Village Players, don't forget the picnic on June 5 at 6 p.m.. Pay at the door and enjoy BBQ
and square dancing. The picnic is at Balboa Pavilion and the cost is $10.
Should be a fun night. Hope to see everyone there.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Pryor expresses disappointment with FSA closures
U.S. Senator Mark Pryor resently said he was disappointed the USDA is moving forward with its plan to close several Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices in Arkansas. Earlier this year, he grilled Secretary Vilsack about the process, community input and calculations used to determine closures.
USDA must be part of government-wide efforts to reduce spending, but it should do so in a smart, consistent and objective manner. USDA failed this test when deciding which FSA offices to close. So while I’m pleased farmers in Lafayette County will continue to enjoy easy access to FSA services, several other FSA offices in our state will be closed as a result of USDA’s inconsistent or faulty calculations. I will continue to seek out alternatives to ensure all of our farmers receive the services they need to operate efficiently.
Attorneys General unite to fix loophole
Attorney General Dustin McDaniel and 21 other attorneys general recently asked
Congressional leaders to fix a loophole in federal law that allows for-profit
colleges to operate solely on taxpayer funds and opens the door for the colleges
to target our nation’s veterans and their families.
Federal law prohibits for-profit colleges from deriving
more than 90 percent of their revenue from federal Department of Education
sources, including federally-guaranteed student loans. However, federal funding
from GI Bill and Veteran’s Assistance educational benefits are not subject to
the “90/10 rule.” As a result, for-profit colleges can derive the remaining 10
percent of their funding from government veterans’ programs, rather than
obtaining the 10 percent from private sources, as the law intended.
McDaniel and his colleagues urged Congress to amend the
Higher Education Act to include veterans’ benefits under the 90/10
rule.
“Some for-profit colleges are actively pursuing our
returning veterans and their families and are looking to cash in on the benefits
that our veterans truly deserve,” McDaniel said. “Rather than have a real
interest in improving the lives of those who serve our country, their interest
is in collecting government money to sustain their proprietary
enterprise.”
Previously, for-profit colleges depended on
privately-issued student loans to obtain their 10 percent funding under than
90/10 rule. The exodus of private lenders during the economic downturn, coupled
with the veterans’ loophole in the law, created a strong incentive for the
colleges to recruit members of the military. Of 20 for-profit colleges analyzed
in a Congressional report last year, total military educational benefits
increased from $66.6 million in 2006 to a projected $521.2 million in 2010, a
683 percent increase.
Holly Petraeus, the assistant director for service
member affairs at the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, said last
year that the loophole “gives for-profit colleges an incentive to see service
members as nothing more than dollar signs in uniform … As long as military
education funds are on the 10 percent side of the 90-10 rule, service members
will be a lucrative target for exploitation.”
Other states whose attorneys general signed the letter
were: Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa,
Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico,
New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee and West
Virginia.
Saline County Habitat ReStore looking for volunteers
Are you a teacher or
a student with some extra time on your hands now that school is out?
Or are you an
indvidual looking for a way to keep cool while serving this summer?
Do you love the
mission of Habitat and want to help?
Would you like to
meet some awesome new people and help them hunt for bargains?
If the answer to any
of these questions is yes, then
we need
you at the Habitat ReStore this summer!
We are trying to get
our summer slots filled for cashiers, pricers, and merchandisers. We
specifically need help on Tuesdays,
Wednedsay
afternoons, and all of the days between
June 2-13, as
well as July 21-30. If
you can help at all during this time, please let us know! We welcome individuals
or groups, and all students 16 or older!
If you are
interested, please contact Amy at restore@habitatsalinecounty.com, or 315-0011. Thanks so
much!!!
Furukawa featured in free concert at First Presbyterian
In response to Hot Springs’ outpouring of support following last year’s tragic
earthquake and tsunami in Japan, classically-trained baritone soloist Seichi
Furukawa will present a concert free of charge at 2 p.m. on Friday, June 8 at
First Presbyterian Church, 213 Whittington Avenue in Hot Springs. The public is
welcome to attend the concert, which is co-sponsored by the Hot Springs National
Park Sister City Foundation, Visit Hot Springs and The Muses Creative Artistry
Project.
Furukawa’s
father, a resident of Hanamaki, Japan, Hot Springs’ sister city, told Furukawa
of Hot Springs’ generosity following the disaster. Furukawa decided to visit
the Spa City throughout next week to thank the local residents in song. At the
Friday concert, he will be accompanied as a professional courtesy by Hee-Kyung
Juhn, Director of Keyboard Instruction at Henderson University. The concert
will be videotaped for future broadcast on local cable
television.
On
Saturday, June 9, he will perform with soprano Deleen Davidson of The Muses
Creative Artistry Project during the Hot Springs Music Festival’s Progressive
Concert along Bathhouse Row.
Mr.
Furukawa received his Ph.D. in vocal music from the Musashino Academy of Music
in Tokyo, with a concentration in opera. He holds a second Ph.D. in media
design from Keio University in Tokyo. He is a soloist with the Tokyo Nikikai
Opera Theater, performing throughout Japan and across Europe. Past roles
include the Count in The Marriage of
Figaro, Guglielmo in Cosi fan
tutte, Papageno in The Magic
Flute, and Onegin in Eugene
Onegin. In October 2010, Furukawa was named Hanamaki IHATOV Goodwill
Ambassador by the Iwate Prefecture.
Wall Street to open up some time today
Wall Street in Hot Springs between Cypress and Flynn Streets will remain closed to through
traffic until today, May 31 for manhole replacement project. Signs will be
posted, and motorists will need to seek an alternate route during
closure.
Chattanooga Park restrooms closed for repairs
The restrooms at Chattanooga Park, 530 Chattanooga Street, are currently closed
for repairs. Portable restrooms will be available at the park until the repairs
are completed.
Dig at Historic Washington State Park
Jamie C. Brandon, Ph.D. – Arkansas Archeological Survey, Magnolia
We at the Southern Arkansas University Research Station of the Arkansas Archeological Survey and the Kadohadacho Chapter of the Arkansas Archeological Society are happy to announce that we will be returning to the historic town of Washington, Arkansas for the 2012 Arkansas Archeological Society Summer Training Program. I personally had a great time last year, and hope that many of you who participated in the 2011 dig had half as much fun as I had excavating the remains of this incredible historic town.
This summer we plan on both continuing excavations in some of the same areas that we worked on during the 2011 dig, and opening new excavations in new areas. We do not plan on reopening excavations in Area A in 2012. This area is where the vast majority of excavations were located during the 2011 summer dig (21 2x2 meter excavation units to be exact). I feel that the 2011 work has given us enough data to hypothesize a date range and function for the structure (and even evidence of the fire that brought about its demise). So we will be shifting our efforts this year to Area C and the new Area D.
First, the Basic Excavation seminar will continue to work on units in Area B—completing the units begun in 2011 and opening more units (perhaps locating the outbuilding hinted at in our geophysical data). This year the Basic Excavation Seminars will be led by Drs. Mary Beth Trubitt and Elizabeth Horton…under such great leadership, I have high hopes that much will be accomplished in Area B this year.
At Area C, we will be uncovering as much of the storefront brick scatter as possible. However, instead of excavating each unit to subsoil on its own (as we did in 2011), we will be uncovering the entire shape of the brick scatter in as many units as we can. After uncovering the dimensions of the feature, we will then “punch through” the scatter in all of the units recovering the material lodged within the brick rubble separately. Following that, we can investigate the possibility that these storefronts may have had below-grade. The famous cistern. Feature A-1. Half of this 1850s brick cistern was excavated to a depth of 140 cmbs last summer.
The other large task for the 2012 field season will be to begin work in what we will call “Area D”—Block 6, lot 4, or the northwest quadrant of Block 6. This is the vicinity of the mysterious structure that may be associated with Feature A-1—the 1850s cistern. It is possible that this is either a domestic dwelling or storefront belonging to Augustus Crouch. We simply need to gather basic information about this structure. Does it, in fact, date to the 1850s? Is it domestic as initial units suggest? How long was it occupied? All of these questions and more await our excavations.
Finally, if we can manage the time and logistics, we will tackle the excavation of half of the remainder of Feature A-1 (the 1850s cistern). During the 2011 summer dig we excavated the south half of the cistern to a depth of 140 cm below the surface—as far as we were able to go safely without shoring up the excavation trench. At the end of the field season we carefully backfilled the feature in hopes of returning to open up a wider trench that can be properly stepped or supported by scaffolding. There could be as much as 7–9 more feet of fill in the cistern, so we have much more to discover.
Last year at the 2011 AAS Summer Training Program we had great archeology, sandy soils, few mosquitoes, and great facilities. We hope to continue that tradition this year when we return to the historic town of Washington for another round of summer fun. I hope to see you all in June!
We at the Southern Arkansas University Research Station of the Arkansas Archeological Survey and the Kadohadacho Chapter of the Arkansas Archeological Society are happy to announce that we will be returning to the historic town of Washington, Arkansas for the 2012 Arkansas Archeological Society Summer Training Program. I personally had a great time last year, and hope that many of you who participated in the 2011 dig had half as much fun as I had excavating the remains of this incredible historic town.
We and our gracious hosts (Historic Washington State Park and the Pioneer Washington Restoration Foundation, Inc.) would also like to invite all of you who did not make it to the 2011 dig to come and participate this year as we continue to “dig for history.” Washington is both picturesque and packed full of the past. In the words of Mary Kwas (whose book title, Digging for History at Old Washington, we’ve cribbed here for our own uses):
A visit to Historic Washington…provides a fascinating glimpse into Arkansas’s past. Visitors can walk along the same unpaved streets that were laid out in the early nineteenth century, see houses that were built over 150 years ago, and enjoy the shade of large-grown catalpas, magnolias, and other ornamental trees planted by the town’s residents so long ago. (Kwas 2009:1–2)
Moreover, Kwas points out that the vacant lots in Washington “hide clues buried in the soil that can tell us more about the lives of nineteenth-century people than what can be seen in the houses or found in history books” (Kwas 2009:2). In fact, the Arkansas Archeological Survey and the Society have been conducting archeological excavations in Washington since 1980 (Brandon and Markus 2011:4; Stewart-Abernathy 1981)—including five Arkansas Archeological Society Summer Training Programs (1981–1984 and 2011; see Fig. 1). Dr. Stewart-Abernathy, who led most of the excavation efforts in Washington over the last thirty years, has often referred to the town as the best preserved historic site in the Old Southwest (remember that Washington was a border town until Texas was brought into the Union in 1845).
Washington, Arkansas
A visit to Historic Washington…provides a fascinating glimpse into Arkansas’s past. Visitors can walk along the same unpaved streets that were laid out in the early nineteenth century, see houses that were built over 150 years ago, and enjoy the shade of large-grown catalpas, magnolias, and other ornamental trees planted by the town’s residents so long ago. (Kwas 2009:1–2)
Moreover, Kwas points out that the vacant lots in Washington “hide clues buried in the soil that can tell us more about the lives of nineteenth-century people than what can be seen in the houses or found in history books” (Kwas 2009:2). In fact, the Arkansas Archeological Survey and the Society have been conducting archeological excavations in Washington since 1980 (Brandon and Markus 2011:4; Stewart-Abernathy 1981)—including five Arkansas Archeological Society Summer Training Programs (1981–1984 and 2011; see Fig. 1). Dr. Stewart-Abernathy, who led most of the excavation efforts in Washington over the last thirty years, has often referred to the town as the best preserved historic site in the Old Southwest (remember that Washington was a border town until Texas was brought into the Union in 1845).
Washington, Arkansas
Those of you who attended the 2011 dig (Fig. 2) got a good feel for Washington and its place in history—we were given several guided tours of the historic buildings, danced period dances with Washington’s regular dance workshop, and were even treated to ragtime jazz music one evening on the lawn of the 1874 Courthouse.
For those of you who have not been to Washington yet, you are in for a treat. The town was founded in 1824 along what was known as the Old Southwest Trail (once a major trading route running from St. Louis to the Red River Valley in eastern Texas). Since then, Washington has been witness to much of the historical change that has affected the nation through the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
In the early and mid-nineteenth century Washington was a major regional center of commerce and government that served the local “cotton frontier” as well as providing an important stop and resupply point for migrants heading into Texas and points west (Kwas 2009:3; Stewart-Abernathy 1981, 1990:8). During the Civil War, after the fall of Little Rock in 1863, Washington served as the capital of Confederate Arkansas (Stewart-Abernathy 1981). It escaped destruction during the war, and the post-war recovery was suggested by the construction of a new brick courthouse in 1874. However, postbellum Washington was soon eclipsed by a new railroad town—Hope, Arkansas—which had been constructed just a few miles to the south on the Cairo and Fulton Railway (Stewart-Abernathy 1990:9) in 1872. Through the remainder of the turn-of the-century era, Washington struggled to keep its place as the commercial and governmental center of the region, but it continued to lose population, businesses, and eventually the county seat to Hope (Stewart-Abernathy 1990:9).
However, this economic hardship was a boon in disguise for historic preservation—as many of the original antebellum buildings in Washington survive to this day. Restoration and tourism have indeed been important aspects of the town in the twentieth century—from the Daughters of the Confederacy saving the 1836 Courthouse in 1929, to all of the work conducted by the Pioneer Washington Restoration Foundation from 1958 through today, early preservationists laid the foundation for what we will see in Washington during the 2012 Summer Training Program. Today the town also is home to what is now known as Historic Washington State Park (founded 1973). Jointly, the park, the city government, and the Pioneer Washington Restoration Foundation are dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of the town and Arkansas to thousands of visitors every year. This summer we will be happy to be a couple hundred of those thousands of visitors.
What Happened at the 2011 Training Program?
As I have pointed out in earlier articles (Brandon 2011:3; Brandon and Markus 2011:4–5), the majority of the past archeological work in Washington has been associated with the homes of prominent individuals (e.g., Simon Sanders, Abraham Block, and Grandison Royston) or public spaces (e.g., the 1836 Courthouse). Additionally, although these past excavations have sought to uncover lost landscapes (such as detached kitchens, slave quarters, and other ancillary structures), they have all taken place next to standing structures. Our work last summer was different in various ways. The 2011 summer dig focused on Block 6—the now empty lot that was once the home of the earliest merchant district in the town (1830s through the 1880s). Our remote sensing survey and excavations have shed much light on what this block might have looked like in the nineteenth century. We identified at least four new buildings (maybe more) none of which can be found on existing historical maps or photographs. (How is that for demonstrating the usefulness of historical archeology?)
In Area A we uncovered the east wall of a large postin-ground structure that we now believe to be a possible merchant warehouse used between the 1830s and 1870s. Nearby, we also uncovered a cistern (Fig. 3) that I originally suspected to serve the warehouse—but we found that it dates to the 1850s (but was filled in the 1920s) and most likely served an entirely different structure in the northwest corner of Block 6. In Area B (the north central portion of Block 6) the Basic Excavation seminar uncovered a large feature which is probably a cellar for a small structure that appears (along with what seems to be an as-yet-unexcavated outbuilding) on several of our geophysical technologies. Finally, along the eastern margin of Block 6 (Area C), we uncovered relatively intact limestone and brick foundations of 1830s storefronts facing Franklin Street.
For those of you who have not been to Washington yet, you are in for a treat. The town was founded in 1824 along what was known as the Old Southwest Trail (once a major trading route running from St. Louis to the Red River Valley in eastern Texas). Since then, Washington has been witness to much of the historical change that has affected the nation through the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
In the early and mid-nineteenth century Washington was a major regional center of commerce and government that served the local “cotton frontier” as well as providing an important stop and resupply point for migrants heading into Texas and points west (Kwas 2009:3; Stewart-Abernathy 1981, 1990:8). During the Civil War, after the fall of Little Rock in 1863, Washington served as the capital of Confederate Arkansas (Stewart-Abernathy 1981). It escaped destruction during the war, and the post-war recovery was suggested by the construction of a new brick courthouse in 1874. However, postbellum Washington was soon eclipsed by a new railroad town—Hope, Arkansas—which had been constructed just a few miles to the south on the Cairo and Fulton Railway (Stewart-Abernathy 1990:9) in 1872. Through the remainder of the turn-of the-century era, Washington struggled to keep its place as the commercial and governmental center of the region, but it continued to lose population, businesses, and eventually the county seat to Hope (Stewart-Abernathy 1990:9).
However, this economic hardship was a boon in disguise for historic preservation—as many of the original antebellum buildings in Washington survive to this day. Restoration and tourism have indeed been important aspects of the town in the twentieth century—from the Daughters of the Confederacy saving the 1836 Courthouse in 1929, to all of the work conducted by the Pioneer Washington Restoration Foundation from 1958 through today, early preservationists laid the foundation for what we will see in Washington during the 2012 Summer Training Program. Today the town also is home to what is now known as Historic Washington State Park (founded 1973). Jointly, the park, the city government, and the Pioneer Washington Restoration Foundation are dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of the town and Arkansas to thousands of visitors every year. This summer we will be happy to be a couple hundred of those thousands of visitors.
What Happened at the 2011 Training Program?
As I have pointed out in earlier articles (Brandon 2011:3; Brandon and Markus 2011:4–5), the majority of the past archeological work in Washington has been associated with the homes of prominent individuals (e.g., Simon Sanders, Abraham Block, and Grandison Royston) or public spaces (e.g., the 1836 Courthouse). Additionally, although these past excavations have sought to uncover lost landscapes (such as detached kitchens, slave quarters, and other ancillary structures), they have all taken place next to standing structures. Our work last summer was different in various ways. The 2011 summer dig focused on Block 6—the now empty lot that was once the home of the earliest merchant district in the town (1830s through the 1880s). Our remote sensing survey and excavations have shed much light on what this block might have looked like in the nineteenth century. We identified at least four new buildings (maybe more) none of which can be found on existing historical maps or photographs. (How is that for demonstrating the usefulness of historical archeology?)
In Area A we uncovered the east wall of a large postin-ground structure that we now believe to be a possible merchant warehouse used between the 1830s and 1870s. Nearby, we also uncovered a cistern (Fig. 3) that I originally suspected to serve the warehouse—but we found that it dates to the 1850s (but was filled in the 1920s) and most likely served an entirely different structure in the northwest corner of Block 6. In Area B (the north central portion of Block 6) the Basic Excavation seminar uncovered a large feature which is probably a cellar for a small structure that appears (along with what seems to be an as-yet-unexcavated outbuilding) on several of our geophysical technologies. Finally, along the eastern margin of Block 6 (Area C), we uncovered relatively intact limestone and brick foundations of 1830s storefronts facing Franklin Street.
Summer Training Program in Historic Washington.
This summer we plan on both continuing excavations in some of the same areas that we worked on during the 2011 dig, and opening new excavations in new areas. We do not plan on reopening excavations in Area A in 2012. This area is where the vast majority of excavations were located during the 2011 summer dig (21 2x2 meter excavation units to be exact). I feel that the 2011 work has given us enough data to hypothesize a date range and function for the structure (and even evidence of the fire that brought about its demise). So we will be shifting our efforts this year to Area C and the new Area D.
First, the Basic Excavation seminar will continue to work on units in Area B—completing the units begun in 2011 and opening more units (perhaps locating the outbuilding hinted at in our geophysical data). This year the Basic Excavation Seminars will be led by Drs. Mary Beth Trubitt and Elizabeth Horton…under such great leadership, I have high hopes that much will be accomplished in Area B this year.
At Area C, we will be uncovering as much of the storefront brick scatter as possible. However, instead of excavating each unit to subsoil on its own (as we did in 2011), we will be uncovering the entire shape of the brick scatter in as many units as we can. After uncovering the dimensions of the feature, we will then “punch through” the scatter in all of the units recovering the material lodged within the brick rubble separately. Following that, we can investigate the possibility that these storefronts may have had below-grade. The famous cistern. Feature A-1. Half of this 1850s brick cistern was excavated to a depth of 140 cmbs last summer.
The other large task for the 2012 field season will be to begin work in what we will call “Area D”—Block 6, lot 4, or the northwest quadrant of Block 6. This is the vicinity of the mysterious structure that may be associated with Feature A-1—the 1850s cistern. It is possible that this is either a domestic dwelling or storefront belonging to Augustus Crouch. We simply need to gather basic information about this structure. Does it, in fact, date to the 1850s? Is it domestic as initial units suggest? How long was it occupied? All of these questions and more await our excavations.
Finally, if we can manage the time and logistics, we will tackle the excavation of half of the remainder of Feature A-1 (the 1850s cistern). During the 2011 summer dig we excavated the south half of the cistern to a depth of 140 cm below the surface—as far as we were able to go safely without shoring up the excavation trench. At the end of the field season we carefully backfilled the feature in hopes of returning to open up a wider trench that can be properly stepped or supported by scaffolding. There could be as much as 7–9 more feet of fill in the cistern, so we have much more to discover.
Last year at the 2011 AAS Summer Training Program we had great archeology, sandy soils, few mosquitoes, and great facilities. We hope to continue that tradition this year when we return to the historic town of Washington for another round of summer fun. I hope to see you all in June!
For more information, contact Jamie Brandon at 479-879-6229.
Tickets on sale for today's Wakarusa Music and Camping Festival
Jill M. Rohrbach,
travel writer
Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
The Wakarusa Music & Camping Festival, an experience that is both sonic and scenic, is coming up May 31 through June 3 at Mulberry Mountain in northwest Arkansas. Tickets are on sale now for this major music festival that has a well-earned reputation for a stellar show of top-notch acts amid a beautiful backdrop that is the Ozark Mountains.
“We have about 150 artists playing almost 200 sets of music on five stages over four days,” Brett Mosiman, event organizer, explained. “We throw pre and post parties in Fayetteville at George’s on Wednesdays and Mondays.” The artists are primarily national and international artists with about 20 or so regional acts.
The band schedule is now posted on the Wakarusa website, so event-goers can plan the details of their weekend. The 2012 lineup includes: Pretty Lights, The Avett Brothers, Primus, Umphrey’s McGee, Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros, Slightly Stoopid, Girl Talk, Fitz & the Tantrums, Matisyahu, G. Love & Special Sauce, Ghostland Observatory, Big Gigantic, Balkan Beat Box, Beats Antique, The Del McCoury Band, Railroad Earth, Nobody Beats the Drum, EOTO, Quixotic, Tea Leaf Green, Perpetual Groove, Green Velvet, The Big Wu, The Devil Makes Three, Split Lip Rayfield, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, 12th Planet, LA Riots, VibeSquaD, Gramatik, Futurebirds, New Monsoon, Gaelic Storm, Hot Buttered Rum, Mountain Sprout, The Infamous Stringdusters, Hearts of Darkness, Love and Light, and many more. For the full list and details of what time and which stage they will play, visit www.Wakarusa.com.
“We have five stages and we try to counter program quite a bit,” Mosiman explained. “If you get tired of reggae you can go listen to some electronic dance music.” The musical genres at Wakarusa run the gamut - alternative country, techno, bluegrass, singer/songwriter, rock, dubstep… In fact, Mosiman explains it by saying what the festival doesn’t have. “About all we don’t have is heavy rap and metal.”
All the fun takes place at Mulberry Mountain, a lodging and event resort on about 650 acres surrounded by the Ozark National Forest. The resort contains cabins, a 5,000-square-foot lodge, and an events building. The tree-shaded campground has full hook-up sites for tents and recreational vehicles, but can also accommodate a large number of people for tent camping without water or electricity.
In addition to the music and fine scenery, the Wakarusa venue provides opportunity for other recreation such as Frisbee golf, floating the Mulberry River, and fishing. On-site you’ll also find morning activities such as yoga, a Ferris wheel and new this year, an extremely large water slide.
Wakarusa Music and Camping Festival moved from Kansas to the rolling hills of northwest Arkansas in 2009. Attendance that first year was about 10,000. “The second year we just about doubled that,” said Brett Mosiman, event organizer. “Since then we’ve been slowly creeping up. This year I think attendance will be about 22,000 people, about like last year.”
There’s no doubt Wakarusa boosts the economy as thousands of people head to the Ozarks, packing hotels and filling up on gas and food for the annual event. But it impacts the region in other ways too.
“I’ve had lots of people tell me they think over the years Wakarusa helps embolden the music scene,” Mosiman explains. “It helps introduce touring bands to the area which has really impacted it positively.”
It also introduces people - that might not have come otherwise - to Arkansas. Some of those folks come back for vacations or even move here. “I’ll give you an example from my own family,” said Mosiman. “My daughter ended up at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville because she was at Wakarusa helping three or four years in a row. I don’t think she would have done that had she not been exposed to it.”
He said Wakarusa also puts Arkansas in the limelight through the media. “Literally hundreds of articles are written about the festival and the site, and they are all very positive,” Mosiman explained. “You start hearing about waterfalls and hikes and float streams. Whether you’re coming to the festival or not, I imagine people are Googling the Buffalo and state parks and checking it out. Northwest Arkansas is a gorgeous jewel that you all know about but not all the people in the country know about. Wakarusa exposes tens of thousands of people to an area that doesn’t get a lot of national exposure.”
Mosiman said Wakarusa attracts a very wide cross section of people, although the majority of them are younger and college kids. He added that the annual Yonder Mountain String Band's Harvest Music Festival, held at Mulberry Mountain in the fall, is attended more by young families and older folks. This year the festival will be Oct. 11-13.
“I think the main thing is they are all there to have a great time, to get away from technology, to unwind, to listen to great music,” Mosiman said. “I always say it should be on everybody’s bucket list. In today’s times of technology, get unplugged and dance in the moonlight.”
If You Go
Visit www.Wakarusa.com, which is full of information as well as great video that provides a good feel for the festival. You can also buy your tickets here - single day tickets as well as whole packages that include camping. Children younger than 12 are free.
Mulberry Mountain is located on the Pig Trail Scenic Byway, which is Ark. 23 from the south boundary of the Ozark National Forest to its intersection with Ark. 16 at Brashears. The rugged and forested Boston Mountains region of the Ozark Mountains provides the setting for this route, portions of which run through a tunnel of foliage during spring, summer and fall. The byway crosses the Mulberry River and the 165-mile Ozark Highlands Trail.
Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
The Wakarusa Music & Camping Festival, an experience that is both sonic and scenic, is coming up May 31 through June 3 at Mulberry Mountain in northwest Arkansas. Tickets are on sale now for this major music festival that has a well-earned reputation for a stellar show of top-notch acts amid a beautiful backdrop that is the Ozark Mountains.
“We have about 150 artists playing almost 200 sets of music on five stages over four days,” Brett Mosiman, event organizer, explained. “We throw pre and post parties in Fayetteville at George’s on Wednesdays and Mondays.” The artists are primarily national and international artists with about 20 or so regional acts.
The band schedule is now posted on the Wakarusa website, so event-goers can plan the details of their weekend. The 2012 lineup includes: Pretty Lights, The Avett Brothers, Primus, Umphrey’s McGee, Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros, Slightly Stoopid, Girl Talk, Fitz & the Tantrums, Matisyahu, G. Love & Special Sauce, Ghostland Observatory, Big Gigantic, Balkan Beat Box, Beats Antique, The Del McCoury Band, Railroad Earth, Nobody Beats the Drum, EOTO, Quixotic, Tea Leaf Green, Perpetual Groove, Green Velvet, The Big Wu, The Devil Makes Three, Split Lip Rayfield, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, 12th Planet, LA Riots, VibeSquaD, Gramatik, Futurebirds, New Monsoon, Gaelic Storm, Hot Buttered Rum, Mountain Sprout, The Infamous Stringdusters, Hearts of Darkness, Love and Light, and many more. For the full list and details of what time and which stage they will play, visit www.Wakarusa.com.
“We have five stages and we try to counter program quite a bit,” Mosiman explained. “If you get tired of reggae you can go listen to some electronic dance music.” The musical genres at Wakarusa run the gamut - alternative country, techno, bluegrass, singer/songwriter, rock, dubstep… In fact, Mosiman explains it by saying what the festival doesn’t have. “About all we don’t have is heavy rap and metal.”
All the fun takes place at Mulberry Mountain, a lodging and event resort on about 650 acres surrounded by the Ozark National Forest. The resort contains cabins, a 5,000-square-foot lodge, and an events building. The tree-shaded campground has full hook-up sites for tents and recreational vehicles, but can also accommodate a large number of people for tent camping without water or electricity.
In addition to the music and fine scenery, the Wakarusa venue provides opportunity for other recreation such as Frisbee golf, floating the Mulberry River, and fishing. On-site you’ll also find morning activities such as yoga, a Ferris wheel and new this year, an extremely large water slide.
Wakarusa Music and Camping Festival moved from Kansas to the rolling hills of northwest Arkansas in 2009. Attendance that first year was about 10,000. “The second year we just about doubled that,” said Brett Mosiman, event organizer. “Since then we’ve been slowly creeping up. This year I think attendance will be about 22,000 people, about like last year.”
There’s no doubt Wakarusa boosts the economy as thousands of people head to the Ozarks, packing hotels and filling up on gas and food for the annual event. But it impacts the region in other ways too.
“I’ve had lots of people tell me they think over the years Wakarusa helps embolden the music scene,” Mosiman explains. “It helps introduce touring bands to the area which has really impacted it positively.”
It also introduces people - that might not have come otherwise - to Arkansas. Some of those folks come back for vacations or even move here. “I’ll give you an example from my own family,” said Mosiman. “My daughter ended up at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville because she was at Wakarusa helping three or four years in a row. I don’t think she would have done that had she not been exposed to it.”
He said Wakarusa also puts Arkansas in the limelight through the media. “Literally hundreds of articles are written about the festival and the site, and they are all very positive,” Mosiman explained. “You start hearing about waterfalls and hikes and float streams. Whether you’re coming to the festival or not, I imagine people are Googling the Buffalo and state parks and checking it out. Northwest Arkansas is a gorgeous jewel that you all know about but not all the people in the country know about. Wakarusa exposes tens of thousands of people to an area that doesn’t get a lot of national exposure.”
Mosiman said Wakarusa attracts a very wide cross section of people, although the majority of them are younger and college kids. He added that the annual Yonder Mountain String Band's Harvest Music Festival, held at Mulberry Mountain in the fall, is attended more by young families and older folks. This year the festival will be Oct. 11-13.
“I think the main thing is they are all there to have a great time, to get away from technology, to unwind, to listen to great music,” Mosiman said. “I always say it should be on everybody’s bucket list. In today’s times of technology, get unplugged and dance in the moonlight.”
If You Go
Visit www.Wakarusa.com, which is full of information as well as great video that provides a good feel for the festival. You can also buy your tickets here - single day tickets as well as whole packages that include camping. Children younger than 12 are free.
Mulberry Mountain is located on the Pig Trail Scenic Byway, which is Ark. 23 from the south boundary of the Ozark National Forest to its intersection with Ark. 16 at Brashears. The rugged and forested Boston Mountains region of the Ozark Mountains provides the setting for this route, portions of which run through a tunnel of foliage during spring, summer and fall. The byway crosses the Mulberry River and the 165-mile Ozark Highlands Trail.
Animal Welfare League has kittens for adoption
KITTEN KABOODLE
KITTENS ARE HERE, THERE, EVERYWHERE!!!
Vet checked, started on shots, all colors, spayed/neutered.
AWL fundraiser JUNE 7 MOUNTAIN SPIRITS hwy. 7. Portion of sales will benefit AWL programs.
Vet checked, started on shots, all colors, spayed/neutered.
AWL fundraiser JUNE 7 MOUNTAIN SPIRITS hwy. 7. Portion of sales will benefit AWL programs.
POA pumping 1964 tickets
Attention Beatles fans, both young and old, get your tickets now for one of
two performances of “1964 … The Tribute.”
Touted by Rolling Stone magazine as the “best Beatles tribute on earth,” this musical concert will be held at 7:30 p.m., June 6 and 7 in the Woodlands Auditorium at the Ponce de Leon Center. Reserved tickets are $25 each. Call 922-4231 for ticket sales.
This concert is one of several activities scheduled for British Week, June 1 through 8.
Touted by Rolling Stone magazine as the “best Beatles tribute on earth,” this musical concert will be held at 7:30 p.m., June 6 and 7 in the Woodlands Auditorium at the Ponce de Leon Center. Reserved tickets are $25 each. Call 922-4231 for ticket sales.
This concert is one of several activities scheduled for British Week, June 1 through 8.
Village lots for $750 won't go away
The Village POA press release says, "due to widespread interest, the Hot Springs Village Property Owners’
Association is extending the offer of POA-owned lots for sale at $750 to
property owners in good standing to June 15.
If you are interested in purchasing a lot, you can view POA lots online at www.hsvpoa.org. Click on Purchase a Lot and then click on Inventory. The map is segregated into five regions and by subdivision within the region. Contact 501-922-5552 or 501-922-5555 to purchase a POA-owned lot."
Lots are often auctioned in both counties for a beginning bid of $500 by the POA. For $501.01 you can pick up a lot. Why pay the extra $249.99? If there is so much interest in $750 lots there would be no need to extend the program.
If you are interested in purchasing a lot, you can view POA lots online at www.hsvpoa.org. Click on Purchase a Lot and then click on Inventory. The map is segregated into five regions and by subdivision within the region. Contact 501-922-5552 or 501-922-5555 to purchase a POA-owned lot."
Lots are often auctioned in both counties for a beginning bid of $500 by the POA. For $501.01 you can pick up a lot. Why pay the extra $249.99? If there is so much interest in $750 lots there would be no need to extend the program.
Mountain Fishin' Derby June 9
See if you can catch a fish at Petit Jean State Park near Morrilton during the Mountain Fishin' Derby on June 9. The derby will be open to children ages 15 and younger. Parents are welcome to help, but the kids must do the fishing. Bring your own lawn chairs, bait, and tackle. Fish will be stocked and prizes provided by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Admission is free. 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Road, Morrilton Phone: 501-727-5441 Email: petitjean@arkansas.com Go to Website: www.petitjeanstatepark.com/ |
Balloons of Hope this weekend
June 2-3 is the tenth annual Balloons of Hope in Hope at Fair Park. There will be hot air balloon glows and tethered rides, lawn mower races, a kids fishing derby, arts and crafts vendors, a kids fun area, live bands and more. While in town, be sure to take in a bit of the town’s history. Hope is a small town in Hempstead County with two claims to fame: it is the birthplace of former U.S. President Bill Clinton and it showcases some of the world's largest watermelons. The town is also home to the President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace Home National Historic Site. Hope Fair Park Phone: 870-777-7500 Go to Website: sjspgballoons.blogspot.com |
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
This summer at Home Plate
| If you like seafood you are gonna love our latest theme night. We call it our "Summer Seafood Extravaganza"! We are going to feature great seafood every Tuesday Night all summer long. From great seafood soups like New England Clam Chowder to awsome appetizers including Jumbo Shrimp Cocktails, Calamari and Fried Oysters to incredible entrees like Fresh Tilapia in a Bag, Coconut Shrimp with a Pina Colada dipping sauce, Lobster Tails, Maryland Lump Crab Cakes, Butterfly Shrimp, a Fresh Fish Trio and even Jumbo Grilled Sea Scallops! Did We Mention Frozen Drinks!  What better way to enjoy great seafood on a hot summer day than to endulge in a smooth and refreshing Strawberry Daiquiri, Mango Daiquiri or Pina Colada. How about a Strawberry Colada or a Mango Colada? The possabilities are endless and believe me they are all good. Aundrea & I personally tested each and every one to make sure they will be perfect for you. They are available without alcohol as well so they are sure to get everyone cooled down in a hurry. Devine Desserts!  Aundrea is going to whip up her now Famous Creme Brulee aloung with our usual outstanding line-up of desserts including Fried Cheesecake, Apple Dumplins, Blackberry Cobbler, Strawberry Rhubarb, Coconut or Chocolate Meringue Pie, Pecan Pie, Apple Pie & more.... We can't wait to get started on our "Summer Seafood Extravaganza". We will kick things off on Tuesday Night June 5th from 4-8 pm. Our base menu will also be available. We invite all our VIP customers to be the first to experience our new Frozen Drinks, Great Seafood Selections and Aundrea's Homemade Creme Brulee. Please invite your friends and neighbors.
Sincerely, Jim & Aundrea Sparks Home Plate Cafe |
National car meet highlight of British Week in Village
Classic British cars will be on site at the upcoming British National Car
Meet, which will be held June 2, during
British Week. The meet is open to the public and will be held from 10 a.m.to3 p.m. on the Ponce de Leon Center grounds.
Food trucks will be on site and will have food available for purchase. A drink bar and lounge area will be set up in the Porte Cochere and Mountain Valley Spring Water will be distributing samples during the event.
Allen Tillery Chevrolet, Buick, GMC will serve as the presenting sponsor for the event.
British Week. The meet is open to the public and will be held from 10 a.m.to3 p.m. on the Ponce de Leon Center grounds.
Food trucks will be on site and will have food available for purchase. A drink bar and lounge area will be set up in the Porte Cochere and Mountain Valley Spring Water will be distributing samples during the event.
Allen Tillery Chevrolet, Buick, GMC will serve as the presenting sponsor for the event.
Herb program at Garvan Woodland Gardens
Explore the delightful world of herbs during
a comprehensive, one-day workshop, Herbs – Growing, Landscaping, and Using
Them in Your Day to Day Life, slated for June 9 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
in the Magnolia Room.
Bob Byers, Garvan Woodland
Gardens’ own resident landscape architect, will tackle the topic of edible
landscaping. He will share information for helping you select the herbs most
appropriate for your gardening style, as well as design ideas for making your
landscape more attractive, fragrant, and flavorful with edible plants – whether
you set aside a formal herb garden, tuck herbs among flowers in a bed, or grow
them in a window sill.
Expert herbalist Tina Marie Wilcox
from Arkansas’ unique Ozark Folk Center State Park near Mountain View will share
her vast knowledge of the aromatic plants with workshop participants. Wilcox is
the head gardener and herb educator for the Ozark Folk Center, which is home to
one of the most diverse organic herb gardens in the nation and recognized for
its award-winning Heritage Herb Garden.
Wilcox is also the co-author of
The Creative Herbal Home, a guidebook for herb enthusiasts. It contains
basic and detailed information about using common household ingredients combined
with herbs and essential oils to make an array of herbal products for the home.
She will touch on topics from the book, which will be available for purchase,
and will sign copies during a luncheon that will include a menu of dishes and
drinks fashioned with herbs.
Herbs are among the easiest plants to cultivate when given the appropriate environment, and Janet Carson, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service Horticulture Specialist, will provide an overview of basic herb culture: determining where to plant herbs, how to prepare the soil, and caring for and maintaining the plants that add an element of excitement to the landscape by evoking the sense of taste, smell, and touch. 
Participants will learn how to
identify and use herbs from Debbie Tripp of Rosemary Hill Herb Farm of Crystal
Springs. The local herb grower will share her first-hand knowledge of planting,
growing, and harvesting herbs, starting with easy-to-grow varieties such as mint
and basil. She will share secrets for cooking with herbs as well. After the
workshop, Tripp will have a wide range of ready-to-plant herbs available for
purchase.
Cost to participate in the
workshop is $45 for Garden members and $55 for non-members. Lunch is included.
Advance reservations and prepayment are required. To register, call the Gardens
at 501-262-9300 / 800-366-4664.
|
Monday, May 28, 2012
Congressman Mike Ross on rural post offices
As you know, last year the United
States Postal Service dramatically increased its attempts to close post offices
around the country in order to help save the agency money, primarily those in
rural areas. In fact, almost 200 postal facilities here in Arkansas were being
considered for possible closure. I have strongly opposed these closures because
closing rural post offices would disproportionately hurt people in rural areas
and those on fixed incomes.
In an effort to save rural post
offices and encourage the U.S. Postal Service to look at other cost-cutting
alternatives, I sent multiple letters to the U.S. Postal Service and Postmaster
General requesting a full review of the Postal Service’s closing process, had
senior staff from my congressional office attend public hearings on each of the
proposed closures in our congressional district, and lead an effort to get more
than 75 Members of Congress to sign a letter to the Postal Regulatory Commission
requesting they stop closing post offices and work with Congress to help find a
long-term solution that protects customers and ensures the longevity of the
postal system. The letter argued “widespread post office closures is the wrong
way to deal with the Postal Service’s fiscal problems and could harm the Postal
Service’s competitiveness in the long run.”
As a result, earlier this month,
the U.S. Postal Service released its plans to keep rural post offices open, but
with modified retail window hours to match customer use, in some cases. Access
to PO Boxes would remain unchanged, and the town’s ZIP Code and community
identity would be retained. The new strategy will be implemented over a
two-year, multi-phased approach and will not be completed until September 2014.
Although this strategy reduces operating hours in some rural post offices across
Arkansas, it also saves them from complete closure.
I am pleased with the U.S. Postal
Service's decision to abandon its plan to close post offices in Arkansas, after
multiple requests by me and other Members of Congress to halt the process. I’m
glad postal officials have begun looking at other cost-cutting alternatives that
do not result in the complete closure of our rural post offices.
While we have been successful in
keeping our rural post offices open, we still must reform the U.S. Postal
Service to ensure its financial stability and longevity. I have helped
introduce a bill, H.R. 1351, to eliminate a requirement that the Postal Service
pre-pay future retiree medical benefits, which is not required of any other
federal agency. This common sense bill would save the Postal Service so much
money that repealing this one requirement would give the agency a profit over
the last four years.
H.R. 1351 will help to strengthen
the U.S. Postal Service for generations to come. Passing this legislation will
avoid drastic cuts in service, layoffs, and the unnecessary closure of post
offices and mail processing facilities in the future.
I fought hard to stop the closing
of post offices so that we can work together to find longer-term solutions that
will reform the Postal Service while protecting people in rural areas and those
on fixed incomes who depend on their post offices. As your Congressman, I will
keep listening to you and fighting for you in our nation’s capital on issues
like this that are important to all of us.
Memorial Day concert at Whittington Park
Don't forget the free outdoor concert at Whittington Park today at 3 p.m. The Hot Springs Concert Band will provide the music. The trees should provide a little shade. Bring your blanket or folding chairs and pick a cool spot to enjoy the Memorial Day Concert.
Crystal Bridges worth the hype
Lee and I made the trip up to Bentonville to see the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art for our wedding anniversary. It was everything we expected and much more.
We loved the walking trails around the museum. There was covered parking to keep our car cool during our visit. The architecture of the museum buildings is amazing. The are was unbelievable. I spotted three Georgia O'Keefe's, a Lichtenstein, an Andy Warhol and much, much more. Our favorite was hands down Norman Rockwell's Rosie the Riveter. She was bigger than life-size. We had only seen her the size of Life magazine prior to our museum visit.
We spent several hours walking the trails and enjoying the art both inside and outside the museum. We lunched in the museum. The food was a bit pricey but absolutely delicious. The museum is fee so paying a little more for the food was not an issue.
Travelling exhibits do cost a little. While we were there the exhibit for The Hudson River School: Nature and the America Vision was just $5. Also, unbelievable for such a low cost.
We had a great time and plan to return and see more of the city and the surrounding area in the future. This was just a quick trip to see just the museum.
Here are some of my photos in and around the museum to whet your appetite to see the museum for yourself. And yes, you are allowed to photograph the art with flashes turned off.
We loved the walking trails around the museum. There was covered parking to keep our car cool during our visit. The architecture of the museum buildings is amazing. The are was unbelievable. I spotted three Georgia O'Keefe's, a Lichtenstein, an Andy Warhol and much, much more. Our favorite was hands down Norman Rockwell's Rosie the Riveter. She was bigger than life-size. We had only seen her the size of Life magazine prior to our museum visit.
We spent several hours walking the trails and enjoying the art both inside and outside the museum. We lunched in the museum. The food was a bit pricey but absolutely delicious. The museum is fee so paying a little more for the food was not an issue.
Travelling exhibits do cost a little. While we were there the exhibit for The Hudson River School: Nature and the America Vision was just $5. Also, unbelievable for such a low cost.
We had a great time and plan to return and see more of the city and the surrounding area in the future. This was just a quick trip to see just the museum.
Here are some of my photos in and around the museum to whet your appetite to see the museum for yourself. And yes, you are allowed to photograph the art with flashes turned off.
Coyote stalks at Cedar Creek trail in the Village
The woman had never seen a coyote before and did not know what she had seen. The above is a picture of a coyote. This is what is stalking Cedar Creek trail. Yesterday, before Harry and I finished the second branch of the trail to the right of parking lot A, we were being stalked by a coyote.
I picked up a small thick stick to help protect us if needed. I saw the coyote before Harry did because I was on alert. The coyote growled first getting Harry's attention. A growling fest ensued. The coyote was getting closer so I raised my one arm with the stick and started yelling in a deep growling voice for the coyote to go away. I was loud and threatening. All the while Harry and I were hurrying back to the car.
This coyote was more aggressive than the one Harry and I encountered last year. There were no warning signs up at the start of the trails advising to be on the lookout for coyotes. I know there is wildlife in the Village but repeated coyote encounters in the same place is very dangerous. Villagers need to know there are coyotes in the Village and they are dangerous and finding food in the area of Village walking trails.
Last year after my encounter with the coyote one of the Hot Springs Village police officers told me the coyotes often send out a female to attract domestic dogs. To play with a dog and entice it to follow. Then the pack will eat the dog.
After the encounter I spent time on the internet seeing if my actions were the right way to handle the predator and what I should do if it ever happens again. Needless to say, I won't be walking Harry at Cedar Creek again. But, coyotes have been sited around the Village not just in that one area. I want to be prepared.
This information came from a site for coyote problems in Virginia.
"Tolerating coyotes around your residence may result in coyotes becoming less wary of your presence or actions. Such behavior may result in coyotes becoming bold and even aggressive around humans. It is the responsibility of everyone living in a residential community to dissuade coyotes from occupying or using space in areas frequented by humans. When coyotes attempt to extend their living space to include space around your residence, find a safe position that affords you an opportunity to escape an unlikely attack, and yell, throw non-edible objects in the direction of the coyote, or otherwise convey to any “trespassing” animal that it is not welcome in your space."
Other sites gave more advice for this time of year.
"PEOPLE: Approaching any wildlife may provoke an encounter if the animal feels cornered or restricted in movement. This is particularly true of animals that have become accustomed to the presence of humans and their activities as a consequence of being fed, or because of access to a readily available food source such as pet food or refuse in a garbage can or compost pile. Be aware that coyotes in other states have attacked and severely injured small toddlers when left unattended for even a short period of time. Although the likelihood of such an attack is very remote, never leave small children unattended in areas frequented by coyotes.Consider removing habitat that provides protective cover for coyotes and their prey such as small rodents. Modifying such habitat around residential areas will dissuade coyotes from using the space as a part of a territory or home range and will reduce the likelihood of conflicts."
"PETS: The territorial nature of predatory coyotes poses a real risk to small, free-roaming dogs and cats. Keep small dogs restrained on a leash when walking them outdoors and avoid walking in areas where coyotes are raising their pups from March through August. Be aware that there have been a few recorded instances of coyotes attacking small dogs on a leash. Small dogs and cats are also vulnerable to attacks by coyotes when tethered outside of your house or even on your porch. Small dogs and cats should be kept in an enclosure when kept outdoors in order to prevent coyotes from attacking and killing a pet animal. Even though a fence may dissuade coyotes from attacking your pet, be aware that coyotes can jump over fences
less than 7-feet high and can climb over taller fencing that does not have an outward slanting overhang."
I don't expect the POA to rid the Village of wildlife but a little signage alerting Villagers as to what a coyote looks like and what to do in an encounter would be helpful. Signage on the trails, especially Cedar Creek is now necessary.
National trails day June 2
On June 2, Lake Ouachita State Park will host an event in celebration of American Hiking Society’s 20th annual National Trails Day.® The event will be held at Lake Ouachita State Park from 8:00 am to 9:30 pm. Choose your own adventure on one of our guided trail hikes, kayaking tours, or scenic barge rides. The schedule also includes park programs and activities geared towards children and families encouraging outdoor exploration. A long-standing celebration of America's magnificent trail system and its countless supporters and volunteers, National Trails Day (NTD) is celebrated in all 50 states and Puerto Rico.
The slogan for NTD 2012, America’s Largest TRAILgating Party, is an open invitation to all Americans to get outside and connect with local hiking clubs, outdoor retailers, local parks and recreation departments or federal land managing agencies to experience everything the great outdoors has to offer. National corporate sponsors include The North Face, Milk-Bone Trail Mix, Adventure Medical Kits, Merrell, Columbia, and Gerber Legendary Blades. Federal Partners, Supporters, and Media Sponsors include US Forest Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, US Fish & Wildlife Service, and Federal Highway Administration, REI, Eastern Mountain Sports, American Park Network, YMCA of the USA, Boy Scouts of America, and Backpacker Magazine.
"In April 2011 a tornado ripped through Lake Ouachita State Park and a popular hiking trail had to be closed due to extensive damage. Now, thanks to a number or volunteers and two Americorps teams, we are pleased to announce that the Caddo Bend Trail has been re-opened for park visitors to enjoy,” said Susan Adkins, Park Interpreter. For more information on Lake Ouachita State Park’s 2012 NTD event, please visit our website at www.ArkansasStateParks.com/LakeOuachita or contact Susan Adkins at susan.adkins@arkansas.gov or call 501-767-9366.
Since 1993, National Trails Day has inspired thousands of people to enjoy trails on the same day nationwide, taking part in hikes, bike and horse rides, trail maintenance, paddle trips and other activities. Event hosts include local hiking clubs, federal agencies, municipal parks, retailers, land trusts and many other businesses and organizations. For more information about National Trails Day®, visit www.AmericanHiking.org/ntd.
Founded in 1976, American Hiking Society is the only national, recreation-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and protecting America’s hiking trails, their surrounding natural areas and the hiking experience. To learn more about American Hiking Society and its mission and programs, visit www.AmericanHiking.org or call (800) 972-8608.
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National Trails Day
Saturday, June 2
Lake Ouachita State Park
The slogan for NTD 2012, America’s Largest TRAILgating Party, is an open invitation to all Americans to get outside and connect with local hiking clubs, outdoor retailers, local parks and recreation departments or federal land managing agencies to experience everything the great outdoors has to offer. National corporate sponsors include The North Face, Milk-Bone Trail Mix, Adventure Medical Kits, Merrell, Columbia, and Gerber Legendary Blades. Federal Partners, Supporters, and Media Sponsors include US Forest Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, US Fish & Wildlife Service, and Federal Highway Administration, REI, Eastern Mountain Sports, American Park Network, YMCA of the USA, Boy Scouts of America, and Backpacker Magazine.
"In April 2011 a tornado ripped through Lake Ouachita State Park and a popular hiking trail had to be closed due to extensive damage. Now, thanks to a number or volunteers and two Americorps teams, we are pleased to announce that the Caddo Bend Trail has been re-opened for park visitors to enjoy,” said Susan Adkins, Park Interpreter. For more information on Lake Ouachita State Park’s 2012 NTD event, please visit our website at www.ArkansasStateParks.com/LakeOuachita or contact Susan Adkins at susan.adkins@arkansas.gov or call 501-767-9366.
Since 1993, National Trails Day has inspired thousands of people to enjoy trails on the same day nationwide, taking part in hikes, bike and horse rides, trail maintenance, paddle trips and other activities. Event hosts include local hiking clubs, federal agencies, municipal parks, retailers, land trusts and many other businesses and organizations. For more information about National Trails Day®, visit www.AmericanHiking.org/ntd.
Founded in 1976, American Hiking Society is the only national, recreation-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and protecting America’s hiking trails, their surrounding natural areas and the hiking experience. To learn more about American Hiking Society and its mission and programs, visit www.AmericanHiking.org or call (800) 972-8608.
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National Trails Day
Saturday, June 2
Lake Ouachita State Park
8 to 11a.m.
Caddo Bend Trail Hike
Caddo Bend Trail Hike
Natural and human forces continue to shape the history and landscape around Lake Ouachita. Meet at the Caddo Bend trailhead for a 4 mile guided hike to find out more about these changes. Bring drinking water and wear sturdy shoes for this strenuous adventure.
9 to 9:45 a.m.
9 to 9:45 a.m.
Dogwood Trail Hike
The Ouachita National Forest provides a protective zone for wildlife around the lake. Meet at the Dogwood trailhead to take a guided, ½-mile walk and find out why the lake would be a different place without the forest. Bring drinking water, wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain.
10 to 10:45 a.m.
Makin’ Tracks
Signs of wildlife are all around. You just have to know what to look for. Track over to the visitor center picnic area to find out more about wildlife signs and to make your very own animal track to take home!
11 to 11:45 a.m.
Geocaching 101
What is geocaching? It is a fun, family-friendly activity using GPS units. Discover the basics of geocaching using the park’s GPS units or any units that you have brought, and then embark on a journey in search of a hidden “cache” with only the coordinates of its location to guide you. Wear sturdy shoes and bring drinking water for the short hike.
12 noon to 12:45 p.m.
Scavenger Hunt
This fun seeking adventure will have you exploring the park in search of items from our list. See how many you can find for the most points. The winning team will get a prize. Meet at the visitor center picnic area.
1 to 1:45 p.m.
Camo Crawl
Some animals use camouflage to disguise themselves from predators. Think you could spot the hidden items on the trail? Test your skill to see how camouflage works. Meet at the Caddo Bend Trailhead.
2 to 2:45 p.m.
Wet Walk
Ever wonder what lives along the shoreline of Lake Ouachita? Wear your wading shoes and come prepared to get wet while we explore the insects that live in the lake. Meet at the Three Sisters Springs beach.
3 to 4:30 p.m.
Geo-Float Lake Tour
The Geo-Float Trail allows you to explore the unique geology of the Ouachita Mountains by boat. Space is limited on this barge tour. Tickets are $9 for adults, $5 for children 6-12 and free for those under 6. Make your reservations and purchase tickets at the visitor center and meet at the marina.
5 to 6:30 p.m.
Kayak Koving
Kayaking gives you the opportunity to experience Lake Ouachita in a unique way. Join a park interpreter at the marina boat ramp to paddle out to nearby coves. Kayaks, paddles and PFDs are provided, but space is limited. Make reservations at the visitor center. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for children 6-12 and free for those under 6. Kids 12 and under must ride tandem with an adult. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
8:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Glowing Skulls Hike
Can you see the strange glow in the forest? Meet a park interpreter at the Caddo Bend trailhead for a moderate hike through a mysterious trail of glowing skulls. Wear sturdy shoes and bring your flashlight for this one-of-a-kind quest.
Packets for Hot Springs' city director positions available June 1
Hot Springs residents interested in running for city director positions one,
three and six on the Hot Springs Board of Directors at the November 6 general
election can begin picking up candidate packets on Friday, June 1 at the City
Clerk’s office, 133 Convention Boulevard. The clerk’s office is open weekdays
from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Each packet provides all the
information necessary to run for the director positions, which carry four-year
terms of office beginning January 1, 2013 and expiring on December 31, 2017.
Candidates for the Board of
Directors must submit petitions with valid signatures of fifty registered City
of Hot Springs voters. Completed petitions may be filed beginning at 8 a.m. on
Friday, July 27 until 8 a.m. until noon on Friday, August 17. For filing,
candidate petitions must be signed originals and filed with the City Clerk’s
Office.
Questions may be directed to
City Clerk Lance Spicer, lspicer@cityhs.net or 321-6805. Detailed
information about the 2012 elections is available at www.cityhs.net .
CDC launches TB website
Many people think that tuberculosis (TB) is not the serious disease that we once associated with sanatoriums and many deaths. And while that is true, in Arkansas, we still lose citizens to TB each year. In 2011, 13 of the 85 people diagnosed with TB in Arkansas died. TB is the leading killer of people who are HIV infected. These numbers are particularly distressing because if diagnosed and properly treated the lives of those infected can be saved and the spread of the disease to others can be prevented.
While progress has been made in Arkansas and the United States there are still many countries where TB is a serious problem. There are almost 2 million TB-related deaths worldwide each year. That is why it is particularly important that we stay vigilant and educate the medical community and the people who move to the United States from other countries on the risks of TB. To help educate Arkansans and others who do not speak English about the continuing toll that TB takes on us all, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta is announcing a new Spanish website that is filled with information about Tuberculosis (TB) prevention and control. To get to the site, go to http://www.cdc.gov/tb/esp/
The site includes a variety of basic TB information on testing, treatment, and exposure. All information is translated into Spanish. In addition, the TB website includes fact sheets, publications and podcasts.
Legacy of conservation, 50 years and counting
By Buddy Gough
The Ozark Society will mark its 50th Anniversary of conservation efforts in Arkansas with a return to its original roots on the beautiful Buffalo River.
The two-day celebration at Tyler Bend Recreation Area for OS members and honored guests will include hiking and paddling activities along the iconic Ozark stream the organization was founded to save from being dammed by the Corps of Engineers in 1962.
The perseverance of founder Dr. Neil Compton and his like-minded friends extended for 10 years before the free-flowing Buffalo River was named the first “national river” in 1972, to be preserved and enjoyed forevermore as a natural treasure.
The anniversary, however, will also recognize the many other contributions to conservation the OS has achieved during a half-century of its steadfast pursuit of its mission to preserve the wild and scenic rivers, wilderness and unique natural features of the Ozark-Ouachita region.
Paraphrasing the words of President Theodore Roosevelt, the rich legacy can be attributed to a record of speaking softly and carrying a big stick.
For OS members past and present, the “stick” refers the paddles and hiking sticks used for their avid enjoyment of streams and trails.
Speaking softly, on the other hand, refers to OS approach to achieving conservation goals throughout much of its history. Rather than taking a strident confrontational stance of some well-known environmental groups, the OS has quietly succeeded through passion and persuasion.
Legacy
During the campaign to save the Buffalo, for example, Compton and his cohorts took elected officials on paddling trips to show the beauty of the river first hand, filmed videos of its sparkling waters and soaring bluffs to share and circulate and published a book about it.
With no more than 800 members in three chapters in Arkansas and four more in Louisiana, Missouri and Oklahoma, the small organization’s low-key efforts over the years helped save seven scenic and recreational waterways in a four-state area from being dammed.
In Arkansas, successes in recent years have included helping preserve Bear Creek and Lee Creek as free-flowing streams.
On a broader scale, the OS was instrumental in the passage of the Arkansas Wild and Scenic Rivers Act in 1992 that added rivers and creeks in the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains to the National Wild and Scenic River System. These include the Cossatot, Little Missouri, and Mulberry Rivers and Big Piney, Hurricane, Lee, North Sylamore and Richland Creeks.
In the conservation of public lands, the OS organized the effort in 1975 to create the first two wilderness areas – the Upper Buffalo and Caney Creek – in the Ozark and Ouachita national forests. Later, it helped pass the Arkansas Wilderness Act of 1984 that led to more wilderness areas in the state.
Through hands-on work over the decades, OS members have also helped build and maintain trails along the Buffalo River, with plans to build more in the near future.
Such successes have not only preserved natural resources, but have also allowed them to be enjoyed by millions of outdoors enthusiasts from Arkansas and around the country.
The achievements also explain why Compton and a dozen other OS members over the years have been inducted into the Arkansas Outdoor Sportsmen’s Hall of Fame.
Recreation and Education
During its history, the OS’ emphasis on recreation and education has been a blessing for untold numbers of Arkansans of past and present generations who have accepted open invitations to join guided paddling and hiking jaunts to scenic locations.
The Fayetteville-based Highlands Chapter alone has led thousands of men, women and children on hundreds of free hikes throughout the Ozarks, which have also helped quadruple the chapter’s active membership. The chapter continues to lead weekly hikes from September to May of each year.
Through its Ozark Society Foundation, the organization has sponsored the publication of more than a dozen guidebooks focusing on the Buffalo River and the flora and fauna of state.
The comprehensive books include The Buffalo River Guidebook by Ken Smith, the guides to trees and wildflowers by Carl Hunter and Arkansas Butterflies by Lori Spencer, to name a few.
Between its recreational and educational outreach, the OS has created and informed thousands of new “friends” for the Arkansas outdoors and supporters to the cause of conserving the state’s natural resources.
New Directions
However, the 50th anniversary celebration at Tyler Bend won’t see the OS resting on the laurels of the past, but also focusing on the future with greater vigilance and activism.
Simply put, the OS aims to speak with a stronger voice, according to President Bob Cross of Fayetteville.
“It is my belief that in the future our problems will become more complex as population growth and development put more and more pressure on open spaces, water and forest resources,” Cross said.
Evidence of the organization’s stronger voice was heard six months ago when it filed a federal lawsuit alleging the National Forest Service and federal agencies responsible for managing gas drilling in Ozark National Forest had failed to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act.
The lawsuit indicated more study needed to be done on the impact of gas drilling on Wild and Scenic Rivers, wilderness areas, forest habitats and endangered species.
“The increase in natural gas drilling in the Ozark National Forest represents the greatest threat to Arkansas’ public lands since the Corps of Engineers attempted to dam the Buffalo River,” Cross said when the suit was filed.
Notably, the legal action came only after the OS had appealed directly to the National Forest Service for more study.
Stronger support for conservation in the future will also require growing a larger membership, which will be a primary goal of the OS going forward.
The model Cross has for the OS in the future is the Appalachian Mountain Club, the nation’s oldest conservation organization with over 100,000 members in northeastern states.
The AMC has achieved on a larger scale what the OS has done in Arkansas, with a major key to their membership growth and public support being an outdoors recreation program involved the operation of lodges and campgrounds and facilities for environmental education, Cross explained.
“I believe the Ozark Society must move in this direction by establishing a combination lodge, education and information center in the Buffalo region and having a continuing membership and fund drive,” Cross said.
A site on the Buffalo River is already looked at as the site for the OS’ physical footprint.
In other words, back where it all started.
For more information contact Carmen Quinn at (501) 993-1883, or ccquinn23@yahoo.com.
Find out about free shuttle service
The Mountain Xpress, a free shuttle bus that takes visitors through the downtown historic and arts district, Convention Center, Hot Springs Mountain and the Mountain Tower, will operate again this year.
The bus will run at 30-minute intervals between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from May 26 to September 3. They will pick up passengers at major downtown hotels and three designated park-and-ride areas.
The bus will run at 30-minute intervals between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from May 26 to September 3. They will pick up passengers at major downtown hotels and three designated park-and-ride areas.
“The Mountain Xpress is a scenic, fun and environmentally friendly way for visitors to shop, dine, sightsee and visit local attractions,” said Intracity Transit Resident Advisor Bob Reddish. “Leaving the car in one of the park-and-ride locations lets visitors enjoy the ride without the cost or inconvenience of parking and driving.” The City of Hot Springs and Visit Hot Springs have partnered to repeat the free service for the third year.
The buses are comfortable and air conditioned. Bike racks enable bikers to travel a portion of the route by bike, and the rest by bus.
The buses will travel up Hot Springs Mountain to the Mountain Tower and back through downtown Hot Springs, including historic Bathhouse Row, art galleries, antique and boutique shops, restaurants, attractions and more. The drivers will provide information about the areas through which the buses travel.
Visitors will be able to park their cars free and board the buses at the Hot Springs Convention Center parking lot, 134 Convention Boulevard; Transportation Plaza, 100 Broadway Terrace; and at the Exchange Street Parking Plaza on Central Avenue, where parking on the top two floors is free, and riders can board the bus at Central Avenue in front of the Plaza. In addition, there will be signs along Bathhouse Row and in the central business area where the buses will stop to pick up passengers. Hotels with pickup stops include the Austin Hotel & Convention Center, Embassy Suites Hot Springs, Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa, Park Hotel and Hot Springs Hotel.
For more information, call Hot Springs Intracity Transit, 321-2020.
The buses are comfortable and air conditioned. Bike racks enable bikers to travel a portion of the route by bike, and the rest by bus.
The buses will travel up Hot Springs Mountain to the Mountain Tower and back through downtown Hot Springs, including historic Bathhouse Row, art galleries, antique and boutique shops, restaurants, attractions and more. The drivers will provide information about the areas through which the buses travel.
Visitors will be able to park their cars free and board the buses at the Hot Springs Convention Center parking lot, 134 Convention Boulevard; Transportation Plaza, 100 Broadway Terrace; and at the Exchange Street Parking Plaza on Central Avenue, where parking on the top two floors is free, and riders can board the bus at Central Avenue in front of the Plaza. In addition, there will be signs along Bathhouse Row and in the central business area where the buses will stop to pick up passengers. Hotels with pickup stops include the Austin Hotel & Convention Center, Embassy Suites Hot Springs, Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa, Park Hotel and Hot Springs Hotel.
For more information, call Hot Springs Intracity Transit, 321-2020.
June 26 Saline County auction
The below properties will be offered for sale on June 26, at the Saline
County courthouse in Benton at 11 a.m. There is a one year right of redemption
on each sale. Subdivision plats are available on the POA website which is
www.hsvpoa.org then go to property owner services, and then subdivision maps. If
you have any questions regarding these, please contact Penny at 922-5555 or 922-5552. The minimum bid is by the POA for $500.
Lot/Block/Addition/Neighborhood / Address
011-07-153 Calahorra / 10 Calahorra Lane
Lot/Block/Addition/Neighborhood / Address
011-07-153 Calahorra / 10 Calahorra Lane
004-12-149 Raso / 31 Sobrar Way
013-02-115 Navas / 25 Priego Way
025-03-148 Siega / 18 Merced Way
013-04-148 Siega / 11 Viajero Drive / 2 Siego Lane
037-04-145 Pamplona / 31 Corago Circle
016-04-140 Gabriela / 16 Gabriela Way
015-07-140 Gabriela / 17 Jimenez Lane
018-11-137 Calderon / 28 Propio Way
016-14-137 Calderon / 31 Calderon Way
005-01-136 Alegria / 9 Bargus Way
004-08-135 Velazquez / 19 Salvador Lane
025-01-128 Priego / 107 Priego Way
027-09-123 Benevente / 56 Benevente Circle
009-13-123 Benevente / 39 Benevente Way
011-06-122 Curandero / 67 Extrano Circle
002-06-122 Curandero / 49 Curandero Way
012-07-153 Calahorra / 12 Calahorra Lane
012-04-156 Ponce De Leon / 24 Isabella Way
008-01-177 Barlovento / 29 Barlovento Way
028-03-178 La Viejo / 36 La Viejo Way
008-04-223 Saldana / 22 Jaguar Way
006-02-227 Oliete / 1 Ballobar Way
022-03-229 Sacedon / 51 Sacedon Way
002-08-251 Sergio / 4 Sergio Way
019-03-251 Sergio / 1 Sergio / 24 Sergio Drive
June 13 Garland County lot auction.
The below properties will be offered for sale on June 13 at the Garland
County courthouse in Hot Springs at 11 a.m. There is a one year right of
redemption on each sale. Subdivision plats are available on the POA website
which is www.hsvpoa.org then go to property owner services, and then subdivision
maps. If you have any questions regarding these, please contact Penny at 922-5555 or 922-5552.
The minimum bid is $500 bid by the Village POA.
Lot/Block/Addition/Neighborhood / Address
003-06-204 Fastota / 3 Bendito Place
028-04-006 Tarragona / 16 Ampolla Lane
The minimum bid is $500 bid by the Village POA.
Lot/Block/Addition/Neighborhood / Address
003-06-204 Fastota / 3 Bendito Place
028-04-006 Tarragona / 16 Ampolla Lane
004-05-204 Fastota / 16 Fastota Circle
003-04-204 Fastota / 9 Fastota Way
007-05-188 Rodrigo / 14 Turbion Lane
010-02-171 Nopal / 94 Mandarina Way / 2 Elote Place
007-06-170 Ceriza / 6 Ceriza Way
030-06-167 Peral / 74 Castano Drive
020-01-118 Santander / 3 Campo Way
024-06-096 Colgadura / 8 Vitrina Lane
015-03-096 Colgadura / 20 Colgadura Way
027-01-093 Zarcillo / 61 Cima Way
003-01-091 Estrella / 17 Estrella Way
014-08-083 Gibraltar / 32 Gibraltar Way / 1 Lomerio Circle
014-09-082 Jalisco / 31 Jalisco Way
004-04-069 Cantabrian / 5 Gibraltar Way
039-04-068 Canaria / 7 Tagus Lane
025-01-068 Canaria / 4 Mazarron Drive
003-02-064 Huesca / 49 Orense Way
015-01-063 Viscara / 12 Viscara Way
002-01-063 Viscara / 38 Viscara Way
009-01-061 Majorca / 62 Doblez Circle
016-03-058 Caceres / 65 Campo Way
009-01-055 Malaga / 12 Mano Way
018-05-050 Cabeza / 38 Cabeza Way
005-08-034 Guadalajara / 29 Pego Circle
015-05-020 Almeria / 9 Blanco Lane
014-01-020 Almeria / 44 Almeria Way
008-01-014 Zamora / 72 Zamora Way
003-01-013 Meseta / 5 Alicante Road
003-02-009 Soria / 157 Villena Drive
004-06-204 Fastota / 4 Bendito Place / 6 Fastota Circle
012-03-208 Tiempo / 22 Tiempo Lane
005-02-215 Pedrera / 16 Patrulla Lane
007-05-217 Casino / 18 Casino Lane
What's happening at the Animal Welfare League' Animal Shelter
Don't forget the AWL fundraiser on June 7 at Mountain Wine and Spirits on Highway 7. Five-percent of the sales will go to benefit Animal Welfare League programs. Don't forget to stock up on summertime libations on June 7 at Mountain Wine and Spirits.
POA administration building getting facelift
Effective Tuesday, May 29, the Village POA will
begin renovating the POA administration building. The building renovations
include painting, vinyl siding and construction of a new lobby waiting area.
During this time, visitors must enter the building through the west side of
the building, by the public works office.For more information, call 501-922-5510.
Memorial Day in Hot Springs Village
The Hot Springs Village Property Owners’ Association administration building
is closed today, Monday, May 28 for Memorial Day.
The POA will be using the holiday sanitation schedule for trash pick-up. Trash will be picked up the day after the normally scheduled time. For more information, see the holiday sanitation schedule at http://www.hsvpoa.org/holiday_sanitation_schedule.pdf. The recycle center is closed today.
Additionally, there will be no yard waste picked up on Friday, June 1. The next pick up date for yard waste will be June 8. For more information, contact the public works department at 501-922-5524.
The POA will be using the holiday sanitation schedule for trash pick-up. Trash will be picked up the day after the normally scheduled time. For more information, see the holiday sanitation schedule at http://www.hsvpoa.org/holiday_sanitation_schedule.pdf. The recycle center is closed today.
Additionally, there will be no yard waste picked up on Friday, June 1. The next pick up date for yard waste will be June 8. For more information, contact the public works department at 501-922-5524.
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