, www.riverdale10.com.

Lakewood 8: 2939 Lakewood Village Drive, 7585354, www.fandango.com.

Market Street Cinema: 1521 Merrill Drive, 312-8900, www.marketstreetcinema.net.

Rave Colonel Glenn 18: 18 Colonel Glenn Plaza, 687-0499, www.ravemotionpictures.com.

Regal Breckenridge Village 12: 1-430 and Rodney Parham, 224-0990, www.fandango.com.

MOVIE REVIEW

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Confirmation #: THE PIG MAN: The killer in “Madison County.”

Nightmare on Market Street LR Horror Picture Show wrap-up.

BY NATALIE ELLIOTT AND DAVID KOON

T

here are at least a few die-hard horror flick fans in the house at Arkansas Times, so we’d been waiting with dripping jaws for last weekend’s Little Rock Horror Picture Show, the deformed, chained-in-thebasement sister to the annual Little Rock Film Festival. Featuring horror features and shorts from Arkansas and around the world, all arrows point to the idea that it was a bloody success, hopefully portending an expanded Part Two and beyond in coming years.

The festival kicked off with two fairly packed screenings of Arkansas writer/ director Eric England’s retro-slasher flick “Madison County,” which went on to win the audience award at the festival. The film — about a group of college kids who travel to a remote town in North Arkansas to meet with the author of a book on a local serial killer, only to fall into the trap of a psychotic named Damien Ewell who wears a rotting pig’s head as a mask — isn’t great art. But then again, it seemed more interested in fitting in with the long history of films like

“Friday the 13th” and “Halloween” than it did with making some grand statement.

That said, the script could have definitely used some work in the plot and connective tissue department, including helping answer questions like: If somebody knew enough about Damien Ewell and his crimes to write a book about him, why has he, you know, not attracted the attention of the FBI? Annoying plot holes like that take away from the overall enjoyment of the film, but they’re pretty much the same ones that annoy us about a lot of Hollywood horror, so we can’t judge too harshly. On the upside, we did find a lot to like in the cinematography, and the film’s dedication to old-fashioned menace over jump-outand-gitcha scares.

Director England, producer/actor Ace Marrero and star Colley Bailey answered questions from the audience after the screenings on topics ranging from camera choice to working with the sometimes-suspicious locals on location in Madison County (one of whom, CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

Artist: (circle one:) Heather Staci Freelance 2 Jay

Steve

Philip

AE: (circle one:) Angela Maria Josh Tim

McCool

ART APPROVED AE APPROVED CLIENT APPROVED

First thursday each month Deadline:

shop ’til 8pm and enjoy dining in one of the many area restaurants.

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FEBRUARY 22, 2012

29

MOVIE REVIEW, CONT.

‘SOLID HORROR’ PIC: Australia’s “The Tunnel.”

2011 2012

™

501-450-3265 30

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

England said, tried to purposely run over the shoot’s rented $100,000 Red One camera with his truck for reasons that still aren’t exactly clear). Some of the night’s most entertaining stories were the trio’s tales of dirt-budget movie making in the wilds of Arkansas — including the cast and crew sleeping a dozen to a room in the only motel within driving distance of the shoot while fending off toads, stickbugs, cockroaches, black widow spiders and an infestation of maggots in their quarters. Truth is truly more horrific than fiction at times.

Saturday night’s slate started with the short “The Curtain,” in which a deadbeat boyfriend and his control freak girlfriend discover a mysterious locked shower curtain in their new apartment. Turns out, the curtain helps contain a demon in their bathtub, leftover from an exorcism that took place years before. Full of comic absurdity, the film was hilarious, gross, and deliciously mocked every character in its small cast.

The second short, “Going to Hell,” was directed by University of Central Arkansas film professor Bruce Hutchinson. It’s a brief psychological-zombiethriller, in which a young, allegedly “infected” man is imprisoned in a house with his cynical sister and compassionate girlfriend as they try to decide what to do with him before he fully transforms.

It’s a moody little set piece aided by some boilerplate horror-flick chick badassery.

“This is one of the best films we’re showing,” festival programmer Justin Nickels said as he introduced “The Tunnel,” a 2011 Australian thriller directed

by Carlo Ledsema. The film’s brilliant pacing and determined withholding of narrative clues confidently meted out the kind of quivering tension that only solid horror pictures can.

The film opens as a documentary about a Sydney television news crew that suffers some mysterious trauma while covering a story about the sub-trainstation tunnels that lie beneath the city.

Through “found” news and surveillance

footage, interviews and the cameras used by the crew as they crawl deeper underground, we learn the story of Natasha, an overly ambitious TV journalist who gets a juicy lead about the abandoned tunnels, which were once appointed to house an elaborate water-recycling system until frightening reports of disappearing homeless inhabitants ended the plan.

After getting the green light from her boss, Natasha, who desperately needs this story to keep her job, fails to secure permission from the transit authority offices for use of the tunnels, and bluffs the camera team into assisting her with coverage. Everything we see of the underground action is culled from the nightvision camera and the large TV camera carried by the team.

It goes without saying that the fauxverite film owes much to “The Blair Witch Project,” which itself didn’t even offer the temporary respite of clean documentary-style interviews to soften the trembling, nausea-inducing DIY camerawork. However, as evinced by the derivative “Paranormal Activity” franchise, it’s a formula that works. Couple that restricted scope of vision with pitchblack tunnels and other bourgeois fears of homeless people living underground, and you have strangling, ruthless tension that expertly delivers fright even when it comes in all the moves you expect.

The film’s only weakness is its inability to wrap up with the measured and detailed approach with which it began: storylines are dropped, hardly believable plot holes aren’t addressed, and the horrible trauma that the characters relate simply ends resolutely and with surprisingly little social commentary or sense of foreboding. Not that these are entirely mandatory traits of an excellent horror flick, but it seems curious when the first half of the movie strives to present itself so boldly.

All in all, a great start for the Little Rock Horror Picture Show, which will return next year, according to organizer Nickels.

AFTER DARK, CONT. Roll Chicken Shack, 8 p.m., $5. 107 Commerce St. 501-372-7707. www.stickyfingerz.com.

Traditional Irish Music Session. Khalil’s Pub, Fourth and second Monday of every month, 7 p.m. 110 S. Shackleford Road. 501-224-0224. www.khalilspub.com.

DANCE

Shen Yun. Robinson Center Music Hall, Feb. 27-28, 7 p.m., $59-$133. Markham and Broadway. www.littlerockmeetings.com/convcenters/robinson.

LECTURES

Cynthia Barnett. The journalist presents “Blue Revolution: A Water Ethic for America,” which concerns the prevalent misconception that fresh water is abundant. Clinton School of Public Service, 6 p.m., free. 1200 President Clinton Ave. 501-683-5239. www.clintonschool. uasys.edu.

SPORTS

Downtown Tip Off Club presents Christian Laettner. Wyndham Riverfront Hotel, 11:15 a.m., $15-$20. 2 Riverfront Place, NLR. 501-3719000. www.wyndham.com.

TUESDAY, FEB. 28

MUSIC

Arkansas Symphony Orchestra: “Ode to Beethoven.” Includes Beethoven’s “String Quartet in F Minor, Op. 95 ‘Serioso’” and other works. Clinton Presidential Center, 7 p.m., $22.

1200 President Clinton Ave. 370-8000. www. clintonpresidentialcenter.org.

Brian Martin. Maxine’s, 8 p.m., free. 700 Central Ave., Hot Springs. maxinespub.com.

Ferrous Patella, The Alpha Rays. White Water Tavern, 10 p.m. 2500 W. 7th. 501-375-8400. www.whitewatertavern.com.

Jeff Long. Khalil’s Pub, 6 p.m. 110 S. Shackleford Road. 501-224-0224. www.khalilspub.com.

Jim Dickerson. Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, 7 p.m. 500 President Clinton Ave. 501-324-2999. www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

Kate Gale: Murphy Visiting Librettist. A poet, novelist and recipient of the Allen Ginsberg Poetry Award, Kate Gale’s libretti include Inner Circle, based on the novel by T.C. Boyle, and settings of works by the science fiction writers Ursula K. LeGuin and Antonia Butler. Hendrix College, 7:30 p.m., free. 1600 Washington Ave., Conway. 501-450-4597. www.hendrix. edu.

Lucious Spiller Band. Copeland’s, 6-9 p.m.

2602 S. Shackleford Road. 501-312-1616. www. copelandsofneworleans.com.

Ricky David Tripp. Ferneau, 5:30 p.m. 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-603-9208. www.ferneaurestaurant.com.

“TAO: The Art of the Drum.” Walton Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $10-$25. 495 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-443-5600.

Tuesday Jam Session with Carl Mouton. The Afterthought, 8 p.m., free. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-1196. www.afterthoughtbar.com.

DANCE

“Latin Night.” Revolution, 7 p.m., $5 regular, $7 under 21. 300 President Clinton Ave. 501-8230090. www.revroom.com.

Shen Yun. Robinson Center Music Hall, 7 p.m., $59-$133. Markham and Broadway. www.littlerockmeetings.com/conv-centers/robinson.

EVENTS

Tales from the South. Authors tell true stories; schedule available on website. Dinner served 5-6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m. Call for reservations.

Starving Artist Cafe. 411 N. Main St., NLR. 501-

372-7976. www.starvingartistcafe.net.

FILM

Social Justice Short Film Showcase. Philander Smith College, 6 p.m., $10-$15. 900 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive.

LECTURES

Asi Burak. The humanitarian activist presents “Games for Change: With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility.” Clinton School of Public Service, 12 p.m., free. 1200 President Clinton Ave. 501-683-5239. www.clintonschool.uasys. edu.

Christine Todd Whitman. The former administrator of the EPA and former governor of New Jersey presents “The Future of Nuclear Energy in America.” Clinton School of Public Service, 6 p.m. 1200 President Clinton Ave. 501-683-5239. www.clintonschool.uasys.edu.

THIS WEEK IN THEATER

“Criminal Hearts.” Comedy about two women from different worlds who forge an unlikely friendship. UALR, Thu., Feb. 23, 8 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 25, 8 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 26, 2:30 p.m. 2801 S. University Ave. 501-569-3291.

“Driving Miss Daisy.” This play about a 72-year-old Jewish widow and her AfricanAmerican chauffeur was the basis for the Academy Award-winning film starring Morgan Freeman and Jessica Tandy. Lantern Theatre, Feb. 23-25, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 26, 2:30 p.m.; March 1-3, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., March 4, 2:30 p.m., $12. 1021 Van Ronkle, Conway. 501733-6220. www.conwayarts.org/index.html.

“For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf.”

Ntozake Shange’s Tony Award-winning experimental work is composed of a series of 20 poems that concern the challenges facing African-American women. The Weekend Theater, through Feb. 25: Fri., Sat., 7:30 p.m., $12-$16. 1001 W. 7th St. 501-374-3761. www. weekendtheater.org.

“Kiss Me Kate.” The Tony-winning musical

by Cole Porter is a romantic comedy classic.

Royal Theatre, Feb. 23-25, 7 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 26, 2 p.m.; March 1-3, 7 p.m.; Sun., March 4, 2 p.m., $5-$12. 111 S. Market St., Benton.

“Million Dollar Quartet.” New musical inspired by the 1956 recording session that brought together Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley. Walton Arts Center, through Feb. 23, 7 p.m.; Fri., Feb. 24, 8 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 25, 2 and 8 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 26, 2 and 7 p.m., $39-$49. 495 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville. 479-443-5600.

“The Odd Couple.” An updated, female version of Neil Simon’s classic. All times are for dinner. Curtain is later. Murry’s Dinner Playhouse, through Feb. 22: Tue.-Sun., 6 p.m.; Wed., 11 a.m., $15-$33. 6323 Col. Glenn Road. 501-562-3131. murrysdinnerplayhouse. com.

“Tigers Be Still.” An unemployed recent grad returns to her hometown and tries to get a job as a substitute art teacher while an escaped tiger roams the area. Walton Arts Center’s Nadine Baum Studios, through March 4: Thu., Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2 and 7 p.m., $10-$28. 505 W. Spring St., Fayetteville. 479-443-5600. theatre2.org.

“Visiting Mr. Green.” A family comedy about friendship and forgiveness. UALR, Wed., Feb. 22, 8 p.m.; Fri., Feb. 24, 8 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 25, 2:30 p.m. 2801 S. University Ave. 501-569-3291.

“We All Hear Voices.” Jack is a talented cook who has a dark secret: he hears voices in his head. As word of his talent grows, so too does CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

2011 2012

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FEBRUARY 22, 2012

31

ART NOTES

A Rembrandt in Arkansas The Arts Center announces show.

BY LESLIE NEWELL PEACOCK

I

t’s a year away, but the exJoshua Reynolds’ portrait of hibition “Rembrandt, Van Louisa Manners (1779) places Dyck, Gainsborough: The her next to a classical column Treasures of Kenwood House, as a way of imparting importance.

London” coming to the Arkansas Arts Center is something Frans Hals’ “liquid light to think about now. The exhiapproach to paint application” bition will bring paintings to and visible brush strokes were Arkansas unlike any before, ina precursor to the impressioncluding a self-portrait by Remists that would follow him brandt that will first travel to two centuries later, Herman the Metropolitan Museum of said; his painting of a smiling Art in New York before makDutch merchant dressed in ing its appearance here. lace, “Pieter van den Broecke,” The next best thing to seewill be at the Arts Center. ing the work is talking about Two of the “wonderful surit with Arts Center director prises” of the Kenwood House Todd Herman, who becomes collection are large paintings

by Francois Boucher, an 18th chatty and animated when he talks about art and art history. century painter of romantic He gave me a primer last week scenes who “led the way in on some of the work in the the rococo movement.” There show, which will open next will also be what Herman ‘PORTRAIT OF THE ARTIST’: The Rembrandt from Kenwood summer, just as the Arts Cencalled a “typical Turner landHouse, London, en route to the Arts Center. scape” of stormy seas. ter is wrapping up its 50th “Two Girls Dressing a Kitanniversary observance. It should make a fine “bookend,” Herbrandt etching, a Boucher charcoal ten by Candlelight,” an 18th century man said, coming 50 years after the and a Romney oil lent by the Winthrop painting by Joseph Wright of Derby, an Arts Center opened with an exhibition Rockefeller Charitable Trust.) artist perhaps not as well known to the of Old Masters from the Metropolitan.

When Herman looked through the American public, was described by HerThe works, some of them largerlist of works in the American Federaman as “charming.” It is a chiaroscuro work, and besides being charming it is than-life, full-length portraits created tion for the Arts-organized show, he for English country manors in the saw “one spectacular painting after also wryly sexual, thanks to the expres17th and 18th centuries, will hang in another.” sion on the little girls’ faces and the kitThe Rembrandt, painted circa 1665, the Townsend Wolfe and Jeannette ten’s tail, which curls up between its Rockefeller galleries. There will be a Herman said, is one of the rare selflegs. A man of his day, Wright was fascinated by “what was groundbreaking small charge for the show — around portraits in which he depicts himself as in the world of science,” Herman said, $10 or so, Herman said — half the $22 an artist, “late in life, as someone who charged for the “World of the Pharaohs” has lived a worldly existence.” The artand others of his candlelight paintings blockbuster that nearly busted the Arts ist’s earlier self-portraits showed him have to do with scientific themes. laughing, or in historical costume; the The Arts Center almost missed its Center in 2009 and 2010. The Arts Center’s board made a largely ceremonial late portrait is “very moving,” Herman chance to exhibit “Rembrandt, Van gesture in January when it voted to said, capturing a man who had seen Dyck, Gainsborough” because by the approve the expensive exhibit (though changes in fortune. time sponsors could be confirmed the it pales in comparison to the millionAnthony Van Dyck, a student of Milwaukee Art Museum had snatched Peter Paul Rubens, was “a beautidollars-plus cost of “Pharaohs”). up the last spot. However, delays in ful painter and draftsman” with an Besides works by Rembrandt, Van work at Kenwood House meant the Dyck and Gainsborough, paintings by easy technique, Herman said; the oil traveling show could be extended to Frans Hals, Sir Joshua Reynolds, J.M.W. medium was “second nature” to him. a fourth venue, and the Arts Center Turner, Francois Boucher, George His “Princess Henrietta of Lorraine, was chosen. Herman has gotten two Romney and masterworks by artists less Attended by a Page (1634),” nearly 7 feet $100,000 pledges for the exhibit — known to us will be part of the exhibit. tall, shows a woman dressed in sumptuone assumes from sponsors Bank of The exhibition of European art ous silks and lace; a page dressed in red the Ozarks and the Windgate Charitable Foundation — which should allows the Arts Center to prove its convelvet and holding flowers looks up at tinuing importance now that Crystal her. Like “Princess Henrietta,” Thomas cover about half the cost of bringing Bridges Museum of American Art has Gainsborough’s 95-by-61 inch portrait the show to Little Rock. It will open opened in Bentonville. “In some ways of Mary, Countess Howe, painted a cenat the Museum of Fine Arts Houston and travel to the Seattle Art Museum it puts an exclamation point on the fact tury later, also has “wallpower,” Herthat we have an international collection man said, “an interesting aspect of this and Milwaukee before coming here of stature,” Herman said. (The Arts show.” The works were meant to conon June 6, 2013. It will run until Sept.

Center’s collection includes a Remvey the importance of the subject; Sir 8, 2013.

32

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

AFTER DARK, CONT. business at the small-town diner where he works.

But will the owner’s gambling and womanizing threaten a good thing? Based on a book by Arkansas doctor and playwright Sam Taggart.

The Public Theatre, through March 11: Fri., Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m., $12-$14. 616 Center St. 501-374-7529. www.thepublictheatre.com.

GALLERIES, MUSEUMS

NEW EXHIBITIONS, EVENTS

ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER, MacArthur Park: “Culture Shock: The ’90s,” 7 p.m. Feb. 23, Arts Center Contemporaries event, $10 members, $19.90 guests, must by 21 to attend; 54th annual “Delta Exhibition,” juried show of 54 works by 50 regional artists, through March 28; “Masters of Watercolor,” through March 28; “Horizons Interrupted,” work by Piet Mondrian, Arthur Davies, Hayley Lever and others, guest curated from the permanent collection by Norwood Creech, through March 11. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.Sat. 372-4000.

LAMAN LIBRARY, 2801 Orange St.: “Linedrives and Lipstick: The Untold Story of Women’s Baseball,” through March 18; “Atta Girl!” panel discussion with All-American Girls Professional Baseball Players Sue Kidd, Mary Lou Caden and Delores Brumfield, after showing of film “A League of their Own” at 1 p.m. Feb. 25. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Thu., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun. THEA CENTER, 401 Main St.: “Picturing Movement,” ballet-inspired work by Douglas Gorrell on sale to benefit Ballet Arkansas, with mini-performances by company, 6-8 p.m. Feb. 23. 607-4126.

UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT LITTLE ROCK: Illustrations by Mick Wiggins, Feb. 27-March 22, Gallery III; “Life Forms,” drawings, photographs and bronze, stone and wood sculpture

by Michael Warrick, Gallery II, through Feb. 26; “UALR Faculty Biennial,” work by full and parttime studio faculty, Gallery I, through March 7.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sat., 2-5 p.m. Sun. 569-8977.

ARKADELPHIA OUACHITA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY, Hammons Gallery: “Ink and Clay,” relief prints by Josh Pickens, ceramics by Barb and Jim Larkin, Feb. 27-March 16, printmaking demonstration

by Pickens 1 p.m. Feb. 22, Moses-Provine room 202. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon. –Fri. 870-245-5208.

BENTONVILLE SUGAR GALLERY, 114 W. Central Ave.: “A Seer’s Spectacle,” multimedia installation by Maralie Armstrong-Rial, Feb. 23-March 11, lecture 6 p.m. March 1, UA Fine Arts Center Room 213, reception 6-8 p.m. March 2. 2-6 p.m. Thu., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun. 479-273-5305.

FAYETTEVILLE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS, Fine Arts Center: “Small Models for Huge Failures,” large format digital photography by Brian Giniewski, main gallery, Feb. 22-March 14, reception 5:30 p.m. March 13; tintype portraits by Keliy Anderson-Staley, Feb. 27-March 8, hallway cases; cast bronze, drawings, prints by Christian Batteau, Feb. 27-March 8, hallway cases; ceramics by Mathew McConnell and Jinsoo Song, Anne Kittrell Art Gallery, through March 3; photographs by Amjad Faur, through Feb. 24, Arts Center hallway cases. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 2-5 Sun. 479-575-7987.

NEWPORT 4TH ANNUAL DELTA VISUAL ARTS SHOW: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Feb. 25 in four venues downtown.

870-523-1009.

Dining

Information in our restaurant capsules

reflects the opinions of the newspaper staff and its reviewers. The newspaper accepts no advertising or other considerations in

exchange for reviews, which are conducted anonymously. We invite the opinions of

readers who think we are in error.

B Breakfast L Lunch D Dinner $ Inexpensive (under $8/person) $$ Moderate ($8-$20/person) $$$ Expensive (over $20/person) CC Accepts credit cards

BELLY UP Check out the Times’ food blog, Eat Arkansas arktimes.com

WHAT’S COOKIN’

University Market @ 4Corners

6221 Colonel Glenn Road 515-1661 www.facebook.com/4cornersmarket Twitter: @UMat4Corners

BRIAN CHILSON

QUICK BITE University Market has something for everyone, including vegetarians. The Food Truck features several veggieonly options, including black bean and pineapple quesadillas, and a really excellent-sounding marinated Portobello mushroom Philly wrap with Swiss and American cheese.

HOURS 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily (weather permitting) SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE: University Market @ 4Corners.

Holding court Great grub, good will at LR’s new food truck roundup.

I

’m old enough to remember when the intersection of University and Colonel Glenn (back then known as University and Asher) was the good part of town. I saw my first music video on a projection screen TV at the Godfather’s Pizza just west of there. Four years old, at the Kmart on the southwest corner, I climbed into the middle of a clothes rack and fell asleep, scaring my mother so bad she called the cops. I used to beg for birthday trips to nearby Casa Bonita. My brother and I saw “The Empire Strikes Back” four times at the Cinema 150, with an uncle who has been dead 30 years now, crushed by a falling oil derrick in the wilds of New Mexico. At 17, I bought a gas tank for my ’63 Chevy at an ancient junkyard a little further west toward Rock Creek. Later on, I met the woman I eventually married at UALR, just north of the crossroads. Graduated from there, and still teach there, too.

Given how much of my life seems to have revolved around that broad and busy intersection, it’s been a shame to see the neighborhood go downhill so much in the past few decades. Kmart and the Cinema 150 and Casa Bonita are long gone. The junkyard down the street fell prey to the crusher years ago. Other businesses have moved in, but it’s just not the same. Things change. Such is life.

It’s good, then, that someone is trying to raise the fortunes and spirits around University/Colonel Glenn. The Mosaic Church of Central Arkansas is in the pro-

cess of buying the old Kmart building and plans on renovating it. In the meantime, they’ve started a daily food-truck court in the parking lot called University Market @ 4Corners. Mosaic Church pastor Mark DeYmaz said that the goal of the food truck court is to help be “a contributing partner to the city and to urban revitalization.”

The plan is for University Market to be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, with a rotating ensemble of eight pre-screened vendors (see attached list). Those looking to visit can check out the University Market Facebook page at www.facebook. com/4cornersmarket to see which trucks will be there and when.

As someone who has eagerly watched the food truck parade in recent years — led by the taco wagons down in SWLR and the rolling love machine that is Hot Dog Mike’s pull-behind cart — I am a big supporter of the idea of getting a bunch of them together in one place. I’ve been to University Market a few times recently, and the coolest thing about it is the variety. Even if you go on a day when there are only a few trucks there (as was the case on a recent cloudy Thursday, with only three in residence), there’s still a fabulous variety of stuff to eat, most of it cheap. (Be sure to bring cash, though. Many of the vendors can’t do credit cards).

On a recent run, two friends and I went in opposite directions. Companion A and I tried The Food Truck, while Companion B headed to Red River Catering for a little

OTHER INFO Many trucks don’t take credit cards, so take cash.

REGISTERED VENDORS (check Facebook page for the daily lineup): Hot Dog Mike: damn fine and carefully-prepared hot dogs Taqueria Samantha: excellent traditional Latino fare Peace Hog Mobile Cafe: Cajun, gumbo, po’ boys Papa’s Burgers and Dogs: corn dogs, burgers, etc.

Homegrown Gourmet Food Truck: upscale tacos, wraps, burgers, etc.

Haygood’s BBQ: turkey legs and barbecue Christians Take Out Too: wings, catfish, turkey burgers Red River Catering: catfish, ribs The Food Truck: gourmet sandwiches, wraps, veggie options

catfish, fries and shrimp.

I’ve caught The Food Truck a few times at various events, and I’m already a fan. I tried My Momma’s Sandwich ($7): turkey breast, Swiss cheese, red onion, tomato and mustard on parmesan sourdough.

Companion, meanwhile, tried The Clarice ($7), which features lamb (get the name now?) roasted in garlic and rosemary, with a red onion marmalade, balsamic mayo on multi-grain bread. We both opted for the sweet potato chips with our sandwiches.

Companion bleated that her lambwich looked and smelled divine, the garlic-scented steam rising from the bag with the promise of a hearty, filling meal, perfect for a blustery day of outdoor dining. She’s generally a big fan of onions, and said the red onion marmalade did not disappoint, adding a sweet tang to each bite without being overpowering. I found similar heaven in My Momma’s Sandwich, which was big, sloppy and flavorful — perfectly CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

THE BIG RED BALL CHARITABLE FOUNDATION, the charitable arm of

the Little Rock Kickball Association, once again presents Chili with a Kick from 10:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25 at Dickey-Stephens. Admission is $5; children under 12 get in free.

The main draw, of course, is a chili cook-off. Some 30 teams, vying for a number of awards, will offer samples on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Your idea of chili and our idea of chili might be quite different within Chili with a Kick’s guidelines: “Chili is defined as any kind of meat or combination of meats (or vegetables) cooked with chili peppers, various other spices and other ingredients.

So, that means beans and other fillers are allowed and encouraged!

Vegetarian Chili entries are welcome!”

Also on the schedule: a jalapeno eating competition that begins at 2 p.m. For the kids (big and little), there’ll be a bounce house, face painting, baggo and kickball. Plus, there’s music scheduled all day.

DINING CAPSULES

AMERICAN

65TH STREET DINER Blue collar, meatand-two-veg lunch spot with cheap desserts and a breakfast buffet. 3201 West 65th St. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-5627800. BL Mon.-Fri. ACADIA Unbelievable fixed-price, threecourse dinners on Mondays and Tuesday, but food is certainly worth full price. 3000 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar, CC. $$-$$$.

501-603-9630. D Mon.-Sat. COAST CAFE A variety of salads, smoothies, sandwiches and pizzas. 400 President Clinton Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-371-0164. BL Mon.-Sat. COPPER GRILL Comfort food, burgers and more sophisticated fare at this River Market-area hotspot. 300 E. Third St. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-375-3333. LD Mon.-Sat. DAVE’S PLACE A popular downtown soup-and-sandwich stop at lunch draws a large and diverse crowd for the Friday night dinner, which varies in theme, home cooking being the most popular.

201 Center St. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$.

501-372-3283. L Mon.-Fri., D Fri. DIZZY’S GYPSY BISTRO Interesting bistro fare, served in massive portions at this River Market favorite. 200 River Market Ave. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-3753500. LD Tue.-Sat. FERNEAU Great seafood, among other things, is served at the Ice House Revival in Hillcrest. 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar, All CC. $$$-$$$$. 501-603-9208. D Tue.-Sat. CONTINUED ON PAGE 34 www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

33

CROSSWORD

DINING REVIEW, CONT.

EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ Across 1 Places for flocks 5 Some sporty cars 8 Sandbox retort 13 Pizza topping 15 Wide shoe spec 16 Like a perfect game, of a sort 17 Nabisco wafer 18 Monopolist’s clothing accessory?

20 Teen idol Efron 21 Like a poor attendance 23 Crewman on the Jolly Roger 24 Designers for Microsoft Windows?

27 Blow it 28 “Do Ya” rock grp.

29 Blow it 31 Refs. for Web site newbies 34 Brewer’s equipment

38 Oil well firefighter Red ___ 41 What Martian invaders may be intent on?

44 Martian, e.g.

45 Viral phenomenon on the Web 46 Assemble-ityourself chain 47 Sleepaway, e.g.

49 Young ’un 51 Really get to 53 What the backer of a failing business may do?

60 License prerequisite, often 62 “Take your time!”

63 ___ chi 64 Trunk item … or what has been put on 18-, 24-, 41- and 53Across?

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE A P S E N A P A S W A T M A P A T B E L U S O C G O T O L O P E D B A T C O R C A I T E S S I T E T I C S

O R I O C A M P C H T E A O A R C H O N T K I T G O O T H E M A U C G N S N H O U T O P T A A L L E L E O N S Y N C

N Y M P H E P S I T C U F C F H I Y C E S

D O N T B E S H Y E V A D E

A R O M A S

B A R A C K

S L I N K Y

F U L L S T O P

O R R I E G L C H U R E E

66 Moves first 68 King who had the Labyrinth built 69 Trail the pack 70 “Love Train” singers, with “the” 71 Become, eventually 72 That, in Toledo 73 Cause to roll in the aisles Down 1 Schemer called to mind by the Madoff swindle 2 Univac I predecessor 3 Word after “roger,” to a radioer 4 G, in the key of C 5 Insinuate 6 Country singer Clark 7 Dr. for kids 8 Tiny colonist 9 Pitchforkwielding groups 10 Disney development 11 Gretzky, for many years 12 Bewhiskered frolicker 14 Like some French vowels 19 Where props are seen 22 Bit of math homework 25 Lipton competitor 26 Beanery side dish 30 Emphatic assent 31 Monk’s title 32 WWW giant

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Puzzle by Chris Handman

33 Stuff that can give you a sinking feeling?

35 ___ Inside (store sign) 36 That ship 37 “Tiny” boy 39 ___ de la Cité 40 Nutritionist’s fig.

42 Words of generosity

43 Hawks 48 Huff and puff 50 It may elicit a blessing 51 Words after a knock 52 Adjust, as a corsage 54 Upholstery fabric 55 Polonius’s hiding place

56 “Hasta ___” 57 Item at a 95% markdown, say 58 Country singer Tucker 59 He-man’s opposite 61 Drop ___ (moon) 65 Eerie gift 67 Sleepover attire, for short

For answers, call 1-900-285-5656, $1.49 a minute; or, with a credit card, 1-800-814-5554.

Annual subscriptions are available for the best of Sunday crosswords from the last 50 years: 1-888-7-ACROSS. AT&T users: Text NYTX to 386 to download puzzles, or visit nytimes.com/mobilexword for more information.

Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 2,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year).

Share tips: nytimes.com/wordplay.

Crosswords for young solvers: nytimes.com/learning/xwords.

THIS MODERN WORLD

grilled and with generous goodies inside. On the other hand, we both found the sweet potato chips to be a buzzkill: soggy, limp and soaked in grease. It’s hard to ruin a sweet potato, so Companion and I agreed that we’d give The Food Truck the benefit of the doubt and assume we had a bad batch.

Overall, a dang fine lunch, and that was before our other friend returned with his Red River fish and shrimp combo plate ($11.50), which turned out to be an overload of golden, meaty fillets, butterflied shrimp and delicious fish-grease fries. By the time we staggered to the trash can to dispose of the evidence, we were all groaning.

In short: great idea, great location, great food, great spirit. One crucial thing missing that, according to organizers, thanks to a zoning limitation they’re working with the city to address is that there are no picnic tables or any other kind of seating. Here’s hoping that gets fixed sooner rather than later. Who wants to come out for truck food on a sunny day and then have to eat in the car?

One suggestion might be to take a page from the Farmer’s Market downtown and restrict the Market @ 4Corners to only a few days: all-day Saturday and lunch on Wednesday has a nice ring to it. While that might seem like an unnecessary restriction, I’d bet that, with a little Facebook and Twitter promotion, it could turn the food truck court into a Wednesday-lunch destination for people all over the city (“Hey, it’s Wednesday! Let’s load up and go eat at the food trucks!”), not to mention helping assure that they’d have a full complement of vendors on hand when they are open.

DINING CAPSULES, CONT. FRANKE’S CAFETERIA Plate lunch spot strong on salads and vegetables, and perfect fried chicken on Sundays. 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road.

No alcohol, All CC. $$. 501-225-4487. LD daily. 400 W. Capitol Ave. No alcohol, All CC. $$. 501-372-1919. L Mon.-Fri. FRONTIER DINER The traditional all-American roadside diner, complete with a nice selection of man-friendly breakfasts and lunch specials. 10424 Interstate 30. No alcohol, All CC. $-$$. 501-565-6414. BL Mon.-Sat. GRAMPA’S CATFISH HOUSE A longtime local favorite for fried fish, hush puppies and good sides. 9219 Stagecoach Road. Beer, Wine, All CC. 501-407-0000. LD. RED DOOR Fresh seafood, steaks, chops and sandwiches from restaurateur Mark Abernathy. Smart wine list. 3701 Old Cantrell Road. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-666-8482. BL Mon.-Fri. D daily.

REDBONE’S Piquant Creole and Cajun food that’s among Little Rock’s best. 300 President Clinton Ave. Full bar, All CC. $-$$. 501-372-2211.

LD daily.

RIVERFRONT STEAKHOUSE Steaks are the draw here — nice cuts heavily salted and peppered, cooked quickly and accurately to your specifications, finished with butter and served sizzling hot. 2 Riverfront Place. NLR. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-375-7825. D Mon.-Sat. RUDY’S OYSTER BAR Good boiled shrimp and oysters on the half shell.

2695 Pike Ave. NLR. Full bar, All CC. 501-771-0808. LD Mon.-Sat. SO RESTAURANT BAR Call it a French brasserie with a sleek, but not fussy American finish. 3610 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$.

501-663-1464.

TRIO’S Fresh, creative and satisfying lunches; even better at night. 8201 Cantrell Road. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-221-3330. LD daily.

ASIAN

FANTASTIC CHINA The food is delicious, the presentation beautiful, the menu distinctive, the service perfect, the decor bright. 1900 N. Grant St. Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-663-8999. LD daily.

LILLY’S DIMSUM THEN SOME Innovative dishes inspired by Asian cuisine, utilizing local and fresh ingredients. 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-716-2700. LD daily.

MT. FUJI JAPANESE RESTAURANT The dean of Little Rock sushi bars offers a fabulous lunch special and great Monday night deals. 10301 Rodney Parham Road. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-227-6498. LD daily.

10301 N. Rodney Parham Road. 501-227-6498.

OSAKA JAPANESE RESTAURANT Fine-dining Japanese dishes and a well-stocked sushi bar to way-out-west Little Rock, near Chenal off Highway 10. 5501 Ranch Drive, Suite 1. $$-$$$. 501-868-3688. LD. PAPA SUSHI Hibachi grill with large sushi menu and Korean specialties.

17200 Chenal Parkway. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-821-7272.

SEOUL A full line of sushi and soft tofu stews plus a variety of Korean dishes, mainly marinated and grilled meats teamed with vegetables served with

34

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

DINING CAPSULES, CONT. rice in bibimbap style in a sizzling-hot bowl.

5923 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$.

501-227-7222. LD Mon.-Sat.

BARBECUE

CORKY’S RIBS & BBQ The pulled pork is extremely tender and juicy, and the sauce is sweet and tangy without a hint of heat. Maybe the best dry ribs in the area. 12005 Westhaven Drive. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-954-7427.

LD daily. 2947 Lakewood Village Drive. NLR. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-753-3737. LD daily, B Sat.-Sun. WHITE PIG INN Go for the sliced rather than chopped meats at this working-class barbecue cafe. 5231 E. Broadway. NLR. Beer, All CC. $-$$. 501-945-5551. LD Mon.-Fri., L Sat. WHOLE HOG CAFE The pulled pork shoulder is a classic, the back ribs are worthy of their many blue ribbons, and there’s a six-pack of sauces for all tastes. 516 Cantrell Road. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$. 501-664-5025. LD Mon.-Sat. 12111 W. Markham. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$.

501-907-6124. LD daily 150 E. Oak St. Conway.

No alcohol, All CC. $$. 501-513-0600. LD Mon.-Sat., L Sun. 5107 Warden Road. NLR. Beer, Wine, All CC. $$. 501-753-9227.

EUROPEAN / ETHNIC

AMRUTH AUTHENTIC INDIAN CUISINE Indian restaurant with numerous spicy, vegetarian dishes. 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road. Beer, Wine, All CC. $-$$. 501-224-4567.

LD daily.

CAFE BOSSA NOVA A South American approach to sandwiches, salads and desserts.

701 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$.

501-614-6682. LD Tue.-Sat., BR Sun. HIBERNIA IRISH TAVERN This traditional Irish pub has its own traditional Irish cook from Ireland. 9700 N Rodney Parham Road. Full bar, All CC. $$. 501-246-4340.

TAJ MAHAL Upscale versions of traditional dishes and an extensive menu. Dishes range on the spicy side. 1520 Market Street. Beer, All CC. $$$. (501) 881-4796. LD daily.

THE TERRACE MEDITERRANEAN KITCHEN A broad selection of Mediterranean delights.

2200 Rodney Parham Road. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-217-9393. L Mon.-Fri., D Mon.-Sat.

ITALIAN

GRAFFITI’S The casually chic and ever-popular Italian-flavored bistro avoids the rut with daily specials and careful menu tinkering. 7811 Cantrell Road. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-2249079. D Mon.-Sat. RISTORANTE CAPEO Authentic cooking from the boot of Italy is the draw at this cozy, brickwalled restaurant on a reviving North Little Rock’s Main Street. 425 Main St. NLR. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-376-3463. D Mon.-Sat. ROCKY’S PUB Rocking sandwiches an Arkie used to have to head way northeast to find and a fine selection of homemade Italian entrees. 6909 JFK Blvd. NLR. Beer, Wine. $$.

501-833-1077. LD Mon.-Sat.

LATINO

JUANITA’S Menu includes a variety of combination entree choices — enchiladas, tacos, flautas, shrimp burritos and such — plus creative salads and other dishes. And of course the “Blue Mesa” cheese dip. 614 President Clinton Ave. Full bar, All CC. $$-$$$. 501-372-1228. L Mon.-Fri., D Thu.-Sat. ROSALINDA RESTAURANT HONDURENO A Honduran cafe that specializes in pollo con frito tajada (fried chicken and fried plaintains). With breakfast, too. 3700 JFK Blvd.

NLR. No alcohol, No CC. $-$$. 501-771-5559.

LD daily.

text M ex To G o to

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www.arktimes.com

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

35

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

Hit Refresh

BY BLAIR TIDWELL

I

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN CHILSON

t may only be February, but spring is timidly peeking right around the corner, with jonquils blooming in the unseasonably warm weather and locals shedding their winter coats on sunny days. As Mother Nature spruces up the outdoors, it’s time for you to freshen up your life indoors. Enlivening your home décor is easy and affordable with our tips and select accessories from your favorite shops.

Just as you greeted winter with a cozy, fire-lit, snuggly sweater environment, you’ll want to welcome March and April with a breezy, relaxed home that mirrors the tranquil scene outside your window.

Create the perfect spring ambiance with delicate fabrics, bright colors and lots of light. Replacing heavy draperies with sheer panels gives an immediate facelift, produces a soft glow by filtering natural sunlight, and, when swept to the side, removes visual boundaries between nature and your living space. Replicate soft daylight in the evenings by avoiding overhead lights and layering in fun lamps to switch on instead.

Store dark or heavy bed linens for next winter; during warmer months sleep tight under crisp, cotton fabrics in appealing yellows, blues and greens. But avoid going too pastel or your snoozing space might end up looking like an egg-filled Easter basket.

Speaking of color, try to use organic hues to cheer up any uninteresting neutral spaces. Take cues from the vibrant colors outside: Chartreuse, lime and grassy greens reflect the flourishing of nature, while blooming flowers and ripening fruit and citrus provide additional inspiration. Mix in these bright shades wherever possible, but you don’t have to overhaul your rooms with a paint job. Dress up existing walls

with inexpensive prints or wall art that help to bring out spring-y pigments or floral themes. Or, easily update a neutral couch or chair with colorful patterned pillows.

If your room needs a true makeover, consider adding, replacing or rejuvenating a rug for instant impact. Jute rugs can be purchased at a low cost and make a quick project for DIY fans. The neutral tan fibers can easily be customized with eye-catching paint in geometric styles (the popular chevron pattern, for one) or botanical-inspired designs.

Traditionalists can transform a room by investing in a rug from Martinous Oriental Rug Company in West Little Rock, which has been providing the state with rugs from around the world since 1923. Martinous offers a wide variety of rugs in traditional, transitional, and comtemponary styles in the latest colors and design that are equipped to fit anyone’s budget. Start your spring cleaning early by giving your floor rugs a much-needed wash. Martinous takes pride in offering the finest cleaning and drying facilities in the state for any type of area rug, including their 6-step, “Submersion Handwash Cleaning” for area rugs with animal stains and odors.

Nothing says spring more than fresh flowers. Put away pumpkin, apple cider and pine scents leftover from the holidays. Then, swap in a colorful and fragrant arrangement to add a visual punch and an olfactory uplift. When you can’t pick up a bouquet at the market or the florist, light a floral-scented candle or spritz a room spray in light scents like lavender or fresh linen.

Need more inspiration? We’ve picked out a few products to make freshening up your home even easier!

hearsay ➥ Hairy situations are waxed, tweezed, shaped and tamed at BARBARA/JEAN’s newest addition to its spa room: the Brow Bar. Esthetician Stephanie Calloway, previously at Indulgences Day Spa, is available by appointment or drop-ins 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. ➥ Need an excuse to pull on those cowgirl boots another time before warm weather officially arrives? On March 2, mosey on over to the old-timey tack and saddle farm auction at the ARKANSAS STATE FAIR COMPLEX. Even those who don’t bid on the inventory will appreciate the craftsmanship of over 100 bridles and more than 50 custom-made saddles from H Bar Saddlery. Auction begins at 7 p.m.

36

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO ARKANSAS TIMES

➥ B. BARNETT beats the winter blues with two last trunk shows in February.

On Feb 23 at 10:30 a.m., the Southern gals from G. Spinelli show off their earthy yet refined jewelry collection, full of freshwater pearls, turquoise, leather and crystals. Then on Feb 29 at 10 a.m., cashmere lovers can cozy up to Magaschoni’s bright spring line (candy green apple cardigans are just the beginning). ➥ Barbara Graves, the owner of well-known lingerie and swimwear business BARBARA GRAVES INTIMATE FASHIONS, announced her candidacy for state House District 32, which includes areas of West Little Rock and Chenal. Graves, a previous president of the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce, plans to advocate for small business owners and help to create jobs in the Little Rock community.

Monday 8am Wednesday 4pm

Karma Living pillow, VESTA’S

Peace chair, UNIQUE FURNITURE, $299

Felt flower pillow ($30), Trina Turk embroidered Greek key design in fuchsia on white ($90), and a Company C 22» multi-colored brightly embroidered tulip design downfilled pillow ($176), CYNTHIA EAST

IN AS LITTLE AS THREE DAYS, our exclusive reconditioning or refacing services will have you feeling like you’ve walked into a brand new kitchen. Call for a free in-home consultation.

WOOD RECONDITIONING • CABINET REFACING CABINET REDOORING • CUSTOM CABINETS

Feb. 24-26 Statehouse Convention Center, LR

Whitney Lamp with milk glass base and red embroidery shade ($92) and Hoshi Lamp with apple green base and cream cotton shade ($188), LEWIS LIGHTING

Papaya painting $53, BOX TURTLE

Don’t miss presentations by nationally known experts Chris Olsen & Kelly D. Norris GOLD SPONSORS LRCVB Steve & Merilyn Tilley Clark Trim & Henrik Thostrup

Izabella products (candle, linen mist, perfume), VESTA’S, $17-$45

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Fri.-Sat 10-6 Sun.10-4 Free parking at Dickey-Stephens, $1 shuttle to show.

For more info: arflowerandgarden.org or call 501-821-4000.

BRONZE SPONSORS Allan & Carol Mendel River Valley Horticultural Products

ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO ARKANSAS TIMES

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

37

Domino theories

R

ubow said his least favorite president was Jefferson because one time he lost every penny he had at a Shreveport casino and that never would’ve happened if the Louisiana purchase had fell through.

His partner there at the domino table said, “Aw you would’ve just lost it somewhere else. At Tunica or out here in the alley shooting craps.”

“I guess so. But they rig these machines to take advantage of the working man and it chaps my butt. Did then, does now.”

“The working man? Is that what you said — the working man? Two things I thought I’d never hear in my life. One, President Kingfish and two, Rubow the working man.”

“I done my share of work. I picked peaches when they still grew peaches.

They let us eat all of ’em we wanted to off the ground. They’d can the eating part and send the pits to some outfit in Mexico that made a cancer cure out of them. They said as far as cancer, eating one powdered peach pit would cancel out smoking 10 cigarettes.”

“Who said that?”

“I heard it one night on TV from Harry Von Zell.”

“You’d believe anything they put on TV.”

“From him or George Fenneman I would. I also dug sweet potatoes all one summer and it like to killed me.”

BOB “I thought LANCASTER sweet potatoes grew on a vine. It’s your Irish potato that grows underground.”

“These that I dug didn’t grow on no vine. To get to some of ’em you had to shevel down to bedrock. Jed Clampett struck oil shallower than most of these.”

“I seen on TV where it was Jefferson invented the sweet potato. Either him or Luther Burbank.”

“I bet it was Jeffferson. He brung on Louisiana so I’d go broke at that casino and have to go dig up sweet potatoes for a grubstake.”

“You like ’em baked with butter on ’em, or candied?”

“I like ’em th’owed out to the hogs.”

“You know they make sweet-potato chips.”

“No I didn’t. You can have my share.”

“It was presidents I wanted to get y’allses opinion on,” I told them, “this being Presidents Day and all.”

“I thought President Day was just

for George Washington and Aberham Lincoln. You mean it’s for all of ’em?

Even these scrubs we’ve had in there since Jimmy Carter?”

Each one of the 44 gets a half-hour apiece worth of honoring, I explained to them. That leaves two extra hours, and the conservatives wanted that to all go to worshipping Reagan, but saner heads prevailed and split it up between George and Abe. My favorite is the fat one that was in there when I was born. Taff, I think it was.”

“It couldn’t of been Taft, Leon. That would make you 110 years old.”

“Well, it was one of that string of fat ones that all looked alike,” Leon said.

“No, it wadn’t. It wadn’t ol’ Woodrow, either, the one with the sorry wife that tried to take over when he went senile.

I’m guessing it was Hoover. He’s the closest thing we’ve had to fat in the White House since Taft.”

“Hoover was the one named for the dam. Or the vacuum cleaner one.”

“Maybe it was for J. Edgar. I guess J. Edgar done all right fighting bootleggers but there was a face that’d stop a courthouse clock. You think he was a homo with that Clyde feller?”

“I don’t know. What difference would it make now?”

“I never even seen a vacuum cleaner till I was a grown man. Momma had

a broom, homemade, but you couldn’t make ’em too stout ’cause we had dirt floors and you’d sweep out the whole floor.”

“You had dirt floors?”

“For a long time there we did. Good for playing marbles but wadn’t nothing to be proud of. Them sapsuckers was cold, cold on your bare feet winter mornings, and hot weather you never knew what was going to bore up through the dirt and grab one of your toes whilst you was eating supper.”

“I never heard such a bunch of lying in my life. I remember y’all’s place. Had them old puncheon floors.”

“By the time you come along it did.

Later on still, we put in hardwood floors from oak shorts that Daddy lifted from the flooring mill. We thought we was crapping in cotton knee-high then.”

Our topic was supposed to be presidents, I reminded them.

“The one I liked was Roosevelt” — meaning FD not T. “You didn’t have a job then, he’d see you got harred. Everybody around here worked for the CCC. One of Momma’s people got on painting murals on the walls of some of them post offices.

Getting paid for painting pitchers. Happy days was here again.”

Two of the domino players were Vietnam vets and neither of them named Lyndon Johnson as his favorite president.

ARKANSAS TIMES CLASSIFIEDS Appliances

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ARKANSAS TIMES

Advertising sales the Arkansas Times/El Latino has one position open in Advertising Sales. If you have sales experience and enjoy the exciting and crazy world of advertising then we’d like to talk to you. In addition to our popular weekly issue, we also publish our “over the top” website and blogs. Annually we have special focus issues that cover everything from education, careers and dining.

What does all this translate to? A high income potential for a hard working advertising executive. We have fun, but we work hard. Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus but not necessary.

Please send your resume and cover letter to Luis Garciarossi luis@arktimes.com EOE 38

FEBRUARY 22, 2012

ARKANSAS TIMES

38 February 22, 2012 ARKANSAS TIMES

Barons Creek Farms in Fredericksburg, TX is hiring 4 temporary Farm workers from 3/12/2012-10/30/2012: 40 hrs/ week. Workers will manually plant, cultivate, and harvest vegetables, thins and weeds plants using hand tools, such as shovels, trowels, hoes and rakes. Workers will dig cut, pick, bunch, clean and grade crops by hand. Workers will cull spoiled and in-mature vegetables.

Workers must take care to not scar or bruise vegetables during harvesting and/or packing process.

Workers must be able to lift 50lb. crates/boxes of harvested vegetables. Workers may drive tractors to pull harvest wagons and may move or assemble irrigation equipment. $9.88/hr. (prevailing wage).

Guarantee of 3/4 of the workdays.

All work tools, supplies, and equipment furnished without cost to the worker. Free housing is provided to workers who cannot reasonably return to their permanent residence at the end of the workday.

Transportation and subsistence expenses to the worksite will be provided or paid by the employer, with payment to be made no later than completion of 50% of the work contract. Send Resume or contact Arkansas Department of Workforce Services, Foreign Labor Certification, Monitor Advocate #2 Capitol Mall, Room 434, Little Rock, AR 7220, (501) 683-2372 and reference job order #TX6825959

Brighter facilities. Leaders who shine. Our teams are built on strong relationships through training excellence and patient-centered care\emdash provided at our facilities in North Little Rock, and guided by talented new leadership. We offer career options to fit your lifestyle. We have an opportunity for a PART TIME REGISTERED DIETITIAN in the North Little Rock area to work 24 hours per week, 3/8 shifts. At least 1 year of clinical experience is required. We are a FORTUNE 500 company\emdash featured in Training Magazine’ s Top 125 and Modern Healthcare’ s 100 Best Places to Work in Healthcare. To be considered for the position you must apply by visiting: http://careers.davita.com/ If you have additional questions, contact:Marguerita.

Porter@davita.com for more information.

DaVita is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

CAREERS http://careers.davita.com/

Business Opportunities EARN $400 WEEKLY! Assemble products from home. For FREE information send SASE: Home Assembly-ARA, P.O. Box 450 New Britain, CT 06050-0450 PERSONAL ASSISTANT. Seeking a mature and well-established personal assistant for mature woman in Pine Bluff on a part-time basis to assist with errands and major projects. Must have a track record for achieving results. Affiliation with professional lifestyle and management organizations a plus. Four references required. Applicants must currently reside in Arkansas. Please contact L.V. Lee at tel:757-971-0204 or email :dranev@hotmail.com

Williams Appliances Washers/ Dryers, and Stoves $100+.

Refridgerators $200+ NLR area, call 501-753-6636

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Newfoundland

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He is a lost Black Newfoundland found a wk ago in N. Pulaski and was taken to the vet. The vet said he is around 4, weighed 85lbs and has been well taken care of. Loves other dogs and kids.

Very playful and affectionate!

Needs a great loving home.

Call Kaytee at 501-607-3100

Food Allergy?

UAMS Research Study

Traditional Chinese Medicine for the Treatment of Food Allergies

Are you allergic to peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, fish or shellfish?

Couch for sale. Beautiful stain-resistant ultra suede sectional, 4 piece.

Purchased at Cantoni in Dallas for $3,000. Barely used, asking $800.

Call 501-607-3100 can send pictures upon request.

Arkansas Children’s Hospital is currently enrolling volunteers 12-45 years of age for a nine month research study that will determine the effectiveness of Chinese herbs for the treatment of food allergy. All study related visits and laboratory test are provided at no cost. Compensation will be provided.

For more information, please call:

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1 Children’s Way. Little Rock, AR 72202 Stacie Jones, MD, Principal Investigator

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It’s happening right now on Arkansas Blog www.arktimes.com www.arktimes.com February 22, 2012 39

from Here

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