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Monday, December 31, 2012

Another small earthquake to end the year


2.1 Md - ARKANSAS

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 2.1 Md
Date-Time
  • 31 Dec 2012 14:53:54 UTC
  • 31 Dec 2012 08:53:54 near epicenter
  • 31 Dec 2012 08:53:54 standard time in your timezone
Location 35.504N 92.448W
Depth 3 km
Distances
  • 9 km (6 miles) S (174 degrees) of Clinton, AR
  • 16 km (10 miles) NNW (347 degrees) of Damascus, AR
  • 20 km (12 miles) WSW (237 degrees) of Fairfield Bay, AR
  • 86 km (53 miles) N (353 degrees) of Little Rock, AR
  • 399 km (248 miles) SSW (210 degrees) of St. Louis, MO
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 1.7 km; Vertical 6.7 km
Parameters Nph = 16; Dmin = 16.3 km; Rmss = 0.27 seconds; Gp = 115°
M-type = Md; Version = A
Event ID nm 123112b 

Sunday, December 30, 2012

Opportunity for big money on New Year's Eve


The four-month-old Arkansas-only Natural State Jackpot broke its own record Saturday night when the jackpot ballooned to $200,000.  The NSJ game drew fans immediately when it launched on August 27, earlier this year.  The easy-to-play, easy-to-win $1 game has sold about $3 Million in tickets in just four months and produced more than $1 Million in Scholarships.  During that time, the jackpot has been hit five times, with prizes of $95,000, $35,000, $55,000, $120,000, and $100,000.  Now, a lucky Arkansas player has a chance to win big on New Year’s Eve.

“With this record jackpot, we expect to see heavy sales of Natural State tickets,” Lottery Director Bishop Woosley said.  “Odds of winning a prize are 1 in 10, so the game has drawn many loyal players.  Natural State Jackpot was the idea of Arkansans who wanted a jackpot game that could only be purchased and won in our state.  They said they wanted it, we offered it, and it has been selling like hotcakes.” 

The $1 game is played by picking five numbers between 1 and 39.   Five correct numbers hit the jackpot, and every ticket with two or more winning numbers wins a prize.  Four correct numbers result in a $300 prize, three a $3 prize, and two a $1 prize.   

This NSJ run began with a $25,000 prize offering on November 20.  From that day through Saturday night, $940,609 in NSJ tickets were bought.  During the same period, players have won $236,708 in prizes between $1 and $300.  These numbers do not take into account future sales and multi draws. 

Natural State Jackpot drawings are held Monday through Saturday at 8 p.m. Central time, at the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery headquarters in Little Rock.  The jackpot always restarts at $25,000 and increases by $5,000 every draw until the jackpot is won by a lucky player who picks all five drawn numbers.  Tickets can be purchased at any of the 1900+ lottery retailers in Arkansas.  Draw results are available at myarkansaslottery.com or at any ASL retailer.

Saturday, December 29, 2012

Village holiday closngs

The Property Owners' Association Department of Public Works will resume trash pickup on Monday, Dec. 31. The trash pickup holiday schedule is as follows: Monday, Dec. 31, trash will be picked up as scheduled. Trash will be picked up one day late Tuesday, Jan. 1 – Friday, Jan. 4. The recycling center will be closed Tuesday, Jan. 1. For more information, contact Public Works at 922-5524.

The Property Owners’ Association Administration Building will be closed Tuesday, Jan. 1 for New Year’s Day. For more information, call 922-5556.

The Coronado Center Library will close at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 31 and will be closed Tuesday, Jan. 1.

The Property Owners’ Association Coronado Fitness Center will close Monday, Dec. 31 at 3:00 p.m. and will be closed all day on Tuesday, Jan. 1. For more information including class and pool hours, contact the Coronado Fitness Center at 922-1230.

District Five community meeting Thursday

Hot Springs City Director Karen Garcia will host a District 5 community meeting at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 3 at the Forest Lakes Clubhouse, 305 Forest Lakes Boulevard. Interested residents are encouraged to attend and bring a neighbor. The guest speaker will be Animal Control Director Dan Bugg. For more information, contact Garcia, 318-9046 or kgarcia@cablelynx.com .

Red Cross shelter still open


Citizens needing a place to stay warm can go to the Red Cross shelter in Hall D of the Hot Springs Convention Center, 134 Convention Boulevard.
 
The Red Cross shelter will be available until the current weather crisis is over. The shelter will need to be accessed from Church Street at the back door of the Convention Center’s Hall D. Doors will be locked from 9 p.m. until 8 a.m. each day. Citizens are asked to bring any medications or oxygen equipment they may need, along with extra blankets and pillows. Food will be provided, and citizens are allowed to bring toys, board games and cards with them. Call 620-5044 for more information.

Call police for trees down in roadways this weekend

The Property Owners’ Association advises residents to continue using extreme caution when traveling on HSV roadways. As temperatures fall, roads will refreeze overnight and may be covered in black ice in the early morning hours.

For downed trees blocking roadways (posing a traffic hazard), please call 922-0011 and a Public Works crew will be dispatched for removal.

Hot Springs holiday closings


All city offices in Hot Springs, except public safety and the airport, will be closed on Tuesday, January 1. Commercial and residential sanitation routes will run one day behind schedule, with Tuesday’s collection taking place on Wednesday, Wednesday on Thursday, continuing the pattern throughout the week. On Monday, December 31, commercial and residential sanitation collection will occur as usual. On January 1, the main office and Regional Recycling Center will be closed.
 
The Intracity Transit office will be closed on January 1. During this time, reservation cancellations can be left on voicemail at 321-6625. Buses and paratransit vans will not operate on January 1.  The city compost facility will be closed on January 1.

Audition reminder

Auditions for “The Gazebo”, the Village Players spring production, will be held on Saturday, January 12 at 7 PM, and Sunday, January 13 at 2 PM in the Rehearsal Room at the Woodlands Auditorium. Performance dates are April 11-14, 2013. 

Scripts are available from Cloe Bayer, call 922-3810, or e-mail cloebayer29@sbcglobal.net., and at the Players general meeting on January 8th.

“The Gazebo” is a mystery-comedy, with the intricate plot including blackmail and “murder”. Directed by Lee Iafrate and produced by Cloe Bayer, the play is set in the living room of the Nash home on Long Island, N.Y. The namesake of the show is the gazebo in the garden, which appears quickly, sags at one point, and has to collapse in the end. The set designer and construction crew should have fun with that one!! The original time frame as written is 1958 to early 1960’s, but some minor changes in props, etc. will bring it into the present day.

This play contains lots of smaller parts to tempt those who have been toying with the idea of appearing onstage, but don’t want to memorize the lines required for a major role. At the same time, veteran actors will enjoy the opportunity to develop the unique characters written in the script.

The cast consists of 3 women, 9 men, 2 of which could be women, if necessary:

ELLIOTT NASH – A mild mannered “Dagwood Bumstead” type. He is a TV Writer who finds himself enmeshed in a blackmail scheme. His wife has him on a diet …he cheats. He thinks he has “murdered” the blackmailer. The results are hilarious. He hates living on Long Island.

HARLOW EDISON – Elliott’s neighbor and closest friend. He is an Assistant District Attorney who acts as a consultant on Elliott’s TV scripts. He is the straight man.

MATILDA BEECHER – A smaller part, the Nash’s . Kind of low on patience. Her part has been combined with that of Mrs. Beecher. Good screamer.

NELL NASH – A fading soap opera actress. She is prone to over dramatization. She’s the one who buys the antique gazebo.

MR. THORPE – A get’er done kind of Contractor. A good smaller part.

MRS. CHANDLER- A pushy real estate agent. She was hired by Mr. Nash to sell the house without the knowledge of Mrs. Nash. She has a buyer. Not too big a part for a novice.

THE DOOK (DUKE)- The mastermind of the blackmail. Part of the duo looking for “Joe”. This part calls for an older, sophisticated gentleman.

LOUIE – The Dook’s dumb sidekick. Kind of rough around the edges. The two of them really steal the scene. They tie up Elliott to a chair.

JENKINS – Head detective. Tough demeanor. VERY in charge.

DR. WYNER – Plain clothes police surgeon/coroner. Could be a woman.

DRUCKER – Policeman. (no lines). Could be a woman.

POTTS –Another policeman. Could also be a woman.

Lee has directed this show once before, and she is looking forward to doing it once again for her directorial debut with the Players. A movie of this successful Broadway play was made some years ago, starring Glen Ford in the role of Elliott Nash. We hope to see a lot of you turn out for the auditions, for what promises to be a fun show.

Cloe Bayer

call 922-3810

e-mail cloebayer29@sbcglobal.net

Friday, December 28, 2012

Red Cross takes over with shelters instead of warming centers


Citizens needing a place to stay warm can go to the Red Cross shelter in Hall D of the Hot Springs Convention Center, 134 Convention Boulevard beginning at 7 p.m. tonight, December 28. The warming centers at Church of the Nazarene and FaithPointe Ministries will cease their operations by 7 p.m. this evening.
The Red Cross shelter will be available until the current weather crisis is over. Doors will be locked from 9 p.m. until 8 a.m. each day. Citizens are asked to bring any medications or oxygen equipment they may need, along with extra blankets and pillows. Entertainment will not be provided, but citizens are allowed to bring toys, board games and cards with them.

Bipartisan post office designation

U.S. Senators Mark Pryor and John Boozman today joined Congressman Tim Griffin (AR-2) to announce that the Senate passed legislation designating the U.S. Post Office in Little Rock, Arkansas as the Sidney “Sid” Sanders McMath Post Office Building. The provision, sponsored by Griffin, passed the U.S. House of Representatives on December 20th and will now be signed into law.

“Sid McMath was a leader in Arkansas, paving the way for enhanced racial relations, education improvements, and infrastructure investments throughout our state,” Pryor said. “This post office designation will help honor Sid’s legacy and remind Arkansans of his many contributions to our state.”

"Governor McMath was a hero in every sense of the word. As one of the greatest generation he went to war and came back to help build Arkansas through his tireless public service. This is a fitting honor and we are very proud of his memory and legacy,” Boozman said.

“Governor McMath’s legacy is as profound as it is exemplary. As a U.S. Marine during World War II, he distinguished himself in combat and earned the Silver Star and the Legion of Merit. As governor, he fought to uphold voting rights for all Americans and supported efforts to abolish the poll tax. After serving as governor, he continued his service in the Marine Corps Reserve, rising to the rank of major general. I applaud the Senate for passing my bill honoring his legacy,” Griffin said.

Sidney “Sid” McMath served as a U.S. Marine during WWII, earning the Silver Star and Legion of Merit. From 1949 to 1953, McMath served as Arkansas’s 34th Governor. Following his tenure as Governor, he served in the Marine Corps Reserve and rose to the rank of major general. McMath passed away in 2003 at the age of 91. His autobiography, Promises Kept, earned the Arkansas Historical Association's highest recognition, the John G. Ragsdale Prize.

Garvan Gardens closed until February

Due to the winter storm and power outages, Garvan Woodland Gardens and its administrative offices are closed again today, December 28, 2012.


THERE ARE NO MORE HOLIDAY LIGHTS THIS YEAR, due to continued power outages.


If you have purchased online tickets for Holiday Lights and have not used them, please contact the office next week at 501-262-9300, and we will go through procedures to refund non-validated tickets (tickets which have not been used). At this time, there is still no power at the administrative offices, so please wait to contact us next week.


As always, Garvan Woodland Gardens will also be closed during the month of January. We apologize for any inconvenience. ~GWG



Earthquake last night in Faulkner County


2.2 Md - ARKANSAS

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 2.2 Md
Date-Time
  • 27 Dec 2012 21:43:16 UTC
  • 27 Dec 2012 15:43:16 near epicenter
  • 27 Dec 2012 15:43:16 standard time in your timezone
Location 35.449N 92.313W
Depth 1 km
Distances
  • 11 km (7 miles) NW (311 degrees) of Quitman, AR
  • 13 km (8 miles) NE (44 degrees) of Damascus, AR
  • 14 km (9 miles) N (8 degrees) of Guy, AR
  • 79 km (49 miles) N (1 degrees) of Little Rock, AR
  • 398 km (248 miles) SSW (208 degrees) of St. Louis, MO
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 1.5 km; Vertical 2.5 km
Parameters Nph = 19; Dmin = 18.3 km; Rmss = 0.23 seconds; Gp = 82°
M-type = Md; Version = A
Event ID nm 122812a 

POA update

Property Owners' Association crews have been hard at work clearing HSV roadways. Plans are underway to clear all secondary roads by Friday, Dec. 28.

Entergy Arkansas and First Electric have four crews on the ground in Hot Springs Village working to restore power as quickly as possible. Entergy plans to have 90 percent of their customers' power restored today.

In addition, the Coronado Fitness Center will open at 10:00 am today.

Thank you for your continued patience as the POA staff continues to deal with this winter emergency.

Garland County Department of Emergency Management weather update

Friday, December 28, 2012, 6:25 a.m.

Temperatures will creep up a few degrees this morning, so areas of freezing drizzle and light freezing rain in central Arkansas will change to light rain this morning. In northern Arkansas (except as noted in the next paragraph), the changeover will occur by midday. As precipitation ends late this afternoon or this evening, there could be a rain/snow mix, or even a brief changeover to all light snow or flurries in some cases.

In the northeast corner Arkansas, temperatures may not rise above freezing today, keeping a threat of light freezing rain or freezing drizzle throughout the day. Before precipitation ends tonight, a changeover to snow, or at least a sleet/snow mix, is likely to occur. There could be some accumulations up to an inch.

In all areas after precipitation ends, breezy conditions will prevail, helping to dry moisture from today's precipitation off of roads. However, with temperatures forecast to drop below freezing tonight, any remaining moisture will freeze.

As a preview for the next few days, it appears pretty likely that there will be some winter weather in northern Arkansas from Sunday night into Monday. Depending on temperatures at the time, this could extend southward into parts of central Arkansas. From Monday night into Tuesday morning, problems could recur if the moisture does not move out in time.

One day POA board retreat scheduled


The Property Owners’ Association Board of Directors will conduct a mini-retreat on Wednesday, Jan. 9 in the Ouachita Activities Building at the Ponce de Leon Center. The retreat will begin at 9 a.m. and conclude at 3 p.m. Board Member Keith Keck will serve as facilitator.

The proposed meeting agenda including discussion topics is listed below:

9:00-9:15 a.m.              Opening Comments

9:15-9:45 a.m.              Vision for Future HSV
                                    Role of POA Board 

9:45-10:15 a.m.            Review of Current POA Committee Structure
                                    GAC/Board Interaction
                                    Creation of POA Board Member Standing Committees 

10:15-10:30 a.m.          Review of 2012 Spring Retreat Actions

10:30-10:45 a.m.          Break

10:45-11:00 a.m.          Marketing 

11:00-11:30 a.m.          Discussion of Lots Program
                                    Way Ahead for Land Use Planning

11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.  Major Capital Funding/Planning
                                    POA Board Communications/BLOG

12:00-1:00 p.m.           LUNCH

1:00-1:30 p.m.            Updating 2010 Strategic Plan
                                    Information Technology Planning

1:30-2:00 p.m.            Economic Development
                                    Establishment of Fines

2:00-2:30 p.m.            Village Volunteer Auxiliary

2:30-3:00 p.m.            Wrap-Up

POA message regarding golf reservation system

At this time, the Property Owners' Association Chelsea Tee Time Reservation System is not operational. The system will once again be operational when power is restored to the entire Village.

Thank you for your patience.

Garland County will re-open today at 10 a.m.

Garland County offices closed at 4:30 yesterday and will re-open at 10 a.m. on the 28th. Road Department to open at normal time.

Village road update

The Property Owners' Association has been working around the clock to clear roadways in Hot Springs Village. As of Thursday, Dec. 27, DeSoto Blvd., and most major roadways have been cleared, though icy patches remain. Balearic Road and the Fresno Road hill remain closed. POA crews are currently clearing side roads, working in areas that do not have power.

Though power has been restored to much of the Village, areas remain that do not have power. Both First Electric and Entergy Arkansas have been notified of these areas and are working to restore power as quickly as possible. Entergy has crews on the ground and hopes to have all power restored by today, Friday, Dec. 28.

Treacherous conditions and stranded vehicles have hampered the efforts of POA crews. However, POA workers, many of whom have no power at home, have been staying at the POA office 24 hours a day in order to respond quickly to emergencies and to continue the process of clearing roads.

As snow melts, the roads will be more passable. However, the POA advises residents to avoid traveling on roadways, especially after dark, when refreezing will most likely occur.

Because of continued inclement weather conditions, trash pick up has been cancelled for the remainder of the week but will begin again on Monday, Dec. 31.

The POA office is open. However, the Coronado Fitness Center, Coronado Community Center and Ponce de Leon Center are closed.

Thank you for your patience as the POA staff works feverishly to deal with this winter emergency as quickly as possible.

AS A REMINDER, FOR EMERGENCIES, PLEASE CALL 911.

POA recovery update

The Property Owners' Association crews have been working feverishly to clear HSV roadways and attend to other winter weather-related emergencies while also dealing with a host of equipment issues.

Treacherous road conditions have caused numerous POA and emergency vehicles to slide off the road and become stranded. Crews are working to recover these vehicles.

Stranded private vehicles are hampering efforts to plow HSV roadways.

Crews dealt quickly with an emergency at the water plant yesterday. Because of their efforts, no water service was interrupted.

"We are doing the best we can under the circumstances," said Linda Mayhood, Interim POA General Manager. "Please be patient with us and we will get to you as soon as possible."

For the latest updates, please check your email and/or tune in to KVRE.

AS A REMINDER, FOR EMERGENCIES, PLEASE CALL 911.

No power at landfill

The Garland County Landfill closed yesterday, no power, and will open at 10 a.m. today, Friday, December 28 for a limited time.

Village getting outside help to clear downed trees

The Property Owners' Association has hired two outside contractors to help POA crews already working to clear downed trees blocking HSV roadways.

Thank you for your patience as POA crews and outside contractors work to clear roads as quickly as possible.

Please call the POA Department of Public Works at 922-5524 to report roads blocked by downed trees.

Hot Springs following inclement weather plan

The City of Hot Springs continues to operate under its inclement weather plan. City offices will closed at 4:30 p.m. yesterday and will re-open at 10 a.m. today, Friday, December 28. Public safety and the airport will be working normal hours. The Intracity Transit bus and paratransit routes will begin at 10 a.m. Sanitation will be running alternative routes, and residents are asked to leave waste curbside until the department is able to collect.

The animals at the Village Shelter are weathering the storms


We have been in contact with the Animal Control officers throughout this winter storm and the animals are being well cared for.  They were given extra portions and lots of water on Monday evening in anticipation of extreme weather.  The heating system is radiant propane, so even a loss of power would not effect the heat supply.  Liz was able to get to the Shelter yesterday.  Either she or Bo will be there again today.  We will resume Shelter adoption operations on 1/2/13.  Please do not attempt to go to the shelter as Cloaca has downed branches that make it an obstacle course.  

Please remember to take the time to thank Liz and Bo for their dedication to the animals.  They, like other POA employees, have given up a lot during this holiday time to keep our facilities and roadways functioning as well as they can.  

Village Fitness Center will not open at 6 a.m.

Due to inclement weather, the Property Owners' Association Coronado Fitness Center will not open at 6 a.m. Friday, Dec. 28.

POA staff will evaluate when the facility will open later in the day.

Garland County compost facility closed

The Compost Facility on Davidson Drive will be closed until further notice due to power failures and weather conditions.

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Garvan closed again today

Due to the winter storm and power outages, Garvan Woodland Gardens is CLOSED AGAIN today: December 27, 2012.

The decision to reopen will be made on a daily basis, based on road conditions and conditions in the Gardens. Please check the website for news tomorrow at www.garvangardens.org.

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Mena blood drive January 8


Mena Regional Health and Arkansas Blood Institute (ABI) are starting off the new year by saving lives and inviting Mena-area residents to join by donating blood 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Tuesday, January 8, at 311 North Morrow.

Blood donors will receive a free ball cap, health screenings and Donor Rewards points, redeemable for merchandise in ABI’s online store.

If donors prefer, they can forgo the ball cap to support the Global Blood Fund. Arkansas Blood Institute will redirect funds for the ball caps to this charity assisting blood centers in developing countries.

“With the start of a new year and unanticipated weather, blood donations typically decline in the winter months,” said John Armitage, Arkansas Blood Institute president and CEO. “But the need for blood is constant, and patients in our community count on volunteer donors to fulfill that need.”

Arkansas Blood Institute exclusively provides every drop of blood needed by patients in 17 hospitals in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma, thanks to its volunteer donors. 

Anyone, 16 years or older*, can typically donate blood.  To find out more or make an appointment to donate, call Marcia Fletcher at 479-652-2362 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.  

Blood drive in Village cancelled for tomorrow

The Arkansas Blood Institute Blood Drive at Ponce de Leon is cancelled for Thursday, Dec. 27.  All donors are encouraged to come to the drive at Wal-Mart on Friday, Dec. 28 from 1 to 4:30 p.m.  

Warming center in Hot Springs

A warming center is open at the First Church of Nazarene, 3804 Central Avenue in Hot Springs. The center opened at 6 p.m. and will close at 8 a.m. and can accommodate 50 people. Pets are not allowed.

Meals will not be served; Snacks will be allowed to be brought in.

Garland County to open tomorrow

Garland County offices will open at 9 a.m. on Decmber 27. Road department employees will report in at their normal time.

Garland County Offices closed today

All Garland County offices will be closed today, December 26, due to inclement weather, per County Judge Rick Davis.

Closures this morning in the Village

Due to inclement weather, the Coronado Fitness Center will not open at 6:00 a.m. today, Wednesday, Dec. 26.

POA staff will evaluate weather conditions at 11a.m. to determine when the Fitness Center will open.

In addition, the Coronado Community Center and Ponce de Leon Center will be closed today, Wednesday, Dec. 26.

POA statement

Due to hazardous weather conditions, the Property Owners' Association advises residents to use extreme caution and if possible, avoid traveling on HSV roadways.

Crews have been dispatched to begin clearing roads, but this will take time and continuing winter precipitation may hamper their efforts.

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Merry Christmas

This year Lee and I are celebrating with family in Dallas. We will be back in the Village by tomorrow night. Lee and I wish you all a Merry Christmas. We hope the weather will increase your celebration and not keep you from family and friends. For those of you celebrating Christmas, don't forget to keep Christ in Christmas in worship.

Weather update

Issued by The National Weather Service
Little Rock, AR
Mon, Dec 24, 2012, 3:22 PM CST
Updated Dec 25, 2012, 3:35am CST

A WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM TUESDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH TUESDAY EVENING.

* EVENT... A DEVELOPING STORM SYSTEM WILL APPROACH ARKANSAS FROM THE WEST ON CHRISTMAS DAY. RAIN WILL DEVELOP CHRISTMAS MORNING... BUT AS COLDER AIR MOVES INTO THE REGION... SNOW AND SLEET WILL BEGIN TO MIX IN WITH THE RAIN DURING THE LATE AFTERNOON HOURS. THE MIXTURE WILL CHANGEOVER TO ALL SNOW AFTER SUNSET... AND CONTINUE THROUGH THE EVENING HOURS... BEFORE TAPERING OFF AROUND MIDNIGHT.

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS... TWO TO FOUR INCHES OF SNOW ACCUMULATION ARE POSSIBLE. LOCALLY HIGHER AMOUNTS WILL BE POSSIBLE IN HIGHER TERRAIN.

* IMPACT... TRAVEL CONDITIONS COULD BECOME TREACHEROUS... AS ROADWAYS MAY BECOME ICE AND SNOW COVERED.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WATCH MEANS THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW... SLEET... OR ICE ACCUMULATIONS THAT MAY IMPACT TRAVEL. PERSONS SHOULD REMAIN ALERT TO RAPIDLY CHANGING WEATHER CONDITIONS. STAY TUNED TO THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE OR THE LOCAL NEWS MEDIA FOR THE LATEST UPDATES AND POSSIBLE WARNINGS.

Monday, December 24, 2012

Found dog in the Village

A small Dachshund was found on Pizarro Sunday morning. It has no collar.
The dog is being held temporarily by the Tidquists. Their phone number 915-8883.

Sunday, December 23, 2012

Lee Iafrate to direct new Village Players production, auditions coming soon

Auditions for “The Gazebo”, the Village Players spring production, will be held on Saturday, January 12 at 7 PM, and Sunday, January 13 at 2 PM in the Rehearsal Room at the Woodlands Auditorium. Performance dates are April 11-14, 2013. 

Scripts are available from Cloe Bayer, call 922-3810, or e-mail cloebayer29@sbcglobal.net., and at the Players general meeting on January 8th.

“The Gazebo” is a mystery-comedy, with the intricate plot including blackmail and “murder”. Directed by Lee Iafrate and produced by Cloe Bayer, the play is set in the living room of the Nash home on Long Island, N.Y. The namesake of the show is the gazebo in the garden, which appears quickly, sags at one point, and has to collapse in the end. The set designer and construction crew should have fun with that one!! The original time frame as written is 1958 to early 1960’s, but some minor changes in props, etc. will bring it into the present day.

This play contains lots of smaller parts to tempt those who have been toying with the idea of appearing onstage, but don’t want to memorize the lines required for a major role. At the same time, veteran actors will enjoy the opportunity to develop the unique characters written in the script.

The cast consists of 3 women, 9 men, 2 of which could be women, if necessary:

ELLIOTT NASH – A mild mannered “Dagwood Bumstead” type. He is a TV Writer who finds himself enmeshed in a blackmail scheme. His wife has him on a diet …he cheats. He thinks he has “murdered” the blackmailer. The results are hilarious. He hates living on Long Island.

HARLOW EDISON – Elliott’s neighbor and closest friend. He is an Assistant District Attorney who acts as a consultant on Elliott’s TV scripts. He is the straight man.

MATILDA BEECHER – A smaller part, the Nash’s . Kind of low on patience. Her part has been combined with that of Mrs. Beecher. Good screamer.

NELL NASH – A fading soap opera actress. She is prone to over dramatization. She’s the one who buys the antique gazebo.

MR. THORPE – A get’er done kind of Contractor. A good smaller part.

MRS. CHANDLER- A pushy real estate agent. She was hired by Mr. Nash to sell the house without the knowledge of Mrs. Nash. She has a buyer. Not too big a part for a novice.

THE DOOK (DUKE)- The mastermind of the blackmail. Part of the duo looking for “Joe”. This part calls for an older, sophisticated gentleman.

LOUIE – The Dook’s dumb sidekick. Kind of rough around the edges. The two of them really steal the scene. They tie up Elliott to a chair.

JENKINS – Head detective. Tough demeanor. VERY in charge.

DR. WYNER – Plain clothes police surgeon/coroner. Could be a woman.

DRUCKER – Policeman. (no lines). Could be a woman.

POTTS –Another policeman. Could also be a woman.



Lee has directed this show once before, and she is looking forward to doing it once again for her directorial debut with the Players. A movie of this successful Broadway play was made some years ago, starring Glen Ford in the role of Elliott Nash. We hope to see a lot of you turn out for the auditions, for what promises to be a fun show.
Cloe Bayer, call 922-3810, or e-mail cloebayer29@sbcglobal.net.

Saturday, December 22, 2012

Small earthquake last night


2.0 Md - ARKANSAS

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 2.0 Md
Date-Time
  • 22 Dec 2012 04:54:47 UTC
  • 21 Dec 2012 22:54:47 near epicenter
  • 21 Dec 2012 22:54:47 standard time in your timezone
Location 35.462N 92.286W
Depth 4 km
Distances
  • 11 km (7 miles) NW (326 degrees) of Quitman, AR
  • 14 km (9 miles) SSW (212 degrees) of Higden, AR
  • 15 km (10 miles) NE (47 degrees) of Damascus, AR
  • 81 km (50 miles) N (3 degrees) of Little Rock, AR
  • 396 km (246 miles) SSW (208 degrees) of St. Louis, MO
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 1.4 km; Vertical 4.5 km
Parameters Nph = 19; Dmin = 19.3 km; Rmss = 0.32 seconds; Gp = 111°
M-type = Md; Version = A
Event ID nm 122212a 

Ross says goodbye to service as US Representative


As I complete my tenure in the United States House of Representatives, I have spent a great deal of time reflecting on my time here in our nation’s capitol. 

Serving in “the people’s house” and being a part of the greatest democracy in the world has been the highest professional honor of my life.  It has been an experience of a lifetime and I just hope I did some good along the way.

It seems like just yesterday when I took the oath of office to serve in the Arkansas State Senate, but it has been 22 years.  I would have never had the privilege and honor to serve as the voice for the people of Arkansas in the Arkansas State Senate, and for the past twelve years in the United States Congress, had it not been for those very people that I have been so proud to represent, for the people choose their leaders in our democracy. 

This has been a historic time to serve in the Congress.  Just a little over eight months after I arrived, the 9-11 attacks on America occurred, followed by wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the health care debate and the worst economic recession since World War II.

I have done my best to represent the people of my home state.  I never stopped going home every weekend, traveling the very large rural district and listening to the people who sent me to Washington to be their voice.  I know I have not always gotten it right, but I have done my best to be faithful to the people of Arkansas throughout my time in public service.

I could have never served for the past twelve years in the U.S. Congress without the support from my family.  It was difficult spending much of each week more than a thousand miles away from Holly, Sydney and Alex.  I will always be grateful to them for their love and understanding as I did my best to represent the people of Arkansas, addressing policy issues to improve the quality of life for all people. 

I also want to thank my parents, Gene and Frances Ross, who taught me right from wrong, raised me in a Christian home, encouraged me to chase my dreams, and provided me with a moral compass that helped me navigate politics and public life for the past 22 years. 

I also want to say a word about my congressional staff who has worked tirelessly over the years to help me help the people of Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District.  They have worked long hours, at home in Arkansas and here in our nation’s capitol, on everything from helping a senior or veteran cut through government red tape to assisting a community with a grant application to drafting and reviewing legislation that impacts the more than 300 million of us who live in America.  I could have never done this job without them.  And I will always be grateful to them for their loyal and dedicated service to the people of Arkansas and this country. 

I never believed my service in our nation’s capitol should become a permanent career. That’s why I didn’t seek a seventh term to the U.S. Congress this year. 

There are a lot of people that do a lot of good without putting their name on the ballot.  As my time in elected office comes to a close, I look forward to becoming one of them. 

To the people of Arkansas’ Fourth Congressional District, thank you for believing in me and for giving me the opportunity to be your voice in the United States House of Representatives for the past 12 years.  May God Bless You All.

New series for the ASO


The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra introduces a new three-concert chamber orchestra series in Little Rock. ASO’s Stella Boyle Smith Intimate Neighborhood Concert Series features an opportunity for concertgoers to hear works in unique acoustical settings just like the composers intended.

“We are very excited to be able launch the new Stella Boyle Smith I.N.C. Intimate Neighborhood Concert Series. Our mission is to engage, inspire, connect, and advance Arkansas through the power of music. These concerts achieve each point. Performing in churches will allow the audience to hear the music of Mozart, Rossini and Vaughan Williams in intimate spaces that allow the music to be felt, absorbed, and experienced. To accommodate busy work weeks, these concerts will be short. For those that want to socialize, the musicians will stay after the performance to connect with the audience over refreshments,” said Christina Littlejohn, Executive Director. 

Capacity is limited. There will be two general admission seating sections. Premium section subscriptions are $52.50 and Regular section subscriptions are $37.50 for all three concerts. Single tickets are $35 and $25. Tickets for students and active military are $10. Tickets can be purchased online starting January 1, 2013 at www.ArkansasSymphony.org, over the phone at (501) 666-1761, or at the door.

2013 Stella Boyle Smith Intimate Neighborhood Concert Series
January 17, at 7 p.m. Pulaski Heights Methodist Church
Featuring Justin Bischof, organ
     ROSSINI: Barber of Seville: Overture
     POULENC: Concerto for Organ
     IVES: The Unanswered Question
     MOZART: Symphony No. 35 in D, “Haffner”

March 14, at 7 p.m. Christ Church
Featuring Quapaw Quartet, Rockefeller Quartet, and Beth Wheeler, English horn
     ELGAR: Introduction and Allegro, op. 47
     HIGDON: Soliloquy
     VAUGHN WILLIAMS: Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis
     BARTOK: Romanian Folk Dances

Mozart Requiem with Arkansas Chamber Singers: May 16, at 7 p.m. First United Methodist Church
Featuring Arkansas Chamber Singers with John Erwin, ACS Music Director
     MOZART: Requiem

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.

ABI blood drives during the holidays


The following are dates, times and locations for holiday blood drives sponsored by Arkansas Blood Institute.

Wednesday, Dec. 26
1:30 to 5:30
Wal-Mart Albert Pike

Thursday, Dec. 27
10:30 to 3:30
Hot Springs Village
Ponce de Leon Center

Friday, Dec. 28
1:00 to 4:30
Wal-Mart Hot Springs Village

Saturday, Dec. 29
1:00 to 4:30
Hot Springs Mall
Suite next to JC Penney
During the Black and Blue Ball

NDAA passed

U.S. Senators Mark Pryor and John Boozman announced the Senate has passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Committee report, a bill that includes critical funding for Arkansas military construction projects, as well as provisions that provide pay raises and job opportunities for Arkansas military members. The bill passed the House of Representatives on Thursday and will now head to the President for his signature. 

“To put it simply, I’m extremely disappointed in the Air Force and this conference committee bill,” Pryor said. “Despite the repeated urgings of the Arkansas delegation, this committee decided—against the wishes of congressman and senators from both sides of the aisle—to remove a provision that would have protected the 188th. Even though I’m frustrated, I voted for this bill because one of my top priorities is supporting our troops, their families, and our military installations.”

“This legislation is important to providing our troops with the resources and tools necessary to accomplish their missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, or wherever they may be assigned,” Boozman said. “The commitment of more than $40 million for military construction in Arkansas is good news for our state and our Armed Forces. This funding means Arkansas will continue to play an important role in the security of our nation and our Armed Forces will have the tolls and training they need to be successful in the future. While I am disappointed the provisions supported by the Arkansas Congressional delegation were not included, we will continue our efforts to fight for the 188th and secure a mission that is in the best interest of the Fighter Wing and our national security.”

Pryor and Boozman, along with the rest of the Arkansas delegation, have expressed fierce opposition to the decision to strip the bill of a provision that would restrict the Air Force from removing the A-10 mission at the 188th Fighter Wing in Fort Smith. Despite this frustration, Pryor and Boozman said the NDAA maintains critical funding that will benefit Arkansas service members and their families. Highlights of the bill include:

• Funding for the Little Rock Air Force Base: The Little Rock Air Force Base is authorized to receive $26 million to replace deteriorating hangers and construct new hangars to adequately house their planes. LRAFB is also authorized to receive $4.178 million to construct a flight stimulator system. By reducing the number of flying hours, this project will save the base save approximately $5.4 million a year.

• Funding for the Army National Guard in Searcy: The National Army Guard in Searcy is authorized to receive $6.8 million to construct a field maintenance shop for equipment and storage supply, maintenance bays, administrative space, and overhead lift capabilities. The current field maintenance shop is far away from the readiness center and is in poor condition.

• Pay raises for troops: The bill will authorize a 1.7% pay increase and extend bonuses and special pay for U.S. service members.

• Job opportunities for veterans: Included in the bill is the HIRE at Home Act, a bipartisan bill introduced by Pryor and cosponsored by Boozman, that encourages states to consider the specialized military training and experience service members acquire on active duty as filling all or some of the state certification and licensing requirements.

• National Commission on Air Force structure changes: The bill creates a national commission that will conduct extensive analysis and study the military readiness, effectiveness, and cost savings associated with the Air Force’s proposed force structure changes.

Meth arrests in Garland County

Yesterday, December 21, at approximately 6 a.m. Investigators with the 18th Judicial District East Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at 169 Boardwalk, in Garland County, AR. The residence is owned by Elaine Hodgin and has been under investigation as a place where methamphetamines is manufactured and sold.

The Garland County Tactical Response Team assisted the Drug Task Force by securing the residence, several out buildings and numerous vehicles located on the property. Joseph Gratz, Robert Vance, Thelma Lazetera, Silas Roach and Rhonda Roach were all taken into custody by the Tactical Team without incident. Elaine Hodgin complained of a medical problem and was transported to a local hospital where she was released a short time later.

The Hot Springs Police Department K9 units were utilized to search the property and residence for controlled substances.

Investigators located numerous items inside the residence related to the manufacture, sale and use of methamphetamines, methamphetamine powder as well as a 25 caliber handgun. Outside the residence Investigators located several “box meth labs”. Some of the components of the lab included Camp Fuel, matches, plastic tubing, Heet, glassware, drain opener, iodine crystals, red phosphorous, alcohol, a pill grinder, hot plates, digital scales, coffee filters, and paraphernalia items used to package and ingest methamphetamines. The Drug Task Force seized a 1999 Ford truck, a 2011 Ford Mustang, a 2012 Chevrolet Camero and two motorcycles. A restraining order was filed against property owner and the residence was secured (boarded) pending a court appearance on 1-7-13.

All of those taken into custody were charged with multiple violations including, Manufacturing Methamphetamines, Possession of a Controlled Substance with Purpose to Deliver, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unauthorized Use of Another Persons Property to Facilitate Certain Crimes. In addition, Joseph Gratz was charged with Possession of a Firearm by Certain Persons and Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and a Firearm based on a previous Felony conviction. Charges against Elaine Hodgin are pending.

The 18th Judicial District East Drug Task Force is comprised of members from the Garland County Sheriff’s Department, the Hot Springs Police Department and the Arkansas State Police.

Tonight at La Petite Bistro

La Petite Bistro will be serving salmon this evening. Come in and enjoy a relaxing meal this weekend.
For reservations call 984-5193.

La Petite Bistro will be open for lunch on Christmas Eve day.

Golf deals today and tomorrow in the Village


Hot Springs Village Property Owners Association

 “merry Christmas
GOLF SPECIAL
at
DeSoto


 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22ND
&
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23RD


Property Owners may bring an unlimited number of
guests or family members
and all will play at
PROPERTY OWNER RATES!

That’s right!
EVERYONE
plays at
Property owner rates!


11:00 shotgun at DeSoto on both days
This offer is available until all shotgun tee times
are exhausted (and only at DeSoto),
so make your tee times now!

   
 Tee times can be made online through Chelsea
or by phone by calling the
DeSoto Pro Shop - 501-922-0001
or Central Tee Times - 501-922-2858  

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Arkansas delegation works together

U.S. Senators Mark Pryor and John Boozman, together with Congressmen Rick Crawford (AR-1), Tim Griffin (AR-2), Steve Womack (AR-3), Mike Ross (AR-4), and Congressman-Elect Tom Cotton (AR-4), released the following statement:

“Late last night, the National Defense Authorization Act’s (H.R. 4310) final conference report was released. Unfortunately, we now know that language which would have prevented the United States Air Force (USAF) from ending the 188th Fighter Wing’s A-10 mission is not included in the final bill.

“Together as a delegation, we have fought this uphill battle, knowing the odds were stacked against us. We are extremely disheartened by the USAF’s decision which was based on the capstone principle of maintaining one flying mission per state rather than on a detailed analysis of cost-efficiency. “But this is not the end of the road, and no final decisions have been made. We will continue to fight to ensure that the 188th - which has a remarkable history and record and excels by every metric possible – has a vital mission in the USAF as it is modernized.”

Card party to help local students


The Hot Springs Village (HSV) Women's Club will host its Annual Scholarship Card Party from 12:30 to 4 p.m., Tuesday, January 22, at the Coronado Center in Hot Springs Village.  All proceeds will go toward providing scholarships for graduating senior students from local area high schools.  In 2012, there were three recipients, each receiving a $1,000 scholarship.

Tickets for the HSV Card Party are $6 per person and include all different kinds of desserts, coffee, tea and door prizes offered throughout the afternoon.  Many who attend this event play bridge, but all types of cards and games are encouraged.  Participants should plan to gather in groups of four or more.

Prizes include gifts provided by HSV Women’s Club members, as well as Gift Certificates from area businesses.   An additional Raffle for cash prizes also will be available.  Raffle tickets will be sold at the door for $1 each or six for $5.  Fifty percent of the monies taken in for this drawing go toward the scholarships and 50 percent will be returned as cash prizes during the afternoon. 

According to Dolly Madden, chair of the 2013 HSV Card Party, “Tickets are on sale now and only a limited number of spaces are available. Those wishing to attend should plan to purchase their tickets as soon as possible.” 

Tickets may be purchased by contacting any HSV Women's Club member or by calling Madden at 922-4920. 

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Street closing in Hot Springs

7th Street, from Bess to West St Louis streets in Hot Springs, will be closed to through traffic all day on Wednesday, December 19 for gas line installation.  Signs will be posted, and motorists are advised to seek an alternate route during construction.

Hot Springs holiday schedule



All city offices, except public safety and the airport, will be closed on Monday and Tuesday, December 24 and 25 and Tuesday, January 1 for the holidays. Commercial and residential sanitation routes will run one day behind schedule, with Tuesday’s collection taking place on Wednesday, Wednesday on Thursday, continuing the pattern throughout the week. On Monday, December 24 and Monday, December 31, commercial and residential sanitation collection will occur as usual. On December 24, 25 and January 1, the main office and Regional Recycling Center will be closed.
 
The Intracity Transit office will be closed on December 24, 25 and January 1. During this time, reservation cancellations can be left on voicemail at 321-6625. Buses and paratransit vans will not operate on December 25 and January 1.  The city compost facility will be closed on December 24, 25 and January 1.

Airport advisory committee meeting scheduled

The Airport Advisory Committee will hold its regular monthly meeting at 3:45 p.m. on Thursday, December 20 in the Hot Springs Memorial Field airport terminal administrative conference room.  An agenda is attached.

Senator Mark Pryor on Inouye's death

Today I join my Senate colleagues in mourning the loss of our good friend and colleague, Senator Daniel Inouye. Dan dedicated eight decades of his life to public service, earning a reputation as a leader in his state and in the Senate. While serving together, I looked up to Dan with admiration and respect. He was not only a reliable partner in the Senate, but a thoughtful friend and confidante. Dan was—and is—a role model to all. His willingness to compromise, reach across the aisle, and put the interest of his state before the party was unmatched. Dan will be forever remembered as one of the Senate’s greats. Please join me in sending thoughts and prayers to Senator Inouye’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Street closing today in Hot Springs


The following street closings will take place in Hot Springs today, Tuesday, December 18:

7th Street, from West St. Louis Street to Meadowbrook Way, as well as Hawthorne Street, from Ova to Woodbine streets, will be closed to through traffic for gas line construction.

The southbound lane of Cooper Street, between Albert Pike Road and Ardmore Street, will be closed from 2 p.m. until 10 p.m. for wastewater line repair.

Signs will be posted.  Motorists are advised to seek an alternate route and use caution when traveling in the project areas.

Find a home for Eleanor


This is posted on Rocky Mountain Cocker Rescue's (RMCR) facebook page, but I wanted to try and get the word out there a little farther.  Once again RMCR has been asked to take in a senior, female Cocker Spaniel.  This is Eleanor and she's between 10-12 years old and in a high-kill shelter in Fayetteville AR. RMCR already has two senior dogs in foster care that have become long-term charges. That means that we have to turn down younger, more adoptable dogs that could utilize those foster spots. If we take Eleanor, that's even one more foster space that will be tied up. 
 
Senior dogs are so very wonderful and we hate to turn her down because it means she will die. If any of our readers feel as compassionate about these wonderful creatures as we do and would like to give Eleanor a comfortable home for her remaining years (which could be up to 4 years or maybe more), please let us know as soon as possible so we can save her life. Email John at john@rockymountaincockerresuce.org. Let's give Eleanor a Merry Christmas and several more happy New Years.
 
Photo: Hi folks.  Once again we've been asked to take in a senior female Cocker Spaniel.  This is Eleanor and she's between 10-12 years old and in a high-kill shelter in Fayetteville AR.  RMCR already has two senior dogs in foster care that have become long-term charges.  That means that we have to turn down younger, more adoptable dogs that could utilize those foster spots.  If we take Eleanor, that's even one more foster space that
 will be tied up.  



Senior dogs are so very wonderful and I hate to turn her down because it means she will die.  If any of our readers feel as compassionate about these wonderful creatures as I do and would like to give Eleanor a comfortable home for her remaining years (which could be up to 4 years or maybe more), please let us know as soon as possible so we can save her life.  Email me at john@rockymountaincockerresuce.org.  Time is of the essence!  Let's give Eleanor a Merry Christmas and several more happy New Years.
 
"None left to rescue, none left to buy, none left to suffer, none left to die.  None to be beaten, none to be kicked...  all must be loved and all must be fixed."
Please, open your home to help an animal in need.  Ask me how you can help.

This week at the Village Animal Shelter




















Muffin is a spayed female, domestic short haired, buff tabby, nine weeks old; Muffin and three sisters, all available, are real "live wires," active and extremely affectionate.



















Hedy is spayed female, domestic short hair, brown tabby; nine months old; gets along well with other cats and probably with a friendly dog.



















Tucker is a neutered male, domestic short haired, big brown tabby; six years old; has always been indoor-outdoor cat; a really lovable guy.













Duchess spayed female, retriever/collie mix, two years old; medium sized, 48 pounds; easy-going, easy to train; would get along with all family, children and  adults.



















Joy is a spayed female; Lab mix; two years old; gentle, calm, non-aggressive; walks well on harness, would love a family and a new home.

All of the above are available through the Hot Springs Village Animal Welfare League. Call 915-9337 for information regarding how to adopt.

Remaining holiday events at Garvan Woodland Gardens

Santa Returns for ONE MORE NIGHT This Thursday!
December 20
6:00 - 7:30 p.m. - Gingerbread House near Garvan Pavilion

The Jolly Old Fellow himself, Santa, along with his lovely Mrs. Santa, will greet children in the Gingerbread House from 6-7:30 p.m. this Thursday, December 20 during Holiday Lights.

Come early and tell the kids to bring their wish lists! Members free; Regular admission for all others: $10 adults, $5 children 6-12, FREE children 0-5.


Celebrity Christmas Concert
December 19
6:30 p.m. – Anthony Chapel

This holiday concert showcases entertainers Jason and Leslie Harper, and KATV Channel 7 personality Christina Munoz, along with her husband Dave. The group will perform various holiday numbers that are sure to delight and entertain the crowd. This is a Members Only concert. Reservation and $5 pre-payment are required. Limited space available. Please call the Gardens at 501-262-9300/800-366-4664 to make your reservation today.
Hallelujah Handbells Holiday Concert
December 20
7:00 p.m. – Anthony Chapel

A Handbell Choir from the 1st Baptist Church of Benton will perform many Holiday melodies. The concert is free and open to the public.