The Springs Magazine • February 2024 • 2 First and foremost, it is crucial to clarify that the featured firefighters pictured on the cover were not posing for photos during the Majestic fire incident! While some of them were actively involved in working the Majestic fire, this particular photo captures a different moment in time. We consider ourselves fortunate to have this image, as it serves as a representation of all the dedicated firefighters who responded to the call on February 27, 2014. We extend our gratitude to numerous individuals who played a role in bringing this tribute together. Special thanks to Capt. Pierce for presenting us with the opportunity to honor the men and women who worked tirelessly that night to save our historic Hot Springs monument. Randy and Nicholas McGrew generously provided Pierce with photos from the Majestic fire, contributing significantly to this feature. Despite the low resolution of many of the photos, the McGrews’ assistance allowed us to delve deeper into the narrative of that fire. Our sincere appreciation also goes to our skilled friend and Photoshop expert, Bob Nagy, who worked his magic to enhance the resolution of the cover photo of the firefighters. Additional photos were provided courtesy of Chris Sale @chrissalestudios for our Feature article. Thanks to Chip Shortreed and Chief Doug Davey for their help in identifying the men in the photo. Top L: Chad Williams, Josh Lacy, John Bird, Blake Harmon. Front L: Chad Roberts. Front R: Ty Farris Special thanks to Erin Baber for her extraordinary talent in transforming a handful of random phrases from this publisher into a truly magnificent cover. Above all, our heartfelt thanks go to the women and men who promptly answer the call, don their gear, jump into trucks, race down busy streets, and courageously step into burning buildings. To all of you, we tip our hats in admiration and gratitude! About the Cover . . . “A Story of the Majestic Hotel Fire”
3 • The Springs Magazine • February 2024 By Erin Baber The Garland County Library will soon offer free income tax assistance, an informational candidate forum, and early voting for all registered voters in Garland County. The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers will prepare free income tax returns beginning February 1, 2024. Tax-Aide will begin at 8:30 AM and end around noon, Monday through Friday, and on select Saturdays. Visit www.gclibrary.com/ news for all tax-related information. All state and local candidates on the Garland County ballot have been invited to participate in a state and local candidate forum on February 6. Doors open for a meet-and-greet at 5:30 PM, forum begins at 6 PM. The event will be live at the Library and will be streamed on the Library’s Facebook and YouTube pages. All registered voters in Garland County can vote at the Library: • 2/20 | 8 AM - 6 PM • 2/21 | 8 AM - 6 PM • 2/22 | 8 AM - 6 PM • 2/23 | 8 AM - 6 PM • 2/24 | 10 AM - 4 PM • 2/26 | 8 AM - 6 PM • 2/27 | 8 AM - 6 PM • 2/28 | 8 AM - 6 PM • 2/29 | 8 AM - 6 PM • 3/1 | 8 AM - 6 PM • 3/2 | 10 AM - 4 PM • 3/4 | 8 AM - 5 PM Election Day: • 3/5 | 7:30 AM - 7:30 PM Garland County Library is located at 1427 Malvern Avenue in Hot Springs. Visit www.gclibrary.com to access the online catalog, accounts, e-materials, and more 24/7 from any internet device. Erin Baber is Library Marketing Manager at the Garland County Library. Library Offers Income Tax Preparation and Early Voting Public Services Director Karen Covey cast her vote at the library in a previous election. With three months remaining before the April 8 total solar eclipse, Hot Springs is adding a free public concert by blues artist Nikki Hill to kick off the weekend leading up to the phenomenon. “Since Hot Springs is one of only two national parks in the path of totality for the eclipse, we thought it would be neat to add a free Bridge Street LIVE concert to start the celebration,” Visit Hot Springs Marketing Director Bill Solleder said. Some of the events planned in the city for the weekend include: • Thur, 4/4-Bridge Street LIVE Eclipse Kick-Off Concert with Nikki Hill. • Fri, 4/5-Atlas Obscura's Ecliptic Music and Camping Festival at Cedar Glades Park, Day 1. • Sat, 4/6-Atlas Obscura's Ecliptic Music and Camping Festival, Day 2. Ron Coleman Mining Eclipse Festival, Day 1. • Sun, 4/7-Atlas Obscura's Ecliptic Music and Camping Festival, Day 3. Ron Coleman Mining Eclipse Festival, Day 2. • Mon, 4/8-Atlas Obscura's Ecliptic Music and Camping Festival, Day 4. Visit www.hotsprings.org for a list of watch parties and for everything you’ll need to watch the eclipse.For more information call Bill Solleder at 501-321-2027. EDITOR’S NOTE: Send your Eclipse Event information to us at zine@ thespringsmagazine.com by February 15. Hot Springs Will Rock With Eclipse Events
The Springs Magazine • February 2024 • 4 By David Rose Arkansas is a national leader in solar snow removal. For the most part, we just leave it there until it melts. All in all, a very civilized way to handle such events. Just as snowplows in the north sometimes break down, our system has its occasional failings as well. One time we had a foot of snow followed by a prolonged cold spell. Everything stopped. After three or four days, I bundled up and trudged down to the post office. The clerk went into the back room and returned with a stack of mail that was equivalent to what I would get in a month. When I remarked on the quantity, she said it was the mail for some of my neighbors as well and asked if I could put it in their mailboxes on my way back. “Don’t y’all have some kind of motto?” I asked. “Rain, heat, gloom of night. Isn’t snow mentioned in there someplace?” “You must be thinking about UPS,” she replied. A very civilized system indeed. We at the Artists’ Workshop Gallery are nothing if not civilized, so when it snowed on the first Friday of January, we thought it wise to postpone our anniversary celebration. It will be held instead on Fri., Feb. 2. Join us for Gallery Walk at 610A Central Avenue, from 5-9 PM. 20% off all art during Gallery Walk. Champagne toast at 6. Our featured miniature artists are June Lamoureux and Pati Trippel. Lakeside - featured high school artists. Charlie Mink will provide the musical score. The Second Artists’ Workshop 33rd Anniversary Celebration Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, holds a special place in Barbara Prowell’s heart as a proud graduate of historic Langston High School. Her educational journey continued at Philander Smith College in Little Rock. Initially, Prowell excelled in the hospitality industry, showcasing her management skills in Special Events. Fate led her to meet her husband, John, in Columbus, Ohio, and they later moved to Maryland before settling in the Bay Area of California, where her son, Michael Prowell, was born. Prowell’s professional journey took her through diverse roles, including serving as the Director of Conference Services at the San Francisco Theological Seminary in Marin County, followed by impactful roles at MARTA (Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) and Morehouse Medical School in the Office of Public Affairs. Throughout her career, Prowell maintained her passion for poetry and art, a legacy passed down from her mother, Flora Cooper. Upon retiring, she returned to her roots in Hot Springs, finally having the time to pursue her first love – art. As a self-taught artist, Prowell embarked on her artistic journey, starting with handmade, one-of-a-kind note cards. This creative endeavor evolved to include bookmarks, placards, gift tags, and gift card enclosures. Prowell’s dream materialized with the establishment of her business, "Gifted Hands." Despite lacking formal training, she attributes her abilities to be a gift from God. In a tribute to Black History Month, Prowell will be the featured artist at the Grand Lagniappe Shoppe, located at 811 W. Grand Avenue, in Hot Springs, with a special artist reception February 2 during Gallery Walk. Her work will be on display in February during regular business hours or by appointment. Don't miss the opportunity to own a piece of her work while her artistic brilliance is on display. Barbara Prowell Featured at Grand Lagniappe in February Join artist Barbara Prowell during February Gallery Walk. The Springs Nov. 2013 Cover.
5 • The Springs Magazine • February 2024 FEBRUARY ART MATTERS • GALLERY WALK #414 Friday • FEB 2 • 5-9 PM • Visit HotSpringsArts.org for art news We delight in commemorating the arts and love in February in Hot Springs! Artists are expressing their affection by crafting unique Valentine’s gifts. Join us at Gallery Walk on February 2nd to explore and discover the perfect gift for your loved ones and perhaps yourself. The act of giving art goes beyond a mere object; it fosters a connection, creating a meaningful link between you, the artist, and the recipient. Bring a friend and join us in continuing this time-honored tradition of meeting the artists. Cheers to the Month of Love! AMERICAN ART GALLERY 724 Central • 501-624-0550 Thoughts of Spring. Featuring a mixed showing of gallery artists. Jimmy Leach, Ernie Bolieu, Valerie Hanks-Goetz, Isaac and Susan H. Washington. Valentine’s gifts to choose from for that special someone. Visit the Thomas Kinkade gallery. Mon-Sat, 10-4 PM. ARTISTS’ WORKSHOP GALLERY 610A Central • 501-623-6401 • ArtistsWorkshopGallery.com Come join the AWG artists at Gallery Walk for their 33rd Anniversary Celebration from 5-9 PM. Champagne toast at 6 PM. 20% off all art during Gallery Walk hours. Original works to inexpensive prints and note cards. Open 10–5. Sun, 12–5. Closed Tues. COLLECTIVE ARTS GALLERY 620 Central Avenue, Ste 2B • Second Floor • 501-318-1600 60 artists form Collective Arts Gallery. Climb the beautiful spiral staircase to the 2nd floor & welcome the artists to their new home. Paintings, jewelry, sculptures, cards, glasswork, pottery, and more. Wed-Sat 10 AM-4 PM. Sun Noon-4 PM. DRYDEN ART POTTERY STUDIO/GALLERY 341 Whittington • 501-623-4201 • DrydenPottery.com Four generations of artistry! Since 1946 our in-house formulated glazes & custom-blended clay combine to create a finished quality that is easily recognizable as “Dryden.” M-Sat 10-3 PM. Daily free pottery wheel demos M-F, 10-11 AM. All day Sat. THE ELECTRIC STRAWBERRY 500 W Grand Ave • 501-621-4133 • TheElectricStrawberry.com Join us for Hot Springs First Friday Gallery Walk! 5-7 PM. Our featured artist for February is Sara Domerese. Facebook: Art Walk - Feature Sara Domerese. AS ALWAYS- Get Salty Sessions $5 off during Gallery Walk! See Facebook for hours. EMERGENT ARTS 341A Whittington • 501-655-0836 • EmergentArts.org Light Up! Chinese New Year Lanterns. Come see sculptural lanterns made by local artists and kick off the Chinese or Lunar New Year festivities with us. Exhibition opens Feb 2, from 5-8 PM. Lanterns will be on exhibit through Feb. Gallery Hours: Tues-Sat 12-5 PM. JUSTUS FINE ART GALLERY 827A Central • 501-321-2335 • JustusFineArt.com Work by Michael Ashley, Dustyn Bork, Susan Baker Chambers, Robyn Horn, Sammy Peters, Laura Raborn, Sandra Sell, Gene Sparling, Stephen Schneider, Rebecca Thompson, Michael Warrick, Elizabeth Weber, and others. 10 AM–5 PM, Wed-Sat, & by appointment. TRADITIONAL ART GUILD [email protected] • FB: Traditional Art Guild Visit TAG’s Gallery at HS Airport. TAG is a place to network within the larger creative community. Attend their public meetings every 3rd Thursday. Facebook: Traditional Art Guild. Next meeting Feb. 15, 9:30 AM-Noon at GCLibrary. VAPOR VALLEY GALLERY & STUDIOS 121 Grove Street • FB: Vapor Valley Gallery & Studios Recently renovated by John Fagankrantz, Vapor Valley is the newest art gallery downtown. Featuring 25 local artists, located in the Historical Rest a While Inn. Check Facebook for days/hours then come enjoy their cozy atmosphere and impressive variety of art.
The Springs Magazine • February 2024 • 6 Maxwell Blade’s Theatre of Magic Magic & comedy for the whole family Robo World Coffee shop & arcade Justus Fine Art Gallery Established & emerging artists Run Stop Specialty running merchandise Deluca’s Pizzeria Napoletana Authentic NY brick oven pizza Rebecca Peterman Photography Portraits photography Next Generation Tye-Dyes & Apparel Cotton clothes & bedding Picante’s Mexican Grill Authentic Mexican dishes Brick House Grill Steaks, burgers, salads and much more Steinhaus Keller German food & biergarten Outdoor seating Mirror Mirror Salon Beauty, cosmetics & personal care Gary Morris Interiors Unique décor, lamps and gifts A Narrow Escape Brain-teaser escape room. Ages 8 & up Subway Submarine sandwich shop Small’s Barbershop & Shave Parlor Lazyone of Hot Springs High quality pajamas for family & pets Ouachita Bar & Grill Burgers & BBQ Cafe Kahlo Mexican Breakfast & brunch Destiny’s Bake Shop Breakfast, lunch, desserts, cakes Central Cabaret & Nightclub Music, entertainment, event venue Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Beer Garden Deadhead-Brauhaus Culture. Gin Joint 801 Spencer’s Corner Bathhouse Row 400 Block Central Ave Fat Jack’s Oyster & Sports Bar Great food, music. Pets OK on patio Kollective Coffee & Tea Organic & local for breakfast & lunch The Colonial Pancake & Waffle House Breakfast & brunch. Kringles & Kones Christmas-themed sweet shop Dapper and Debonaire Men’s grooming goods Rings ‘n’ Things Fun fashion jewelry Freedom United Salon Highly trained staff. Progressive work. The Villa Boutique Apparel, bath & body, linens, jewelry Colonial Candy Corner Retro & nostalgic candy, ice cream Kringles in the Park Christmas, seasonal, collectibles & gifts Faith & Flair Boutique Women’s boutique clothing The Springs Hotel & Spa Casual hotel and spa with 139 rooms Mountain Valley Spring Company Visitor Center/Museum. Full line of MV Water merchandise. Rolando’s Restaurante Latin American fare. Full bar & patio Savory Pantry Gourmet gift baskets & edible essentials Pancake Shop Serving breakfast exclusively. 3AM Gallery & Gifts Art gallery & gift shop Silver Coconut Collegiate, boutique baby items, & more Bathhouse Row Winery AR wine selections. Tastings daily Hot Springs Hemp Company Hemp oils and accessories Snazzies, Inc. Young, contemporary, funky boutique Beef Jerky Outlet Wall to wall jerky. Popcorn, sauces YOUR CBD STORE Alternative health services Arlington Hotel Historic hotel, largest hotel in AR Starbucks Coffee (Arlington) Arlington Beauty Salon (Arlington) Arlington Bathhouse/Spa (Arlington) Downtown Record & CDs (Arlington) Mamoo’s Paradice Cream Homemade ice cream. Uptown Market & Spirits Essentials from sunscreen to spirits Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum Journey through its 7 Magic Worlds Maharaja Boutique Embroidered dresses, sterling, t-shirts Chill & Go Handcrafted Ice Cream Rolled ice cream 4D Adventure Amazing 4D simulation Kilwins Since 1947, chocolates, ice cream & more Earthbound Trading Company Unique apparel, accessories & home decor The Buffalo Clothing Co. High quality men’s clothing & accessories Tombstone Old Time Photos Wild West, gangster portraits Thai-Me Spa Massage, nail, body, & skin services Argentinian Coffee & Wine Bar Argentinian delicacies, bar experience! Oxy-Zen Oxygen bar to restore, relax & revive! Hot Springs Hat Co. Hats for men and women Spa Souvenirs & Gifts Unique & locally made/designed items. The Ohio Club Oldest bar in AR. Great food & music The Avenue Upscale restaurant & bar in Waters Hotel The Waters Hotel Historic, boutique hotel, 62 rooms Gallery Central Gifts, clothing, & art Toy Chest Specialty toys, books, science kits, etc. It’s All About Rocks Rocks & unique merchandise EVILO Oils & Vinegars Delectable oils & vinegars, tastings daily Granny’s Kitchen Southern breakfast, lunch and dinner Bathhouse Soapery & Caldarium Handcrafted locally-soap & bath luxuries National Park Gifts & Souvenirs HS best selection of souvenirs & gifts Villianess Alchemy Bath & beauty apotheclasses Superior Bathhouse Brewery Thermal springs brewery, restaurant & special event venue Hotel Hale Boutique hotel and restaurant Fordyce Bathhouse Nat’l Park Visitor Center & museum Quapaw Baths & Spa Thermal pools & baths, spa services Ozark Bathhouse Cultural center, open on weekends Buckstaff Baths Our only remaining traditional thermal bathing facility Lamar Bathhouse Bathhouse Row Emporium Lauray’s Jewelers Bridal, custom designs, & repairs Spa City Market Convenience store Wrapped Gift Boutique A gift for every occasion BubbaLu’s Bodacious Burgers Burgers, hot dogs & ice cream Stella Mae’s…Out of the Ordinary Retro inspired clothing JoJo and Jess Home, fashion & personal accessories Ginger’s Popcorn The best darn popcorn in the South! All Things Natural Bring home the wonder & beauty of nature National Park Duck Tours Land & water tours on Lake Hamilton The Glitzy Girls by Bear Necessities Upscale women’s boutique Renee’s Women’s apparel, jewelry & home décor Hot Springs Haunted Tours Facts, myths & legends of Hot Springs Fat Bottomed Girl’s Cupcake Shoppe As seen on CUPCAKE WARS! MacKenzie’s Extraordinary Gift Shoppe Unique boutique gifts & plush animals Pour Some Sugar on Me Sweet Shoppe Candy & delectable delights. Gangster Museum of America Guided tour of the HS gangster world Historic District Antiques Estate jewelry, lighting, glass, & furniture Petals, Purses, Etc. Handbags, women’s & children’s clothing Trail Mix Outdoor apparel & trail gear The Gift Gallery Unique gifts, home decor, & apparel Diablos Tacos and Mescal Urban tacos, tapas, drinks. Patio dining Hot Springs Internal Medicine Clinic Family internal medical clinic Artists’ Workshop Gallery Cooperative gallery with 30 local artists All Things Arkansas Products made in AR & relating to AR JubiTea Hot Springs Bubble tea, milk tea, smoothies US Post Office Beverly’s Casual Shop Women’s boutique DeSoto Rock & Gift Shop Locally crafted jewelry & minerals Hot Springs Visitor Center Tourist information center Maxine’s Live Live music, food, craft beer & drinks Hot Springs Trolley Tours Trolley tours. Special events. The Porterhouse Steak and Seafood Prime-only steaks and seafood cuisine Copper Penny Pub Irish pub, food, beer, big screen TVs Vault 723 Timeless Vault Dining Downtowner Marketplace Vendors in one location with home decor, boutiques and artisans Rocket Fizz Soda pop & candy shop American Art Gallery & Gifts Local, regional, national & int’l artists Joanna A. Boutique Women’s fashions & accessories The Humidor Cigar Lounge Capone’s Loft Vacation Rental Legacy Fine Art Gallery Artwork by local & int’l artists 500 Block Central Ave 600 Block Central Ave 700 Block Central Ave 800 Block Central Ave 100 Block Exchange CENTRAL CABARET-NIGHTCLUB 200 Block Central Ave 300 Block Central Ave BUBBALU’S BURGERS & DOGS 1000 Block Central Ave FREE PARKING 128 Exchange St Parking Deck PAI D PARKING 2 HR Meters on Central Ave STEINHAUS KELLER 100 Block Central Ave DOWNTOWNER JUSTUS ART GALLERY 900 Block Central Ave HOTEL HALE
7 • The Springs Magazine • February 2024 “Sumo! Sumo! Sumo,” Arkansas’s first-ever sumo wrestling exhibition, featuring some of the most famous names in the sport, will take place Sunday, March 3, at Hot Springs’ Bank OZK Arena. The grappling goes down at 6 PM. “It’s the first time this type of entertainment has been featured in Arkansas, and is sure to be enjoyed by everyone,” Visit Hot Springs CEO Steve Arrison said. General Admission tickets are available at www.hotsprings.org/events/ sumo/. $30 for adults and $15 for kids 12 and under. Floor seating is $50 per ticket. The sumo exhibition will follow the 7th Annual Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival, a celebration of Japanese culture, which takes place from 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM on Sunday, March 3. Sponsored by the Hot Springs National Park Sister City Foundation, the event will be held in the Hot Springs Convention Center at 134 Convention Boulevard. The free festival is a family-friendly event with something for all ages. The 2024 festival will again feature cultural demonstrations, exhibits, and musical performances including taiko drums. Japanese lectures and workshops for those wanting a more hands-on experience will also be available. There are fees for some of the workshops and events. A variety of traditional Japanese carnival games as well as an anime cosplay contest is planned. Be watching the website for more information and reservation information beginning February 1. The sumo exhibition also will coincide with the 4th Annual American Craft Saké Festival, February 29 – March 3 in the Bridge Street Entertainment District. This will be the first time the festival has been held in Hot Springs. Hot Springs is home to the Origami Saké Brewery, which uses Arkansas rice in its brewing. For more information call Steve Arrison at 501-321-2027. Topping the bill in the sumo event will be Hiroki, the heaviest Sumo in the world. Ramy is a 10-time National Sumo Champion and former U.S. Sumo Open Champion. Mendee is a 2-time U.S. Sumo Open Champion and a former World Sumo Champion. Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival Special: 1st Time Ever in Arkansas! Not to Be Missed! Sumo! Photos Courtesy USA Sumo.
The Springs Magazine • February 2024 • 8 The Lake Hamilton Fire Department (LHFD) was established in 1958 and was the first volunteer firefighting association in Garland County. LHFD is an all-hazards fire and rescue department for the southeast corner of Garland County and parts of northwest Hot Spring County. LHFD is the only fire department with fire and rescue boats stationed on Lake Hamilton and Lake Catherine with experienced and certified SCUBA divers on their Special Operations Team. Today, LHFD is led by Chief Doug Davey and serves a population of up to 20,000 providing fire and rescue services to approximately 70 square miles. LHFD operates out of 5 stations with 23 fire apparatus and 2 docks with 2 fire boats. They respond to approximately 1,000 calls for service each year with 6 live-in firefighters, 20 volunteer firefighters, 5 volunteer Auxiliary members, and 1 office staff member. They have a diverse training facility with a classroom and training building (currently under construction). The fire district is governed by elected officials who make up the Board of Commissioners. LHFD offers excellent opportunities for people to contribute to their community through volunteering. No experience is necessary to join the department. LHFD has a full cadre of Fire and Emergency Services Instructors to train their firefighters to respond and help the community when in need. If you are looking for career development opportunities so you can become a career firefighter, then LHFD can help you get there. Commitment, Humility, Passion, and Pride. For more information about Lake Hamilton Fire Department, you can visit their website at www.lakehamiltonfire.com. You can also find them on Facebook: Lake Hamilton Fire Rescue and Instagram. If the social media outlets are not your thing, you can call them at 501-525-4361 or just stop in Station 2 at 1111 State Highway 290, Hot Springs, AR 71913. It’s a Great Time to Become a Volunteer Emergency Responder at Lake Hamilton Fire Department
9 • The Springs Magazine • February 2024 By AlanaPierce February 27, 2014, had not kept many people indoors. Hibernating businesses began to prepare for the spring tourists. The early arrival of seasonal visitors meant more foot traffic downtown and, with March just two days away, both tourists and locals had enjoyed the Thursday afternoon’s sights and sidewalks. But early in the evening, just as daylight settled behind the mountains and the streetlamps came alive, an emergency call came through: The Majestic was burning. For over 100 years, the Majestic’s 150+ rooms had hosted the famous and the infamous – from Babe Ruth to Al Capone. At one time a man could get a room for a night, get a haircut in the four-chair barber shop, and pick up his dinner for less than ten dollars. Decades earlier, her halls entertained conventions, sports teams, travelers, and, at times, families seeking to homestead in Hot Springs. Once one of the most imposing and important buildings in town, the Majestic had slowly declined until it was ultimately abandoned. Windows broke and wood rotted. The stately rooftop metal sign rusted. Her winding grand staircase would never again carry patrons to the upper floors. Most tourists didn’t know the intricate history of the blond-bricked building, or that it had been abandoned just a few years prior. Awestruck locals stared upward as one of the city’s most recognizable structures gave way to one of its most tangible fears: fire. A handful of those locals scrambled for vantage points. Some perched across the street, posting videos and announcements on social media. Others drove the mountain to do the same, sharing a bird’s eye view of the Majestic’s slow, glowing demise. As the last light sank behind the imposing building, dark smoke curled its way out of third-story windows, winding like grey ivy around the sign’s metal letters displayed atop the roof: MAJESTIC HOTEL. A few blocks away, the men of Central Station, the city’s main fire station on Broadway, had just cooked supper. Jared Hawthorn, already a ten-year veteran of the Hot Springs Fire Department, lifted his first forkful as a dispatch appeared on the monitor. “I looked at the words ‘Majestic…heavy fire,’ dropped my fork and ran to the window,” he remembers. Outside he saw the glow of fire and shouted “Let’s go boys!” Climbing into the driver’s seat of Engine 1, he flipped on the lights and sirens, ready for “a big one.” As Engine 1 turned the corner onto Central, Hawthorn could see the first-due pumper, Engine 3, pulling to a stop. Fire had already taken over the third floor. Hawthorn positioned his engine and began working the knobs and levers necessary to get water to the fire. In the meantime, one thought came to mind: “We’re gonna be here a long time." He knew instinctively this would be one of those fires people talk about for years. Across town, Jonathon Lishbrook, a then-23- year-old volunteer firefighter and full-time mechanic, had wrapped up his day and stopped for pizza before reporting to the department’s weekly training meeting. But training was interrupted that evening and department members gathered by a radio to hear the initial attack by the city firefighters on the famed Majestic. Lishbrook and other volunteers anxiously listened for a mutual aid request from the city. How big was this fire? Would the city have enough personnel to simultaneously fight the fire and protect the neighboring buildings from fire spread? He soon knew the answer to both. “The tone dropped and we were on our way with an engine, a stick (an 85-foot water tower), and manpower,” he recalls. The glow of the fire cast an orange nimbus over the downtown that was visible as far away as Highway 290. Lishbook recalls seeing the changing hue of the clouds and smoke when passing the mall. This fire was enormous and a conflagration could spell trouble for any department, but Lishbrook remembers his fellow firefighters working together “seamlessly.” “In all my 12 years of volunteering,” he recounts, “the Majestic was the smoothest I had seen.” And that work would continue all night and into the next day. Assigned to Front Street, Lishbrook’s team set up a ground monitor to flow as much water as possible on unburned areas (including other buildings) to prohibit the fire’s spread. Sitting at the monitor, he began to take in the enormity of the fire. Above him, flames exploded from one room to the next, pushing glass from windows with every breached door. Several stories above, orange flames juxtaposed the black silhouette of a Hot Springs ladder and the firefighters working from its bucket. Behind him, the water fountain began to go dry as crews pulled volumes that tested the limits of the city’s water mains. Steam and smoke hissed from every crack and crevice. At one point, city police officers used nonlethal rounds to break glass so firefighters could more accurately direct their hose streams, employing every possible angle to beat down the fire. And above it all the well-worn letters of the Majestic’s metal sign seemed to glide in and out of smoke, reminding him of the blurred outlines of fish just beneath a lake’s surface. Through the night firefighters grew weary, wet, and cold. Lishbrook describes it as bitter. “I was sitting in the middle of Front Street with a frozen mustache, focused on the ground monitor, when workers from Fat Jack’s hand-delivered the best food it felt like I’d ever had.” Indeed, the community had shown up to support first responders and comfort one another as a landmark disappeared hour by hour. Just before dawn, the inevitable happened. “I just watched it sink... and sink,” he remembers solemnly, describing the last moments of the iconic Majestic sign. He, like so many others, had worked unwaveringly through the cold and, like them, had watched the sign as it disappeared behind the turgid smoke. Then into the flames. And then, just as day approached, into the gutted interior. No matter how skillfully they worked, and no matter how much support had been offered, the battle to save the Majestic was drawing to an end. It seemed at this point the old building herself was resigned to give up, beleaguered by years of neglect. With every moment, she weakened. As the same sun that had slipped behind the building twelve hours earlier reemerged and lit up the remains of the Majestic, firefighters and those who had cheered them through the dark night knew that she was gone—reduced to a skeleton of brick and metal, char and steam. Somewhere inside, her twisted metal sign rested upon a ruined grand staircase. Captain Alana Pierce is a 19-year veteran on her hometown fire department, the NLRFD. She has resided in Hot Springs since 1991. Her love for Hot Springs history stems from the stories told by her step-aunt, Inez Cline. Writing under pen names, Pierce has been published over 200 times and is a three-time Pushcart Prize nominee “Let’s Go, Boys!” A story of the 2014 Majestic fire told by those who were there Photos courtesy of Chris Sale @chrissalestudios
The Springs Magazine • February 2024 • 10
11 • The Springs Magazine • February 2024 The Hot Springs Sister City Program has announced the 3rd Annual Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival Haiku Competition sponsored by The Springs Magazine. Top entries will be invited to read their winning haikus at the Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival on March 3, will be published and displayed at the event, and will be published in the April publication of The Springs Magazine. A haiku is a traditional Japanese poem made of three unrhymed lines of five, seven, and five syllables. Haiku often feature an image, or a pair of images, and capture the essence of a specific moment in time or a way of looking at the physical world and seeing something deeper. These short poems aim to leave the reader with a strong feeling or impression. The event is open to Arkansas residents of all ages with two categories, Adult and 18 years of age and below. Top entries will be selected by a published Haiku poet. Cash prizes will be awarded to top entries. Entries are due by February 20, limited to two haiku per person, and should be submitted online on the Cherry Blossom Festival Page at www.HotSpringsSisterCty. org/Haiku. By submitting, the poet authorizes festival organizers to publish haiku in association with the Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival. February 20 is the Deadline for Haiku Competition Entries By Erin Wood An epic novel about Civil War-era Nashville’s “Public Women,” an age-old secret society, and the earth-shaking power of the female by Little Rock writer Jen Fawkes is forthcoming in July 2024 from Abrams. Inspired by Aristophanes’ Lysistrata and the true story of Nashville’s attempt to exile its prostitutes during the Civil War, Daughters of Chaos weaves together “found” texts, fabulism, and queer themes to question familiar notions of history and family, warfare, and power. In 1862, protagonist Sylvie Swift translates the playscript by day, but at night acts as a Union spy. Both endeavors acquaint her with a sisterhood whose members—including Hannah, a fiery revolutionary to whom Sylvie is increasingly drawn—possess potentially monstrous powers. Sylvie soon becomes entangled in the Cult of Chaos, a feminist society steadfast in its ancient mission to eradicate the violence of men. Fawkes is also the author of the short story collections Tales the Devil Told Me (Press 53, 2021) and Mannequin and Wife (LSU Press, 2020), a Shirley Jackson Award Nominee. Library Journal calls her “a writer to watch,” and her short fiction has won numerous awards including the 2021 Porter Fund Literary Prize, and has appeared in One Story, Lit Hub, The Iowa Review,Crazyhorse, Best Small Fictions, and many other publications. She is currently a Visiting Assistant Professor in Fiction at University of Arkansas. To preorder signed copies, call or visit WordsWorth Books Little Rock at wordsworthbookstore.com. To connect with Fawkes, visit jenfawkes.com. Hot Springs native, Erin Wood is a writer, editor, and publisher in Little Rock. She owns and runs www.etaliapress.com. Wood is author of “Women Make Arkansas: Conversations With 50 Creatives” (April 2019) and editor of and a contributor to “Scars: An Anthology” (2015). Daughters of Chaos
The Springs Magazine • February 2024 • 12 Park Avenue Fire Station Golden Raised Donuts Donuts and breakfast pastries Arkansas Tower Motel Short-Dodson House/Tower Motel E-Z Mart Fast stop The Gold Inn Quaint Uptown motel David F. Watkins Memorial Park Community Park & Amphitheater 1884 Wildwood Bed & Breakfast Bed and breakfast Parkway Court Daily, weekly, monthly Bower Motel Epic Cabinets & Design Countertops, cabinets & accessories Spa City Cycling Sales & Service Bike service, repair, and parts Budget Inn/Relax Inn Lynwood Motel Shell Gas Station Family Dollar Neighborhood shopping Coffee House 2 Blocks Craft Coffee Roastery Northwoods Trail Connector Pullman Avenue short cut to Northwoods Urban Forest Trail Settle Inn Upscale modern vacation rental cottages. Newly renovated. Full kitchens. Red Light Roastery Coffee House Small batch, craft coffee roastery Larkmartin Soaps Handmade soaps and lotions 1010 Liquor Wine, beer & spirits 700 Block Park Ave 800 Block Park Ave 900 Block Park Ave 1000 Block Park Ave RED LIGHT ROASTERY Majestic Lawn Historic landmark Vapors Live Event & live music venue Air-FX Heating & air conditioning The Hot Springy Dingy Gifts, jewelry, costume rental North Star Liquor/Big A’s Liquor Wine, beer & spirits Bailey’s Dairy Treat One of three drive-ins in town Simple but Effective Cutz Barbershop Park Haven Community Garden Community vegetable garden Haven United Methodist Thrift Store Bargains galore Dame Fortune’s Cottage Court Historic boutique motel. Modern amenities. Vintage-inspired design August and Company Resale shop Emma Lee’s Soul Food restaurant The Arrangement Florist 400 Block Park Ave 500 Block Park Ave 600 Block Park Ave 100 Block Park Ave HOT SPRINGY DINGY 300 Block Park Ave SETTLE INN Cottage Court Vapors Live northwoods trail The Parlour Metaphysical shop Anchor High-end body piercing studio Just Swanky Consignment Boutique Upscale resale shop M&M Travel Consultants Vacations & adventures Big Axe Battleground Axe throwing Garland County Courthouse Government Offices Hamp Williams Building Event venue Surfas Culinary District Quality cookware & equipment Taco Mama Side Town Mexican restaurant Galaxy Connection Superhero store & Star Wars Museum Statements for the Home Interior Design 3B’s Bar & Grill Dive bar, pool tables Best Court Cottages Boutique cottages Best Cafe Gormet menu Garland Cty Election Commission HS Chamber of Commerce The Electric Strawberry Wellness bar & soul repair shop Grand Avenue Habitat Restore Thrift store St John’s Catholic Church The Clearspring Senior living community Kids Source Speech & Development therapy Dairy Queen Grill & Chill Ice cream and burgers Riley Art Glass Studio Glass blowing, gallery & demos Leo’s Auto Service Automotive repair Forever Beautiful Permanent cosmetics Superior Senior Care In-home care services Grand Lagniappe Shoppe Women’s apparel & Tea Room Grand Ave United Methodist Church Hideaway Cafe Quaint & friendly coffee house 700 Block West Grand Ave 800 Block West Grand Ave Lender’s Title Company Largest independent title & escrow agency in AR & LA Landmark Building Something Bleu Bridal boutique Lavish Boutique Stylish & trendy women’s boutique SQZBX Brewery & Pizza Joint Lunch & dinner; entertainment KUHS 102.5 Hot Springs Solar Powered Community Radio Mountain Valley Armory Bank OZK Home Instead Senior Care In-home care for Seniors The Courthouse Chapel/Get Hitched Hot Springs Wedding planning venue Barrels Unlimited Winemaking kits and lessons SixtyOne Celsius Full-service communication firm The Retro Fit Women’s, men’s, kids-retro Hairapy Beauty salon & barber shop. Stroope Tire, Inc. Tire dealer & repair shop Farmers Insurance Darryl Wiltshire Agency Ouachita Investment Group White Stone Real estate agency Chrysalis Day Spa Day spa and Med spa Splash Wine Bar Wine, beer, appetizers & entertainment Ouachita Wax & Naturals Vintage decor, design Colorado Grill Southwest restaurant 200 Block Ouachita Ave 400 Block Ouachita Ave 500 Block Ouachita Ave 100 Block Ouachita Ave 600 Block Ouachita Ave GRAND LAGNIAPPE SHOPPE 300 Block Ouachita Ave 600 Block West Grand Ave JUST SWANKY THERETRO FIT 200 Block Woodbine Street 500 Block West Grand Ave
13 • The Springs Magazine • February 2024 Route 66 Adventure Handbook is your personal guide to the vanishing American roadside, with all of its exuberance, splendor, and absurdity. For this updated and expanded sixth edition, Drew Knowles has included it all: magnificent architecture, natural wonders, Art Deco masterpieces, vintage motels and cafes, unique museums, offbeat attractions, fascinating artifacts and icons, and kitschy tourist traps. The addition of more city maps, showing the multiple paths of Route 66 and displaying the exact locations of points of interest, is a major improvement over the already critically acclaimed fifth edition of the book. The sixth edition also includes hundreds of beautiful new photographs – including a 24-page center insert with stunning color photos and the addition of dozens of new attractions. Knowles has also added QR codes for certain locations that will enable the reader to access additional online material. Additionally, GPS coordinates have been included for virtually all of the photos, so that travelers can plug the information into their smartphones and other navigation devices. Filled with wonderfully quirky side trips and fun bits of trivia, Route 66 Adventure Handbook is the most authoritative resource for anyone looking to explore the Mother Road. Fasten your seat belts! Hot Springs resident Drew Knowles is a writer, photographer, and veteran of dozens and dozens of road trips throughout the United States. His travel photography has been exhibited in museums and galleries both on and off the Mother Road, including the Texas Route66 Museum, the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, the Lincoln County Museum of Pioneer History, Old Bedford School Museum, Whittington Gallery, Mena Art Gallery, and Ouachita Artists’ Gallery. For more information visit www.santamonicapress.com, books@santamonicapress. com, or call 800-784-9553. Local Author’s Route 66 Adventure Handbook Includes Offbeat Attractions On Thursday, February 22, The Entertainment Foundation and Lifelong Learning Institute will present its first show of the 2024 Raising the Curtain series. Jason “Floyd” Coleman will grace the stage with “Unchained Melodies,” celebrating the music from the 60s and 70s with his own distinctive style. The show begins at 7 PM at the Woodlands Auditorium. Presenting sponsors are Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and Village Home Care. Coleman made his Grand Ole Opry debut at age 17, and two years later played for the Medallion Ceremony recognizing his grandfather (piano legend) Floyd Cramer’s induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. In the years since, Coleman has spent his career in the studio and on stage, producing his own collection of piano albums and touring coast to coast in concerts that bring his grandfather’s signature piano style to new audiences. In this concert, pianist Jason ‘Floyd’ Coleman plays the unforgettable music of the 60s and 70s, spanning the hits of Roy Orbison, Patsy Cline, the Carpenters, the Beatles, Elvis Presley, the Righteous Brothers, and more. Every song is a cherished memory. Tickets may be purchased at www.HSVTicketSales.com. For those living outside Hot Springs Village, please show ticket(s) for gate access. Raising Curtain Series Presents Jason “Floyd” Coleman Jason “Floyd” Coleman will perform hits from the 60s and 70s.
The Springs Magazine • February 2024 • 14 On Sunday, February 11, the Virginia Clinton Kelley Democratic Women and the Hot Springs NAACP will present an educational event, Massacre and Dispossession in the Delta: From Jim Crow to the Present. Attendees will view We Have Just Begun, a documentary about the 1919 massacre in Elaine, Arkansas. Awardwinning filmmaker Michael Warren Wilson, an Arkansas native, will discuss his decision to undertake the telling of this deadly event and its unfolding. Jennifer Hadlock, an attorney, researcher, and community organizer from New York, will present findings from her extensive research in Elaine and Phillips County. She spent a year researching land deed records to which Elaine descendants have historically been denied access. Hadlock’s research connects the dots between the Elaine massacre and extensive land theft that robbed black owners of their farms, homes, and businesses, and placed the resource that was their lifeblood into the hands of white owners. The audience will hear from Elaine residents about their experiences and hope for restorative justice through TIAA Exposed, an organization seeking accountability and reparations from TIAA for practices that conflict with their published corporate values of equity and environmental responsibility. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. and the event will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the Central Cabaret at 1008 Central Avenue. Admission is $15 online at www.naacphs6013.org, or at the door. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. Join the Discussion About the 1919 Elaine, Arkansas Massacre The Hot Springs Area Cultural Alliance (HSACA) will host the 11th annual Arts & The Park festival from Friday, April 26, through Sunday, May 5, at various locations around Hot Springs, with the theme of Celebrate Imagination. The 10-day spring arts festival will focus on cleverness, originality, ingenuity, and the limitlessness of the mind. HSACA also invites the community to send them imaginative programming suggestions that fit the festival theme. The Celebrate Imagination festival honors outside-the-box thinking and allowing the imagination to run free. The festival will offer opportunities for people of all ages to explore new artistic techniques through workshops, demonstrations, and more. Arts & The Park 2024 will continue to offer fundamental programming and events such as Art Moves, Art Springs, The Glover Awards for Songwriting, Artist Studio Tours, Virtual Cooking, Gallery Walk, and weekday events at the Garland County Library. Art Springs, the outdoor arts festival at Hill Wheatley Plaza will be held Saturday, April 27, and Sunday, April 28. Applications for artist booth space at Art Springs are being accepted at HotSpringsArts.org. In mid-February submissions to the Glover Awards for excellence in songwriting will open and local artists can sign up to be listed on the Studio Tours. Check www.hotspringsarts.org for details. To broaden the festival, HSACA is also inviting community members to contact [email protected] if they have unique artistic skills or talents they would like to share by hosting a workshop or demonstration, or if they have any suggestions for artistic experiences that do not currently exist during the festival. “Celebrate Imagination” is Theme for 2024 Arts & The Park Many fun events are in store for the 2024 Arts Festival.
15 • The Springs Magazine • February 2024 Saturday, February 10, 2024, the Hot Springs Children’s Dance Theatre Company will hold auditions for A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Techniques Studio, 216 Garrison Road, Hot Springs. All dancers from the ages of 5+ are encouraged to audition for the opportunity to perform in a stunning interpretation of Shakespeare’s enchanting tale. Those chosen will have a wonderful opportunity to learn the nuances of a ballet performer taken as seriously as any professional dance organization. The auditions are open for dancers from the entire community who are interested in a professional experience. Students should arrive 30 minutes prior to the audition time to have time to register. At the audition, students will do a ballet class. A parent or guardian must be present for students under 18 years of age to sign appropriate waiver forms. The audition will be held from 9 AM – 10 AM for dancers 5-9 years of age; 10:30 AM – Noon for 10 – 13 years of age, and Noon – 1:30 PM for ages 14 and older. An audition fee of $15 is required. Dress code for girls is black leotard, pink tights, hair in a bun, and ballet shoes, in addition to pointe shoes for advanced and intermediate females. Males are asked to wear tights, shorts or sports pants, and a t-shirt during auditions. If you have any questions about the audition process or the production and rehearsal regimen, please contact the Dance Theatre Company via email [email protected]. Auditions Scheduled for Children’s Dance Theatre Auditions are open for dancers from 5+ who are interested in a professional ballet experience. Howdy! The Murder and Macabre Mystery Dinner Theater welcomes the Beverley Hillbillies! But a strange murder has occurred within this group of family and friends and someone needs to help solve this mystery. Y’all come on out to The Porterhouse Steakhouse on 707 Central Ave. and help. A Valentine buffet will be served for dinner and maybe Granny will cook up some boiled hog jowls and add them to the menu. A cash bar will also be available. So mark your calendars for Friday, February 9, and Saturday, February 10, and join in on the fun with this “Who dun it” comedy play. Doors open at 6:00 PM with the “all you can eat buffet” served shortly after. The play starts at 7:00 PM. Come dressed in your hillbilly duds or your swanky Beverly Hills glamorous attire and participate in our costume contest. Whooo, doggy! This will be a fun event. The tickets are $50 per person, must have reservations and you must be over 21 years old to attend. Call Lynn at 501-627-5534 for reservations or more information. Y’all come back now, you hear!! Murder With the Beverley Hillbillies THE CAST: where every actor is a suspect and every smile conceals a secret.
The Springs Magazine • February 2024 • 16 By Karin Grisham & Jodi Tooke Xeriscape is a fancy name for common-sense gardening. As populations grew in the American West, water demands increased. Using principles first developed by Denver Water in 1981, xeriscaping saves water, time, and resources while creating beautiful landscapes. Derived from Greek, “xeros” means dry. That probably explains why people might associate it with ugly expanses of gravel and prickly cactus. However, the emphasis in xeriscaping is on plant selection for water conservation – planting native drought-resistant thrivers! The seven design principles (www.xeriscapes.net) are appropriate across all regions and can especially guide thrifty homeowners. 1. Design/plan. Diagram landscape, reinforcing good and addressing bad features. Pay attention to eroding slopes and soggy spots. 2. Prepare soil. Add compost to increase water retention; amend poor soil. 3. Limit turf. Use grasses tolerant to climate and sun conditions. 4. Choose plants. Group plants with similar needs in areas that support them. Various heights, colors, and textures create interest. 5. Irrigate properly. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep roots. The most efficient systems release water in big drops near the ground. Avoid overhead and mid-day watering to minimize evaporation. 6. Mulch. Keeps plant roots cool, reduces evaporation, and resists wind or rain washout. 7. Maintain. Water, prune, control pests, and fertilize; as plants establish, it will take less time. Join us at the Hot Springs Xeriscape Garden at Hollywood Ave and Shady Grove Road in Hot Springs to learn more! Karin Grisham and Jodi Tooke are Garland County Master Gardeners, who volunteer with GC Master Gardeners of the UofA Div. of Agriculture, Cooperative Ext. Service. Master Gardeners pool skills and resources to improve home horticulture, stimulate interest in plants and gardening, and encourage beautification. For more info, 501-623-6841 or [email protected]. Master Gardeners: Advocates for Xeriscaping for Smart Gardening Visit the Xeriscape Garden at Hollywood Ave and Shady Grove Road in Hot Springs to learn more common sense gardening. The 2nd Spring Tikes, Trikes, and Trails event has been scheduled for Tuesday, March 19, at the Farmer’s Market Pavilion, 121 Orange Street in Hot Springs. Come take a stroll down the Hot Springs Creek Greenway Trail. Don’t have a bike? A limited number of bikes will be provided FREE at this event. You can also bring your skateboard, scooter or wheelchair to join the fun. All participants will receive a t-shirt, trail maps, and other free give away items (while supplies last). Water will be provided. Attendees will be entered into a drawing for a bike and helmet to take home. For more information call 501-321-6871. This event is sponsored by: Hot Springs Parks & Trails, Hot Springs Bicycle Touring Company, Northwoods Trails-Hot Springs, Diamond Lakes Master Naturalists, and Parkside Cycle. Save the Date for the Spring Tikes, Trikes, and Trails Event Family fun scheduled for March 19. By Michael Ranft Alpha-gal syndrome is a food allergy caused by a bite from a Lone Star tick. It can cause symptoms such as hives, itching, stomach pain, and diarrhea. There is no Western medical treatment as yet for this syndrome, but it can be managed by avoiding red meat and other products made from mammals. In serious cases it can cause anaphylaxis and a visit to the emergency room. There is growing evidence that acupuncture can be effective in treating alphagal syndrome. One study published in the Medical Acupuncture Journal found that 94.8% of patients with alpha-gal syndrome who underwent auricular acupuncture (a type of acupuncture that involves inserting needles on the ear) experienced a significant improvement in their symptoms. The study also found that the improvement was sustained for at least 9 months after treatment (the length of time of the study). Usually only one treatment is needed, while a few require two. Patients find they can once again eat beef, milk, and milk products, etc. without difficulty. Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for alpha-gal syndrome. It has been shown to be effective in reducing the severity of symptoms and improving quality of life. If you are considering acupuncture for alpha-gal syndrome, it is important to find a licensed acupuncturist who is certified by the NCCAOM and is experienced in treating this condition. Treatment for Alpha-Gal Syndrome While true beauty comes from within, confidence gives a special boost that makes a person GLOW! Introducing GLOW - a new skin-care facility specializing in dermaplaning, botox, fillers, and more in Malvern, Arkansas. Primary provider, Lisa Arnold, RN-BSN, is a certified nurse injector with 7 years of experience in the aesthetics industry. Meet with Lisa one-on-one to discuss concerns, set goals, and get a personalized plan to help you GLOW! Services currently provided by GLOW: • Filler • Botox • PDO threads • Dermaplane • Procell stem cell treatments • CooLifting hyaluronic facials • Sclerotherapy • Elta MD products Don’t forget to check out the February specials: • Lip filler $550/syringe • Lip Flip $39 • Dysport $4/unit • 25% off PDO threads and Elta MD products Self-care isn’t always easy. GLOW takes Cherry, an instant decision/no hard credit check payment plan, and offers flexible night and weekend appointments. GLOW is located at 823 Halbert Avenue, in Malvern, Arkansas. Visit www.glowarkansas.com or call 501-304-1185 to learn more and schedule an appointment. Get a Personalized Plan to Help You GLOW! Lisa Arnold, RN-BSN, is a certified nurse injector with 7 years of experience.
17 • The Springs Magazine • February 2024 By Christi Nation “Whatever we focus on determines what we become.” – E. Stanley Jones Many of us adopt an “All or Nothing” approach to happiness. We could have 1,000 things going right in our lives and yet focus on that one thing going wrong. Some choose to make the bad things going on the center of their attention. What if we lost the 1,000 things going right due to ingratitude for them? Think for a moment about the things you take for granted. Your ability to drive? Your ability to speak? Your ability to think? It doesn’t have to be an “All or Nothing” world. We can focus on the good things going on. The truth is that our lives are never going to be perfect. There is always going to be something that’s not going quite right. Let’s learn to adjust our perceptions choosing to concentrate on the things that ARE going right. Until next time, here are your Happiness Actions: 1.Each morning text to yourself one thing for which you are grateful. 2. Keep that thought in your mind as much as you can during the day, especially if something goes wrong. 3.Each evening meditate for one minute on that one thing you texted yourself that morning. 4. Know that even when ten things are going wrong in your life, there are at least 1,000 other things that are going right. That’s quite a percentage in your favor. Christi Nation serves as Lead Career Coach for National Park College and is stationed at Cutter Morning Star High School. She is a trainer, coach, and conference speaker through her company Nation Training & Development. She is a breast cancer survivor and won her battle with Stage III thyroid cancer. If you would like inspiration and more happiness actions in your inbox, send a message to [email protected]. Happiness Actions: All or Nothing? Christi Nation Choose “Nutrient-Dense” Foods By Alison Crane Go to any grocery store and you will be bombarded with thousands of choices. Those choices are then influenced by cost, taste, time, skill, etc. We hear a lot about nutrition but often don’t translate what we learn into making good food choices. Studies have shown that the more educated people are about nutrition and health, the healthier they tend to be, but “knowing” has to become action or it just makes a person better at playing trivia games. Applying what we know can be complicated at times, so start with something simple. Choose one recommendation, and actually apply it. For instance, you might decide to focus on making every calorie count by choosing nutrient-dense foods. Nutrient-dense foods contain complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, minerals, vitamins, and lean protein which help them pack a nutritional punch. Foods high in nutrients tend to be lower in calories. Nutrient-dense foods include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat or fat-free milk products, seafood, lean meats, eggs, peas, beans, and nuts. Try these tips for including nutrient-dense foods to your diet. • Start by adding a nutrient-dense food to your favorite meal of the day and continue adding new foods to your meals one food at a time. • When shopping, read nutrition labels to compare foods and brands and pick the item with the highest nutritional value. • Avoid drinking your calories. • Choose whole foods over processed foods. The old saying, “You are what you eat,” really is true, but you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to be healthy and make good food choices. For more nutrition educational resources and programs, contact the Garland County Extension Service at 501-623-6841 or email [email protected]. Alison Crane is a Family and Consumer Sciences Agent with the GC Extension Service. The UofA System Division of Agriculture offers all its Extension and Research programs to all eligible persons and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Add a nutrient-dense food to your favorite meal of the day. Emergent Arts is hosting a three-hour interactive lecture, Introduction To Feng Shui, presented by Michelle Crandell, on Saturday, February 10 from 1:00 – 4:00 PM. Feng Shui is the Chinese practice of arranging your environment to enhance good fortune in your life. In this informative overview, Crandell will present the basics of Feng Shui, including: INTENTION: How to create living and working spaces that correspond with your heart's desires. THE BAGUA: In the theory and practice of Feng Shui, any space you inhabit is divided into nine equal parts. Each part governs a different area of your life. The Bagua defines and describes each area. You can apply this chart to your home, to a room, to a building, or a location in order to work with more collaboratively with the energies of the places you visit or live in. THE FIVE ELEMENTS: Earth, Air, Metal, Water, and Fire are the five elemental energies that influence us all in Feng Shui. Understanding the influence of the five elements helps individualize your personal Feng Shui and flow with the changes reality brings. Held at Emergent Arts, 341 Whittington Avenue, Hot Springs, tickets are $15, at www.emergentarts.org, or by calling 501-613-0352. Crandell to Facilitate Feng Shui Lecture at Emergent Arts
The Springs Magazine • February 2024 • 18 By Karen Watson Reeves Anyone have trouble making decisions? Weighing options? Figuring out the best scenario? In my growing up years my daddy and uncles owned and operated Watson Brothers Grocery in Mt. Holly, and one of my uncles was a butcher. There was a scale sitting on top of the fresh meat case, and I, my brother, all my cousins, and the other babies in our community were placed on that scale periodically to check our weight. In our society we frequently use a scale to check our body weight, to see if we are gaining or losing pounds. I chose in front of the Garland County Courthouse (where there is still snow on the ground, and YES, it was a COLD photoshoot!!) because the pose reminds me of the scales of justice, which are about fairness in court cases. There are two sides to every story, and each side of a case or story should be heard. Lady Justice, it is said, carefully “weighs” the claims of each side, using the scales of justice. The yoga pose called scale or tolasana reminds us of a scale to weigh things, figuratively or literally. To be able to lift off into this arm balance posture, it is extremely helpful to be able to fold the legs into lotus pose. If the femur bones do not want to turn that much in the hip joint, the practitioner should not force it. As in almost every yoga pose, there are modifications. Because of the position of the legs, scale pose is a hip opener, increasing flexibility. Other benefits include strengthening the wrists, arms, and shoulders. The core muscles are engaged while holding the pose, leaving them toned. It is energizing and creates that natural high feeling as we lift off. It is fun to swing the body back and forth between the hands like a scale. A yoga practice (including achieving scale pose) brings awareness to the forefront of our minds. When we are mindful of our surroundings, our bodies, our options, we can weigh in with better decision-making considerations. Now, anyone want to weigh in on this next winter weather scenario??! Karen Watson Reeves has called Hot Springs home since 2006. Owner of The Yoga Place, at 301 Whittington Avenue, she became a registered yoga/children’s yoga teacher in 2011. When not on the mat, Karen enjoys the beautiful outdoors of the National Park, especially from her bicycle. For more information about her studio and her schedule of classes, visit www.theyogaplacehs.com. Yoga: Benefits of Scale Pose In this photo, Karen demonstrates Scale Pose on a wintry January morning with the Garland County Courthouse in the background. Photo by Fred Padilla. Tarot: Aquarius and The Star By Michelle Crandell For those born under the astrological sign Aquarius, The Star is the Major Arcana card symbolizing natural gifts Aquarians can use to find meaning and purpose in life. People born under The Star possess a hopeful attitude: seeing life through the lens of a positive future, focusing on benevolent forces in the universe. Aquarians are open-minded. They seek clarity, scientific truth, eternal wisdom, and joy. Highly imaginative, Star-born people “have their heads in the clouds,” seemingly unaffected by earthly life. Some people interpret this detachment as lack of emotion; others as fanciful optimism. The Star represents self-sufficiency and self-trust. Naturally radiant and confident, Aquarians follow their own star, often becoming Guiding Stars for others. They welcome “stardom” when it involves recognition for talent, innovation, or the fruits of their creativity. When they shine, people and opportunities are drawn to them. Star-borns prefer interpersonal relationships that are mentally stimulating and easygoing. They have trouble with conflict or intensity. Their highly accepting attitude can backfire if they assume others are as accepting as they are. When confronted, an Aquarius may disappear, fly off the handle, or strike like lightning rather than resolve interpersonal conflict. Their interest is more in becoming a person of the larger world than an intimate partner. Archetypes: Astronauts, motivational speakers, writers, successful entrepreneurs, world travelers, anthropologists, and astronomers. Shadow Archetypes: Pollyanna, The Grinch, Persephone Michelle Crandell provides individual Tarot readings for a fee. Once a year, she teaches LEARN TO READ TAROT. Call if interested in her next class. To learn more, email [email protected], or call 501-655-6242. The Major Arcana Tarot card associated with Aquarius is XVII The Star.
19 • The Springs Magazine • February 2024 By Peggy Lindsey Hopes and dreams are part of the human experience, yet many sabotage one’s chances of fulfilling such desires. Somehow we’ve been duped into believing there’s only so much to go around, that it is selfish to want too much, and that when we receive blessings in our lives then someone else does without. It’s time to let go of that belief! The Universe is infinitely abundant! We know the saying “Ask and you shall receive,” yet we hesitate. Being willing and open to receive is our part of this equation. So, what gets in our way? What beliefs do we hold that build a barrier between what we say we want and the receiving of it? Many of us believe on some level that we are not worthy. Maybe we desire a new home, a miracle cure for a health condition, or even a major change in our career . . . and when we dream of these things our hearts light up, feeling the goodness they exude! But then we hear someone say “Get real” or “Who do you think you are to ask for so much” . . . and we resign ourselves to believing they’re right. But what is too much? Financial freedom? Excellent health? A loving community? Do these things not help us to live our best lives? The Angels say there is no need to deprive yourself of anything, for no matter what you desire - big or small - they can never take away from another! So ask . . . believe . . . know that you are worthy . . . and expect to receive the desires of your heart! Peggy Lindsey is a Professional Life Coach, Master Teacher of Arcing Light Energy Healing, and a Spiritual Mentor. Her passion is assisting women on their journey toward happy, healthy lives by empowering them to live more joyfully and consciously. She created her business, On Angels’ Wings Healing and Coaching, in 2012 and currently practices in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She can be reached at 928-273-8447. For more info, visit https://onangelswingshealing.abmp.com/. Be Open to Receive