La Petite Bistro gives 10% to AWL on Saturdays

Don't forget to dine at La Petite Bistro tomorrow. Proprietor Malcolm Bickford has generously offered 10% of each sale to the Animal Welfare League through September.
The food is delicious and I can't think of a more pleasant way to spend my Saturday lunchtime. See you there.

Day before the end of another month

I don't know about anyone else but this year sure seems like it is flying. We had lots of family birthdays last month but this month is the month for grandchildren. Only the twins and Ella weren't born in August. The twins are our little Flag Day boys. Ella joined her dad in April.
August brought us Emma then Noah, Clark and Jack. All were born mid-month to the end of the month.
Emma's tenth birthday is on the fifth anniversary of Katrina. Oh yeah, that bug-a-boo is coming up next month as well.
Just one more day to wrap up July activities.

Rotary meets today

The Rotary Club of Scenic 7 meets today at noon at Molly O'Brien's on Highway 7. The meeting starts at 12:10.
Last Thursday Ed Voss presented his slide show on Rotary. Although several of the club members have seen the presentation before, he always adds something new for their benefit and there is always someone new that hasn't seen it before.
A new tidbit presented this time was the breakdown of dues paid by the Rotary Club's members. Most of the funds stay local for local project, $5 goes to Rotary International and $2 goes to the district.
The club is looking at new and different fund raising opportunities to identify and benefit local needs.
Voss also distributed a Rotary International list of club member counts by country and geographical area. There was no surprise that the United States led the member count with 362,317 in 7,859 clubs. India was the next in line with 110,604 members in 3,015 clubs.
The smallest membership was nine in Timor-Leste's one club. A club is given charter status with 20 members and maintains its club status even if the membership drops below the 20 members.
There are 33,976 Rotary clubs in 212 countries.
Lunch is available at Molly O'Brien's should you want to buy lunch to enjoy during the meeting.

Bari Searls most recent update from husband Warren

Warren Searls gives update on wife Bari and dogs, ETs, return home following Bari's hospitalization.
I don't know when ETs arrived home, but I was able to bring Bari home Friday evening. The wee ones, I'm thinking maybe that should be the wee-wee ones, and I were happy about that.
Some very good friends, Cathy and Bill Crawford, brought some much needed rehabilitation accessories to the house. Our son Mark added hold bars and a sliding shower head to the walk-in shower. Saturday morning Bari had a refreshing shower and shampoo.
I am amazed at how well she is able to use the walker and get herself around. She's very determined that this misfortune is not going to get the best of her. She did take one tumble maneuvering into the toilet room, that alerted us both as to how easy it is to fall when you least expect it. She survived that mishap without incidence, very lucky.
So, for at least a few weeks longer I will be the Captain of the household, cooking, cleaning, walking the dogs, pulling weeds, shouting at Bari telling her how much I love her and to please hurry up and get better. Of course, Bari will still be the Admiral of the household and I expect she will occasionally, ha-ha, give me some orders even though it is my temporarily my ship she's on.
Well folks, I hear the ting-a-ling of the Admiral's bell so I must go now and live up to my vows, you know, through sickness and in health..,...love, honor and obey!
Bari just got out of bed and I think I have lost control of the ship at least until she takes her next nap. All in all, our gal is doing fine and glad to be home and see our grandson, Steven, who came up from Dallas to spend the weekend, but is leaving today. She will be happy to hear from you and is welcoming visitors with a little advance notice.

Players members needing extra prayers

Judy Corwin, president of HSV Players passed on information regarding health and welfare of two of the club's members.
Jackie Gullahorn had a set back from her original knee surgery and was hospitalized with a blood clot in the knee. As of last Sunday, she has been home in a wheel chair, doubt if Tom is pushing her around, but don't know for sure. She hopes to graduate to a walker since the
doctor wants her up and walking. Cards will be appreciated.
Many of you have worked with Jessica Venable as she "grew up" with Players in many productions. Our hearts go out to her and family with the recent death of her father, Tim. Please keep all the Venable family in your prayers.

Heifer steering committee meets today

The Village Heifer steering committee meets at 1 p.m. today.

Hot Springs Concert Band salutes Gershwins tonight

The Hot Springs Concert Band will host a salute to the Gershwins tonight in Whittington Park in Hot Springs. Guest soloist Deleen Davidson will croon a couple of favorite Gershwin tunes. The concert starts at 6:45 p.m.
Patrons are asked to bring chairs or blankets and bug spray if needed. Parking is a premium so come early.
This is a make-up concert, it was rained out previously. Keep your fingers crossed that this will be a dry evening in Whittington Park.

Senator Blanche Lincoln in the Village for candidate forum

U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln and State Senator Joyce Elliott voiced what they will do for the voters of Saline and Garland Counties.

Senator Blanche Lincoln assured supporters and worked hard to win over Halter supporters at Friday night's democratic candidate forum.

Pat O'Brien, Johnny and Mrs. Hoyt and Dawn Creekmore.

Pat O'Brien has been successful as the circuit and county clerk for Pulaski County but now he is running for Secretary of State. The office of Secretary of State does not impact the state's education, health care or economy so O'Brien did not have as much opportunity to speak as did the other candidates. He pledged to make state government more open and transparent through high standards and accountability.

Candidate for District 31 State Representative Debbie Murphy is a Pulaski County resident. Her involvement with the education of her two children has brought her face to face with education issues.

For over 20 years, Murphy has worked hard in her community to make it a better place to live, work and raise a family. She was on the Governor's Task Force on Gifted and Talented Education, a board member of the Pulaski County Special School District and has worked closely with the Humane Society and the Baptist Health Foundation.

She believes, "we must better educate our young people in order to sustain long term growth making our children ready to compete in the economy of the future."

Government transparency is of vital interest to Murphy, "we should be confident that our elected officials are representing our values and beliefs. That's why I support live, online video feeds for all committee meetings."

Like all the candidate at the forum health care is in the top three issues discussed. Murphy said, "instead of just treating diseases, we must work to prevent them entirely. Educating both students and parents in proper nutrition is key."

District 30 Representative Johnny Hoyt and his campaign manager wife are running for re-election. Hoyt lives in Morriltton and is a former education administrator. He has a track record of positive education initiatives.

"Education is important but economic development is also important so we have good jobs for our graduates." Hoyt noted a phenomenal new statistic in Arkansas education. "Arkansas is now 10th in the country in education, moved up from 48 or 49."

Hoyt is not a supporter of mandates in the classroom. He believes teachers need to "buy into policy. Teachers are on the front line trying to educate."

District 22 Representative Dawn Creekmore is running for re-election. She is a strong proponent of education. Her two children are now in college bring the cost of higher education to the forefront.

Her daughter is considering teaching in a rural school for a couple of years to offset the cost of her education. Creekmore wants to see more opportunities for affordable education and wants to see more of our students graduating.

State Senator Joyce Elliot is running for U.S. Representaive from the second district. There is a post of her presentation.

Of course, the star of the evening was U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln. She was late to the proceedings and apologized. She said she had been detained in Washington, D. C. trying to get a child nutrition bill passed before the weekend. The bill is still pending.

Lincoln is all about making opportunities for Arkansas and Arkansans. Her voting record is 85-percent along party lines and 15-percent with Republicans in an effort to benefit the state.

Lincoln was eloquent in her attempts to win over any Halter supporters in an effort to unite the party for the November election, just 99 days from today.

She said it is going to be a though election year but she is "road tested." Lincoln is a seventh generation Arkansan. She is from a farm family.

As far as the economy is concerned, Lincoln is for cutting back runaway spending. The difference between her approach and that of her opponent is that she is for surgically cutting the budget and her opponent is for hatcheting it. She said the Department of Defense should not be immune to budget cuts. There is room for cuts just not across the board cuts.

Lincoln told the audience she is about finding common ground. She represents all of Arkansas, not just one party.

When asked why we are still in Afghanistan, Lincoln said, "I support President Obama's approach, we are there timely and temporarily." She added she had wanted to bring home the troops from Iraq sooner.

She is proud of the special contingent of Arkansas soldiers sent to Afghanistan to teach agricultural methods. She said another Arkansas contingent is readying to continue this mission.

Lincoln received several much deserved standing ovations during her appearance in the Village.

Joyce Elliott part of candidates forum

All of the candidates at the Democratic forum on Friday night were well-informed and eager to answer questions.
Sen. Blanche Lincoln flew in from Washington, D.C. and was featured in the last 45 minutes of the forum. The first hour and 15 minutes belonged to the other candidate. Of those candidates the fiercest and most competent competitor was State Senator Joyce Elliott. Elliott is running for representative in the United States Congress from District two.
I am a fan of Susan Wittig Albert’s China Bayles mysteries. In the series of mysteries there is a character of the local police chief. She is often referred to as her nickname, "Smart Cookie." Now I have finally met someone as deserving of the moniker. Elliott is one "Smart Cookie."
All of the candidates were asked about the economy, education and health care.
Elliott was a public school teacher for 31 years before entering the life of politics. Her experience as an educator with contact with children from all walks of life deeply impacted her stance on education, healthcare and the economy. "Above everything, education has made me who I am and driven me to public service."
"I have dedicated my life to improving education for all of Arkansas’ young people, first as a public school teacher and later in the State Legislature where I chaired the house education committee. I was honored in 2009 when Governor Beebe appointed me to the Southern Regional Education Board. In my lifetime, we have made so many strides in education that it’s easy to forget that there’s hard work left to do. If you send me to Washington, I pledge to make Arkansas’ education system the envy of the nation."
Early childhood education is the key to Arkansas’ future according to Elliott. " Early education provides the foundation for a successful life. According to a report from the National Institute for Early Education Research, Arkansas is ranked second in the nation for pre-school education. Children who attend pre-k are more likely to earn better grades and graduate from high school on time. We must continue to responsibly increase funding for pre-k and ensure that all Arkansas children receive this important education."
Elliott is a proponent of making college affordable to all but more importantly seeing that everyone entering college goes on to graduate.
Her insight as a public school teacher gives her an enlightened view of No Child Left Behind. Elliott believes, "steps must be taken to address educating the ‘whole child,’ rather focusing on such narrow aspects of what should be a well-rounded curriculum. I am a staunch advocate for an across-the-board education, including arts and physical education. Essential to delivering a world-class curriculum is the hiring and maintaining of world-class leaders and classroom teachers. While teachers of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) are in high demand, I will be a constant advocate of making sure great teachers are in every classroom and that they are compensated as professionals.
On the healthcare front Elliott plans to , " ensure all Arkansans have access to quality, affordable health care. This has been one of my top priorities since I first ran for the Arkansas House of Representatives a decade ago. In 2009, I sponsored legislation that increased eligibility for ARKids First, a program which provides coverage options for more than 70,000 Arkansas children who otherwise might have gone without it. Cancer prevention has also been an important issue to me; in 2005, I sponsored the Arkansas Colorectal Cancer Act, which mandated that insurance companies offer colorectal cancer screenings as recommended by the American Cancer Society. I also directed $1 million to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences for cancer screenings and a demonstration project that are a model for the nation. As your Congresswoman, I pledge to continue working for common sense health care measures that will improve access, lower cost and increase quality of life."
Elliott also addressed economic matters as pertains to Arkansas, "Arkansans are hurting. We have just endured the worst economic crisis in recent memory. Unemployment hovers around 8% and while this rate is significantly below than the national average, statistics bring no comfort to Arkansas families struggling to put food on the table. However, there are positive signs of improvement. In April, the United States added 290,000 jobs, a rate last seen before the recession. Nearly all of these gains came from private-sector hiring, not temporary government hiring for the 2010 census. There is difficult work ahead to regain the nearly 8 million jobs that have been wiped out since the crisis came. As your Congresswoman, I will work hard every day to promote policies that will attract industry and create permanent, sustainable, high-paying jobs for Arkansas."
Although it may sound like I am campaigning for the "Smart Cookie," I don’t live in the second district. But for those of you that do, Elliott deserves a closer look. Such intelligence would be an asset to Congress regardless of which area of the state it comes from.

Good music tonight at 8 p.m.

Don't forget to go to Central Park Fusion tonight at 8 to see the trombone and guitar performance noted in the previous post.

Trombone and guitar featured at Central Park Fusion tomorrow

Come by and listen to the sounds of Steve Suter and Brent Frazier at Central Park Fusion tomorrow evening. There is one show only at 8 p.m.
Suter is a trombone player who has recently toured with the group Bonerama and appeared of the David Letterman Show.
Frazier is a guitar player who has performed at clubs in Branson, Missouri and tours when his busy schedule permits.
There interpretations of music are both exiting and unique.
Relax, get a drink and enjoy the show.

Making Memories with Pat Hightower

Heidi and Pat.
Pat touches a piece of the Berlin wall.

Colton makes news.

Colton experiences a bread line.

Colton and Heidi at Mt. Vernon.

Pat Hightower is my first guest contributor. Pat gives us a blow by blow of her awesome vacation adventure with her daughter, Heidi, and her grandson, Colton.

In 1976, the Bicentennial of our great nation, I was young and foolish. At that time, two young women traveling with two young children seemed safe. My sister and I took my two children on a two week historical tour. Driving from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, we traveled all along the east coast of the United States, visiting most of the historical sights along the way, arriving in Philadelphia on July 4th. What a celebration. Heidi, my daughter, was 12 years old at the time, I promised her that if she ever had a child, I would take that child on a historical trip at age 12.
I recently fulfilled that promise and made wonderful memories with her and my perfect grandson, Colton. It was "now or never" since he will turn 13 on Sept. 8th. Rather than take the risks involved being tourists "on our own" in Washington, D. C., our trip was made in connection with a marvelous group called Road Scholar, formerly Elderhostel, and co-sponsored by American Civics Center. Our inter-generational trip was geared toward grandparents with their grandchildren. My husband, Tom, was unable to make the trip due to health concerns, so I was granted permission to have my daughter "tag along".
Road Scholar plans and oversees everything once you arrive. We decided to drive and see other sights along the way. Heidi and Colton live in Senatobia, Mississippi, so I picked them up there and off we went on our adventure. It’s hard to believe, but we arrived in Arlington, Virginia, at the Radisson Hotel at the appointed time, not getting lost one time.
Thus began our adventure, five full days of an experience that will long be remembered. We were whisked around with 22 young people between ages 11-13, and their grandparent(s). I must say there were very interesting folks among us, it took four days for us to realize the very bushy haired kid named Carson was a boy, not a girl. One of my favorites was a very personable, intelligent little person. Benjamin never asked for special treatment and was a joy. Our guides were patient and very knowledgeable, explaining with great detail and antidotes so all understood and could remember.
The first full day began with George Washington’s Mount Vernon country estate, after which we dined at Gadsby’s Tavern, favorite "watering hole" of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. We took a walking tour of Old Towne Alexandria, including the wharf on the Potomac. Later in the day, we had a visit at the National Archives which included viewing the original copies, very faded, of the United States Constitution, Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence and Amendments.
Most meals were included in the package, but we ventured out that night with new friends. Of course, with boys along, we chose a sports bar with 100 television sets tuned to the All Star Baseball Game. That’s when Mother Nature decided to release almost three inches of rain in one hour. Glad we were "wash and wear/"
We also experienced a small earthquake early one morning, the first of any magnitude in the area’s history. Who knew we would cause an earthquake? However, other than extreme heat, the weather was generally good.
Wednesday’s schedule was not for the "faint of heart." A pedometer proved we walked over five miles that day, temperature 98̊. I was glad I was able to keep up. Never climbed so many steps in my life.
We visited Thomas Jefferson Memorial, followed by Franklin Roosevelt Memorial, which opened in 1997. If you have not seen this one, you have missed a lot. The memorial is divided into four outside "rooms", each dedicated to one of his terms as president. Of course, while we were there it rained but didn’t dampen our spirits. Continuing the day, we had Smithsonian visits, including the National Museums of American History and on to the Natural History Museum. This is where the movie "Night at the Museum" was filmed, so it was especially interesting to the kids. My favorite display was the 45.5 carat Hope Diamond and other fantastic jewels. Just kidding. Looked like a bunch of sparkling glass.
Next, on to the privately owned International Spy Museum, which taught us how to be good spies. We had dinner at a cute pizza pub, and then to the World War II Memorial which honors the 16 million who served in uniform during that war. Quite impressive, especially the wall of 400 golden stars, each representing 100 of the 400, 000 who gave their lives during that war. Many of our HSV residents are WWII vets, including my husband.
Side Note: My Dad "fought the war" at the Naval Convalescing Hospital housed in the Awahanee Hotel in Yosemite National Park. Mom, my brother and I joined him there, living two years in El Portal at the gates of the park. Tom and I returned there in 1994, exactly 50 years after Dad was discharged.
Back to the story: I knew we wouldn’t miss the capitol, so we began the next day with a trip to Capitol Hill. First, the Supreme Court for a study visit, very informative. At the United States Capitol Visitor Center, opened in 2008 and designed to educate about the role and history of Congress, we had guided tours in Emancipation Hall , then into the capitol for another guided tour. After lunch, we had a docent led tour of the Library of Congress, followed by a choice of a visit to the National Gallery of Art or Air and Space Museum.
Heidi and Colton decided to get more exercise and jogged to the Washington Monument. Not I. I decided to walk on the mall from the Library of Congress and meet them at the Air and Space Museum for our next bus ride. That was also when I decided to get some attention from all passing by, I took a real tumble off the curb directly in front of the capitol . It really pays to drink your milk, eat your yogurt, and take calcium pills. My bones must be very strong. I survived with only scrapes, bruises, a sore shoulder and wounded pride.
That night I decided to skip barbeque dinner with the others at King Street Blues and nurse my wounds.
The last full day took us to the Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial for study visits. What sobering sights reminding us that "Freedom isn’t free."
A trip out to the new National Air & Space Udvar Hazy Center near Dulles Airport was interesting to all. There, with guided tour, we saw and heard details about the space ship Enterprise, the Concorde, the Enola Gay, and acres of many, many other historical aircraft and space vehicles.
One of my favorite stops on the trip was the newly opened, April, 2008, Newseum on Pennsylvania Avenue between the capitol and White House. It is the world’s most interactive museum, where five centuries of news history meets modern technology. There are seven levels which hold 14 major galleries and 15 theaters. Some will take away your breath and render you very emotional. Pulitzer Prize Photographs Gallery, Berlin Wall Gallery, and the 9/11 Gallery were unbelievable. You need several days to visit this Newseum.
Our trip was nearing its end when we had dinner at the Hard Rock Café. My hearing will never be the same. We ended the Road Scholar planned tour with a visit to Lafayette Park and the White House. Since we didn’t have security clearance, we couldn’t go inside, but I guess the Obamas didn’t really miss us.
Saturday morning, Heidi, Colton and I visited Arlington Cemetery on our own. It shelters the remains of over 320,000 servicemen and women, veterans from every war and major conflict in United States history. On a guided tour, we visited the Tomb of Unknowns and witnessed the changing of the guard, stopped at the Eternal Flame and saw burial places of John F. Kennedy, Jackie Kennedy and their two infants. Last stop was Arlington House, home of one of America’s most famous soldiers and his family, Robert E. Lee.
We began our long drive home about noon that day, and I finally arrived back in the Village Monday afternoon, my heart and mind crammed with memories of sharing a great trip with my precious daughter and grandson. Colton is a very intelligent young man and his mind is like a "steel trap/" Rather than another electronic gadget for his upcoming birthday, I have given him the opportunity to experience a part of America’s history in person.
I recommend the Road Scholar inter-generational programs to all grandparents. Share educational experiences with your grandchildren and make memories for a lifetime.
God Bless America.
Pat Hightower

Saline County fairplex election August 10

Eddie Black and Jill Jones of Benton Chamber of Commerce.

Jill Jones, executive director of the Benton Chamber of Commerce advertising and promotions, and Eddie Black, president of the Benton Chamber made a special presentation to the POA board concerning the proposed fairplex in Saline County.
Saline County will hold a special election for a sunshine sales tax of 1-percent that will run for an estimated five to seven years to fund the fairplex construction. The one cent sales tax will be divided into 7/8 for construction and 1/8 for operation, maintenance and future development/enhancement. The cap on the tax is $2,500 per purchase. Early voting is scheduled to start on August 3.
There will be no long term sales and use tax associated with the fairplex.
The proposed Saline County Fairplex is an equestrian-based facility that will also host many event beyond just horse shows. The facility will be used for an emergency shelter, concerts, proms, high school basketball, wrestling, etc., graduations, RV/boat shows, hunting/fishing shows, livestock shows/auctions, monster trucks, flea markets, antique shows, car shows, rodeo, homebuilders shows, sports shows, arts and crafts shows, training clinics, recruitment/job fares, livestock, tractor pulls, equipment shows and farm/garden shows.
The fairplex will be owned by the citizens of Saline County. A public facilities board will be formed to create policy and a management company will be hired to manage day-to-day operations.
Jones said the fairplex will infuse $32 million per year into the local economy. Her studies show the fairplex should draw approximately 350,000 visitors a year to the county. The national equestrian industry is estimated as a $102 billion industry. In Arkansas the equestrian industry is valued at $4.3 billion. Unfortunately, according to Jones, most that money is being spent in other states.
There is no other facility like the proposed fairplex in Arkansas. For more information on this project visit the website at http://www.salinecountyfairplex.com/.

Premature motion at POA board meeting

POA board director Jerry Kosoglow made the motion to approve the project/bid for the upgrades at the water treatment plant for $4,363,000. His motion was premature as he still had questions concerning the time-line for the project.
The motion was withdrawn. Directors will meet with Kirby Rowland of Garver Engineers with additional questions. Once those questions have been satisfied, a special meeting to vote on this matter will follow the next working board meeting on August 4 at the Ouachita room of the Ponce de Leon Center.

Pump turnbine replacement approved at POA board meeting

Although POA board director Jerry Kosoglow made the motion to approve a $63,143 expenditure for turbine lift pump replacement at the Cordoba lift station, he also brought up reservations. The budget for the turbines was only $25,000.
Kosoglow said, "a lot of us in the Village would be in trouble if we just replaced things when they get old."
David Whitlow, director of public works, told Kosoglow that the turbines were showing signs of age and had recently become a concern. He explained if we wait until the pumps break down it would take at least 12 weeks to get them back on line.
He further added that four contractors had been requested to bid on the replacement but only two put in a bid. He said he believes the $64,143 is a good price.
The motion was passed by consensus.

Blogs important way to communicate

Young Ben Harrington, a summer intern for the Hot Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau, has started a blog, Spa City Uncovered.
This summer he is finding fun things for young adults to do in Hot Springs and posting them on the blog. Check it out at http://bhharrin.wordpress.com.
This clever young man has found an important niche to keep young people in the loop. For those of us a little older with visiting grandchildren, the site has lots of helpful suggestions.

Annie Get Your Gun auditions mid-August

Auditions for the Hot Springs Village Players production of Irving Berlin’s musical Annie Get Your Gun are set for Aug. 14 at 2 p.m. for children, Aug. 15 at 2 p.m. for adults and Aug. 16 at 7 p.m. for adults. The show will run from Nov. 3 - 16.
Excerpts from seven scenes are available on the Players website at http://www.hsvplayers.org/. Once on the website go to auditions and then to audition information for November 2010 production of Annie Get Your Gun. Go down the page to download from this website.
Music CDs are available from director Carolyn Bodensteiner. Call 915-0339 or e-mail cbodie@suddenlink.net to obtain a music CD. Those auditioning are requested to sing two songs, one slow and one upbeat both from the show, neither has to be character related.
Auditions will be held at the Woodlands Auditorium. Please enter at the stage door on the back left side of the stage.
There are several principal roles in the show, two adult female roles, one late teenage female, four adult male roles, one young adult male.
There are many featured roles, two adult men, two young teenage females and one boy about age ten.
There are a plethora of ensemble roles which will require singing and dancing, cowboys, cowgirls, Indians, kings and queens of Europe and socialites. Many of these ensemble members will have speaking lines.

Rotary Club of Scenic 7 meets at noon today

Bert Clevenger of National Park Community College stepped in to speak to Scenic 7 Rotarians last week. President Lisa Carey shows him the book the club will present to the

Jessieville School library in his honor.

Bert Clevenger of National Park Community College.

The regularly scheduled speaker last week for the Rotary Club of Scenic 7 had to cancel at the last minute. Bert Clevenger of National Park Community College stepped up to speak instead.

Clevenger has been with NPCC for 18 years coordinating classes with Workforce. He presents training courses on ethical decision making to local company employees.

He also teaches a course on guitar making. Clevenger is a member of the Spa City Blues Society and enjoys playing the blues.

Clevenger explained the three categories of decision making, justice based, rights based and utilitarian based.

He used several examples that made club members think about how they make decisions. Justice based decisions are usually very black and white. Is it right or wrong? Rights based decisions are usually to benefit one small group like a family. Utilitarian rights are guided by the greater good of all.

Clevenger's talk was thought provoking and called for participation from the listeners. The talk was brief but informative.

The Rotary Club of Scenic 7 meets today at 12:10 p.m. at Molly O'Brien's on Highway 7.

Raccoons in residence

Find the rascally raccoon family in this picture.

Coming up tomorrow on the blog

Tomorrow I will post a play by play on this week's POA board meeting and a breakdown of activities available in the recreation department. I will also post up-coming audition information for Annie Get Your Gun, a Players production scheduled to run in November.

Barefoot back today

If you didn't get an opportunity to see Barefoot in the Park at the Pocket Community Theatre in Hot Springs last weekend you get another chance starting tonight. The show runs tonight through Sunday. The evening shows are at 7:30 p.m. and the Sunday matinee is at 2:30 p.m. General admission tickets are $10. Tickets for children 12 and under are $5. Tickets available online at the Pocket website at www.pockettheatre.com.
This is the final weekend, Barefoot, is worth the time and admission.

Heifer helping in Haiti

In the months since the January earthquake in Haiti, Heifer International staff, in country and headquarters, have been supporting ongoing recovery efforts and planning for the long-term work to help Haitians rebuild their lives through programs to restore agricultural livelihoods using Heifer’s values-based model.
Staff from Heifer Haiti’s offices in Les Cayes and Cap-Haitien is working with existing project families in the north and south and families have begun receiving input for backyard vegetable gardens and fast-producing animals such as goats, fish and poultry. Heifer is also working with current and past partner organizations to design community development plans to help it respond to constituency needs.
Immediately after the January 12 earthquake, Heifer Haiti staff coordinated with local and international relief organizations to help deliver humanitarian aid, food and transportation to more than 2,000 injured and displaced people. Then in March, a headquarters survey team traveled to Haiti to meet with country program staff to assess the needs and opportunities to rebuild and expand Heifer’s program in Haiti.
Heifer staff also participated in discussions with like-minded organizations to leverage resources and increase efficiencies and to identify institutional and private funding sources to ensure long-term viability of the work and to expand it into new communities.
At the same time, Heifer donors and supporters generously provided more than $1 million to help fund the rehabilitation work that lays ahead in Haiti. Key to success is strengthening the Haiti program, which had been working with 16,000 families, through training and organizational support, and forming an emergency team to oversee implementation of the country’s long-term recovery plan.
Heifer has worked in Haiti since 1999, and at the time of the quake had offices in Cap-Haitien in the north and Las Cayes in the south. Projects followed Heifer’s holistic model, seeking to secure healthy, culturally appropriate foods, to improve family income and to strengthen grassroots organizations.
When the earthquake struck, training in sustainable farming, nutrition and aquaculture, as well as living gifts of livestock, seeds and trees were reaching a growing number of families through direct benefit and Heifer’s cornerstone Passing on the Gift.
Today, Heifer staff, working with partners in Haiti, has established a three-year plan to use donor funds to build the program back better and to create new opportunities for limited-resource farmers devastated by the earthquake.
The success of Heifer’s intervention will be measured by the institutional capacity to tend to the immediate needs of families affected by the disaster while maintaining Heifer’s model for sustainable community development.
As Haiti copes with an overwhelming presence of security forces, along with international aid and development organizations, Heifer is advancing its programmatic design through emerging partnerships with organizations that support sustainable food systems where the environmental, social and nutritional health of communities is as important as their economic profitability.
At present, project work continues in the southern and northern parts of the country coordinated through the offices in Les Cayes and in Cap-Haitien, and Heifer is working with current and past partner organizations to design community development plans to respond to constituency needs.
By the end of June, Heifer Haiti expected to have aided 85 families in five partner organizations affected by the earthquake: Association for the Development of Varreux II, ADEVA II, 25 families will receive 100 goats to reactivate the Passing on the Gift, which began with Heifer’s project 23-0413-02. Associations of Farmers of Dilaire, GEDWA, 20 families will receive 20 heifers. The original project, 23-1404-99, was implemented in the Commune of Ouanaminthe, some 72 kilometers from Cap-Haitien near the border of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Small Farmer Organization of Saut Mathurine, OPS), 20 families will receive 20 heifers. The grassroots organization is part of Heifer’s project 23-1405-02. The community of Saut Mathurine is on the edge of the Massif de la Hotte Mountains in the southern peninsula. Association of Collective Hands of Roche--Bateau, APMCR, construction of four cisterns to aid in water collection and storage for 20 families. Association of Citizens for the Development of Dupré, ACDD, improvement of four kilometers of rural roads in the community of Beaulieu to provide vehicle access to local markets. Construction is expected to take two months. Families from APMCR will also benefit from this improvement.
Through June 2011, Heifer continues to implement the following projects in the northern and southern regions, 23-1401-02 Ivwa sustainable agriculture and livestock project, 23-1407-02 small ruminants and seeds distribution in Nordely/Beaulieu, 23-1414-02 sustainable agriculture and literacy on the southern coast phase II and 23-1416-60 rehabilitation of agro-pastoralism at Saint-Jean du Sud.
New partnerships will enable Heifer to expand its geographic coverage in Haiti’s central plateau. For this, Heifer is meeting with Partners in Health, Elevages Sans Frontieres, Tet Kole Haitian Small Farmers Movement, USAID and others, hoping to secure multi-year funding commitments.
These partnerships will provide for new projects through a three- to-five year umbrella program to promote sustainable community development grounded in locally driven, values-based planning and asset development and transfer through Passing on the Gift. The program’s scope will be reviewed this month, and if approved will serve as the framework for seeking and formalizing individual projects.

Garland County road maintenance for 2010

Garland County has allocated $1,049,659.20 in road projects for 2010.
The road projects include the following:
New Seal, 3.67 miles at a cost of $185,705. The new seal applications are for Bill Nor Lane, 1,056-feet, Bittersweet Lane, 4,224-feet, Breezy Trail, 1,056-feet, Cartwright Street, 2,112-feet, Crystal Street, 528-feet, Doggett Drive, 1,584 feet, Elder Trail, 2,112-feet, Hidden Hills Lane, 1,584-feet, Little Bear Trail, 2,112-feet, Louis Washington, 1,584-feet, Ruella Place, 1,584-feet and Trevor Trail, 100-feet.
Reseal 270 West area, 10.40 miles at a cost of $159,609. The reseal applications are for Blacksnake Road, 8,976-feet, Bonita Street, 1,056-feet, Grizzly, 4,752-feet, McGrew Lane, 1,056-feet, Meyer Creek Road, 6,864-feet, Owl Creek Cutoff, 7,392-feet, Owl Creek Road, 19,536-feet and Turkey Trot Lane, 5,280-feet.
Reseal 70 West area, 9.76 miles at a cost of $149,828. The reseal applications are for Allison Road, 5,280-feet, Canyon Springs Circle, 3,168-feet, Firefly Place, 2,640-feet, Gobert Road, 6,336-feet, Hershell Road, 3,168-feet, Hidden Valley Road, 2,640-feet, Hoskins Trail, 1,056-feet, Joel Road, 3,168-feet, Randall Road, 13,200-feet, Western Drive, 3,500-feet and Winkler Road, 7,392-feet.
Reseal 7 South area, 1.24 miles at a cost of $18,979. The reseal applications are for Grandview Drive, 1,680-feet, Meadowlake Drive, 2,700-feet, Pinehaven Place, 1,650-feet and Pinrose Lane, 500-feet.
Reseal 270 East area, 3.23 miles at a cost of $49,590. The reseal applications are for Bolin Lane, 528-feet, Caprice Trail, 5,280-feet, Chad Street, 2,277-feet, Green Bay Drive, 6,336-feet and Irwin subdivision, Irwin, Rivermist, Starr and Warren, 2,640-feet.
Reseal 70 East area, 6.40 miles at a cost of $98,222. The reseal applications are for Millcreek Road, 47,520-feet and Stenzel Lane, 528-feet.
Reseal 7 North and 298 area, 10.70 miles at a cost of $164,215. The reseal applications are for Little Blakely Creek Cutoff, 5,280-feet, Locket Mountain Road, 8,448-feet, McNeely Circle, 5,280-feet, Speers Circle, 21,120-feet, Tabor Mountain Road, 11,088-feet and Tall Timber Road, 5,280-feet.
County hot mix, 3.21 miles at an estimated cost of $223,511.20. The hot mix applications are for Arbenia, 1,150-feet, Buena Vista, 1,100-feet, Burchwood Bay, 3,850-feet, Calli Lane, 528-feet, Ennis Street, 550-feet, Kingsway, 1,425-feet, Marie Acres Place, 528-feet, Red Oak Drive, 7,500-feet and miscellaneous leveling on various sites, 300-feet.
State aid, Job SA2669, reseal 8.75 miles at no cost. The reseal applications are for Beaudry Circle, 28,512-feet, East Glazy Peau, 12,936-feet and Lonsdale Cutoff, 4,752-feet.
State aid hot mix, 1.90 miles at no cost. The hot mix applications are for Adcock Road, 2,640-feet, Arkridge Road, 5,808-feet and Majestic Lodge Road, 1,584-feet.
Other road projects include completion of Little Mazarn bridge over South Moore Road at a cost of $2,364,818, 80-percent federal, 18-percent state and 2-percent local; replace and install new box car culvert type bridge over Deerpark Road at a cost of $63,755 and intersection improvements to Highway 7 South and Amity Road for a cost of $58,738.

Theatre workshop sponsored by ARCTA

On Saturday, August 14, The Ken Theatre in McCrory, Arkansas will host the 3nd Annual Meeting of the Arkansas Community Theater Association, ARCTA.
For anyone not familiar with ARCTA, this organization started as an idea in 2007 by a group of community theatre representatives who discussed a dream, a dream of an Arkansas association to help Community Theater throughout the state to flourish.
As initial meetings were held, ideas for what such an association could bring began to flow. These initial ideas included: training in all aspects of running a theater; resource sharing; networking; volunteer development and fund-raising.
Incorporated in 2009, an association of community theaters in Arkansas is a reality through the commitment of organizations and individuals who believe in the dream.
The one-day event begins with registration at 8:15 a.m., with the welcome and business meeting starting at 9:15a.m. The day ends at 4:00 p.m. There will lunch and entertainment.
Participants will learn practical ideas and discover valuable resources from the educational sessions scheduled throughout the day. Presenters and topics include Jerry Davis, president of Association of Senior Arts Programs, the contribution of seniors to community theater; Lisa Bell, president of The Little Theatre of Crittenden County, what is AACTFest and why an organization should participate; Wayne Chapman, associate professor in the department of theatre arts and dance, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, how to make acting more authentic and less a "performance"; Sherri Beatty, executive and artistic director for The Foundation of Arts, how to build an effective organization, and Babbie Lovett, program director for The Ken Theatre, costumes and makeup, the "let’s pretend" of theatre.
ARCTA encourages individuals who represent theatre groups to attend the annual meeting. They also encourage individuals who may not be affiliated with a particular organization to come. The meeting is open to anyone interested in this unique opportunity to network with community theaters from across the state.
Anyone wishing to attend the 3rd annual ARCTA meeting can contact Bev Bullard at 922-6070 for more information and a registration form or go to www.arctainfo.com. Pre-registration and a fee of just $25.00 should be submitted by August 2nd.
If you are an actor, a technician, a director, in management, on a board, a patron, theatrical organization, corporation, or any individual, you may want to become a member of ARCTA at this meeting.
Make your plans now to spend Saturday, August 14 at The Ken Theatre in McCrory with ARCTA.

Today at the Coronado Center

Today at the Coronado Center:
8 a.m. Kiwanis
9:30 a.m. POA public works committee
7:30 p.m. DeSoto Dancers

Garvan Gardens tree workshop today

Garvan Gardens is offering a Gardening 101 and 201 workshop today. The three sessions will be in the Magnolia room.
Tree identification (201) runs from 9:30 a.m. to noon. The session will be taught by Eric Sundell, a retired University of Arkansas at Monticello professor of biology and botany. Must have a copy of "Trees of Arkansas to participate. The book is available in the Garvan Gardens gift shop or on line at www.forestry.state.ar.us/.
Campion trees (101) runs from 1 to 2 p.m. Linda Williams Palmer will teach this session. Palmer is a Hot Springs artist known for capturing campion trees on canvas.
How trees grow (101) runs from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Dr. Tamara Walkingstick with the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service will teach this session on how trees grow.
The workshop teaches all about trees and how the trees played a part in Arkansas' history.
The workshop is free to all Garvan Garden members. For others interested in taking the workshop, the fee is $8.75 for adults and $7.75 for seniors. Call 800-366-4664 for last minute registration.

Garland County lot auction

Coming up on Wednesday, July 28, at 11 a.m. is a Garland County lot auction at the Garland County courthouse.
All lots have a one year right of redemption on each sale. Subdivision plats are available on the POA website at www.hsvpoa.org. Go to property owner service then subdivision maps.
For more information contact Penny at 922-5564 or 922-5552.
The minimum bid on the lots is $1,000 to be made by the POA.
Lot/Block/Address
011-04-020 Almeria / 27 Almanzora Circle
008-08-032 Sierra / 13 Petrel Way
028-02-040 Barcelona / 10 Manacor Lane
061-02-046 Alicante / 91 Alicante Way
005-02-048 Burgos / 9 Moncada Lane
056-04-048 Burgos / 30 Aranda Way / 51 Rodrigo Way
021-01-053 Asturias / 233 Asturias Drive
083-01-055 Malaga / 74 Mano Way
018-02-058 Caceres / 39 Caceres Way
034-03-058 Caceres / 59 Campo Way
050-02-058 Caceres / 1 Rico Lane
020-01-065 Tarsus / 80 Viscara Way
006-04-067 Orense / 21 Orense Way
015-02-068 Canaria / 1 Almaden Lane
023-05-068 Canaria / 69 Canaria Way
013-01-075 Sur De Curso / 1 Sur De Curso Place
002-03-081 Pyrenees / 150 Pyrenees Way
002-07-081 Pyrenees / 106 Mazarron Drive
041-06-082 Jalisco / 8 Jalisco Lane
005-07-095 Asilo / 75 Asilo Way
005-02-171 Nopal / 9 Arzon Circle
004-01-204 Fastota / 31 Fastota Way / 77 Balboa Drive
004-05-209 Guindola / 7 Entereza Way
002-08-213 Zapato / 28 Zarpa Way
003-03-214 Pandilla / 24 Pandilla Way
009-08-215 Pedrera / 17 Pedrera Lane
007-04-268 Magellan / 17 Nina Place

Bari Searls broken leg healing slowly

Bari is doing very well with her re-hab. Latest rumor is that she will coming home on Saturday if I can get the house picked-up - you know the old myth about how messy we guys are - well the house will be spic and span - dishes washed, floors mopped and vacuumed, garaged cleaned, yard mowed, yadda, yadda, yadda.Once home Bari will be under strict orders not to mess up the house and eat what she is served! More importantly she will have to go to outpatient therapy several times a week. Interesting note: in order to get in-home therapy one must be home bound, i.e., can't leave the house. Well as long as Bari has a willing chauffeur (guess who) she will be out and about.The wee boys and I will be happy to have her home because since she has been gone we've had no idea what to do with ourselves - just been hanging around waiting for someone to tell us. As you know, I jest about everything except happy to have her home.Currently, from now to Saturday she will have therapy each Morning and is free for visitors and calls in the afternoon before 6pm. After 6pm its rest time. Once she is home we will wait to see what she tells us.Thanks to every one who sent cards and flowers, emails, called, dropped by and kept her in your thoughts and prayers.

Eat at La Petite Bistro to benefit AWL

Eat at La Petite Bistro on Saturdays from now through September and support the Animal Welfare League at the same time.
Malcolm Bickford, proprietor of La Petite Bistro. will contribute 10-percent of Saturday sales to the AWL through September. Don’t forget to mention you are dining to benefit the AWL.
Tell everyone you know to start enjoying Saturday lunch and help out the AWL at the same time.
When temperatures cool La Petite Bistro will also offer AWL an opportunity to showcase adoptable animals on the shaded walkway out front of the bistro.
La Petite Bistro offers a tasty selection of soups, salads and gourmet sandwiches. The bistro is open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Recreation committee met last week

The POA recreation committee met the second Monday of the month. Stephanie Stone, sitting in the director seat for the recreation department is settling in to her new position. Stone’s position is hard to define. She is actually the assistant to John Paul, the director of golf, recreation and food services. She is heading up recreation and food services. We will call her the director even though technically that is Paul.
For the last two months the recreation committee has been redefining its role under the leadership of committee chair Tony Cifelli. Committee members are endeavoring to shake things up and become more active and less just observers.
Stone started the July meeting with her director report. She said overall the Independence Day holiday went well. One big exception was a near drowning at Balboa beach. A man was not breathing when pulled from the water. He was turning blue. CPR was administered and he was breathing when EMS transported him to a local hospital for further evaluation.
The fireworks themselves were fantastic. The best show in a long time according to several of the committee members. The added oomf was the music accompanying the fireworks. Village radio station KVRE played patriotic music throughout the evening. Many watchers had their radios tuned to KVRE and the music was a real plus.
The DeSoto bus route was eliminated and the remaining bus service went smoothly. According to Stone everyone was moved out of the Balboa beach area well within an hour.
Stone also mentioned the recent awarding of the Balboa Club’s food services contract to Hector Leal of El Acapulco. She said Leal will open doors on the restaurant by August 2. Breakfast and lunch will be offered downstairs and dinner upstairs.
The cherry lift at the natatorium is down. Unfortunately, it is un-fixable and must be replaced. The natatorium was scheduled for an inspection on the geothermal cooling and heating by Dry Air last week.
The work on the low water bridge on DeSoto Park Lane is complete.
Recreation committee members are busy prioritizing their list of priorities for the upcoming year. The number one priority is to secure a plan to refurbish but more probably replace the DeSoto pools. The committee is looking into location, engineering recommendations in the 2011 budget, cost and the eventual work on the pool in the 2012 budget. At this point the pools are leaking like sieves. The pool surfaces are flaking. A pool sub-committee has been formed to start addressing some of the above issues.
Stone requested the recreation committee become more involved with setting fees for this year. The fee schedule was due quickly and communication on this issue is being done by e-mail.
The next meeting of the recreation committee is scheduled for August 9 at 1:30 p.m. at the Coronado Center.

Barefoot at hit at Pocket

Barefoot in the Park at the Pocket Community Theater delivered lots of laughs and a good dose of nostalgia.
Every member of the cast showed an equal appreciation for Neil Simon’s caustic lines with exquisite timing. No lines were stepped on and the audience enjoyed every available opportunity to laugh.
The original production of this romantic comedy opened on Broadway October 23, 1963. It’s 46 years later and Barefoot is still fresh and funny. Newlyweds are still newlyweds. Opposite still attract.
Barefoot was Simon’s third Broadway play. It followed Come Blow Your Horn in 1961 and Little Me in 1962. The Odd Couple in 1965 continued a long reign of Simon hits with his most recent in 2004, Oscar and Felix: A New Look at The Odd Couple.
Barefoot went on to become a movie starring Jane Fonda and Robert Redford. In September of 1970 ABC television tried to turn the play into a weekly television series. No luck with Barefoot but at the same time they launched another Simon property, The Odd Couple.
The Pocket production starred Marcie Bealer as the charismatic Corie Bratter, Cameron Jones as the long-suffering Paul Bratter, Mary Lou Moran as the prim and in control Ethel Banks, Corie’s mom, Tom Cooper as the suave Victor Velasco, Jerry Longinotti as the endlessly funny telephone man, George Wilson as the quickly aging delivery man and Seth Wiley as the expressive drunk man.
Every actor was a jewel. Bealer owned the role of Corie. She was the center of the universe, especially Paul’s and her mother’s. Corie was Bealer’s first starring role and I can see many more in her future. She has a lovely speaking voice that can get a little high pitch when she is excited. All in all a memorable performance.
Jones was a wonder as Paul. He was smooth to Corie’s outrageous. He was charming to Corie’s charismatic. He complimented Corie’s character at every turn. His scene with his mother-in-law was well-played. They were both splayed on the couch marveling at Corie’s indomitable spirit. They both knew they were in over their heads trying to keep up with Corie. The scene was funny and touching.
Moran was a marvel. Her scene when she was kicking on Corie’s bedroom door trying to get her daughter to believe her was priceless. She was out-of-control. An out-of-control, control freak is something to enjoy. Moran demonstrated impeccable timing throughout. No lines lost in the laughs. Ethel Banks was the reason Corie was so outrageous, they were perfect counterpoint.
Cooper as Velasco was endearing. How could you not love this rapscallion. Cooper was mesmerizing. Bealer may have been the center of the universe as Corie but Cooper as Velasco was her biggest moon. His orbit was duly noted when it came into our sight.
Jerry Longinotti had the funniest pick up part in the show. His telephone man was pure New York City. He was full of street wisdom and advice. His character was basically the narrator that set up the action from beginning to end. He was a hoot.
George Wilson’s part as the delivery man was small but quite memorable. I loved his out of control breathing when he finally reached the Bratter’s apartment. He played it well and I am sure we will see him again at the Pocket. This was his first role here.
Seth Wylie, all expression and no dialogue. He certainly carried it off. His big eyes were liquid dynamite and his physical comedy was right on.
There were no sour notes in this cast. Director Cate Thornton did well in her casting, staging and direction. When the curtain opened the set took my breath away. It was the Bratter’s apartment, the one I had seen often when I first read the play many years ago. Thornton dedicated the production to her dad who first introduced her to Barefoot as a 14 year old in 1969. I as a 13 year old was introduced to the play the same year. It has stuck with me as it has stuck with her. What a great play, funny, frivolous and loving.

THA board shows some movement on Guadaljara bridge issue

The townhouse association board met to vote on several items earlier this month. Unfortunately, many items are still pending including the replacement of the Guadalajara Courts bridge.
The meeting was well attended. At one point during the proceedings director Robert Jordan thanked the audience for caring enough to show their civic pride by attending the meeting.
Jordan found fault in last month’s meeting minutes when a letter he read into the minutes, signed by himself and Henry Frank, was merely attached to the minutes instead of part of the body of the minutes. Office personnel promised to fix the oversight. From now on the minutes of the THA board meetings will appear on the website in draft form within seven days of the meeting. The minutes will be pending approval.
Sheila Hill, chair of the standards committee, reported no quorum at the meetings throughout this year. She requested two court representatives from each court instead of just one. The directors echoed her need for full active participation of the court representatives. Director Ida Ferree added, "when people are happy they don’t show up."
Hill reported standards has created several sub-committees including the painting and roofing committee and the cluster mailboxes committee.
Dot Ashley, chair of the nominations committee said the elections process is on track. In the future the committee will be placing announcements in more venues, adding this blog, the Advocate, the Democrat Gazette, the Sentinel Record and KVRE radio.
All the candidates from last year’s board election are still on file to fill any vacancies this year but the candidates must re-apply to run for the board this year. As Ashley put it, "they must submit new forms for the new election."
THA general manager Glenn Zarpaylic said he was very pleased with maintenance crews. There have been very few glitches this season and he has received, "all kinds of compliments." He said weed spraying and fertilization of established turf areas done by sub-contractors is going well. Weed treatment should be complete by August 15.
The Independence Day holiday brought in more temporary renters and more trash but the rental agencies were very responsive and trash was dealt with quickly. Director Frank suggested the board send thank you letters to the rental agencies for their cooperation.
Dead trees were removed and trees trimmed in Castellon and Coronado Courts.
Reserve Advisors is behind on submitting its final recommendations to the board. The company was tasked with identifying all of the THA’s assets and liabilities and to make recommendations to better manage the assets and to eliminate liabilities. The report was due in June but is expected at the end of this month.
Donna Bigg was present to discuss the chain of command for any and all changes to the THA website. It was once again agreed upon that office administrator Barbara Thurman would be the only person to submit any documents or changes to Bigg for the website. The website is looking good and will serve as a valuable tool for communication between the board and association members. The site is www.hsvtha.com.
The replacement of the Guadalajara bridge is still moving forward at a snail’s pace. A very rough estimate of the cost is $16,000 to $25,000 to split between the two homeowners and $60,000 to $80,000 to Guadalajara Court members. Relocation of the homeowners, demolition of the bridge and a temporary access road is not included in the estimate.
One of the homeowners impacted by the bridge replacement requested none of the trees surrounding the property be taken down during the work on the bridge.
Guadalajara Courts representative Dale Milford said there were also two retaining walls in the court that must be included in the measure. The retaining walls are falling down and one of them anchors a small bridge. She emphasized all of the court must be made right, equally.
The board has finally structured a calendar of events to move this item along. By this Friday, July 23, a notice will be sent to all members of Guadalajara Courts announcing a meeting date of August 21 at 9:30 a.m. with all Guadalajara Courts members. This Saturday meeting time will allow any out-of-town owners the opportunity to attend the informational meeting.
On August 28 a ballot will be mailed out to all Guadalajara Courts members to vote on replacement of the bridge. Then the matter must be brought before the THA general membership because the cost of the project exceeds $50,000.
In the meantime, the bridge continues to be a liability issue for the THA. The bridge has been deemed a safety hazzard. There are still residents in both of the townhouses. The bridge is their only ingress and egress from the units. The residents put their lives in danger every time they enter or leave their homes.
There was no vote concerning the cessation of watering in half of Coronado Courts. The broken irrigation system will not be fixed. Collected funds not used for watering will be directed to improvements in the area that is not being watered. There are 45 units that will no longer receive watering.
An alternate individual watering system is being offered for $300 or less. The cost will be to the resident. Director Ida Ferree is trying this method. She requested flyers go to the residents letting them know more about this option.
Watering services will no longer be provided for Valencia Courts.
The board considered committee appointments for Saundra Long, John Cox and Rose Helphinstine. Helphinstine will serve on the by-laws revision committee. Cox is being asked to reapply with one person on the application for the by-laws revision committee. Long has been approved for service on the by-laws revision, finance, standards and architectural review committee.
The THA board will meet next for a working board meeting on August 3 at 8:30 a.m. at the THA administrative building on Perralena Lane.

Democrats hold beer blast this Friday

The Democratic Club of Hot Springs Village is holding its hot dog/beer blast this Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Coronado Center.
In addition to tasty treats there will be a panel discussion with democratic candidates running for office this November 2.
Among the invited guests are U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln, U. S. Representative Mike Ross, Arkansas Senator Joyce Elliott for U. S. Congress, Arkansas Senator Shane Broadway for Lieutenant Governor, Pulaski Circuit/County Clerk Patrick O'Brien for Secretary of State, Arkansas Representative Dawn Creekmore for State Senate, Arkansas Representative Gene Shelby for State Senate, Arkansas Representative Johnny Hoyt for State Senate and Debbie Murphy for State Representative.

POA board meeting this Wednesday

The POA board will meet this Wednesday morning at 9 a.m. in the Ouachita room at the Ponce de Leon Center. The meeting is open to the public.

Saline quorum court meets tomorrow

The Saline County quorum court meets tomorrow evening at 6:30 p.m. at the Saline County courthouse in Benton.

Annie opens at Murry's tomorrow

Annie opens tomorrow at Murry’s Dinner Theater at 6323 Col. Glenn Road in Little Rock. Annie won seven Tony Awards and features favorite tunes such as Hard Knock Life, N.Y.C. and Tomorrow. Enjoy dinner and a show. Call 501-562-3131 for more information.

June traffic report for Garland County courthouse

A total of 6,526 people visited the Garland County courthouse in June, 2,285 entered at the east door and 4,241 entered at the west door.
Many items were confiscated from the courthouse patrons including 327 knives, 177 at the east door and 147 at the west door; 12 scissors, four from the east door and eight from the west door; 33 pepper sprays, 12 from the east door and 11 from the west door and 44 multi-tools, nine from the east door and 35 from the west door.
There were also other 46 other items confiscated, 12 from the east door and 34 from the west door. These other items include one sword cane, two 32 ounce beers, handheld stun weapon, drill bits, bullets, a toy gun, Kubaton and handcuff keys.

May traffic report for Garland County courthouse

A total of 7,589 persons entered the Garland County courthouse in May of this year, 2,761 from the east door and 4,828 from the west door.
Many items were confiscated at both doors including 291 knives, 164 from the east door and 127 from the west door; 12 scissors, three from the east door and nine from the west door; 34 pepper sprays, 19 from the east door and 15 from the west door; 36 multi-tools, ten from the east door and 28 from the west door.
There were 48 other items removed from courthouse patrons, two from the east door and 46 from the west door. Other items include ice picks, bullets, wrenches, screwdrivers and hand cuffs.

No synthetic marijuana products

County Judge Larry Williams issued a memo to Garland County quorum court members advising that the Arkansas Health Board has adopted a rule that bans the distribution of synthetic marijuana products that Governor Beebe signed off on. He advised this action make adoption of an ordinance for sale of such products unnecessary for Garland County.

Jail will be on ballot in November

This November 2 the jail initiative will be back on the ballot in Garland County. The criminal coordinanting committee is meeting every other Thursday night to gather information to build a better, smarter and more economical jail for the county.

Garland County quorum court decisions

The Garland County quorum court met last Monday night approving the following ordinances by consensus.
Appropriation ordinance O-10-34
This ordinance was spurred by legislative audit requirements transferring funds from one fund to another. This particular transfer involved $232,600 necessary to provide for the U.S. Department of Energy block grant funds. The funds must be spent before the federal government will reimburse the county. The funds were transferred from the OMH sale fund to the energy block grant fund.
Appropriation ordinance O-10-35
This ordinance moves $30.000 from the Garland County detention center M & O fund to the Garland County detention center M & O fund budget. The funds will implement GPS electronic monitoring from sentencing options specialists.
Appropriation ordinance O-10-36
APERMA insurance paid for damages to the boat motors of the 24-foot Boston Whaler owned by Garland County. The funds were put in the general fund. The ordinance moves $13,082.40 from the general fund to the Sheriff’s Department repair and maintenance fund.
Appropriation ordinance O-10-37
This ordinance transfers $5,000 from the tax collector’s automation fund to the tax collector’s automation fund budget for computer classes for county employees.
Appropriation ordinance O-10-38
The ordinance allocates $12,990 transferred from various funds to pay for a part time employee in the circuit court division II. The part time funding will merge with the existing part timer personnel to create a full time employee, a deputy circuit clerk. The money will be used as follows, current part-time allocation $6,495, salaries full time $3,446, social security $264, retirement $430, health insurance, $2,250, workers compensation $8 and unemployment $97. The part-time position of Scanner is decreased by $5,920. Additional probate funds should fund the position in the future.
Appropriation ordinance O-10-39
Judge Cook from division II, Juvenile Court received a grant from Sentencing Options Specialists for $360. The $360 was moved into the budget fund for a special project.
Appropriation ordinance O-10-40
This ordinance was requested by the auditor to correct a previous coding error and to delete a previous transfer.
The quorum court will meet next on August 9 at 7 p.m. at the Garland County courthouse.

Most recent ACC meeting

Ken Robinson, seated to the left of Leland Kew, of the Balboa Marina requested his previously approved proposed storage building be moved from the agreed upon site to a site adjacent to his bait shop.

Now, we are back on track.
The architectural control committee met last Thursday for permit application review.
Ken Robinson met with the ACC to discuss relocating his previously approved site for a storage building at the Balboa Marina.
The currently approved site would block the clerk’s view of marina activities, more specifically the site line to the gas pumps and rental boats. For security reasons Robinson asked for a new location for an approved storage building.
There was an urgency to his request as the delivery company wanted to drop off the building that afternoon. Mike Christy, Bob Kostelecky and Leland Kew agreed to go out and look at the newly proposed site for the storage facility. They would not be available until the following morning.
Robinson was directed to stall the delivery company for at least 24 hours allowing the committee members to view the new site, evaluate the request and vote on the permit application with Steve White’s, director of planning and inspection, input.
The matter was given a provisional nod of approval but would only be permitted if Kew, Kostelecky, Christy and White agreed on the new location. It was suggested the storage building be tied in with the existing bait shop with a fence.
There were eight assignments reviewed by ACC members.
009-04 Tiburon / 6 Trapo Lane / Nick Dailey/boat dock
Bob Kostelecky reviewed this permit application for a covered boat dock with a kayak ramp. The boat dock will replace an existing boat dock. There is plenty of space. The new design meets all Village criteria. The permit was approved by consensus.
005-02 Seville / 12 Seville Lane / Art Sidfrid/addition to boat dock
Bob Kostelecky reviewed this permit application for a swim platform with a step down on Lake DeSoto. The application meets all Village criteria. The permit was approved by consensus.
015-01 Remolino / 20 Remolino Way / Lowes/fence
Leland Kew reviewed this permit application for a black chain link fence on the property line in an area beyond the power line cut. There are no neighbors. The fence meets all Village criteria. The permit was approved by consensus.
030-07 Vereda / 19 Vereda Lane / Curtis Corp./boat dock
Leland Kew reviewed this permit application for a covered boat dock on Lake Granada. The dock is replacing an existing dock and swim platform. Kew said more information was needed on this permit application. The committee requested an official plat showing the site for the dock. The swim dock may have to be cut back or will require a variance. The matter should be cleared up with the plat. The permit was denied as submitted but will be reconsidered with the submission of the required plat.
010 -03 Hartura / 7 Hartura Lane / DeWayne Wilson/seawall
Leland Kew reviewed this permit application for a seawall on Lake Balboa. The property has only 52 feet of lake frontage. ACC members required more information regarding weep holes and a cross section illustration. The matter is tabled until further information is received.
004-06 Hartura / 51 Hartura Way / Albert Lewis/workshop
Buddy Dixon reviewed this permit application for a workshop. Dixon said there was a jungle behind the house and the workshop will not be seen by anyone. He said the property line was well-marked. The building will have the same siding and roof as the house. There was an area of standing water that was a concern. The contractor said the building will be on a slab and the surrounding area will be graded for better drainage. The permit was approved by consensus.
023-01 Pintuerero / 32 Pintuerero Way / Forest Smith/cut trees
Mike Christy reviewed this permit application for tree cutting and removal. The application was for removal of eight trees, seven pines and one cedar. The trees were leaning or dead. The permit was approved but it was made clear two oaks that were marked should not be removed and that clean up is required as well as removal of all tree remains.
012-06 Segador / 2 Segador Place / ARK Village Homes/roof over deck
Mike Christy reviewed this permit application for a roof over an existing deck. The application is for a shed roof that cannot be seen by anyone because of the slope of the property. The permit was approved by consensus.
There were no commercial permit applications brought before the committee at this time.
The ACC meets next August 5, at 8:30 a.m. at the POA administration building on DeSoto Boulevard.

Previous ACC meeting

Oops, I found this unpublished report languishing on my computer from the July 1 architectural control committee meeting. Please accept my apologies for posting this report along side the newest meeting.
There were only four assignments for committee members to investigate, discuss and vote upon.
004-01 Belleza / 6 Lavanda Place / The Hairless Handyman/fence
Buddy Dixon went out to look at the proposed site for this fence meeting all Village criteria. The property is ten acres. The fence will be wooden. The back of the lot is 178-feet. The committee approved the permit by consensus.
009 and 011-03 Murcia / 88 Murcia Way / Brad Gaston/cut six trees
Committee chairman Bill Roe investigated this application for a permit to cut down six trees. The homeowner owns the two adjoining lots to his home. The trees are on the property line on both sides of the house, three on each side. The proposed cut meets all Village criteria. The permit was approved by consensus.
021-04 Magellan / 3 Nina Trace / Mid-South Pools/pool and fence
Mike Christy investigated this permit application for a pool with the required fence around it. The home is adjacent to a golf cart path. The pool would be properly screened with a four foot fence with the appropriate latches. There are some erosion concerns with the embankment. Committee members provisionally approved this permit with a screening plan and erosion mitigation control. Steve White, director of planning and inspections, has final approval on this permit.
002-04 Sierra / 20 Alta Way / Tommy’s Custom Fence/fence
Leland Kew looked at this permit application for a dog fence. The home is new and the property owner had not moved in yet. There is one adjoining house. The home is built on a steep embankment. The proposed fence does not infringe on any easements. The fence meets all Village criteria. The permit was approved by consensus.
Before moving on to commercial permits committee members discussed the POA board action against L. B Smith for his refusal to remove and illegal swim platform. Committee members are steadfast in their decision to remove the platform and implore the POA board to honor their decision. The decision was not made lightly and reflects 18 months of working with Smith and attempts to get Smith to comply with Village policies.
In commercial, churches and non-residential permit applications, committee members reviewed the following.
Physical Therapy Plus / 101 Plaza Carmona Place/menu sign
The sign meets all Village criteria and was approved by consensus.
Debra’s Restaurant / 198 Carmona Drive/sign
The proposed sign did not meet Village criteria and the permit application was denied.
Good Sam / 121 Cortez Road / Jim Trim Signs/sign
This sign application was to place the new logo on an existing sign as part of an upgrade. The request meets all Village criteria. The permit was approved by consensus.
The ACC meets again on July 15 at 8:30 a.m. at the POA administration building on DeSoto Boulevard.

Commercial additions

Lot-Block-Addition / Address / Contractor/project
999-99 Commercial / 110 Cortez Road / Larry Overton/retaining wall

Landscape permits

Lot-Block-Addition / Address / Contractor
016-17 Tarragona / 22 Alicante Road / Acey Martin Yard Care
011-02 Santa Cruz / 7 Ronda Place / Village Landscape
001-07 Cima / 150 Mazarron Drive / Village Landscape
007-04 Sabiote / 15 Sabiote Way / Village Landscape
035-06 Saldana / 38 Saldana Way / John Bejma
027-03 Baltanas / 87 Biarritz Way / James Bearden
002-01 Campeon / 313 Ponce de Leon Drive / Village Landscape
014-09 Alta Vista / 2 Albanza Lane / Norbert Kappen
009-17 Cielo / 207 Elcano Drive / Village Landscape

Sprinkler system permits

Lot-Block-Addition / Address / Contractor/water source
025-04 Estremedura / 5 Orcera Lane / Harper’s Landscape/lake
030-01 Hendaye / 24 Hendaye Lane / Harper’s Landscape/Village
015-21 Isabella / 3 Campana Lane / Todd Hornaday/Village
013-21 Ladera / 13 Mujeres Lane / Murf’s Turf/Village
031-11 Ladera / 6 Ruedo Lane / Eric Tracy/Village
973-01 Commercial / 210 Balboa Road / Eric Tracy/Village

HVAC permits

Lot-Block-Addition / Address / Contractor
012-03 Meseta / 86 Almazan Way / Reliable Air
128-01 DeSoto Courts / 128 Emperado Way / Benton Sheet Metal, Inc.
010-05 Ciento / 55 Ciento Way / Contractor name unavailable
006-04 Gancho / 10 Pasillo Way / Johnston Heating & Air
003-05 Valencia Courts / 20 Destino Way / Reliable Air
019-05 Miguel / 51 Greco Way / GTS, Inc.
009-03 14 Coronado Lane / Johnston Heating & Air
011-03 Resplandor / 7 Resplandor Court / Huchingson Heating & Air
014-12 Diamante / 30 Princesa Drive / Reliable Air

Addition permits

Lot-Block-Addition / Address / Contractor/project
003-01 Castellon / 1 Plana Place / James Rose/remodel kitchen
005-04 Pontevedra / 3 Silleda Lane / Webb Construction/room addition
030-03 Catalonia / 23 Mansilla Way / Steve Hanke, Inc./bathroom remodel
011-02 Sonora / 22 Sonora Way / Davmer Contracting/electrical work
027-02 Sonora / 38 Sonora Way / Bob Erke/deck
013-03 Majorca / 26 Doblez Circle / Freewalt Builders/room addition
005-04 Empinado / 83 Empinado Way / Jason Sorters/bathroom remodel
002-07 Valencia Courts / 77 Perralena Way / Beasley Plumbing/plumbing
001-04 Madrid Courts / 2 Lequita Place / Jason Zeman/remodel bathroom
001-04 Madrid Courts / 2 Lequita Place / Jason Zeman/plumbing and electrical
008-02 Majorca Courts / 31 Lindsay Lane / Bill McLean Plumbing/plumbing
003-06 Zapato / 6 Zapato Circle / Maurcie Gal Electric/electrical, hot tub
004-01 Lopez / 3 Lopez Circle / David Johnson/waterline
037-05 Sanchez / 4 Golfista Trace / Mike Cutrer/covered roof over patio
006-09 Campeon / 12 Ponce de Leon Circle / Howard Johnson/patio
020-04 Resplandor / 3 Resplandor Circle / Castleberry Homes, Inc./screen covered deck
012-02 Bellisimo / 12 Sosegado Place / Liberty Solar Systems/grid solar system
014-18 Ladera / 75 Lardo Drive / Curtis. Corp./bonus room above garage
021-03 Maria / 39 Linares Lane / Spencer Construction/deck addition

New home permits

Lot-Block-Addition / Address / Contractor/Sq. Ft.
010-01 Gerante / 6 Cozar Lane / Gerald Ellison Construction/3,293
016-01 Alta Vista / 16 Nubarron Lane / Bill Reed Construction/2,103

Ice Cream Social tomorrow afternoon

The Village United Methodist Church is sponsoring its annual ice cream social. There are two settings, one from noon to 2 p.m. and one from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
If you remember last year's social was held in the dark because of a power outage. All the shades were lifted and servers kept patrons plied with ice cream. The room and the ice cream were cool.

Trivia contest coming up this Saturday

The Trivia Contest sponsored by the Friends of the Coronado Library is coming up this Saturday evening from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Coronado Center.
Each participant is $10 with teams of up to 10 players. Come as a solo and you will be matched with a team.
There will be opportunities to win prizes and enjoy refreshments.
All proceeds go to enhance the Coronado Library.
Stop by and see Margaret Weeter at the library today if you haven't signed up yet.

Barefoot in the Park opens tonight

Neil Simon's Barefoot in the Park opens tonight at the Pocket Theater in Hot Springs. The show runs this weekend and next Thursday through Sunday. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinee is at 2:30 p.m.
Paul and Corie Bratter are newlyweds in every sense of the word. He's a uptight lawyer and she's a free spirit. Their new apartment is her most recent find: too expensive and in need of a repairs. After the honeymoon, they get a surprise visit from Corie's loopy mother and decide to play matchmaker with their neighbor Velasco, where everything goes wrong. And, Paul is just too boring and Corie just wants to go running "barefoot in the park".
The show features the Village's Mary Lou Moran as the loopy mother. Cate Martin is directing the show.

Scenic 7 Rotary celebrated passing of the gavel

The Rotary Club of Scenic 7 celebrated the passing of the gavel as 18 month president Mary McNamer passed her gavel to new club president Lisa Carey at Molly O'Brien's on Highway 7 last Thursday.
Molly O'Brien's is the new meeting place for the club. The meetings begin at 12:10 and conclude at 1 p.m.. Attendees have the option of dining while they meet.
Mary McNamer was recognized for her hard work in helping to get the club organized and well on its way to obtaining charter status. McNamer said she became president because she was the only one in the newly formed club with prior Rotary experience. She said her time in office was enhanced by the support of members of the Rotary Club of Hot Springs Village, especially Tony Cifelli, Spencer Jordan and Paul Bridges. Two Rotary Club of HSV members selected to join the Scenic 7 club, Bill Johnson and Tom Hightower.
In Lisa Carey's remarks she compared the club members to the signers of the United States Declaration of Independence. The signers were from varied backgrounds, many reflected in the Scenic 7 club. The signers gave of themselves for a common cause and purpose, similar to the Scenic 7 members dedication to service above self.
If you are interested in becoming a Rotarian, attend a meeting. The Rotary Club of Scenic 7 meets every Thursday at 12:10 at Molly O'Brien's on Highway 7.

ACC meets this morning

The architectural control committee meets this morning at 8:30 a.m. at the POA administrative building.

Today at the Coronado Center

There are several meetings today at the Coronado Center.
8 a.m. Kiwanis
9:30 a.m. POA Public Works Committee
7 p.m. Unitarian Church Board
7:30 p.m. DeSoto Dancers

Labyrinth at Garvan Gardens

A labyrinth is a maze and now Garvan Gardens is teaching children how to draw them. Join educator and naturalist Roxana Rose on July 18 from 1 to 4 p.m. to learn about the history of labyrinths and how to draw them. Plans for the Evans Children's Adventure Garden call for a permanent labyrinth.
Bottled water and a light snack will be provided for this free program for children ages 7 through 12. call 501-262-9300 to register. Parents are welcome. All programs will include a nature hike, so please wear appropriate shoes.
Also, in July is a free art show, "Mixing it Up" in the reception building at Garvan Gardens. A cool place to enjoy being out of the sun and enjoying local artists work.

Rain caused concert reschedule from last night

The Hot Springs Concert Band with guest soloist Deleen Davidson postponed last night's concert saluting Gershwin in Whittington Park. The Gershwin concert will be in two weeks on Monday, July 26 at 6:54 p.m.

Mexican restaurant in Village by first week of August

Hector Leal

El Acapulco's Hector Leal and partner Refugio Reyes were awarded the food and beverage contract for the Balboa Club upstairs and down.

The couple plan to open a Mexican restaurant at Balboa on Monday, August 2. The cafe downstairs will be used for breakfast and lunch. The dining room upstairs will be used for nighttime dining.

The couple also planned to open the Brown Bag Bistro on Highway 7. According to Stephanie Stone of the golf, food service and recreation department, "Leal and Reyes are moving full speed ahead to open the new restaurant at Balboa and will delay opening the Brown Bag Bistro for a few months."

Stone also added, "Leal said the timing is right for a Mexican restaurant on the east side of the Village. He said there are few dining options on that end of the Village."

Farmer's Market on Highway 5

Mary McNamer forwarded the following information to me about a new farmer’s market.
Hello Everyone, I am sending this e-mail to all of you to tell you that a friend of mine and her sister have leased the property that was once was Cox Berry Farm on Hwy 5 between Hot Springs and the Village Gates. They will have fresh farm vegetables along with home made sauces, jellies from their farm near Oden , Ark. and will be open the year around for fall garden vegetables. Later, they are planning to put a bar-b-q stand in where Cox use to sell hamburgers. They have been in the business for many years and have won many small business awards. The name of their place is Susannah’s Farm to Market Store, their hours will be 9a.m. to 4 p.m.Thursday through Saturday each week starting next Thursday, July 15.

Library Trivia Night coming up this Saturday

Friends of the Coronado Library is sponsoring Trivia Night this Saturday evening from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Coronado Center. The fundraiser is to benefit the library and give Villagers an opportunity to have loads of fun. The cost is $10 per person to participate. There are still some spots open. Contact Margaret Weeter at the library for reservations.

Recreation committee meets today at 1:30 p.m. at the Coronado Center

The POA recreation committee meets today at 1:30 p.m. at the Coronado Center.
In preparation for the changes in the Recreation Department with the former director Larry Koonse retiring, the re-structure of the department pulling it in with food services and golf under John Paul and more specifically his assistant Stephanie Stone taking over management and direction of recreation, members of the committee met on May 27 to brainstorm about the direction of recreation in the Village.
Committee members in attendance included Tony Cifelli, Jim Harlow, Sue Mefford, Mary Lou Moran, Joyce Feix and Earl Mulley. Also present was former recreation committee chair Peggy Arwood. Arwood was asked to provide input from a historical and continuity perspective. Committee members Steve Seitz, Bill Etie and T. J. Smith were unable to attend.
This year the recreation committee is tasked with identifying needed recreation capital improvements for the POA and to bridge to the future as part of the ongoing strategic planning process.
Each member put forth ideas for his or her particular area of recreation. The list of ideas will be analyzed for cost benefit, prioritized and submitted to the director in future meetings.
The following is a list of capital improvements made as part of the brainstorming effort. These are not finalized. They are just areas the committee will explore and evaluate over the course of this year. The addition to the new ideas, the proposed list includes capital expenditures already in the budget for 2010 to 2014.
The wish list follows. It is random and not prioritized.
RECREATION COMMITTEE WISH LIST
Coronado Community Center air conditioner replacement, $7,500 annually
Coronado Fitness Center air conditioner replacement, $7,500 annually
Family Recreation tennis courts resealing overlay, $22,500
Lake Cortez pavilion roof, $12,000
Woodlands Auditorium air conditioner replacement, $7,500 annually
Woodlands Auditorium carpet replacement, $15,000
Woodlands Auditorium sound equipment improvements, $10,000
Play area at east end of Village, $12,000
Tennis viewing stand, $10,000
Coronado Community Center kitchen/bar equipment replacement, $9,000
Coronado Fitness Center fitness equipment, $25,000
Coronado Fitness Center replace cardio equipment, $100,000 spread out over four years
Coronado Fitness Center whirlpool room heat and air, $50,000
Coronado Fitness Center heating and air, $30,000
Coronado Fitness Center water treatment pool/whirlpool, $12,000/$6,000 respectively
DeSoto Pool renovation, $250,000
Coronado Community Center auditorium floor/repair sub-floor, $37,000
Coronado Fitness Center carpet, $17,500
Coronado Fitness Center recreation equipment, $25,000
Coronado Fitness Center gunite surface, $30,000
Family Recreation Area seal parking lot and basketball, $10,000
Rebuild lawn bowling area, to be determined
Rebuild bocce ball courts, to be determined
Coronado Tennis Center lights, $110,000
Parking lot resurfacing at Coronado Community Center, Coronado Fitness Center and Coronado Tennis Center, to be determined
Library facility expansion, to be determined
DeSoto Park expansion, to be determined
Replace carpeting on lawn bowling facility, to be determined
The above list will form the basis of discussions at upcoming meetings of the recreation committee for the remainder of this year.

Garland County quorum court meets tonight

The Garland County quorum court meets tonight at the Garland County courthouse in Hot Springs at 7 p.m.

Deleen Davidson sings with HSCB tonight

Local favorite Deleen Davidson is the guest artist singing with the Hot Springs Concert Band tonight at Whittington Park at 7 p.m. Tonight is an all Gershwin show. The concert is free. Come early and bring lawn chairs, blankets and bug spray.

DeSoto spillway bridge work starts today

Construction equipment lines the road near the DeSoto Park Lane spillway bridge.

The DeSoto Park Lane spillway bridge closes today for construction work.