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Wednesday, October 31, 2012

ReStore moving in where Fred's used to be on Hwy. 7

Garland County
Habitat For Humanity
ReStore at HSV
 Ribbon Cutting
& Grand Opening

Thursday, November 1 at 9:00am

 
3825 Highway 7N | Hot Springs Village

POA general manager Scott Randall fired effective immediately


Scott R. Randall, General Manager of the Hot Springs Village Property Owners’ Association, was terminated under the terms of his Employment Agreement by a vote of the Board of Directors, effective immediately.

Board President, Jerry Kosoglow, stated, “Details of this termination, as with all personnel matters, will not be shared publicly.  Rest assured that Hot Springs Village is in a very strong financial position and anxious to continue its efforts to maintain amenities and services at the highest quality level in order to best serve our existing residents and property owners.” An executive recruiting firm will be retained by the Board to conduct a national search for a new general manager.  The Board expects this effort to take from four to six months.

Linda Mayhood, Assistant to the General Manager, will serve as Interim General Manager until a replacement is found.  Mayhood has worked for the POA for 34 years.  She has experience in all areas of the association, and with many special action committees.  The Board of Directors is confident she can effectively coordinate necessary day-to-day activities while working with the other Staff Directors in the interim. 

Early voting stats for Garland County


There are three early voting sites in Garland County. Below is a breakdown of dates, locations and number of votes cast.

October 22
  Elections Commission   1,449
  National Guard Armory   150
  HSV Visitors Center   455

October 23
  Elections Commission   1,461
  National Guard Armory   194
  HSV Visitors Center   480

October 24
  Elections Commission   1,433
  National Guard Armory   173
  HSV Visitors Center   450

October 25
  Elections Commission   1,131
  National Guard Armory   188
  HSV Visitors Center   468

October 26
  Elections Commission   1,404
  National Guard Armory   218
  HSV Visitors Center   492

October 27
  Elections Commission   342
  National Guard Armory   0
  HSV Visitors Center   0

October 29
  Elections Commission   1,200
  National Guard Armory   175
  HSV Visitors Center   458

October 30
  Elections Commission   1,176
  National Guard Armory   186
  HSV Visitors Center   353

October 31
  Elections Commission   1,121
  National Guard Armory   175
  HSV Visitors Center   332

November 1
  Elections Commission   1,184
  National Guard Armory   151
  HSV Visitors Center   299









Early voting stats for Saline County

Early voting turnouts for Saline County have been steady. There are three locations, Benton, Bryant and Summit Bank. Following is a breakdown of votes cast and locations.

October 22
  Benton   987
  Bryant   438
  Summit Bank   435

October 23
  Benton   1,000
  Bryant   548
  Summit Bank   453

October 24
  Benton   986
  Bryant   514
  Summit Bank   417

October 25
  Benton   984
  Bryant   574
  Summit Bank   297

October 26
  Benton   1,205
  Bryant   669
  Summit Bank   363

October 27
  Benton   428
  Bryant   422
  Summit Bank   93

October 29
  Benton   993
  Bryant   615
  Summit Bank   312

October 30
  Benton   980
  Bryant   549
  Summit Bank   259

October 31
  Benton   820
  Bryant   524
  Summit Bank   261

November 1
  Benton   941
  Bryant   664
  Summit Bank   221






Back to work

I've been away for a while, family visits and frantic worry over three of my four children and three of my seven grandchildren living in New York City area. Everyone is fine and I will get back on the stick today blogging like mad.

For those of you in the Hot Springs Village area, I am the guest speaker at the HSV Writers' Club on November 26. The group meets for readings, lunch and lecture at Home Plate around 11:15. The lecture is at 1. Hope to see you there.

Monday, October 22, 2012

Update on water main break


According to Village POA general manager Scott Randall the initial water main break at DeSoto Boulevard and Cortez Road on Friday, Oct. 19, caused two more water main breaks before the event was brought under control. Initially, a 16-inch main was closed for 18 hours while getting a temporary fix.

An additional break took place on Friday afternoon and another break on Saturday morning, Oct. 20. Randall said one of the breaks was caused by a contractor. Randall added 400,000 gallons of water were lost during the water main breaks over the weekend.

He emphasized no new restrictions are in place but all Villagers are asked to continue conserving water usage, especially outdoors, until further notice.

There was no contamination, so no boil order was put in place and there was no loss of service. A permanent fix requires ordering parts which may take two to four weeks before arrival and a permanent fix can be completed.

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Village water main break

I've been running back and forth between home and the radio station to put on the latest water main break information and I have totally ignored the blog. Here's the scoop. Yesterday there was a large water main break at the corner of DeSoto Boulevard and Cortez Road. While the POA public works department was working on the break, another break developed nearby.

This is the most recent missive from the POA: "Due to an earlier water main break and subsequent valve damage at DeSoto Blvd. and Cortez Rd., the Property Owners' Association advises residents from Cortez Rd. to Hwy 7 and north and south of DeSoto Blvd., to continue conserving water, especially outdoor use, until further notice."

Aging infrastructure is the probable cause of the break. Earlier this year there was a break in the same line. At least now we are not in an extreme drought. Although the POA is advising conservation, it has not called for a boil order. The water is still deemed safe.

The Coronado Fitness Center closed around 1 today and the plan is to open during regular hours tomorrow. If the breaks are not repaired, the Fitness Center may be closed for another day. Call first to see if it is open before heading out.

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Almost Elton John takes time to shine


Almost Elton John opened last night at Woodlands Auditorium in Hot Springs Village. Craig A. Meyer’s Elton John looked just right.

But, I’m not going to lie to you; the first half of last night’s show was a glitch-filled disaster. The new sound system drove a third of the audience away at intermission.

The drums were far too hot and it was all the audience could hear and consequently think about. The piano was drowned out. The back-up vocalist could be seen moving her mouth but never heard. The guitar and bass were seen but not heard and the synthesizer was barely there.

From the start, the audience was ready to participate by joining in with claps and having a good time but once the music revved up in the show opener, I’m a Bitch, the show immediately fell flat. The band segued into Philadelphia Freedom and it became apparent the drum riffs were the same and therefore every song in the first half sounded the same, all drums, nothing else.

During the intermission I talked with several patrons on the first row of the auditorium and they were having the time of their lives. They were not impacted by t he sound system and they were getting a great sound. They were able to hear Craig A. Meyer’s dead-on imitation of Elton John.

For the rest of the audience members remaining after intermission, they got the show they came to see. The drummer was behind his plastic shield, the levels on the rest of the band were adjusted and the audience relaxed and could finally appreciate Meyer’s over-the-top Elton John look and sound.

I was able to appreciate the glitter and pomp. I loved the pumps. By the time Meyer broke into the tune form The Lion King, Can’t You Feel the Love Tonight, the audience was thoroughly back in his pocket and on his side. If the second half of the show had been first, not a person would have left at intermission.

The Don’t Go Breaking My Heart with Meyer and back-up vocalist Kelly Fletcher was excellent. In the second half we got to hear Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds, Pinball Wizard, This is My Song, Saturday Night and the epic Crocodile Rock. The audience was on its feet and ready to dance.

When all the glitches were solved, the show was fun and entertaining for everyone, not just the die hard Elton John fans determined to tough it out.

Once Meyer left the stage it appeared there would not be an encore and some of the audience filed out of the auditorium. But, for those staying and clapping, there was a reward. Meyer came out for a dead-on rendition of Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me. What a night, for heartbreak to elation.

Craig A. Meyer’s Almost Elton John will be in the Village through Friday night. The show will be good from start to finish, high energy and balanced. The Rocket Band, Danny Howes on guitars, Michael Lamond on bass, Pat Strawser on synthesizer, Guy Strauss on drums and Kelly Fletcher on vocals will be appreciated. They are a talented group and very adeptly provide the compliment to Meyer’s outrageous Almost Elton John.

Following the Almost Elton John run will be Sandy Hackett’s Rat Pack Show, November 13 through 16. For more information on the Concerts’ Association’s schedule, go to www.HSVConcertsAssoc.org

Saturday, October 13, 2012

Mapping feature added to website

Commissioner of State Lands John Thurston is pleased to announce that his office has added mapping capabilities to their website to assist individuals interested in researching tax delinquent properties. The mapping is available through the office’s established partnership with DataScoutPro, LLC, an Arkansas based information technology company. 

To view the mapping, interested individuals should go to the website, www.cosl.org, and choose to view the current catalog or the negotiated sales list. Once on the negotiated sales page, individuals can choose the county and then click “Map This County” which brings up an overview map of the area, much like Google Earth, with pins marking the delinquent parcels available. The interactive map includes property boundary layers, zooming and panning capabilities as well as measuring tools. On the Catalog page, the “Map County” linked is listed at the end of the county auction information. This feature is in addition to the delinquent parcels’ property details, also available for the Negotiated Sales and Catalog entries, such as: owner, legal description, assessed value, property address and photos if applicable. “The parcel level mapping of our delinquent parcels is an exciting addition to our website, it will help the public research parcels and view boundary lines quickly and easily using mapping technology that is familiar to web users,” said Thurston.

Interested researchers may visit the Commissioner of State Lands website (www.cosl.org) to view this new mapping tool. There are tips for using the mapping feature listed on our website; for additional assistance please contact the Commissioner of State Lands office at 501-324-9422.

ASMSA free clases

ASMSA offers Science & Engineering Institute, Oct. 20

Free classes for 6th – 10th grade students

Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts is offering a morning of free classes that will include hands-on activities such as building and launching a rocket, studying chemical reactions and learning how cells use oxygen.

The Science and Engineering Institute will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Oct. 20 at the ASMSA campus in downtown Hot Springs. The classes are open to students enrolled in sixth – 10th grades and there is no charge to attend.

Students may choose two of the following classes to attend:

The Cu Cycle: Students will carry out a series of colorful chemical reactions. They will start with copper, form several copper salts and regenerate metallic copper. Each reaction is accompanied by visual changes so it is obvious to the students that something is happening. Students will learn about different types of chemical reactions and the conservation of mass.

To the Skies! Looking for a new use for your old 2-liter soda bottles? Reuse them and create a bottle rocket. In this activity students will explore Newton’s Laws of Motion, learn how rockets work and will build and launch their own rockets. Please bring a rinsed out 2-liter bottle.

Breathing Seeds: Cellular Respiration: Have you ever wondered if breathing is unique to animals? During this session participants will learn about how most cells (including those that make up plants) must have oxygen to convert chemicals with large amounts of energy into smaller, usable molecules. In addition to a quick review of the basics of cellular respiration, this session will include a laboratory that will compare the amount of oxygen used by germinating versus dry seeds.

Pre-registration is required. Students may register online at http://asmsa.me/octsei. The classes fill quickly and class placement will be determined on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Science & Engineering Institute is sponsored by a grant from the Ross Foundation. For more information, contact the ASMSA admissions department at admissions@asmsa.org or at 501-622-5116.

About ASMSA: The Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts is one of 15 public residential high schools in the country specializing in the education of academically gifted juniors and seniors. Located in historic downtown Hot Springs, the school is a campus of the University of Arkansas system. ASMSA also provides an award-winning K-12 distance education program that serves more than 5,000 students. The ASMSA Office of Distance Education offers real time, interactive video courses in virtually all disciplines to schools nationwide. For more information about Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts, visit www.asmsa.org or call 1-800-345-2767.

Faculty recital tomorrow


National Park Community College Music Program will present a Music Faculty/Student Recital on Sunday, October 14, 3 p.m., at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church as part of the Hot Springs Music Club’s October meeting.

Denise Edds, coordinator of the NPCC Music Program and the program chairman for the Hot Springs Music Club’s October meeting, stated that she wanted to highlight the great music instruction that is being delivered at National Park Community College each semester. The music instructors at NPCC are mostly adjuncts who have other full time positions in music throughout the area and they are not only excellent instructors, but accomplished performers as well. NPCC is so lucky to have musicians of this caliber to teach our students.

In the fall of 2010, NPCC started the Associate of Arts degree in the Music Field of Study and added several new classes to the curriculum including: Music Theory I-IV and Ear Training/ Sight Singing I-IV. Fundamentals of Music is also on the music track as the prerequisite to the other music classes in the sequence. Students working on the AA in the Music Field of study can also take class and/or private lessons in piano and voice and private lessons in flute, strings, guitar, brass, and saxophone. Music majors can choose to either sing in the NPCC Singers or play in the Hot Springs Community Band for lab credit. 

The upcoming recital will feature solos by music faculty Lynn Payette on the organ; Steve Suter on trombone; James Arthur Smith on violin; Denise Edds, soprano; Amanda Young, soprano; and Elsen Portugal on piano. Featured students are Rebecca Seewald, soprano; Taylor McClard, tenor; Shakedra Hammock, soprano; Zach Mercer, baritone; and Kristin Harmon, soprano.

This concert is free and open to the public. Members are encouraged to bring a guest with them to the concert that might be interested in enrolling in the AA in Music at NPCC. Scholarships are available to qualified students. For information contact:  Denise Edds, Coordinator, Music Program, National Park Community College.

Radar upgrade in Little Rock

U.S. Senator Mark Pryor recently announced that the National Weather Service forecast office in Little Rock now has an upgraded Doppler radar serving the region with new life-saving technology. The Dual-polarization, or “dual-pol” radar provides meteorologists with enhanced information about the atmosphere so that they can more accurately track, assess and warn the public of approaching high-impact weather. 

The upgrade to dual-pol technology is the most significant enhancement made to the nation’s NEXRAD radar network since Doppler radar was first installed in the early 1990s. The upgrade includes a hardware attachment which now sends and receives both horizontal and vertical pulses, and new software to process the information. The new radar will provide much more information about the size, shape, density, and intensity of the precipitation in the clouds.

“As Arkansans know all too well, severe weather can often be dangerous and damaging,” said Pryor. “In an event like the 2011 floods, forecasters will be able to provide better information about the amount of rain coming down and issue more accurate and timely warnings to the public.”

Another important benefit: dual-pol can also see small bits of debris kicked up by a tornado which gives forecasters the ability to confirm a tornado even in the dark. The new technology will also help detect hazards to aircraft, such as icing conditions and birds.

“Flooding has always been our most dangerous and costly weather hazard in the state,” said Renee Fair, meteorologist-in-charge of the Little Rock forecast office. “The information we gather from the new dual polarization radar will allow forecasters to issue more accurate and timely warnings of flooding and flash flooding across the state.”

The Little Rock forecast office serves more than 1.5 million people in 45 counties in Arkansas.

Businesses in the region will also benefit from the enhanced information dual-pol brings. People who work in the agriculture industry, utility companies, airlines, visitors to national parks, and others who rely on weather forecasts will have a clearer picture of current weather conditions and better information to protect their lives and livelihoods.

The nationwide upgrade to dual-pol is part of NOAA’s effort to build a Weather-Ready Nation. Dual-pol radars also could save the nation about $700 million annually by reducing weather-related damages. For more information, watch http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tX6LH_l3P3Y.

HDC public hearing notice


The Hot Springs Historic District Commission will hold a public hearing at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 18 in the Board Chambers of Hot Springs City Hall, 133 Convention Boulevard. This hearing is to consider the following certificate of appropriateness request.
 
  • Visitor’s Chapel A.M.E. Church, 317 Church Street - Request to perform a total re-roof on the church and the parsonage, and to replace gutters and down spouts on these structures.

Village blood drive October 23


Arkansas Blood Institute (ABI) encourages all healthy Hot Springs Village-area residents to donate blood from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday, October 23, at 150 Ponderosa Lane. This drive offers special hours due to the health fair.

Blood donors at the Hot Springs Village Coronado Center blood drive will receive a free T-shirt, health screenings and Donor Rewards points, redeemable for merchandise in ABI’s online store.

Arkansas Blood Institute exclusively provides every drop of blood needed by patients in 16 hospitals in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma, thanks to its volunteer donors. 

Any donor who wishes to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals - locally, Arkansas Children’s Hospital - can forgo the T-shirt.  In turn, Arkansas Blood Institute will make a monetary contribution of similar value to Arkansas Children’s Hospital.  It’s a chance to ‘doubly give’ to help those in our area hospitals, needing blood and local children battling critical health conditions.  Funds donated to the hospital will support pediatric medical research, community outreach and treatment initiatives.

One in three people will need blood in a lifetime,” said John Armitage, president and CEO of Arkansas Blood Institute.  “That is why it is important to donate every 56 days for patients in our local hospitals who need blood to survive.”

Anyone, 16 years or older*, can typically donate blood.  To find out more or make an appointment to donate, call 877-340-8777 or visit www.arkbi.org. 

*16 year olds must weigh at least 125 and provide signed parental permission, 17 year olds must weigh at least 125 pounds, 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds.  

Check out the historic Arlington Hotel in Hot Springs

By Zoie Clift, travel writer
Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

The Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa is one of the most striking landmarks of Hot Springs. The building’s Spanish-Colonial architecture and two domed towers are an eye-catching sight as one ventures down Central Avenue. Home to 478 rooms within an eleven story central portion and two seven story wings, the benchmark hotel is also the largest hotel in Arkansas.

As one of the first luxury hotels built in the area, the building is situated at the end of Bathhouse Row and surrounded by Hot Springs National Park. The Arlington has been a popular gathering spot throughout its 137 year history. Many famous guests and dignitaries from around the world have attended functions there. Currently, the hotel is set to serve as headquarters for the upcoming Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival (October 12-21), which begins this weekend.

General Manager Bob Martorana says what stands out about the hotel is its colorful history. Guests have included a range of famous names, from Presidents to actors, athletes, and gangsters. Theodore Roosevelt, Bill Clinton, Andrew Carnegie and Joe DiMaggio are among the hotel’s notable visitors.

“It is well-known that gangsters visited Hot Springs and even stayed at our hotel,” said Martorana. “A Hot Springs historian, Harry Reinert, tells of his uncle who worked as a clerk at the front desk of the hotel. He once stopped a guest that was about to enter the dining room and told him he could not enter without a tie. The guest begrudgingly went to his room to get one. The clerk later learned the guest was Al Capone! His uncle spent the rest of the evening looking over his shoulder.”

Over the years, the hotel has been witness to the city’s varied history. “Many people may not know that Hot Springs was used as spring training for the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs and Babe Ruth would stay here,” Martorana said. “Or that [during World War II] the Arlington and four other hotels were commandeered in 1944 by the US Army for use as a recreation and redistribution center until the end of 1946. The army took over the main dining room for a mess hall and the Fountain Room was used for the officers’ mess. The hotel Ballroom was converted into a movie theater.”

An unusual bit of trivia: the Arlington has been built three different times. One of the financiers behind the first venture (in 1875) was railroad mogul Samuel Fordyce, the namesake of both the Fordyce Bathhouse and the city of Fordyce. This hotel was actually located across the street from its current location—in what is now Arlington Park. It was torn down and rebuilt 18 years later. In 1923, a fire spread in the hotel and the building burned down. The hotel was built for the third time a year later, in the present location.

“I was surprised, and think others would be, to learn that after the second Arlington burned in 1923, it took only 11 months and three days to complete construction on the third much larger, and current hotel,” said Martorana. “This was surely quite a feat for that time.”

The ambiance of the 20s is present in the hotel today. The Crystal Ballroom, Venetian Room and lobby are date back to the original 1924 structure. Around from the main elevator you’ll find an original bath house elevator that is still manually operated.

The hotel has undergone various upgrades and renovations over the years. “It is very interesting to find surprises when renovations are done,” said Martorana. “Like the Italian tile floor found in the Fountain Room when carpet was pulled to be replaced, or the beautiful wooden rail on the winding staircase that was painted black at some point. The hotel has seen many décor styles and changes over the decades.”

So what is something that is often misunderstood about the Arlington? “That would have to be that the Arlington is haunted by ghosts,” said Martorana. “We are often asked this question by guests or ‘ghost hunters.’ But I can honestly say that to my knowledge, the Arlington is ghost-free. This is based on my personal experience and those of employees who have worked here for many years.”

According to Martorana, the Arlington has families who return generation after generation. “I meet guests who return year after year, some who first came to the hotel as children with their grandparents and are now bringing their children,” he said. ”Many say it is like home to them and they have wonderful memories of being here. I find this very rewarding and am pleased to be a part of a business with such a rich history in Hot Springs and Arkansas.”

The Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa is located at 239 Central Avenue. The hotel has a full spa service and the Thermal Water Spa, which offers guests a chance to bathe in hot spring water that is pumped directly into the hotel.

The hotel also has two restaurants, and the Lobby Bar of the hotel has been noted in Esquire Magazine’s list of the best bars in America. More details on the Arlington can be found at 501-623-7771 or at www.arlingtonhotel.com.

Airport art in Hot Springs
















The public is invited to an art exhibit opening reception from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 20 at Hot Springs Memorial Field, 525 Airport Road.  This month’s exhibit features Traditional Art Guild member Hildegard Honold. This show will be on display until November 13.

Honold, a native of Germany, immigrated to the United States in 1965 and soon thereafter became a citizen. After living in Chicago for 33 years, she moved to Hot Springs in 1998.
She discovered her love for painting in 2006. She works in pastels, oil and watercolor. Subjects include portraits, landscapes and various scenes from her extensive travels.

She has had her works exhibited at the Garland County Library, Hot Springs Municipal Airport, National Park Community College, Saline County Memorial Hospital, Malvern National Bank, the Fine Arts Center and the Mountain Valley Water Company. Honold has won several awards, and has her paintings and commissioned works in private collections.

The third Saturday of every month throughout the year, the airport will host a new art exhibit by a TAG member, beginning with an opening reception. For information on TAG membership, contact Traditional Art Guild President Joanne Kunath at 262-2953.

MPO meeting cancelled

The Hot Springs Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (HSA-MPO) Policy Board meeting scheduled for Thursday, October 18, has been cancelled.  The next scheduled meeting is November 29.  For more information contact MPO Study Director Dianne Morrison, 321-4804.

Hot Springs road closures


The intersection of Barrett and Clara Street will be closed to through traffic from Monday, October 15 until Friday, October 19 for manhole construction.


West St. Louis Street, from Summer to Hood Street will be closed to through traffic all day, Monday, October 15 for gas line construction. 
The intersection of Clark Street and Alpine Street will be closed on Monday, October 15 for street repair due to water service installation.

Magnolia Street, from Cove Street to Holly, and the intersection of Magnolia and Holly Street will be closed to through traffic Monday, October 15 until Friday, October 19 for gas line construction.
 
The left lane of Wood Street between Pearl and Granite Street will be closed to through traffic all day on Monday, October 15 for manhole replacement construction.
 
One lane at the intersection of Terry Street and Seneca will be closed to through traffic along with Seneca to Hansford Street all day on Monday, October 15 for manhole construction.
 
The intersection of David and Boaz Street and David Street from Boaz to Cones Road will be closed to through traffic on Monday, October 15 for gas line construction.

Signs will be posted, and motorists are advised to use caution when traveling near the project area.

October is national adopt a shelter dog month
























Macey is a mature loving Spitz mix that has not had a good life. Macey needs to be the only dog in an adult home. Macey qualifies for the AWL Beatrice Fund. Call the AWL for more information at 915-9337.


Junior is a one year old neutered male. Junior is a tri-color Beagle. Junior likes other dogs and children. Junior loves to be outdoors and active. A Beagle lovers dream dog.



Cavell Wind Trio at Garvan Woodland Gardens


Cavell Wind Trio Concert October 18


Anthony Chapel - 6:30 p.m.
$10 advance purchase & $15 at the door.
$5 student tickets are available.
Call 623-4763 to reserve yours today


The organizers of the Hot Springs Music Festival bring the Cavell Trio Wind ensemble to Anthony Chapel for an early evening concert of innovative wind music. All three performers (Shelly Meggison, oboe, Osiris J. Molina, clarinet, Jenny Mann, bassoon) are part of the University of Alabama wind faculty. They are active as performers, teachers, and chamber music coaches, and their individual commitment to education and outreach is evidenced in their myriad collective activities – performing, coaching, outreach performances, festival appearances, international travel, and commissioning.

The ensemble takes it name from Mount Edith Cavell, which is located in the Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada. Set in the Athabasca River and Astoria River valleys, Mouth Edith Cavell is known particularly for the Angel Glacier, which hangs over a cliff on its north face.

The Cavell Trio has performed at distinguished international conferences including the 2007 International Experiencing Villa-Lobos Conference, the 2011 and 2012 International Double Reed Society Conferences and the 2012 International Clarinet Festival and continues to keep an active schedule with performances across the nation.  The trio released their debut recording, The Art of Collective Invention, on the Blue Griffin label in April of 2012. This celebrated recording presents familiar and obscure works by Villa-Lobos, Hétu, Feld, Françaix, Szalowski and Ibert. It is available on iTunes, Amazon.com and bluegriffinrecords.com.

Program
  • Jacques Ibert (1890-1962) - Cinq Pièces en Trio pour Hautbois, Clarinette et Basson
  • Witold Lutoslawski (1913-1994) – Trio na obój, klarnet i fagot
  • James Chaudoir (b. 1946) – Sept Vignettes for oboe, clarinet and bassoon
  • Erwin Schulhoff (1894-1942) – Divertissement

Monday, October 8, 2012

Whittington Valley Neighborhood Association meeting tonight

"Arkansas FIOA Compliance Statement For The Whittington Valley Neighborhood Association's Upcoming Meeting of October 8."

On Monday, October 8th, 2012, starting at 6:30 pm, the Whittington Valley Neighborhood Association (WVNA) will host a "Political Forum" for candidates seeking local elective offices. The meeting will be held in the Community Room of the First Presbyterian Church, 213 Whittington Avenue, Hot Springs, Arkansas.

As of the time of this press release, candidates for the following offices have confirmed that they will attend: Hot Springs City Director District One; Garland County Justice of the Peace District One; Arkansas House Representative District 25; Garland County Sherriff; and Garland County Assessor. The Forum is tended to give candidates in competitive local races an opportunity to talk with residents of the Whittington Valley and the Park Avenue Area.

This meeting is open to the public.

It is possible one or more local elected officials, city officials, county officials or other government officials (as defined under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act) may attend. So as to avoid any possible claims of failing to comply with provisions of the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act, we are providing this notice to all local media outlets. Members of the media are welcome to attend and report on events for their respective organizations.

Arkansas fall foliage updates now available

Kerry Kraus, travel writer
Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

Autumn is officially here which means the red, gold, bronze, orange and burgundy of fall foliage isn’t too far away. One of the most eagerly-awaited travel times in The Natural State, this glorious season offers loads of special activities and gorgeous views statewide.

As is tradition, the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism is providing fall color updates to assist visitors in planning their trips. A team of spotters in various locations from one corner to the other supplies weekly reports on the progress of the color change.

These updates are posted by 5 p.m. every Thursday afternoon during the season on www.Arkansas.com. Just select the colorful fall leaves icon. They are also available by calling 1-800-NATURAL, which is answered live 24 hours a day, or 501-682-7777 during regular business hours.

In addition to tracking the colors, you’ll find suggested scenic highways and an estimation of when each region of the state will be at its peak. Also on www.Arkansas.com/fall are festivals and seasonal vacation deals and coupons.

Sign up now to participate in the 17th Annual Trail of Holiday Lights


The holidays bring cheer and good will to all. They also bring visitors out to see bright lights and spectacular displays celebrating the season.

Now is the time to join in the 17th annual Trail of Holiday Lights. We’re inviting all Arkansas communities that host holiday displays and events to participate in the 2012 Trail of Holiday Lights. This program is designed to increase travel and tax revenues during late November and December – and that benefits your community.

This year we’ve updated the program with an interactive upgrade to our Trail of Holiday Lights microsite. Now visitors searching for events can find them all at one stop – along with stories about the holidays and special events from our staff of travel writers; a full calendar of related events; photos from around the state and special deals and coupons for the holiday season.

Please review the eligibility guidelines below to determine if your community meets the criteria for the Trail of Holiday Lights. If you know of other towns or organizations that would like to participate, please pass this message along.

If you meet those requirements and want to participate, log on to http://www.arkansas.com/places-to-go/trail-of-lights/submit.aspx and complete the online form. Be sure to enter your event early; many of those who seek out holiday light displays, parades and fun events begin their planning early. While there is no set deadline, it is up to your community to make sure your information is available. The new site goes live October 24, and advertising for this program will direct guests to check it out. Make sure your information is up to date and ready to go.

The new Trail of Holiday Lights microsite also allows your community to make any changes or updates whenever they happen – so if it rains on your parade or the lights go out instead of on, you can reschedule immediately for another date! Have a change in venue? A special guest who’s suddenly decided to join in the fun at your celebration? You can add that, too!

Check out these standards, and if you qualify, put your listing in and get ready to celebrate the season with the Trail of Holiday Lights!

The Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism’s Trail of Holiday Lights Program
Eligibility Guidelines for Participation

1. Your lighting program should have the support of the local chamber of commerce.

2. Shops and restaurants located near the lighting display should agree to extend hours to take advantage of the increased traffic.

3. Lights should be on 5-11 p.m. daily from the Monday before Thanksgiving through Sunday, December 25, unless otherwise noted in your listing.

4. The community should provide the name and phone number of a contact person to be available 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. every weekday from the Monday before Thanksgiving through December 25. This name and number will be listed on the website.

5. The above-mentioned contact number should be answered by a recorded message when no one is available to answer the phone personally.

Students see history this Thursday


Mosaic Templars Cultural Center (MTCC) will hold its 4th annual Heritage and History Day on Thursday, Oct. 11, hosting more than 200 students from Little Rock-area middle schools for a day-long educational program designed to teach students various components of Arkansas history.

The day’s activities will include special interactive presentations and lessons from Historic Arkansas Museum (“Arkansas Pioneer Music”), the Delta Cultural Center in Helena, Ark., (“Cotton: The Fiber that Holds the South Together”) and spoken word artist Amoja Sumler, among others. 

“Heritage and History Day creates an environment conducive for middle school students to learn about aspects of our state’s history,” said MTCC Education Director Elvon Reed. “We collaborate with area museums to expose students and educators to experiential learning in a museum setting.”

Heritage and History Day is sponsored in part by the Arkansas Arts Council and the Arkansas Humanities Council. Pre-registration was required.

Mosaic Templars Cultural Center is located at 501 West Ninth Street in downtown Little Rock. The museum is open to the public Tuesday—Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  There is no admission fee.

About Mosaic Templars Cultural Center
Since 2008, the mission of the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, a museum of the Department of Arkansas Heritage, has been to tell the history of African Americans in Arkansas from 1870 to the present, especially in the areas of politics, business and the arts. Other agencies of the Department of Arkansas Heritage include Arkansas Arts Council, Arkansas Historic Preservation, Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, Delta Cultural Center, Historic Arkansas Museum and Old State House Museum.

Hot Springs board work sessions


The Hot Springs Board of Directors will hold work sessions immediately following the next two agenda meetings during October in the Board Chambers at City Hall, 133 Convention Boulevard, according to the following schedule:

Tuesday, October 9          Quasi-Judicial Issues; Water Extension Policy

Tuesday, October 30       County/City Planning (in conjunction with Planning Commission and County-City Planning Area Study Group)

This is National Fire Prevention Week


The Hot Springs Fire Department offers the following public safety message in observance of National Fire Prevention Week.

The Hot Springs Fire Department is promoting the theme, “Have Two Ways Out!” in observance of National Fire Prevention Week (October 7 – 13). It is very important for families to develop a fire escape plan that includes two ways to exit from each room and two ways out of the home.  Two ways out allows you to use a different means of escape if the primary way is blocked by smoke or flames.

Fire escape planning, while simple to accomplish, is among the most important things that a family can do to ensure the safety of its members.  Locate the doors and windows in any given room, manipulate the hardware (door knobs, locks, window latches) to insure that it is operable, lift the windows and open the doors to ensure that the exits aren’t obstructed. Pick the fastest and easiest routes to leave the building from each room of the structure. Show your family members the “Two Ways Out” of each room and the structure. Have each member of your family demonstrate the ability to open the hardware on doors and windows.  This will ensure that everyone in the household can actually open the home’s windows and doors.

Once outside of the house, it is important to have pre-established meeting place. This meeting place can be any fixed immovable object or location, a tree in the front yard, a neighbor’s porch or a mail box. It is important that everyone in the family know where the meeting place is located, and that everyone stays at the meeting place until help arrives. Once outside, no one should re-enter a burning structure for any reason. Every year people die because they decide impulsively to re-enter a burning building in an attempt to retrieve some personal item or a pet. Please remember that your chances of surviving a re-entry into a burning structure are very small. Get outside and stay outside!

Avoid downtown this Friday

The inside lanes of Central Avenue in Hot Springs, from the 100 block to the 300 block, will be temporarily closed from 3 a.m. until 6:30 a.m. on Friday, October 12 in order for Parks & Recreation personnel to remove the hanging flower baskets from the historic lampposts throughout downtown.  Traffic cones and safety lighting will be used.  Motorists are advised to use extreme caution when traveling through the project area.  

Crew to repair paving on DeSoto Tuesday, Oct. 16


Plans are underway to repair portions of DeSoto Boulevard between Calella Rd. and the West Gate and between Calella Rd. and Los Lagos Way Tuesday, Oct. 16. Please be aware these repairs could cause travel delays.

Weather and contractor availability determine the paving schedule. All streets and dates are subject to change.

Fall concert at ASU

The Arkansas State University Concert Choir and Chamber Singers will present a Fall Concert, Tuesday, Oct. 16, at 7:30 p.m. in Riceland Hall of Fowler Center, 201 Olympic Dr. Dr. Dale Miller, director of choral activities, will conduct both groups.

Dr. Miller and the ASU choirs will be joined by the Arkansas Northeastern College Concert Singers, with Dr. Keith Hearnsberger, conductor.

Brian Henkelmann is the rehearsal pianist for the ASU groups; collaborative pianists for the concert are Dennis Hay of the ANC music faculty, Sean Pollock, director of music and worship at First United Methodist Church, and Trevor Robinson, senior music education major from Sikeston, Mo. Admission to the concert is free.

A native of Southeast Arkansas, Keith Hearnsberger comes to ANC after completing his music and educational studies in central Arkansas. He has degrees in applied vocal music, music history and literature, as well as graduate degrees in secondary education and educational leadership. His area of research for his doctorate included an examination of the impact of choral music involvement by public high school students upon literacy achievement. As director of choral activities at ANC, he conducts the ANC Concert Singers, Women’s Choir, Chamber Singers, and the ANC Community Choir. In addition to his conducting activities, he teaches music appreciation, aural theory, class voice, introduction to the history of Western art music, applied voice and advanced applied voice.

For more than 20 years, Dennis Hay has served on the faculty at Arkansas Northeastern College as instructor in music specializing in piano pedagogy. He currently teaches a wide variety of courses including music appreciation, fundamentals of music, applied piano, and class piano in addition to his role as accompanist for all three choirs.

He performs frequently throughout the Mid-South as both a solo and collaborative artist, and he has served as organist at First Baptist Church in Blytheville for more than 30 years. Hay holds degrees from Arkansas State University and the University of North Texas and has done additional post-graduate work at the University of Memphis. His piano teachers include Myron Myers, Dorothy Sahlmann, Stefan Bardas, J.D. Kelly, and Sam Viviano. He also studied accompanying with Harold Heiberg while at the University of North Texas. Mr. Hay was honored to be selected Distinguished Instructor of 2007 at Arkansas Northeastern College.

Sean Pollock coordinates a large and diverse music program at First United Methodist Church. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Memphis and a master’s in choral conducting from Arkansas State University where he studied with Dr. Miller. As an accomplished collaborative pianist, he has worked with world-class singers including Stuart Neill, Sandra Lopez, Cheri Rose Katz, Viola Dacus, and Horace English as well as accompanied All-State and Region choruses in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas. Sean is pursuing a doctoral degree in collaborative piano at the University of Memphis with Dr. Victor Asuncion.

Program

The ASU Concert Choir will begin the program with their traditional “in the round” performance of the Lloyd Pfautsch arrangement of the “Star-Spangled Banner,” followed by the ASU Chamber Singers. The chamber group will sing a contemporary madrigal by Donald Moore, and several pieces from the 16th century including Italian madrigals by Orlando di Lasso and Carlo Gesualdo, English madrigals by Orlando Gibbons, Thomas Morley and Thomas Weelkes, and a French chanson by Jacques Costeley.

The program continues with a couple of selections from the 18th and 20th centuries presented by the ANC Singers. Hearnsberger, in his second year at ANC, will conduct Mozart’s “Gloria in Excelsis” from “Missa Solemnis,” K. 139, and “Zion’s Walls” by 20th century American composer Aaron Copland. Dennis Hay will provide the piano accompaniment for the group.

ASU’s Concert Choir will present a variety of choral selections from several 20th and 21st century American composers and Norwegian composer Knut Nystedt. Selections include Nystedt’s “I Will Greatly Rejoice”; “Requiem Motet” by Daniel Moe, which will be conducted by Shannon O’Connor, graduate choral conducting assistant from Potomac, Md.; “Sleep, My Child” by Eric Whitacre, with soloists Emily Garren, a junior vocal music education major of Minneapolis, Minn., and Hannah McQuay, senior vocal music education major of Jonesboro; Z. Randall Stroope’s “Lamentations of Jeremiah,” assisted by Mr. Pollock as pianist; “Ride the Chariot,” a spiritual by Moses Hogan; and Rosephanye Powell’s gospel arrangement of “He Is Marvelous,” assisted by Robinson.

The concert will conclude with two selections by the combined choirs. Hearnsberger will conduct “Festival Jubilate” by David Giardiniere, and Miller will direct the Richard Waters’ setting of the choral benediction “God Be in my Head.”

Personnel, ANC

Personnel for the ANC Concert Singers are: Sopranos- Crystal Banks of Armorel, Aleshia Cody of Osceola, and Kalesha Johnson and Laquila Wright, both of Blytheville. Altos- Janell Boyd of Caruthersville, MO, Taylor Keene and Tiffany Key, both of Gosnell, Loren Kinkead of Armorel, Kristine Rankin of Richardson, Texas, and Amy Jo Wells of Wilson. Tenors- Zackory Chipman of Jonesboro, Jacob Elliott of Blytheville, Chris Hickingbottom and Bryan Roberts of Keiser, and Tanner Smith of Manila. Basses- Michael Askue and Josh Wilson of Gosnell, Chris Adams of Leachville, and J. Reid Lee of Armorel.

Personnel, ASU

Personnel for the ASU Chamber Singers are: Sopranos-Jessica Baldwin of Paragould, Kate Smith of Wynne, Hannah McQuay of Jonesboro, and Ginah Smith of White Hall. Altos-Cori Beasley of Gilmer, Texas, Morgan Langley of White Hall, and Shannon O’Connor of Potomac, Md. Tenors-Jacob Bushong of Paragould, Christopher Orr of Jonesboro, and Alex Swenson of Poplar Bluff, Mo. Baritones-Jacob Kelley of Jonesboro, John Phillians of Wynne, Gregory Self of Williford, and Craig Young of Cassopolis, Mich.

ASU Concert Choir members are: Soprano I- Jessica Baldwin of Paragould, Sarah Burnett of Jonesboro, Emily Garren of Minneapolis, Minn., Mallory Gipson of Jonesboro, Jenni Hannah of Jonesboro, Jesse Holder of Advance, Mo., Lizzie Kalkbrenner of White Hall, Erin Reagan of Munford, Tenn., Ginah Smith of White Hall, and Inez Whitt of Pine Bluff. Soprano II- Dennese Adkins of Cabot, Victoria Childress of Little Rock, Suemone Christian of Bryant, Nichole Dennis of Springfield, Mo., KayLa Edwards of White Hall, Cathy Hammack of Bradley, Hannah McQuay of Jonesboro, Alyssa Smith of Newport, Kate Smith of Wynne, and Kasey Welsh of Jonesboro.

Alto I- Cori Beasley of Gilmer, Texas, Michelle Byrd of Pine Bluff, Harmony Cagle of Rector, Megan Carter of Gosnell, Elizabeth Dryer of Jonesboro, Meagan Hamilton of Wynne, Sarah Hamilton of Paragould, Sara Ray of Paragould, Mercedes Webb of Dexter, Mo., and Sarah Woodson of Harrisburg. Alto II- Victoria Dryer of Jonesboro, Morgan Langley of White Hall, Kaleena Mann of Hot Springs, Maegan McDaniel of Manila, Shannon O’Connor of Potomac, Md., Janette Robinson of Jonesboro, Mary Rougeau of Jonesboro, Sloane Simmons of Jonesboro, Kyle Smith of Forrest City, and Loren Snook of Bradford.

Tenor I- Jake Bushong of Paragould, Adonias Finch of Dyer, Tenn., Courtney Hostler of Pine Bluff, Chris Orr of Jonesboro, Oscar Quiroz of Brookland, Louis Aaron Simpson IV of Memphis, Tenn., Craig Young of Cassopolis, Minn. Tenor II- Chris Dyson of Harker Heights, Texas, Matt Fischer of Jacksonville, George Gatewood III of Pine Bluff, Nathan Hanselman of Hot Springs, Ben McClelland of Corning, Trevor Robinson of Sikeston, Mo., and Alex Swenson of Poplar Bluff, Mo.

Baritone- Matt Crociata of Jonesboro, Jordan Griffin of Sherwood, Jacob Kelley of Jonesboro, Kihwan Kim of South Korea, Kale McDaniel of Jonesboro, Gregory Self of Williford, Matthew Stewart of White Hall, Bill Weaver of Cabot. Bass- Nathan Anderson of Sherwood, Jordin Crow of Hope, Nick Davis of Lake City, Aaron Fisher of Memphis, Tenn., Immanuel Morris of Pine Bluff, John Phillians of Wynne, Matt Smith of Gosnell.

For more information about this free concert, call the ASU Choir office at (870) 972-3841.

Gas line construction closes Hot Springs' street


Plain Street from North Patterson to Centerview Street in Hot Springs will be closed to through traffic all day on Tuesday, October 9 for gas line construction.  
 
First Street from West St. Louis to Garens Street will be closed to through traffic all day on Tuesday, October 9 for manhole replacement construction.
 
Signs will be posted, and motorists will need to seek alternate route during closures.

Home Plate Octoberfest on Tuesday nights


Home Plate's Tuesday evening Octoberfest offers German Beers and German Riesling wine to get you in the mood for great German Specialties.

Home Plate has added some new German Sides like Sheboygan Baked Beans and Potato Pancakes to our already wonderful German Sides from last years menu.

Bratwurst & Knockwurst Platters now come with two sausages, 2 sides and buttered rye bread. Just $9.99

The Octoberfest Platter includes a Bratwurst, a Knockwurst and a Country Rib with Sauerkraut, a side and buttered rye bread. Just $10.99

The Wiener Schnitzel Platter comes with your choice of 2 sides and buttered rye bread.  $9.99

The Sauerbraten Platter is a generous portion with your choice of 2 sides and the buttered rye bread.  $10.99

What ever you do don't miss the warm Apple Strudel with Vanilla Ice  Cream for dessert!

Come join the fun as Home Plate brings you a little taste of Germany every Tuesday Night in October beginning October 2nd.

The regular menu is also available.

Street closing in Hot Springs


Hickory Street, from Ouachita Avenue to Quapaw Avenue in Hot Springs will be closed to through traffic from Tuesday, October 9 until Thursday, October 11 for gas line construction.

Signs will be posted, and motorists will need to seek an alternate route during closure.

Elisso Bolkvadze to perform with ASO


The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra will perform with fiery Georgian pianist Elisso Bolkvadze on Saturday, October 20 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, October 21 at 3 p.m. at the Robinson Center Music Hall. This is the second concert of the Stella Boyle Smith Masterworks Series and is sponsored in part by University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

The concert opens with To the Point by Jennifer Higdon, ASO Composer of the Year. Then Bolkvadze continues the program with Saint-Saëns much-loved 2nd concerto. ASO Music Director Philip Mann describes the work as, “full of captivating dance rhythms, grand flourishes, and melodies that stick with you.” The ASO then takes center stage again for the remainder of the program with Sibelius’s marvelous and influential 5th Symphony.

Concert-goers can learn more about the program before the concert at the American Airlines Concert Conversation. These informances are free and are located in Robinson Room 102 one hour prior to each Masterworks concert.

Tickets range from $14-$52 and can be purchased online at www.ArkansasSymphony.org or over the phone at (501) 666-1761. Thanks to the Entergy Kids Ticket, all kids through 12th grade are free on Sundays with the purchase of an adult ticket. For more information, visit www.ArkansasSymphony.org.

Program Details

VIBRANT VIRTUOSITY
Saturday, October 20 at 8 p.m.
Sunday, October 21 at 3 p.m.
Robinson Center Music Hall

Featuring
Elisso Bolkvadze, piano
Philip Mann, Music Director
Arkansas Symphony Orchestra

Program:
Jennifer Higdon                                To the Point
Saint-Saëns                        Concerto for Piano No. 2 in G Minor, Op. 22
Intermission
Sibelius                                 Symphony No. 5 in E-flat Major, Op. 82

Elisso Bolkvadze, piano

Elisso Bolkvadze won numerous international piano competitions, such as Van Cliburn (USA), Vianna da Motta (Lisbon, Portugal), Axa International Piano Competition (Dublin, Ireland), Marguerite Long (Paris, France).

A superstar in her country of birth in Georgia, Elisso has been awarded by Georgian Government “The award of Georgian Government” and “Cultural Merit.” After she enjoyed great success at Van Cliburn International Contest, she plays many concerts in top auditorium through the world, like Kennedy Centre (Washington), Pasadena Auditorium (Los Angeles), Santa Fe Festival, Miami Arts In Florida, Orange County Center, Salle Pleyel, Salle Gaveau (Paris) Gewandhaus Orchestra (Leipzig) Radio France Orchestra, St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra (Russia), Herkulessaal (Munich) Alte Oper (Frankfurt), National Philharmonic of Ukraine, Georgian National Orchestra, Prague Symphony Orchestra, and Theatre de Champs Elysees (Paris).

Elisso Bolkvadze collaborated with famous conductors, such as Peter Altrichter, Saulius Sondeckis, Djanzug Khakidze, Michel Tabachnik, Stanislaw Skrowaczewski, Laurent Petitgirard, Mihkel Kutson, Mykola Diadiura and many others. French national TV - LCI realized a full documentary film about Elisso in Georgia and in Paris. She also regularly appears on Mezzo.

Recent highlights of 2010-11 include numerous festivals, such as Ljubljana Festival, Ravello Festival (Italy), Sofia International Festival, concerts with Orchestra Colonne at Salle Pleyel and Salle Gaveau (Paris, France), Vilnius Philharmonic Orchestra (Lithuania), Cyprus Symphony Orchestra, and season opening with Tiroler Symphony orchestra Innsbruck (Austria). For 2011 and 2012 the pianist is scheduled to perform Mozart's Concert No. 21, Rachmaninov No. 2, Haydn, Prokofiev and Saint-Saëns No. 2, as well as season opening with Ukrainian National Orchestra, Kammerorchester Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach in Berlin, Karol Szymanowski Philharmonic in Cracow, St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra, Geneva, Athens and open air concert in Tsinandali, Georgia. Elisso Bolkvadze's last CD “Saint-Saëns Concert No.2,” released by Cascavelle label, has met great critical acclaim in the international media.

Born in Tbilisi, Georgia, in the family of literary, Elisso Bolkvadze began to play piano in very early age. She performed her first concert with orchestra at the age of seven. She studied at Tbilisi Conservatory with Professor T. Amiredjibi. Elisso Bolkvadze attended master classes with Tatiana Nikolaeva in Moscow. She later continued her studies with a Professor and Composer Michel Sogny in France and in Austria, who became an important influence on her playing. Elisso enjoys very much to help young Georgian pianists through the “Foundation SOS Talents – Michel Sogny,” and contributes to their first steps in future career.

Philip Mann, Music Director

Hailed by the BBC as a “talent to watch out for, who conveys a mature command of his forces,” American conductor Philip Mann is quickly gaining a worldwide reputation as an “expressively graceful yet passionate” artist with a range spanning opera, symphonic repertoire, new music, and experimental collaborations.  Philip is in his third season as Music Director of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, which has seen audience and artistic growth, new energy, and financial health under his tenure.  Formerly as the San Diego Symphony’s Associate Conductor, he conducted hundreds of performances of Jacobs Subscription Masterworks, Symphony Exposed, family, young people’s concerts, Kinder Konzert, pops, and other special programs and projects.  As an American Conducting Fellow, the San Diego Union Tribune raved, “Mann was masterful… a skilled musical architect, designing and executing a beautifully paced interpretation, which seemed to spring from somewhere deep within the music rather than superimposed upon it.”

As winner of the Vienna Philharmonic’s Karajan Fellowship at the Salzburg Festival, Mann has relationships with orchestras and operas worldwide: including the Cleveland Orchestra, l’Orchestre symphonique de Québec, Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Georgian State Opera, and the National Symphony of Cyprus. His recent Beethoven 9 was described as “Titanic” and his Canadian debut with the OSQ was dubbed by Le Soleil as a “Tour de Force” and led to an immediate reengagement in 2013.  Other upcoming engagements include the Grand Rapids Symphony, New Mexico Philharmonic, Little Orchestra Society of NY, and the Georgian State Opera. Previously, the music director of the Oxford City Opera and Oxford Pro Musica Chamber Orchestra, he has also held conducting positions with the Music in the Mountains Festival and Indianapolis Symphony. Mann has worked with leading artists such as Joshua Bell, Sharon Isbin, Dmitri Alexeev, Midori,  and Marvin Hamlisch and has given premiers of major composers including John Corigliano, Jennifer Higdon, Michael Torke, Lucas Richman, and many others.   He maintains a lively schedule as a guest conductor having conducted at New York’s Avery Fischer Hall and London’s Barbican Center.

Elected a Rhodes Scholar, Mann studied and taught at Oxford, and has served as assistant conductor to Franz Welser-Möst, Simon Rattle, Leonard Slatkin, Jaime Laredo, Mario Venzago, Bramwell Tovey, Pinchas Zukerman, and many others. At Oxford, he won the annual competition to become principal conductor of the Oxford University Philharmonia. Under his leadership, the Philharmonia’s performances and tours received international press and acclaim. Mann studied with Alan Hazeldine of London’s Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Colin Metters at the Royal Academy of Music, and Marios Papadopolous of the Oxford Philomusica. He worked with Leonard Slatkin and the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center’s National Conducting Institute and Michael Tilson Thomas at the New World Symphony. Mentorship with Esa-Pekka Salonen and Jorma Panula followed at the Los Angeles Philharmonic’s Conducting Masterclasses, and Robert Spano with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s international Mozart Requiem masterclass for the League of American Orchestras annual conference. He has also worked under Imre Pallo, David Effron, John Poole, and Thomas Baldner at Indiana University, where he was appointed visiting lecturer in orchestral conducting, and worked as assistant conductor at the IU Opera Theater. Additional studies came under the Bolshoi Theater’s music director, Alexander Vedernikov at the Moscow State Conservatory, Gustav Meir, Kenneth Keisler, and with Pulitzer Prize winning composer Robert Ward. He is the recipient of numerous awards including commendations from several cities, and the state of California.

Arkansas Symphony Orchestra

The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 47th season in 2012-2013 under the leadership of Music Director Philip Mann. ASO is the resident orchestra of Robinson Center Music Hall, and performs more than thirty concerts each year for more than 42,000 people through its Stella Boyle Smith Masterworks Series, ACXIOM Pops LIVE! Series and River Rhapsodies Chamber Series, in addition to serving central Arkansas through numerous community outreach programs and bringing live symphonic music education to over 24,000 school children and over 200 schools.

Saline County Village lot auction

The below properties will be offered for sale at auction on October 30, at the Saline County courthouse in Benton at 11 a.m. There is a one year right of redemption on each sale. The beginning bid will be made by the Hot Springs Village POA at $500. Subdivision plats are available on the POA website, www.hsvpoa.org , go to property owner services and subdivision maps. If you have any questions regarding these, please contact Penny at 922-5555 or 922-5552.

Lot/Block/Addition/Subdivision / Address

002-05-102 Reata / 7 Reata Way

001-08-190 Dedelera / 10 Gandesa Way / 1 Gandesa Circle

006-03-192 Fletante / 3 Fetante Way

019-03-192 Fletante / 7 Oxiacanta Lane

025-02-192 Fletante / 50 Fletante Way

005-02-200 Ciclamor / 35 Ciclamor Way

007-05-222 Cifuentes / 78 Cifuentes Way

001-07-225 Vimioso / 128 Cifuentes Way / 1 Vimioso Way

009-04-225 Vimioso / 9 Estepa Way

011-09-225 Vimioso / 6 Archidona Circle

032-06-225 Vimioso / 3 Vimioso Way

001-01-226 Andorra / 1 Andorra Circle

011-10-226 Andorra / 18 Ballobar Lane

006-01-227 Oliette / 11 Ballobar Lane

014-08-237 Baltanas / 25 Lavanda Lane

029-07-234 Talavan / 2 Estepa Circle / 8 Estepa Way

013-04-252 Campeon / 2 Campeon Court / 33 Campeon Way

009-06-258 Perfecto / 58 Campeon Way / 1 Perfecto Trace

024-02-183 Levantino / 48 Glorieto Way

005-06-140 Gabriela / 23 Gabriela

012-06-134 Miguel / 44 Greco Way

001-05-126 Zafiro / 35 Zafiro Way

This month at Garvan Woodland Gardens


Fall Flower Days
October 1 - November 16
Garvan Woodland Gardens horticulture crew and volunteers have been working tirelessly to plant over 8,000 mums in a rainbow of colors. The blooms are just beginning to open, and will last for weeks, as these plants really love to show off! With the addition of hundreds of asters, pansies, violas, million bells and petunias, plus the dramatic foliage of ornamental chard and mustards, it's easy to see why Garvan Woodland Gardens is ranked as one of the top five botanical gardens in America!

Unique Holiday Gift Opportunity
October 1 - October 31
Take advantage of a unique opportunity to help Garvan Woodland Gardens adorn our Poinsettia Tree while providing you with a unique solution for Holiday Gift Giving.

  • Honor One Loved One or Friend for a $25 Donation or Five Loved Ones or Friends for a $100 Donation, and we will place a Poinsettia and send a custom-designed Holiday Card to Each Honoree saying the Gift was made by You on Their Behalf.
  • Honorees Names will be listed on a Large Display at the Poinsettia Tree during 2012 Holiday Lights for over 60,000 visitors to see. Cards to Honorees will be mailed on December 1, 2012.
Call (501) 262-9300 or (800) 366-4664 to make your Gift Giving Donation by phone. Or download the PDF Poinsettia Donation Form, complete and mail with payment to Garvan Gardens by October 31, 2012. This Holiday Gift Giving offer ends October 31, 2012.

All Donations Benefit Garvan Woodland Gardens.  All gifts to Garvan Woodland Gardens are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Garvan Woodland Gardens Featured in Soirée
Check out the 2012 Wish List special section in the October issue of Soiree here that highlights Garvan Woodland Gardens:
http://www.pageturnpro.com/Arkansas-Business-Group/44101-Soiree-October-2012/index.html#42

The feature can also be found on InArkansas.com here:
http://www.inarkansas.com/article/soiree/87395/wish-list-2012-garvan-woodland-gardens-soire-special-promotion
Art Exhibit featuring the works of Audrey Deal-McEver
October 1 - October 31
Magnolia Room - 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily
Audry Deal is a ceramic and mixed-media artist, whose work focuses on endangered plant species and problems facing our botanical ecosystems. She is based out of Nashville, Tennessee, and has exhibited throughout the United States and in Germany. A percentage of all sales benefits the Gardens.
Janet Carson Series: "Fall Planting"

October 11
Magnolia Room - 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

U of A Cooperative Extension Horticulture Specialist Janet Carson will spearhead this one-day workshop along with the Gardens’ Associate Executive Director Bob Byers. This hands-on workshop will focus on small flowering trees; shade trees; pruning, care and maintenance of trees; a planting demonstration and assessing tree damage. Cost to participate in the workshop is $45 for GWG members and $55 for non-members. Price includes lunch. Advance reservations and pre-payment are required. Call the Gardens at 501-262-9300/800-366-4664 to sign up.
Alzheimer's Arkansas Walk
October 13
Garden Grounds and Garvan Pavilion - 7:00 a.m. - Noon

It's time to start gearing up for the 2012 Alzheimer's Arkansas Walk. It is never too early to start putting together a team or raising funds. Remember that the largest family and corporate teams, as well as the individual, family team, and corporate team raising the most money win prizes.

If you are interested in forming a team or volunteering to assist with the walk, please contact Janet Nelson at (800) 689-6090 or janet.nelson@alzark.org.
Cavell Trio Wind Concert
October 18
Anthony Chapel - 6:30 p.m.

The organizers of the Hot Springs Music Festival bring the Cavell Trio Wind ensemble to Anthony Chapel for an early evening concert of innovative wind music. All three performers (Shelly Meggison, oboe, Osiris J. Molina, clarinet, Jenny Mann, bassoon) are part of the University of Alabama wind faculty. They are active as performers, teachers, and chamber music coaches, and their individual commitment to education and outreach is evidenced in their myriad collective activities – performing, coaching, outreach performances, festival appearances, international travel, and commissioning.

For more information contact Todd Cranson with the Hot Springs Music Festival at todd@hotmusic.org

Pysanky at the Gardens
October 21 - October 22 2012
Lorrie Popow and other pysanky artists will host a pysanky get-together during this two day event designed for those who enjoy creating pysanky or batik style eggs. During the "workshop" there will be demonstrations, places to sit and chat, tables and supplies to work on eggs, as well as options to buy or sell egg supplies. Registration for the two-day event is a one-time fee of $80. You can pay via credit card by calling the Gardens at 501-262-9300/800-366-4664.

Catherine's Landing is taking reservations for this event via phone by calling 501-262-2550. Please mention the group name "Pysanky" under "Bob Byers." Arrival is set for Saturday evening, October 20th and departure on Tuesday morning, October 23.
Gardening 101 Workshop – "Mums"
October 25
Magnolia Room - 9:30 a.m. - Noon

Known as the “Queen of Autumn,” the garden mum provides flowers of various sizes and shapes and in many shades of yellow, orange, red, purple, bronze, pink, and white. The chrysanthemum was cultivated in China more than 2,000 years ago. It has been the national flower of Japan for several hundred years.Learn about the history of mums, types of mums, how to successfully grow mums and add color to your fall garden with this wondfully varied flowering favorite. The workshop is free to GWG members; regular Gardens admission applies to non-members. Advanced reservations are required. Call 501-262-9300/800-366-3664.

West Grand closing

 The intersection of West Grand Avenue at Hazel Street in Hot Springs will be closed to through traffic all day Wednesday, October 10 for gas line construction. Signs will be posted. Motorists will need to seek an alternate route during street closure.

Weston Road closing

Weston Road from Airport Road to Sterns Point will be closed to through traffic from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. beginning Monday, October 8 through Thursday, October 11 for ditch repair. Traffic will be able to enter and exit from the Highway 270/Albert Pike Road end only. Weston Road will be open between the hours stated above. Motorists are advised to drive with caution during the open hours.

CADC in Bryant Market Day

Central Arkansas Development Council Bryant Senior Activity Center at Bishop Park will hold a Market Day, Thursday, October 18, from 8 am until 3 pm at the Center, 6401 Boone Road, #3 in Bryant. The public is invited to attend.

The Market Day features crafts, a flea market and bake sale, Christmas gifts, Mary Kay, canned goods, flea market items, jewelry and stained glass, among other items. Vendors are welcome and may contact Mary Donavon at 501-943-0056 to reserve a space.

The Bryant Senior Activity Center is located at the new Bishop Park Complex, 6401 Boone Road, #3. The program gives older adults support and encouragement to reach new levels of independence, fostering educational and emotional wellness for persons 60 and older. Activities include exercise, social interaction, nutrition, transportation services, recreational events, book clubs, computer training, and more.

CADC is a private nonprofit community action agency that was formed in 1965 to fight and win the “War on Poverty.” The mission of CADC is to improve the quality of life and build strong communities in Arkansas. For more information, please call the center at 501-943-0056 ext. 3.

DeSoto Boulevard repairs


Plans are underway to repair portions of DeSoto Boulevard between Calella Rd. and the West Gate and between Calella Rd. and Los Lagos Way Tuesday, Oct. 16. Please be aware these repairs could cause travel delays.

Weather and contractor availability determine the paving schedule. All streets and dates are subject to change.

Hearing on CADC goals in Pike County

Central Arkansas Development Council will hold a public hearing in Pike County in October, seeking public input in its goals and strategies. The public is invited to attend.

The hearing will be held October 23 at 10 a.m. at the CADC Glenwood Senior Activity Center, 229 Betty Street in Glenwood.

The public hearing is being held to discuss CADC’s goals, purpose and strategies for its 12-county service area. The primary purpose for conducting the hearing is to find out what service areas in our communities need improvement.

Immediately following the public hearing, from 1 - 2:30 p.m. at the same location, CADC will hold a free tax program orientation for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. VITA provides free tax preparation for low to moderate income individuals during tax season. CADC provides the service in partnership with the IRS. The orientation will provide an overview of what it requires to become a certified tax preparer. For more information on the service, contact Jean Sorrells at 870-867-0151.

Gathering input from the community is a condition of funding for the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG), which funds Community Action Agencies nationwide. The findings will then be used to address those areas identified through partnerships and programs. CADC is seeking input for its service area of Saline, Hot Spring, Pike, Clark, Montgomery, Pulaski, Lonoke, Dallas, Union, Columbia, Ouachita and Calhoun Counties. The public is encouraged to attend and voice their questions and/or concerns.

CADC is a private nonprofit community action agency that was formed in 1965 to fight and win the “War on Poverty.” The mission of CADC is to improve the quality of life and build strong communities in Arkansas. For more information, please contact Evelyn Reed at 501-778-1133.

Tentative schedule Ghosts of Davidsonville fall festival event


October
Ghosts of Davidsonville Fall Festival     
October 13, 2 to 9 p.m.

It’s that time again. There’s a chill in the air, color in the trees, pumpkins abound and what’s that? Do you hear the whisperings of ghosts down at Davidsonville? Gather up the family and come on down for our annual Ghosts of Davidsonville Fall Festival. Activities include musical performances, carnival games, face painting, balloon artist, carnival food and of course the historic hayride around the Davidsonville town site and through the decorated campground.

Tentative Schedule Ghosts of Davidsonville Fall Festival Event

2 to 3 p.m.: Family Friendly Music Provided by Sound Extreme.
3 to 3:30 p.m.: Kids and Youth Costume Contest Sponsored by Randolph County 4-H. Entry Fee $5.00
3:30 to 5 p.m.: Karoke Contest!! Free to enter. $100.00 to first place. Money prizes for 2nd and 3rd place.  Ages 16 and up only.
5:30 to 6:30 p.m.: Music by the United States Navy New Orleans Style Brass Band!!
7 to 9 p.m.: Last Musical Act of the night, Buzzard Run!
7 p.m. to the last wagon load: Ghosts of Davidsonville Hay Ride. Meet the Ghosts!

Door prizes given out on the hour. Must be present to win. Sign up for door prizes Pav. 1.
Concession Stand and gift items located in Pavilion 1
Community Booth Fundraisers and Carnival Games Located in Pavilion 2

Hay Ride Fee
Tickets for hayride can be purchased in Pavlion 1. Must have an armband to ride hayride.
$5.00 per adult (13 and Up)
$3.00 per child (5-12)
$3.00 per senior (62 and Up)
Children age 4 and under are free.

Call the park for more details!!
870.892.4708

Davidsonville Historic State Park
7953 Hwy 166 South
Pocahontas, AR  72455
870.892.4708
Contact Park Interpreter Krystal Watson