April 2026

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 2A huge thank‑you to Pam Clark for spotting and capturing that fantastic photo of Emilie Boyett in full Mystical Mayhem glory.It’s vibrant, imaginative, and perfectly reflects the spirit of Arts & The Park and its celebration of creativity. Emilie looks like she’s having the time of her life, spreading joy everywhere she goes. Be on the lookout for Mystical Mayhem Productions to pop up at local events. Founded in 2022 by Emilie and her best friend, Victoria Dobson, their mission is to spark imagination for all ages at parties, festivals, and local events.We hear they can be found on Facebook: Mystical Mayhem Pro or [email protected]’re also grateful to the Hot Springs Area Cultural Alliance for hosting Arts & The Park. Its collaborative nature brings our community together year after year.Inside this issue, you’ll find their 12‑page 2026 Arts & The Park festival program, which we’re honored to publish annually. Keep it on hand as your 10-day list of creative things to attend.Finally, special thanks to our production crew—Late Shift Lizzy Colgrove, Wess, our new “Boifrin” Daniels, and his extra special Lady‑Kat—and to Last-Minute Erin Baber for launching this cover with lightning speed.And as always, appreciation to our entire Magazine Team; without you, these pages would just be empty canvases.About the Cover . . . “Mystical Mayhem” Photo of Emilie Boyett by Photographer Pam ClarkCourtesy of Hot Springs Area Cultural Alliance,taken at Arts & The Park 2025

3 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026National Park College’s (NPC) Career Services department continues to strengthen student success by connecting education to meaningful career pathways through expanded employer partnerships, internship access, and early career exploration.Director of College Success and Career Services Jessica Ellis shared an update with the NPC Board of Trustees, highlighting the department’s evolution from a primarily reactive service model to an integrated student success hub.“Students don’t struggle because they lack ambition,” Ellis said. “They struggle because they lack clarity and support. When students gain clarity, they build confidence, and confident students make better decisions.”While resume and interview preparation remain foundational services, Career Services now emphasizes one-on-one pathway mapping, internship coordination, and direct employer engagement.Through individualized planning sessions, students receive guidance on semester planning, transfer feasibility, and long-term career direction, helping them stay motivated and persist to graduation.Career Services continues to strengthen employer connections that provide students with direct access to real opportunities.Recognizing that hiring does not occur once a year, Career Services provides multiple access points for employers to connect with students, including internships, volunteer opportunities with the Experience Expo, Career Link postings, and “Now Hiring Nighthawks,” an initiative that allows employers to recruit on campus and directly in the classroom throughout the academic year.As employer engagement has grown, so has demand for internship placements. Career Services has responded by increasing paid internship opportunities to reduce financial barriers for students and by sharing placement costs with for-profit employers, stretching institutional funds to support more students.The department continues to strengthen partnerships with organizations such as Visit Hot Springs, which has hired its NPC intern the past two years, while expanding opportunities with the Hot Springs Farmers Market, Emergent Arts, and campus departments to create meaningful, hands-on experiences aligned with workforce needs.Career Services will also be integrated into First-Year Experience courses launching in fall 2026, introducing students to career exploration, goal-setting, and campus navigation from their first semester and reducing uncertainty while strengthening long-term persistence.Through intentional alignment of education and opportunity, NPC Career Services continues to advance student success while supporting regional workforce needs. For more information, visit np.edu/CareerServices. NPC Career Services Expands Employer Partnerships and Student Success InitiativesCareer Services at NPC continues to strengthen employer connections that provide students with direct access to real opportunities.

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 4Hot Springs Children’s Dance Theatre Company invites you to take flight to exotic lands with a full-length ballet production of Peter Pan. Based on J.M. Barrie’s famous tale of the boy who wouldn’t grow up, this brilliant story takes audiences on a high-flying adventure to Neverland.There, Peter Pan, Wendy, John, and Michael encounter pirates, the Lost Boys, Captain Hook, an infamous crocodile, and a bit of pixie dust. This production features choreography by Artistic Director Edmond Cooper and music by internationally award-winning composer Stephen Warbeck.The production will star featured guest artist Emmakate Franz as Tinkerbell. A recurring guest with the Children’s Theatre, Ms. Franz brings a luminous energy to the role. Originally from China and raised in West Virginia, she began her training in local dance studios and later studied at the Joffrey Ballet on scholarship. Her professional career includes performances with Ballet Austin, Milwaukee Ballet, and Ballet Arkansas.Playful and fun for the young at heart, Peter Pan is certain to thrill the child in us all. Performances will be held at LakePointe Church in Hot Springs on Friday, May 8, at 7:00 p.m., and Saturday, May 9, with both a 1:00 p.m. matinee and a 7:00 p.m. evening show. An additional performance will take place at the Woodlands Auditorium in Hot Springs Village on May 15 at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are available now at hscdtc.org/tickets/.Coming Soon! Peter Pan Performance by Children’s Dance Theatre CompanyLast year’s cast of Peter Pan ballet brought a bit of Neverland magic to the stage.

5 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026APRIL ART MATTERS • GALLERY WALK #440 | Est 1989APRIL Art Matters • Gallery Walk #440 Est 1989FRIDAY • APR 3 • 5-9 PM • Visit HotSpringsArts.org for art newsTake a leisurely stroll down Gallery Walk on Friday, April 3, where you can see the unique artwork created by local artisans. Make plans to attend the annual Arts & The Park 10-day art festival. The festival opener – Art Springs - takes place Sat-Sun, Apr 25-26, at Hill Wheatley Plaza. Various art events will take place around the city during the 10 days, culminating in Studio Tours, May 2-3, when the public is invited to visit local artists’ studios to see where the creativity takes place. For more information, visit HotSpringsArts.org. And check out the Arts & The Park Festival program in this issue of The Springs.AMERICAN ART GALLERY Est 1989724 Central | 501-624-0550 | FB: AmericanArtGalleryLLCA mixed art showing by various artists. Pottery by Native Works. Jewelry by Ernie Bolieu and other Native American Jewelry artists. Wood turnings by Daniel Zero To Infinity. Shop a variety of unique and unusual gifts for all occasions. Mon-Sat: 10 AM-5 PM.ARTISTS’ WORKSHOP GALLERY Est 1990610A Central | 501-623-6401 | ArtistsWorkshopGallery.comVisitors will be treated to the remarkable creations of featured artists Jan Briggs & Sue Duvall. Featured Miniature Artists are Ja‑mie Craddock & Michael Preble. This month’s art is the HS High School’s Trojan Art Club. Mon-Sat: 10 AM-5 PM. Sun: 12-5 PM. BLUE DONUT ART GALLERY Est 2019430 Valley St | 501-701-8036 | FB: BlueDonutArtGalleryExhibit by emerging Tri-Lakes Ornamental Iron’s young sculptors. Work by Norma Griffin, Laura Blue Waters, Phil Chwalinski, Karen Luknis, Gigi Gaulin, Lee Fields, Jimmy Wood, Angel Pietch. Gallery Walk 4-8 pm, Thur -Fri 1-4 PM, Sat 10 -5, Sun.1-4 PM, and by appt.COLLECTIVE ARTS GALLERY Est 2023620 Central, Ste 2B | 501-318-1600 | FB: CollectiveArtsGalleryClimb the spiral staircase or take the elevator to the 2nd floor to find the perfect gift in Hot Springs’ largest art gallery. Showcasing 60 local AR artists. Paintings, jewelry, sculptures, cards, glasswork, pottery, & more. Thur - Sat 11 AM-5 PM. Sun NOON-5 PM.DRYDEN ART POTTERY STUDIO/GALLERY Est 1946341 Whittington | 501-623-4201 | DrydenPottery.comDryden’s will have hundreds of pieces of Dryden pottery available, as well as pottery demonstrations and a tour of the studio. Mon–Sat 10–3 PM. Daily pottery wheel demos M–F, 10–11 AM. EMERGENT ARTS Est 2013341A Whittington | 501-655-0836 | EmergentArts.orgVersus Verses. Emergent Arts will showcase artwork inspired by poetry by local artists. The opening reception will be during April 3rd Gallery Walk, 5-8 PM. Gallery Hours: Tues-Fri 12-5 PM.JUSTUS FINE ART GALLERY Est 2004827A Central | 501-321-2335 | JustusFineArt.comFeaturing work by Michael Ashley, Mark Blaney, Donnie Copeland, Matthew Hasty, Robyn Horn, Sammy Peters, Dolores Justus Re‑uther, Sandra Sell, Katherine Sixbey, Gene Sparling, and others. Original art, including sculpture, paintings, ceramics, photography, and more, by recognized artists. Wed-Sat: 10 AM–5 PM & by appt.THE ART GUILD Est 1963Facebook: The Art GuildTAG is a place to network within the larger creative arts communi‑ty. Artists meet to share art and be inspired. Public meetings every 3rd Thurs. at GC Library. Every meeting has a demonstration from an artist/craftsperson. Next meeting, APR 16, 9:30 AM-Noon.5 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 6Colorado GrillSouthwest restaurantThe ParlourMetaphysical shopAnchorHigh-end body piercing studioJust Swanky Consignment BoutiqueUpscale resale shopM&M Travel ConsultantsVacations & adventures Garland County CourthouseGovernment OfficesHamp Williams BuildingEvent venueSurfas Culinary DistrictQuality cookware & equipmentTaco Mama Side TownMexican restaurantStatements for the HomeInterior Design & exceptional gifts3B’s Bar & GrillDive bar, pool tablesBest Court CottagesBoutique cottagesBest CafeGourmet menuGarland Cty Election CommissionHS Chamber of CommerceThe Electric StrawberryWellness bar & soul repair shopGrand Avenue Habitat RestoreThrift storeSt John’s Catholic ChurchThe ClearspringSenior living communityKids SourceSpeech & Development therapyDairy Queen Grill & ChillIce cream and burgersLeo’s Auto ServiceAutomotive repairForever BeautifulPermanent cosmeticsSuperior Senior CareIn-home care servicesGrand Lagniappe ShoppeWomen’s apparel & Tea RoomGrand Ave United Methodist Church700 Block West Grand Ave800 Block West Grand AveLender’s Title CompanyTitle & escrow agencyLandmark BuildingSomething BleuBridal boutiqueLavish BoutiqueStylish & trendy women’s boutiqueSQZBX Brewery & Pizza JointLunch & dinner; entertainmentRavenGoth designs and decor Tienda de DulcesSouth of the border sweets/treatsKUHS 102.5HS Solar Powered RadioMountain Valley ArmoryBank OZKHome Instead Senior CareIn-home care for SeniorsThe Courthouse Chapel/Get Hitched Hot SpringsBarrels UnlimitedWinemaking kits and lessonsSixtyOne CelsiusFull-service communication firmThe Mood Floral CoFresh florals & giftsJane’s Curiosity ShopOddities & giftsThe Retro FitWomen’s, men’s, kids-retroStroope Tire, Inc.Tire dealer & repair shopFarmers InsuranceDarryl Wiltshire AgencySpa City CBD Massage22 years experienceOuachita Investment GroupWhite StoneReal estate agencySplash Wine BarWine, beer, appetizers & entertainmentOuachita Wax & NaturalsVintage decor, design200 Block Ouachita Ave400 Block Ouachita Ave600 Block Ouachita Ave100 Block Ouachita Ave GRANDLAGNIAPPESHOPPE300 Block Ouachita Ave600 Block West Grand AveJUST SWANKYTHERETRO FITTHE MOOD FLORAL CO500 500 Block West Grand Ave Block Ouachita AveBy Lana PierceOn Ouachita Avenue, a new business broadcasts its opening, creating a hum of excitement among locals and drawing visitors in with a unique perspective that feels long overdue. Introducing Static, a raw, vibrant mix of underground art, community engagement, and rock ‘n’ roll spirit. Static isn’t just a shop, it’s a frequency. It’s the kind of place you wander into and lose track of time, where every piece has a past, and every corner feels alive.Miss those record stores where a duo performs with a well-worn guitar and a tip jar up front? That’s Static.Miss places where local art glistens, and touristy trinkets are absent? That, too, is Static.Looking for that concert shirt you used to have, that record you wore needles through in college, or a handmade piece of clothing that resonates with your being? Find all that and more at Static.Owner Laura Myers says, “Static exists to support local artists, musicians, and mindful resellers by giving them a space to be seen and heard. We are rooted in community, actively supporting local nonprofits, promoting local events, and collaborating with the people who make Hot Springs vibrant.”Evidenced by the artists perched on the bench out front, the steady flow of visitors and friends, and the waft of live music coming from the door, they deliver on the promise of a unique experience. Static is less about shopping and more about showing up. Stay a while. Talk to someone. Find something you didn’t know you were looking for. Support the local economy. Keep the signal alive.246 Ouachita Ave., Suite 102. Sunday-Thursday: 11 - 6 PM. Friday – Saturday: 11-7 PM.Learn more about Static at StaticOnOuachita.com, and Facebook: Static On Ouachita, IG, and TikTok: @StaticOnOuachita.Lana Pierce is a captain with the NLRFD who lives in Hot Springs and owns RetroFit.Tune In to Static

7 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026By Maribeth Bueche National Park College will present the Seventh Annual Student Art Exhibition, April 13-17, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.The Student Art Exhibition showcases students' work in the college's Art and Digital Media Arts programs, featuring drawings, paintings, digital art, sculpture, and multimedia projects. For many students, this is their first public show, marking an exciting milestone and celebrating their creative growth.“One of the most rewarding parts of the show is seeing students experience their work displayed in a gallery for the first time,” said Jennifer Seward, Assistant Professor of Digital Media Arts. “Every year, the creativity and technical skill of our students continue to grow, and the exhibition highlights their accomplishments.”The exhibition is free and open to the public.On Tuesday, April 14, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the National Park College Foundation will host the third annual A Night of Art fundraising event. Guests can enjoy live music, mocktails, and hors d’oeuvres while viewing artwork and supporting student arts opportunities. Tickets for the evening are $35 per person. To purchase tickets, visit np.edu/ArtNight.On Wednesday, April 15, at noon, the exhibition will officially open with a student poetry recital. The National Park College Singers will perform, and winners of the poetry competition will read their award-winning poems. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served. This event is a wonderful opportunity to come out and support our talented student artists' work.National Park College Presents the Seventh AnnualStudent Art ExhibitionLast year’s student art exhibition was a great success.The 2026 exhibition includes many first-time artists.

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 8By Annie GerberWhat brings you joy? Whether it is cozying up with a new story, learning new skills, gathering with the community, or something else, you can find your joy at the Garland County Library. National Library Week, April 19-25, 2026, is a time to celebrate the many ways libraries bring people together, spark imagination, and support lifelong learning. First celebrated in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries of all types across the country each April. From books and digital resources to job assistance and creative programming, libraries are essential to thriving communities. At the Garland County Library, we invite everyone to join the celebration! Whether you’re a longtime patron, a new neighbor, or haven’t visited in a while, now is the perfect time to explore all the library has to offer.Our library provides free Wi-Fi and internet computers; community meeting spaces and study rooms; access to digital newspapers and educational databases; and so many free events for all ages and interests, ensuring that everyone has access to resources that educate, inspire, and connect. Whatever brings you joy, the library has something for everyone. Libraries are more than just books; they serve as hubs for learning, creativity, and connection, helping people of all ages explore new ideas and opportunities. For more information on resources and events at the Garland County Library, visit gclibrary.com or contact us at 501-623-4161.Annie Gerber is the Marketing Coordinator at Garland County Library.Bea with her very ownGarland County Library Card.Find Your Joy at the Library during National Library WeekThe public is invited to Gallery Walk on Friday, April 3, from 5:00–9:00 p.m., as downtown Hot Springs comes alive with art, conversation, and community. Since 1989, Gallery Walk has welcomed residents and visitors on the first Friday of each month to explore galleries, meet artists, and experience the vibrant creative spirit that defines our city.Many galleries and pop-up art events throughout downtown will be open, offering everything from contemporary and traditional fine art to handcrafted works and unique local pieces.A full list of participating galleries and locations can be found at www.hotspringsarts.org. allery Walk is free and open to the public.Because We Can’t Recommend Gallery Walk Enough...a Reminder... a Nudge

9 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026By Sherry DavisGarden enthusiasts and community members alike are invited to attend the upcoming April 25 Plant Sale and Garden Show, from 9 AM – 4 PM at the Garland County Fairgrounds. This event is designed to celebrate gardening, share knowledge, and help residents grow thriving landscapes at home.Hosted by the local University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service Garland County Master Gardener Program, the event will feature a wide variety of plants suitable for Arkansas gardens. Visitors can browse and purchase annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetables, and ornamental plants grown by Master Gardener volunteers.The plant sale is a highlight for many local gardeners because it offers high-quality plants along with expert advice. Master Gardeners will be available throughout the event to answer questions about plant selection, soil preparation, pest management, and landscape design. Whether someone is planting their first flower bed or expanding an established garden, attendees can receive helpful tips tailored to the region’s climate and growing conditions.In addition to the plant sale, the Garden Show will include educational displays and demonstrations focused on practical gardening techniques. Topics may include pollinator-friendly plants, vegetable gardening, composting, and water-wise landscaping. These exhibits provide an opportunity for visitors to learn new skills and discover ways to make their gardens both beautiful and sustainable.Also included in the garden show are vendors who will be selling their wares. Vendors range from nursery plants and yard art to home-grown and homeproduced foods, soaps, and other specialty products. Proceeds from the sale help provide scholarships, support gardening projects, and educational outreach programs conducted through the Master Gardener volunteers. These initiatives often include youth gardening programs and horticulture education that benefit the entire community.Gardeners are encouraged to arrive early for the best selection of plants. Whether visitors come looking for unique varieties, helpful gardening advice, or simply a chance to enjoy a day focused on growing and learning, the April 25 Plant Sale and Garden Show promises something for everyone.For gardeners across the area, it’s the perfect way to kick off the spring planting season. Sherry Davis is the 2026 President of Garland County Master Gardeners and Plant Sale and Garden Show Coordinator.Master Gardeners: Plant Sale and Garden Show at GC FairgroundsMaster Gardeners' plant sale features annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetables, and ornamental plants grown by Master Gardener volunteers.

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 10The Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival will return to the Hot Springs Convention Center on Saturday, April 4, offering a full day of free, family-friendly activities, cultural performances, traditional displays, and interactive experiences celebrating Japanese culture.Hosted by the Hot Springs National Park Sister City Foundation, the festival celebrates the 30-plusyear sister city relationship between Hot Springs and Hanamaki, Japan. The event provides a unique opportunity for the community to experience both traditional and modern aspects of Japanese culture.Festival guests can enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with cultural performances, artisan vendors, traditional displays, and hands-on activities for all ages. Visitors will see powerful taiko drumming, traditional music, and the dramatic Soul of the Samurai sword performance led by Yoshi Amao.Families will find plenty of opportunities to explore Japanese culture through crafts, games, and cultural demonstrations throughout the convention center. Festival booths and exhibits will introduce guests to traditions, art, and customs that have been shared between Hot Springs and Hanamaki for more than three decades.In addition to the free festival activities, guests may also choose to participate in a variety of optional workshops offered throughout the day for those who want a deeper cultural experience. Workshop topics include Japanese tea ceremony, sake, kintsugi, and other traditional arts.The Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival is designed to be a welcoming community celebration that blends tradition, creativity, and discovery while highlighting the friendship between Arkansas and Japan.The festival will take place Saturday, April 4, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Hot Springs Convention Center. For more information, visit www.hotspringssistercity.org.Cherry Blossom Festival Packed with Family Fun and Japanese CultureYoshi Amao.Novaculite: What You Didn’t Need to KnowThe Garland County Historical Society (in association with the Garland County Library) will host Ellie Schafer presenting “Everything You Didn’t Need to Know About Novaculite!” at noon, Tuesday, April 21, at the Garland County Library.People can attend in person or view the program virtually at Facebook: GarlandCountyLibraryor youtube.com/garlandcolibrary.Novaculite is an integral part of the physical landscape of the Ouachita Mountains, but few people know much about its impact on the cultural landscape. In this program, Ellie Schafer will discuss novaculite knapping, “Washita” whetstones, and the geologic history of this razor-sharp rock. The presentation will cover the history of novaculite and its use by humans from pre-contact knapping to modern whetstone companies. It includes information on how pre-contact Native Americans harvested and worked novaculite and how current-day novaculite mining differs. It describes the extensive journeys that an ancient piece of novaculite could make across the South. Schafer discusses how and why the first explorers of Arkansas stumbled upon novaculite, and why the “Spanish Diggings” in the Ouachita National Forest are called what they are. Ellie Schafer is a Museum Program fellow with American Conservation Experience working at Hot Springs National Park. About Garland County Historical SocietyThe Garland County Historical Society was founded in 1960 to preserve the history of Garland County. The society found a permanent home for its collections in 1999 when it purchased a building at 328 Quapaw.From this building, today, a staff of twentynine volunteers and one salaried employee serve the public five days a week. In 2009, they dedicated space in their archives to the veterans of Garland County, preserving their histories and displaying their memorabilia in a room that spotlights their contributions to our country. On August 5, 2012, during a violent storm, a large tree smashed through a wall and through the roof. Although no historic items were damaged, this event focused attention on how quickly their irreplaceable images and documents could be lost.Therefore, an intensive digitizing project began. To date, they have digitized and made accessible through the searchable software over 80,000 irreplaceable images (copies of which are stored off-site).Visitors are welcome to peruse the archives Monday through Friday from 9 M – 1 PM, at 328 Quapaw Avenue.Photos: Garland County Historical Society.Ellie Schafer at the Lake.Partially worked novaculite HSNP.Partially worked novaculite HSNP.

11 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026Cameo BlueFayetteville resident Carolyn Guinzio is this year’s recipient of Arkansas’s most lucrative and prestigious literary award, The Porter Prize, accompanied by $5,000. Guinzio is author of eight poetry collections (including, most recently, Cameo Blue), and her work has appeared in The New Yorker, Poetry, and The Nation. Guinzio was nominated by 2003 Porter Fund Literary Prize recipient and Little Rock resident Kevin Brockmeier. The Porter Fund Literary Prize is presented annually to an Arkansas writer who has accomplished a substantial and impressive body of work that merits enhanced recognition. Eligibility requires an Arkansas connection. Honorees tend to be writers without high-profile national reputations, but who have produced significant amounts of quality material. The Porter Prize also offers a Lifetime Achievement Award every 5 years, with an award of $5,000. Past winners include Jo McDougall, Charles Portis, Miller Williams, and Donald Harington. These additional awards are available for Arkansas books: The Booker Worthen Literary Prize is awarded each year to the best work, fiction or non-fiction, by an author living in Arkansas. With a stipend of $2,000 There is a three-year period of eligibility based on a book’s copyright year. Five authors—Mara Leveritt, Kevin Brockmeier, Grif Stockley, S. Charles Bolton, and Kenneth C. Barnes—have won the award twice.Phillip H. McMath Post Publication Book Award is granted to a book in any genre published in the previous year. In addition to the $500 award, winners are invited to the UCA Arkatext Literary Festival and will receive an additional $1,000 to cover their travel costs.The Arkansiana Award from the Arkansas Library Association is given biennially to the author(s) of a book or other work that represents a significant contribution to Arkansas heritage and culture in three categories: adult nonfiction ($300), adult fiction ($300), and juvenile books ($300). Hot Springs native Erin Wood is a writer, editor, and publisher in Little Rock. She owns and runs etaliapress.com. Wood is the author of “Women Make Arkansas: Conversations With 50 Creatives” (2019) and editor of and a contributor to “Scars: An Anthology” (2015).{Additional book reviews by Erin Wood can be found on our website at TheSpringsMagazine.com/AR Books.}Request yourFREE 2026Hot Springs/Diamond Lakes Vacation Guideto help plan yourArkansas Tripshotsprings.org/vacation-guide

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 12

13 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026The Hot Springs Cruisers Car Club (HSCCC) loves classic cars. This passion is fueled by a simpler time, where the norm was spending time with the family and taking weekend drives. A desire and yearning for the carefree allAmerican lifestyle personified by hot rods and a passion for the days when a car owner could really get their hands dirty.The Hot Springs Cruisers Car Club, Hot Springs, Arkansas, was founded in 1994 and has been open to car enthusiasts with any make, model, or year vehicle, including custom, street rods, and trucks.This year, please join them to celebrate their “30th” annual car show on May 2nd at the Hot Springs Municipal Airport. They will be awarding 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place trophies in 10 classes, as well as 1st and 2nd place in Specialty and Under Construction classes. Also recognized are Best in Show, Best Engine, Best Interior, and Best Paint. Kids 16 and under can vote on a Kids' Choice Trophy, and all participants and spectators can vote on Cruiser members’ vehicles for a Club Trophy. There will be food trucks and nostalgic music to listen to for all to enjoy throughout the day.The Hot Springs Cruisers, along with the help of generous local business sponsors and volunteers, raise proceeds at this event to support designated local charities, Potter’s Clay and Father’s House.Vehicle registration forms are available for download at hscruisers.com. For information on becoming a sponsor or for other questions, contact the HSCCC at [email protected] Cruisers 30th Annual Classic Car Show Will Pack the AirportClassic and custom cars, hot rods, and trucks will rule the dayat the Cruisers Annual Car Show.The Club House Hot Springs (TCHHS) has announced the opening of a new co-working space, with open office hours open to the public Monday-Thursday, 9 AM to 2 PM. The new daytime hours expand the venue’s offerings beyond events, providing a shared workspace for remote workers, creatives, and entrepreneurs.“Our mission is to provide a professional yet welcoming atmosphere that supports productivity, sparks creativity, and strengthens community,” said Amanda Mitchell of TCHHS. “With thoughtful design, flexible work areas, and a focus on connection, this space will become a foundation for growth in Downtown Hot Springs.”The co-working space features open seating and a calm, mid-centuryinspired atmosphere. Amenities include high-speed WiFi, coffee and tea bar, local spring water station, snack and beverage bar, patio area, and document printing services. From flexible hot desks to a roomy conference table, there are a variety of desk options to support workers' needs. To learn more, email [email protected] or call 501-760-0018.The Club House Opens New Co-Working Space

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 14Golden Raised DonutsDonuts and breakfast pastriesArkansas Tower MotelShort-Dodson House/Tower MotelE-Z MartFast StopThe Gold InnQuaint Uptown motelDavid F. Watkins Memorial ParkCommunity Park & Amphitheater1884 Wildwood Bed & BreakfastBed and breakfastParkway CourtDaily, weekly, monthlyBower MotelEpic Cabinets & DesignCountertops, cabinets & accessoriesSpa City Cycling Sales & ServiceBike service, repair, and parts Budget Inn/Relax InnLynwood MotelShell Gas StationFamily DollarNeighborhood shoppingRed Light Roastery Coffee HouseSmall batch, craft coffee roasteryCraft Coffee RoasteryNorthwoods Trail ConnectorPullman Avenue short cut to Northwoods Urban Forest TrailSettle InnUpscale modern vacation rental cottages. Newly renovated. Full kitchens.Larkmartin SoapsHandmade soaps and lotions1010 LiquorWine, beer & spirits10FiyasideAuthentic Caribbean cuisine700 Block Park Ave800 Block Park Ave900 Block Park Ave1000 -1700 Block Park AveRED LIGHT ROASTERYMajestic LawnHistoric landmarkVapors LiveEvent & live music venueMusic Box LoungeLive performing arts and entertainment venueAir-FXHeating & air conditioningNorth Star Liquor/Big A’s LiquorWine, beer & spiritsBailey’s Dairy TreatOne of three drive-ins in townSimple but Effective CutzBarbershopPark Haven Community GardenCommunity vegetable gardenHaven United Methodist Thrift StoreBargains galoreDame Fortune’s Cottage CourtHistoric boutique motel. Modern amenities. Vintage-inspired designAugust and CompanyResale shopThe ArrangementFloristPark Avenue Fire Station400 Block Park Ave600 Block Park Ave100 Block Park Ave10FIYAHSIDE GRILL300 Block Park AveSETTLE INNCottage CourtVapors Livenorthwoods trail500 Block Park AveWe all wonder at some point where we belong, who “our” people are. The next main stage show at the Pocket Community Theatre (PCT), Godspell, invites audiences to explore community through the experiences of ordinary people called to a higher purpose. Godspell, conceived and originally directed by John-Michael Tebelak with music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, is the hit 1971 musical based on the simple teachings and parables of Jesus Christ.“In Godspell, we witness lessons about compassion, forgiveness, love of community, and of course the passion of Christ,” explained Director Bryan Miller. “I hope our production of Godspell inspires audiences to remember how important community is to all of us, no matter our differences.”In Godspell, a small group of people helps Jesus Christ tell ten different parables from the Gospel of Matthew using a variety of games, storytelling, and comedic timing. An eclectic blend of song styles that go from vaudeville to pop helps tell the story of Jesus’s life, with everyone dancing joyously across the stage.Pocket Theatre’s Godspell Encourages Community Individual tickets for Pocket Theatre’s “Godspell” and season passes are on sale now.As the story concludes with the Last Supper and the Crucifixion, Jesus’s messages of kindness, tolerance, and love come vibrantly to life. And in the spirit and message of the production, cast members will invite patrons to donate nonperishable food items for the Jackson House when they attend the show.Performances are on Fridays, April 10 and 17 at 7 PM; Saturdays, April 11 and 18 at 2 PM and 7 PM; and Sundays, April 12 and 19 at 2 PM. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for seniors and students. Godspell is presented through a special arrangement with Music Theatre International.The Pocket Community Theatre is a non-profit organization run exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, more specifically for community theatre. They produce six main shows each year as selected by the Production Committee and approved by the Board of Directors.They include two youth performances, readers' theatre, and singers' shows. Periodically, guest experts provide workshops on acting, directing, lighting, and sound.At the PCT, there is a place where people can put aside cares of the day and differences of opinion to appreciate the talent in the community, leading to a better understanding of one another and a greater appreciation of performing arts. Watch their webpage at PocketTheatre.com for shows, auditions, and volunteer opportunities.

15 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026APRIL 24 - MAY 3, 2026A 10-DAY FESTIVAL CELEBRATING THE ARTSSpecial FeatureHOT SPRINGS NATIONAL PARK | ARWe the Arts 1776-2026

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 16PRESENTING SPONSORSSPONSORSVisit Hot Springs | Garvan Woodland GardensCity of Hot Springs | The Springs Magazine | Dorothy MorrisMary and Robert Zunick | Martha Jane Murray and Neil MunroCOMMUNITY SPONSORSAITOH Paper | All Things Fiber | Arkansas Renaissance FestivalAnthony Tidwell | Cafe Mi Amor | The Church of Duane AllmanCity of Hot Springs Arts Advisory Committee | The Club HouseCrystal Bridges | Cutwell 4 Kids | Dallas Paper Arts | Emergent ArtsGarvan Woodland Gardens | Grand Avenue United Methodist Church Garland County Library | Hot Springs Children’s Dance Theatre Co. Hot Springs World Class High School Arts Department I Can! Dance Garland County | IBLA International | John MollicaLake Hamilton Theatre Troupe | Lakeside High School Arts Departments National Park College | Statements for the HomeStatic on Ouachita | Stephen Koch | System AdminTheta Pi | Traditional Art Guild Wednesday Night PoetrySupport for HSACA is provided in part by the Hot Springs Area Community Foundation and the Elisabeth Wagner [email protected] | hotspringsarts.org134 Convention Blvd, Hot Springs, AR 71901The Hot Springs Area Cultural Alliance (HSACA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening arts and culture in Hot Springs and Garland County. Through promotion, collaboration, and signature events, HSACA connects artists, organizations, and audiences whilehelping the community experience the region’s creative life.Arts Ambassador 2025Ashley Campbell Carter, a founding board member of the Hot Springs Area Cultural Alliance (HSACA) and chair of both Art Springs and The Gala, is a driving force behind arts centered events in Hot Springs. The Arts Ambassador Award, presented annually at The Gala, honors someone who reflects HSACA’s mission to celebrate, advocate for, and promote the arts. Campbell Carter, co-owner of Statements for the Home, was recognized for nearly 20 years of dedication and leadership in the local arts community. “As a founding board member of HSACA, I have had the privilege of watching Ashley help build this organization and strengthen our arts community year after year,” said Mary Zunick, Cultural Affairs Manager for Visit Hot Springs. “Her dedication, vision, and willingness to lead are exactly what the Arts Ambassador Award represents. She has made an extraordinary impact on the arts in Hot Springs.” Congratulations, Ashley.The Hot Springs Area Cultural Alliance (HSACA) celebrates, advocates for, and promotes the arts through the dedication of supporters and volunteers who help make it all possible. To recognize a few who go above and beyond, HSACA created the Sweet heARTs, our own take on a Homecoming King and Queen, with a little more heart and a lot more hustle. For 2026, we proudly honor Anthony Tidwell and Helen Bumpass.A Hot Springs native, Anthony Tidwell founded Cutwell 4 Kids to help children grow in confidence and express their individuality through art. For more than a decade, he has built community partnerships, inspired young artists, and shown the power of art through the annual Birth of an Artist student exhibit and sale. Helen Bumpass has supported the Hot Springs community and its arts organizations for more than 30 years. Through her dedicated volunteer service, including Arts & The Park and the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival, she has helped create meaningful arts experiences and strengthen the city’s cultural life.SweetheARTs 2026 John Cooksey had a unique talent for connecting with people. This gift enabled his spirit to live on in the hearts of each soul he touched during his years in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He enjoyed sitting down and asking what brought you to Hot Springs. He was eager to hear your story and share his own love of the city-- the best spokesman Hot Springs could have had. Whether it was an event downtown, a new restaurant, the opening of a bike trail, a secret cave, or a snowstorm, his excitement and enthusiasm overflowed with optimistic energy. As a tireless and selfless champion of the people of Hot Springs, John’s unmatched desire and ability brought everyone together through the lens of his camera. He did what he loved alongside people who became friends.In Memory, John Cooksey

17 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026CELEBRATING THE ARTSCREATING A SPACE TO CELEBRATE AND ADVOCATE FOR THE HOT SPRINGS ARTS COMMUNITY, OFFERING BEAUTIFUL PLAY AND CREATIVE EXPERIENCES TO SHARE WITH OUR FELLOW FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS.The Hot Springs Area Cultural Alliance (HSACA) welcomes you to the Arts & The Park 2026 festival, a 10-Day Celebration of the Arts with live performances, captivating art exhibits, interactive play, culinary experiences, workshops, art labs, poetry reading, gallery walk, and studio tours across downtown Hot Springs and partner venues April 24 through May 3, 2026. Oaklawn is the premier sponsor, allowing the festival to be shared and talents to be showcased for everyone to enjoy.In support of celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary, HSACA proclaims this year “We the Arts” as its annual theme, a play on words from the preamble to the Constitution of the United States of America, hoping to show how art unifies us through our varied experiences, reflecting America’s melting-pot nature.Now in its second decade, Arts & The Park is designed to make the arts easy to access for locals and visitors alike, with most events free and family-friendly.SAVE THE DATE: Mark your calendar to attend the 2027 Arts & the Park.Friday, April 23, 2027 - Sunday, May 2, 2027. We hope to see you there!ART TALKS:An Evening with Featured Artist, Patrick ShearnSponsored by Garvan Woodland GardensOaklawn Events Center, 2705 Central Avenue, Rooms 5 and 6Friday 4/24, 7 PMAn exclusive opening night experience welcoming artist Patrick Shearn for a conversation about his stunning art installation, “Where the Wind Lives” a kinetic, large-scale, installation. This is a rare opportunity to step inside the artist’s creative vision as he shares the inspiration, process, and meaning behind his work. After his presentation, you’ll have the chance to meet Patrick one-on-one, ask questions, and connect directly with the art‑ist in a thoughtful, personal setting. This is more than just an opening—it’s a moment to truly understand the art and the person who created it. “Where the Wind Lives” Exhibit will be at Garvan Woodland Gardens from April 24 to October 31 and is included with purchased admission to Garvan Gardens. ARTS & THE PARK:Featured Illustrator, Thomas GreenSelected design representing “We the Arts” theme for 2026 Arts & The Park.Thomas’s design was also one of twenty selected artists for the 2026 Art Moves Outdoor Art Experience.“Greenways of Freedom, Pathways of Progress” reflects both the literal and symbolic role of pathways in civic life. Greenways are not only physical routes through a landscape, they are cultural corridors that connect communities, histories, and future possibilities. The work brings together multiple figures representing a broad and diverse spectrum of individuals who have walked and marched these pathways toward greater freedom, helping to shape the evolving fabric of the contemporary American landscape. - Thomas Green

ART MOVESArt Moves: We the Arts Unveiling Celebration The City of Hot Springs Arts Advisory Committee, in collaboration with the Hot Springs Area Cultural Alliance, celebrates the 2026 installation of Art Moves, titled “We the Arts.” The exhibition adorning the Hot Springs Creek Greenway Trail between Hollywood Ave. and Belden St. joins the semiquincentennial celebration of America by featuring works that celebrate the artistic evolution of, and influences on, American art and culture. The exhibition emphasizes an array of arts through depictions of America in all its iterations and influences. The 2026 exhibit can be experienced through April 2027.Begin your visit to this outdoor art exhibition at the Hollywood Avenue parking lot and head north to Belding Street. Or park at the Majestic Park parking lot and walk the trail south to Hollywood Park. Be sure to see all 20 pieces celebrating America’s Art History. A QR accompanies each panel to share additional details on the artist and their art work.FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2026 | 5:30 PM | Hot Springs Creek Greenway TrailTitle: Brooklyn Meets KansasEli VegaHot Springs, Arkansas 71901Medium: Photography, Size: 21” x 31”Bio: Eli Vega was born in a railroad boxcar. It was that dramatic start to life that forced his creative juices to find solutions to his life experiences. Those same creative juices fed his artistic endeavors in the future, including his photography.Title: Making WavesMiranda Hood BrewerHot Springs, AR 71901Medium: Mixed Digital Media, Size: 30” x 40”Bio: Artist, Actress, Singer, Mother, business owner. Miranda loves being a part of the community. One of the artists in the making of the “block mural” beside Central Theatre. Creating a one-of-a-kind Adirondack Chair. And has been a part of numerous fundraisers for the City of Hot Springs National Park. And in numerous music festivals.Title: Legacy of the MayaGini SheffieldHot Springs, AR 71913Medium: Acrylic, Size: 30” x 40”Bio: Gini Sheffield currently exhibits at the Collective Arts Gallery in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Inspired by the natural world, her mixed media art is abstract, impressionistic, and representational. In 2025, Arts & The Park included her piece, “Night Walk”, in the Art Moves Greenway Trails Exhibition.Title: Luxury and DecayKori SmithGurdon, AR 71743Medium: Prismacolor Colored Pencils, Size: 8”×10”Bio: I am a 35-year-old woman raising three boys in southwest Arkansas with my wife. I am intimately fond of the outdoors and stay inspired to create by spending time immersed in nature.Title: Morning in Motion Along Bathhouse RowMarietta TuckerHot Springs, AR 71913Medium: Watercolor, Size: 18” x 24”Bio: Marietta Tucker is a self-taught artist living in Hot Springs, Arkansas. As a watercolor artist, she finds inspiration in the medium’s versatility. Marietta enjoys painting many of the colorful sites in and around Hot Springs. Her work is often characterized by intricate details highlighting the interplay of light and texture. She is a Signature member of Mid Southern Watercolorists. Marietta has received several local art awards, & her work has been selected twice for the Lewis Memorial Award in the Mid-Southern Watercolorist’s Annual Exhibition.Title: Different PerspectivesJeremy RodgersHot Springs, AR 71913Medium: Mixed Medium, Size: 30” x 40”Bio: Jeremy Rodgers is a local of Hot Springs, Arkansas. He started taking pictures in the early 90’s as part of his mixed media paintings that were heavily influenced by the late artist Robert Rauschenberg. After at‑tending Ringling School of Art and Design in Florida, he started full-time as a commercial and portrait photographer. His pieces, paintings as well as photographs, have been in numerous galleries and private collections.Title: Flag DayRichard StephensHot Springs, AR 71901Medium: Watercolor, Size: 13” x 20”Bio: A native of Hot Springs, Arkansas, Richard earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Art from the University of Central Arkansas in 1969. Having been introduced to the medium in college, Stephens’s rediscovered transparent watercolor in the early 90’s. He quickly garnered a reputation nationwide for his confident, loose, impressionistic paintings. For the past 22 years, Stephens has shared his passion for the medium by conducting painting workshops around the country.Title: Do Not DisturbKathy HolcombeHot Springs, AR 71913Medium: Watercolor, Size: 12” x 9”Bio: Kathy Holcombe, a Hot Springs native, is an artist on a mission to drive a Winnebago around the world. She recently returned from a two-year journey across the Americas, traveling through 20 coun‑tries from Alaska to Argentina. Along the way,she gained a deep appreciation for America’s rare public lands and the powerful connections they create between people, wild places, and wildlife.Title: Prairie PassagesSusan JeterLittle Rock, AR 72205Medium: Photography, Size: 18” x 12”Bio: Local central Arkansas photographer and ceramic enthusiast. I consider myself a seeker of new places and new adventures – always seeking simplicity.Title: LoveJohn MollicaChattanooga, TN 37402Medium: Acrylic and Bottlecaps on CanvasSize: 30” x 40”Bio: John Mollica has spent a career in the arts, beginning in the mid-eighties. His work began with screenprinting and art for music merchandise, such as album covers, t-shirts, and posters. It has progressed to original painted works, commercial art installations, and murals.

Title: American AnimalsCathy MelvinHensley, AR 72065Medium: Mixed Media Collage, Size: 14.7” x 11”Bio: I am a children’s book author and illustrator living in central Arkansas. I love to encourage children, both young and young at heart, to stay curious and creative, especially when it comes to the natural world. My work is nature-themed, using mixed media and painted paper collage. I use my scissors to piece together a picture of painted textures to form a story, which I hope will delight, engage, and stimulate the imagination.Title: LibertyMichael PrebleCamden, AR 71701Medium: Photograph, Size: 15” x 20”Bio: Photographer since 1987. Currently, Member & Publicity Manager, Artists’ Workshop Gallery, Hot Springs. Retired art curator, 2013, after 50 years. Senior curatorial po‑sitions at Peninsula Fine Arts Center, Newport News, VA; Bass Museum of Art, Miami, FL, and others. Curator, William Baziotes Retrospective Exhibition, 2003-2004, Guggenheim Collection, Venice, and Editor, William Baziotes Catalogue Raisonne.Title: American IconJamie Craddock-JohnsonHot Springs, AR 71901Medium: Watercolor & Ink, Size: 9” x 12”Bio: I am a self-taught artist who loves using bright colors and fine details in my watercolor paintings. I spend as much time as I can painting our national parks and the wildlife they protect.Title: Et Toi!John GoodwinLittle Rock, AR 72212Medium: Acrylics, Size: 18” x 24”Bio: John Goodwin studied graphic design at Louisiana Tech before specializing in limited edition fine art reproductions at a printing company and becoming a full-time artist himself. His “Fun Art” focuses on culture and musical themes and has been featured in exhibitions across Arkansas and internation‑ally. John’s Blues related images can be found on Beale Street, at the Delta Blues and Delta Cultural Center Museums, and also at the King Biscuit Blues Festival.Title: A Living MosaicGabriela HogueHot Springs Village, AR 71909Medium: Acrylic and Oil with DigitalEnhancement, Size: 30” x 40”Bio: Gabriela Hogue creates figurative paintings that explore women, community, and emotional presence through layered acrylic and oil techniques. Originally from Ecuador and nowliving in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, she brings a bicultural perspective, blending realism with abstraction. She studied in Ecuador and the United States, including the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale and Altos de Chavón School of Design, and has shown her work in group exhibitions at galleries and community art spaces.Title: HunterLonghua XuHot Springs, AR 71901Medium: Acrylic, Size: 36” x 36”Bio: Graduated with an art degree, with exhibitions in Shanghai and the USA, living in Shanghai until 1989, and moved to American on to now, you can see my art on Xu-Longhua.comTitle: Freedom of ExpressionBob DionHot Springs, AR 71913Medium: Digitized B&W Negative, Size: 15” x 20”Bio: As a fine art photographer for the past 50+ years, Bob Dion has an interest in seeking out eclectic subject matter, including fauna, landscapes, cityscapes, cars, and people. As a professionalphotographer, Bob worked in the auto, film, and music industries. Growing up in Detroit, he was fortunate to take photography classes in High School, where he learned composition, film, and print processing. After high school, urban photography. Later, he worked as a professional photographer in the auto, film, and music industries until moving to Hot Springs.Title: Fairy LandGary SimmonsHot Springs, AR 71913Medium: Charcoal, Size: 18” x 24”Bio: Gary Simmons has worked as an artist in Hot Springs since 1973. He is primarily known for pen-and-ink art but also works in watercolor, charcoal, pastel, and oil. He taught art at Henderson State University for 22 years and now works out of his home studio.Title: Collaboration Co-Creation CalibrationKelly CarrollBismarck, AR 71929Medium: Digital, Size: 12” x 9”Bio: Kelly is an innovative, local mixed media artist who brings a splash of color wherever she goes! A Creator and maker, she pulls her inspiration from nature to honor the mystical wisdom of Mother Nature. Her work incorporates symbolism to represent hidden meanings and universal truths, using vivid hues to excite and evoke curiosity and contemplation. You can find her work locally at Collective Arts Gallery.Title: Greenways of Freedom, Pathways of ProgressThomas GreenSeattle, WA 98126Medium: Digital Illustration, Size: SVGBio: Thomas Everett Green is an artist, professor, writer, and Hot Springs native. He studied art at Lakeside High School with Beau Myers and graduated in 1988. He holds a BFA from Middle Tennessee State University and an MFA from Memphis College of Art. His work explores contemporary themes in pop culture, including obsession and impulse, and has been exhibited and featured in national and international magazines. He was the Featured Artist for Hot Springs Arts & The Park (2016).

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 20A Festival and Art Fair ExperienceArt Springs Entertainment EventsHill Wheatley Plaza, 605 Central Ave. Art Springs, a FREE 2-day outdoor festival, is bursting with talented, fine artists, artisans, kids’ events, face painting, and the Art Springs Stage featuring many live performances. Held at Hill Wheatley Plaza and the adjacent Entertainment District on Malvern Avenue between Bridge Street and Spring Street in historic downtown Hot Springs.Plan to play and get immersed in the Art Interactive area of the event, which includes Chalk Walk, Crystal Bridges Mobile Art Lab, Under Pressure steamroller printing event, a Renaissance Faire, a free children’s book giveaway, a graffiti wall, workshops and demos, local authors, and tons of arts and crafts. Bring your appetite, as there will be plenty of food and drinks to purchase from some of Arkansas’ best food trucks.Art Springs StageSat. 4/25, 10 AM - 9 PMSun. 4/26, 11 AM - 4 PMJoin emcee Stephen Koch, host of Arkansongs, for two days of music, theatre, awards, dance, and fun on the Art Springs stage. Musical performances from famed Country songwriter Erin Enderlin, whose songs have been recorded by legends such as Alan Jackson, Lee Ann Womack, Randy Travis, Reba McEn‑tire and Terri Clark. Enjoy local favorites - Jacob Flores, Miranda Hood-Brewer, Big Papa Binns, Allie and Patrick, among others; and come visit your friends and neighbors with performances from local schools as well as the Pocket Theatre. Headlining music after hours on Saturday night from 6:30 PM - 9 PM is Brady Roseberry.Art Moves AuctionAuction Opens online at 10 AM, Wed. 4/1, In person viewing, Sat. 4/25;Auction closes at 2 PM, Sun. 4/26.Place your bid on a piece of Hot Springs Art History - Art Moves. The 2025 exhibition pieces are reproductions of original art by artists focused on the year’s theme ARTventurous. The display panels exhibited along the Hot Springs Creek Greenway Trail will be up for public auction online and during Art Springs. The 30” x 40” reproductions are printed on metal sheets and can be displayed indoors or outdoors. The works are available to own to make room for the 2026 installation. The Art Moves Auc‑tion for the 2025 exhibit pieces can be viewed and bid online, or in person. Registration and bidding will be accepted online Wednesday, April 1, at 10 AM and closes at 2 PM on Sunday, April 26. Interested bidders can register by scanning the provided QR, or visit HotSpringsArts.org to access the bidding platform. In person bidding available during Art Springs, April 25 and 26.SATURDAY & SUNDAY | APRIL 25 ART SPRINGS - 26, 2026Sat. 4/25, 10 AM - 6 PM, | Sun. 4/26, 10 AM - 4 PMScan for more event details, Art Moves auction, and stage schedule.

ART SPRINGS INTERACTIVE EVENTSEntertainment District - Malvern Avenue Crystal Bridges Mobile Art LabSat. 4/25, 2 PM - 6 PM, Sun. 4/26, 12 PM - 4 PMChannel your inner Kusama and create some bold, vivid, polka dot art. A special 2-day set-up through the generosity of Crystal Bridges. The art lab will feature lots of free artistic activity.Arkansas Renaissance FestivalSat. 4/25, 10 AM - 6 PM, Sun. 4/26, 10 AM - 4 PMA sampling of the Arkansas Renaissance Festival will bring merriment and interactive events, including charcoal rubbing, elaborate performances, live painting, and more!Kids Book GiveawaySat. 4/25, 10 AM - 6 PM, Sun. 4/26, 10 AM - 4 PMFree Books! Sponsored by Theta Pi Sorority and a grant from the Hot Springs Area Community Foundation, HSACA offers free children’s books to Art Springs visitors.Under PressureSun. 4/26, 12 PM - DoneBlock printing down Spring Street using a 2-ton steamroller! Registration to participate is required, viewing is for everyone!Garvan Woodland GardensSat. 4/25, 10 AM - 2 PM, Sun. 4/26, 12 PM - 4 PMGarvan Woodland Gardens is excited to be participating in this year’s Art Springs with an interactive replica of our Art Installation, “Where the Wind Lives.” Children can explore what they love about nature and our beautiful state of Arkansas in this interactive art piece. Craft TentSat. 4/26, 11 AM - 4 PM, Sun. 4/27, Noon - 4 PMPresented by the Garland County Library and Emergent Arts, enjoy free arts and crafts with a new activity hourly. Garland County Library BookmobileSat. 4/25, 11 AM - 4 PMA traveling library that brings a curated selection of books directly to you.Graffiti WallSat. 4/25, 10 AM - 6 PM, Sun. 4/26, 10 AM - 4 PMA fan favorite presented by Cutwell 4 Kids, visitors are invited to let out their inner child and write on the walls. The Church of Duane Allman Sat. 4/25, 10 AM - 6 PM, Sun. 4/26, 10 AM - 4 PMA mobile folk art music installation dedicated to Duane “Skydog” Allman.Workshops and DemonstrationsSat. 4/25, 1 PMWatercolor SketchingJamie Craddock-JohnsonSat. 4/25, 12 PM - 3 PMWheel PotteryGinger Ladehoff, National Park CollegeSun. 4/26, 10 AM - 1 PMWheel PotterCorina Fedorowicz, Arrowpoint PotterySun. 4/26, 1 PMLego Block PrintingMelinda Shunk, Bricks and Mini FigsChalk WalkHill Wheatley Plaza, 605 Central AvenueSat. 4/25, 8:30 AM to 12 PMThe Cultural Alliance will host the annual Sidewalk Chalk Event during Arts & The Park-Art Springs. This free, Judged sidewalk chalk event is for all ages. A guest Judge will score the works at 12 PM, with winners announced on the Art Springs Stage at 12:30 PM. The art is created on the sidewalks adjacent to Hill Wheatley Plaza in downtown Hot Springs. Pre-registration at HotSpringsArts.org. Free-Play with chalk will also be available in select areas on-site.Hot Springs World Class High SchoolSat. 4/25Choir Performances 10 AMDance Troupe special performance 11:30 AMArt Club - All ages face painting 1 PM - 6 PMFine Artists & ArtisansSat. 4/25, 10 AM - 6 PM, Sun. 4/26, 10 AM - 4 PMMeet talented artists and their creative work, that represent a large selection of mediums and styles. This juried selection of artists are experienced artists showcasing their curated art for the public to enjoy and shop their beautiful work.Alison Parsons - PaintingCathy Melvin - Author/ IllustratorChristina Thompson - JewelryColleen Carter Allen - PotteryCraig DunnDemonstrating Fractal Burning on WoodDave & amp; Lisa Thompson 2025 Demonstrating | Blacksmith Steel ArtDavid Patten - WoodworkingGigi Buhrow - JewelryGinger Ladehoff - PotteryHaley Crabb - Fiber art installationHeidi & amp; Terry HolstineTerrylyn CollumUnder the Son Visions Mixed mediaHeidi Roeglin - Acrylic PaintingJamie Craddock Demonstrating | WatercolorJan Booker Pop Art & amp; Art ShirtsJohn Faginkrantz Demonstrating | Acrylic collageJohn Mollica - Acrylic Folk ArtJoy Ballard Demonstrating | Stained GlassKristy York - Mixed MediaLisa Garcia Candles, Soaps, & amp; LotionsLori Arnold - PaintingMalinda Scott Demonstrating | Portraitistmixed mediaMargarita Peraza Rugeley PaintingMiranda Brewer - PhotographyNancy Nichols - JewelryPamela Burns - Demonstrating,Jewelry, Pottery, Mixed MediaPatricia Langewis - Watercolor, Acrylic, Silk ArtistRoger Clinton - SoapsRyan Rooney - PaintingSusan Washington - PaintingTJ Southard - DemonstrationWoodworkingTad Huck - Acrylic paintinA Festival and Art Fair ExperienceART SPRINGS

April 24 - May 3, 2026COMMUNITYPARTNER EVENTSLet It GrowCollective Arts Gallery, 620 Central Ave, 2nd FloorThur. 4/23 - Sun. 4/26Thur. 4/30 - Sun. 5/03During Arts & The Park, we invite you to help create a public work of art at the gallery. As part of the “Let It Grow” exhibit, Collective Arts Gallery will create a wooden “tree” that visitors can decorate throughout the festival. Visitors of all ages are welcome to add a small mark. Each addition will grow the work into a vibrant garden of creativity, reflecting the voices and imagination of our community and festival visitors.Garland County Library1427 Malvern AvenueDiamond Art ClubFri. 4/24, 10 AM - 11:30 AMJoin our monthly Diamond Art Club for adults! Each session features a themed miniature diamond art project. Begin a new project or continue working at your own pace in a relaxed, social setting. All skill levels welcome—supplies provided.Music MondaysMon. 4/27, 4 PM - 5 PMAcoustic Jam session: An open forum for musicians to share songs, practice together, and enjoy unplugged music. No specific genre, just bring your acoustic instrument and good vibes.Amazing MakersRegistration RequiredTue. 4/28, 4:30 PMChildren ages 7-12 are invited to join Ms. Tiffany and Ms. Katie as we explore quilter and artist Basil Kincaid! We will learn about his work, share a snack, and take part in a collaborative quilt project in partnership with Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. To register for this event, please visit https://calendar.gclibrary.com/event?id=265182. 250 ThreadsThurs. 4/30, 9 AM - 3 PMAll Things Fiber and Garland County Library presents “250 Threads” to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Textiles and fiber have been crucial to this nation’s growth. Weaving, quilting, embroidery, knitting, crochet, needlework, and spinning yarn are just a few of the many methods on display at this pop-in fiber arts event. Visit the Garland County Library on April 30, 2026, during 9 a.m to 3 p.m, to meet (am pm consistency?) and observe area skilled textile artists. In April, make sure to check out the “History of Fiber” exhibit in the library’s glass display case.Magical CreaturesFri. 5/1, 6:30 - 8 PMCalling all dragons, wizards, fairies, mermaids, gnomes, and other magical folk of all ages! Join us after hours for an evening of magical crafts, games, food, and fun. Costumes welcome.Garvan Woodland GardensExplore the newly opened “Where the Wind Lives” Exhibit by Patrick Shearn, a kinetic, immersive outdoor experience, from April 24 to October 31, 2026.Earth Day Sound Bath879 Park Avenue, Suite CFri. 4/24, 6 PM - 7:30 PMRegistration Required, $30 per personImmerse yourself in the healing frequencies of three Paiste gongs, crystal singing bowls, ocean drum, chimes, shamanic drums, rain stick, and a Rav Vast tongue drum. Allow the vibrations to soothe your nervous system and nourish your spirit. Bring your own yoga gear.Citizens of the Earth: Clan of Bones435 Whittington AvenueSat. & Sun 4/25-4/26, 1 PM - 4 PMThirteen women transform thirteen animal pelvis bones into an awakened “Tribe of Skulls.”Decked Out: Student Skateboard Design RevealValley Street Skate Park, 411 Valley StSat. 4/25, 1 PMThis will be an unveiling of the skateboard art created by Lakeside High School art students. There will also be a skating demo by LHS students. The skateboards tell autobiographical stories about where each artist would travel to on their boards. It could be a physical or metaphysical place.Art BitesCafe Mi Amor, 2032 Central AvenueMon. 4/27, 6 PMRegistration Required by 4/17, $45 Per Person, Limited TicketsJoin us at Cafe Mi Amor for a farm to table, locally sourced chef’s tasting featuring newly crafted dishes and dessert from Stay Pastry. Cuban-inspired Cafe Mi Amor’s diverse menu caters to every palate with fresh baked - everything - there’s no place else like it in Hot Springs. Intro to Cyanotype PrintingStatic on Ouachita, 246 Ouachita Ave Suite 102Tues. 4/28, 9 AM - 11 AMRegistration Required by 4/26, $25 per person – all materials includedDiscover the magic of sun printing in this hands-on cyanotype workshop led by local artist Laura Myers. Participants will learn the basics of this historic photographic process and create their own vibrant blue prints using natural materials and found objects. This relaxed, beginner-friendly session invites experimentation, creativity, and playful exploration. Botanical materials provided by The Mood Floral Co.Community-Wide Partner Locations The Hot Springs community is an art destination experience and there isn’t a better way to beimmersed in the arts than in the space where the magic happens. The Following are our Arts & ThePark community partners’ events they have curated specifically for our annual 10-day festival. For themost current participants and details, please follow our Arts & The Park Facebook Event for updates.Scan for more event details, Art Bites tickets, and Art Designs registration.

Art DesignsStatements for the Home, 600 Ouachita Ave.Tues. 04/28, 6 PM - 8:00 PMDefine Your Design Style, where design is more than throw-pillows and paint color. It reflects how we live, travel, collect, and ultimately create spaces that feel like home. It is an art. In this interactive seminar, we’ll explore the personalities and stories behind different interior styles and how designers bring them to life. During the seminar, you’ll take a short quiz to discover your style and see how our designers turn inspiration into cohesive, beautiful spaces. Wednesday Night Poetry Kollective Coffee + Tea, 110 Central AvenueWed. 4/29, 6:30 PMFeaturing New Mexico poet, Zachary Kluckman The longest-running consecutive weekly open mic series in the country.Art SoundsIBLA Foundation Concert, Grand Avenue United Methodist Church, 841 Quapaw AvenueThur. 4/30, 6 PMThe IBLA Foundation in New York City organizes annual music competitions for pianists, singers, instrumentalists, and composers in Ragusa Ibla, Italy. Winners have been presented in prestigious venues such as Weill Hall at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center Alice Tully Hall, Kioi Hall, and Tokyo Opera City Hall in Japan; and, for one night only, they will perform at the Grand Avenue United Methodist Church, 841 Quapaw Ave. This year, the performance will be opened with a guest appearance from the Hot Springs Children’s Dance Theatre.Gallery WalkDowntown Hot Springs and surrounding areas.Fri. 5/1, 5 PM - 9 PMCheck Facebook Event for Gallery Walk participants. A monthly First Friday tradition in downtown Hot Springs that invites the community to explore art, music, and creativity throughout the evening. Beginning at 5 p.m., galleries along Central Avenue and nearby downtown spaces will be open with new exhibitions, featured artists, live music, and special experiences, offering a relaxed and enjoyable evening while supporting the Hot Springs’ vibrant arts scene. Stroll at your own pace, stop in where curiosity leads you, and enjoy all that our creative community has to offer.Hot Springs Gem & Mineral ShowThe Club House, 118 Arbor Street Suite AFri. 5/1, 5 PM - 9 PMSat. 5/2, 10 AM - 5 PMSun. 5/3, 10 AM - 4 PMThe Local Art Entity is honored to present the 4th annual event. This indoor and outdoor event showcases local and traveling experts of their craft with astounding collections of rocks, crystals, gems, and minerals for sale. Enjoy food trucks, artists, live music, entertainers, and geological speakers throughout the last weekend of Hot Springs Arts & The Park celebration.THANKS TO ALL OUR VOLUNTEERSHSACA thanks our volunteers, sponsors, community partners, and grantors for making these events possible. As a largely volunteer-led organization, we rely on their generosity to celebrate, advocate for, and promote the arts in and around Hot Springs. That support also benefits our local economy. Festival attendance is esti‑mated to generate more than $350,000 in revenue, equal to seven full-time jobs.We also give special thanks to the Young Men of Distinction for helping artists unload and set up.HSACA offers volunteer and internship opportunities, including service hours for high school students. For information, email volunteer@hotspringsarts.orgGGGaaalllaaaPPPPooooppppttthhheeeNovember 07, 2026Abold,brilliant,chicfundraiser for thearts.SAVETHEDATE2026 Board of Directors:Martha Jane Murray, Board ChairMary Zunick, Vice-ChairKat Daniels, Executive DirectorTiffany Rogers, SecretaryJoAnn Mangione, TreasurerAshley CampbellTina BarkerWayne BryanDawn CattaneoKim EverhartAmanda MitchellMechele McNaryAllyson Pittman GattinRick RamsayGianna Wurzl2026 Arts & The ParkLiz Colgrove, DirectorAdvisory Board:Dorothy MorrisLinda PalmerRobert ZunickGary SimmonsKate Schaffer2026 Arts & The Park Program CreditsPublishing: The Springs MagazineGraphic Design: Wess Daniels | Erin BaberPhotos: Liz Colgrove | Mary Zunick | JoAnn MangioneAshley Thompson | Amanda MitchellEditors: Kat Daniels | Liz Colgrove | JoAnn Mangione | Kim EverhartGET INVOLVED! Join HSACA by getting involved as an artist or someone wanting to support our thriving art community, through programs like Arts & The Park, monthly Gallery Walk, quarterly networking meetings, The Gala, and other program opportunities. Contact Kat Daniels at [email protected].

STUDIO TOURS#1 Jeri Hillis Studio Jeri Hillis, 125 Pullman Avenue • Hot SpringsJeri Hillis is a professional working artist/teaching artist working in multiple mediums. She is known for oil paintings of historic architectural features of urban ruin landscapes and mixed media collages of detailed butterfly/moth watercolors with ephemeral fragments enhanced by her emotive brush strokes and pencil lines.#2 Dryden Pottery(open only Saturday, May 2nd)Multiple Artists, 341 Whittington Ave. • Hot SpringsFor over 80 years Dryden Pottery has been producing high-quality ceramics with an artistic flair. Known worldwide, our in-house formulated glazes and clay mix were engineered by founder AJ Dryden. The Quartz crystal clay and glazes are sought after and easily recognized by collectors. Currently, 4th generation operated, we work tirelessly to create beautiful, high quality, one-of-a-kind, art pottery, sculptures, and functional pottery.#3 Highpoint Studio Lori Arnold, Erma Stillsmith105 Robertsridge • Hot SpringsEnjoy a day of demonstrations, wonderful artwork, and refreshments. Sit by the fire pit or take a walk around the gardens or just take in the views. We are looking forward to showing you our latest creations.#5 The Tea Horse Koryu Foundation & Tea SchoolJennifer Huffman, 134 Greenwood Avenue, • Hot SpringsA Japanese tea practitioner and cultural educator and founder of The Tea Horse and the Tea Horse Korya Foundation, Jennifer shares the traditions of Japanese tea through demonstrations, workshops, and seasonal gatherings inspired by the aesthetics of the Way of Tea. A graduate of the Urasenke Midorikai program in Kyoto, her work focuses on building community through tea, hospitality, and cultural exchange. Her tea school serves as a gathering place for students and guests to experi‑ence the quiet beauty of tea practice and the spirit of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.#6 Lola’s Art PlaceLola Warren, 314 Pinewood St. • Hot SpringsI have worked with just about every art material imaginable including painting, metal, wood, fibers, ceramics, stone, and glass. I teach ceramics and fused glass at the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts, and glass casting at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts in Little Rock.#7 Richard Stephens StudioRichard Stephens, 400 Pritchard • Hot SpringsI enjoyed a 48 year career in the world of commercial art. Overlapping the last 10 years was my rediscovery of my long lost love of Watercolor. For the last 23 years I have been producing about 250 paintings a year as well as teaching watercolor workshops all over the country. My style of painting would be termed Impressionist, viewing a recognizable subject painted quickly and loosely..letting the magic of watercolor do what it wants to do. I have been fortunate to have my work recognized, via competitions and publications, on a National and International level.#7 Stevie Spargo StudioStevie Spargo, 400 Prichard • Hot SpringsI work mainly with Acrylic Pours and Resin, creating both functional art and fine art decorative work. My creative products range from large tabletops and countertops, charcuterie boards of various sizes, cutting boards with intricate designs and colors, and one of a kind coaster sets to fine art wall pieces of various sizes and themes. I am available for commissions and love working with clients to create the perfect addition for their space.SATURDAY & SUNDAY MAY 2-3, 2026A Creator Space Experience#4 Blue Donut Art Gallery and Craft GalleryLaura Blue Waters, 430 Valley Street • Hot SpringsShowcases the works of local, regional, national, and international artists, including ironwork by Hot Springs’ own Tri-Lakes Ornamental Ironworks. Studio Tours are free, self-guided tours that offer the opportunity to meet artists in their creative spaces, see their artistic process in action, ask questions, and buy some art. Studios are open Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3, from 10 AM to 4 PM.The studios are numbered and organized to minimize mileage; however, the studios may be visited in any order during operating hours.All studios are in Hot Springs unless otherwise noted. Visit HotSpringsArts.org for details about each studio.

#8 Gary Simmons StudioGary Simmons, 133 Brown St. • Hot SpringsBeen an active artist of pen and ink, watercolor, and oil in the community since 1973. Taught pen workshops nationally, taught art at Henderson State for 22 years, awarded the Governor’s Individual Artist of the Year Award.#9 Crooked Little Studio VisualDiana Garrison, 318 Arrowhead Dr. • Hot SpringsArtist, writer and designer in printmaking, painting, and education, working from garden-side studio, recently relocated to Hot Springs from San Francisco.#10 Gigi GaulinGigi Gaulin, 196 Gobert • Hot SpringsI love metal and being able to share this work. I believe art has no map to follow; it is a process, as is anything else, and needs time and space to unfold and be expressed.#9 The DungeonDaniel Cassity, 318 Arrowhead Drive • Hot SpringsI am a visual storyteller emphasizing imagination within the still life genre. A few highlights from my resume include national and international exhibitions/competition awards, museum purchases, a short film, and magazine articles. Most recently I have begun producing promotional videos for YouTube. 70270270270BUS70STUDIO TOURS#1 — Jeri Hillis Studio — Jeri Hillis125 Pullman Ave., Hot Springs#2 — Dryden Pottery — Dryden Family341 Whittington Ave., Hot Springs#3 — Highpoint Studio — Lori ArnoldHighpoint Studio — Erma Steelsmith105 Robertsridge St., Hot Springs#4 — Blue Donut Art Gallery430 Valley St., Hot Springs#5 — The Tea Horse — Jennifer Huffman134 Greenwood Ave., Hot Springs#6 — Lola’s Art Place314 Pinewood St.,Hot Springs#7 — Richard Stephens Studio — Richard StephensStevie Spargo Studio — Stevie Spargo400 Prichard St., Hot Springs#8 — Gary Simmons Studio — Gary Simmons133 Brown St., Hot Springs#9 — Crooked Little Studio Visual — Diana GarrisonThe Dungeon — Daniel Cassity318 Arrowhead Dr., Hot Springs#10 — Gigi Gaulin Studio — Gigi Gaulin196 Gobert Rd., Hot SpringsStudio Tours Shortest Path FFrreeee aanndd OOppeenn ttoo tthhee PPuubblliicc111222333444555 666777999888111000 May 2-May 3, 2026STUDIO TOURS

27 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026The Happy Hollow, a beautifully restored 1950s-era motor court in the heart of downtown Hot Springs, welcomes visitors looking for the perfect blend of comfort, nostalgia, and adventure.Offering a unique alternative to modern hotels, this mid-century hotel provides 18 versatile rooms designed to accommodate family groups of all sizes. Ideally located for travelers of all kinds, the property places guests exactly where they want to be:Walkability: Just steps away from downtown shops, local restaurants, and the historic Bathhouse Row.Access: Located at the edge of Hot Springs National Park, guests are seconds away from world-class hiking trails and vibrant downtown life.Adventure: A short drive or bike ride leads to the renowned Northwoods Trails. To support the cycling community, a convenient bike repair station is located right on the property.Between graduation ceremonies, family reunions, and quick getaways, guests can relax on shared balconies, offering stunning views of the Hot Springs National Park. The motor court prioritizes modern traveler needs with free parking—a rarity in the downtown corridor—and a pet-friendly policy that ensures no family member is left behind.Whether travelling to toast a graduate or explore the Ouachita Mountains, The Happy Hollow offers the charm of the past with modern amenities.Mention this article for a 10% discount on your next visit. Visit www.happyhollowhotsprings.com or call 501-321-2230 to book your stay.Stay Happy atThe Happy HollowHappy Hollow sticker adapted from a vintage 1960s postcard.Registration is now open for the fifth running of the Northwoods Mullet Trail Run and Beaver Bash, scheduled for May 9 on the Northwoods Trail System in Hot Springs.The event features a 25-kilometer and a 10-kilometer trail run, with separate start times for runners with dogs in each division. The Beaver Bash is a post-race celebration featuring live music, great food, and beer.The Mullet Trail Run and Beaver Bash is part of the Arkansas UltraRunning Association (AURA) 2025-2026 Ultra Trail Series (UTS) Lite race calendar. Packet Pickup will be Friday, May 8, at Cedar Glades Park Pavilion from 4 to 7 p.m. and on race day at Cedar Glades Park Pavilion until 7:45 a.m. for the 25K and 8:45 a.m. for the 10K. For more info, call Traci Berry at 501-321-2027Registration Open for Ultra Trail Series

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 28Hot Springs was the epicenter for Arkansas's evolving international business landscape when the Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses announced its transition to the Arkansas-Asia Business Council (AABC) during its annual “East Meets West of Arkansas” Lunar New Year Luncheon at the DoubleTree Hotel.\"We announced this milestone here because this city has always welcomed people from around the world,\" said Jayesh Ramnani, AABC executive director. \"This is exactly the bridge we're building between Arkansas and Asia in both business and culture.\"The AABC also presented its 2026 “Business of the Year” Awards, with Aitohof Hot Springs announced as the first runner-up. Two other local businesses with Asian heritage, Molecular Processing and Origami Sake, were among the luncheon’s sponsors. Special luncheon guests highlighted Hot Springs’ own ties to Arkansas-Asia business and culture. Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald remarked that cities such as Hot Springs that welcome international business and embrace cultural diversity are wellpositioned for the next wave of Arkansas’s economic growth.Renowned artist Longhua Xu shared why he calls Hot Springs his sanctuary and spiritual home. Guests also experienced “Chado,” or “The Way of Tea,” presented by the Tea Horse of Hot Springs. Ramnani said the AABC’s new strategic pillars will focus on talent development, referral networks with metrics for increasing revenue, cultural programming, and events. Membership in the AABC is open to all. For more information, visit arkasianbiz.com or contact Jayesh Ramnani at [email protected] Businesses Honored by Arkansas-Asia Business CouncilBeth Wild accepts AABC’s first runner-up business award from Longhua Xu (l) and Jayesh Ramnani (r). Courtesy: Arkansas-Asia Business CouncilOn Tuesday, April 21, The Entertainment Foundation will bring the Tina Turner Tribute Show to the Woodlands Auditorium at 7 PM as its annual fundraiser.Lori Mitchell-Gay (along with her backup singers/dancers) brings the fire, soul, and unstoppable energy of Tina Turner to the stage in a powerhouse tribute that electrifies audiences. With a voice that soars, signature moves that command attention, and a presence that fills the room, she captures the spirit of the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll while making the performance unmistakably her own.A seasoned entertainer showcasing a variety of musical genres, Lori has performed internationally and in the USA in her one-woman shows, for Legends, and in USO troupe shows. She also impersonates Whitney Houston and Diana Ross. She gained national recognition as a winner on the E! Entertainment network show entitled Clash of the Cover Bands. Get ready for big hair, bold style, and a highenergy celebration that honors Tina Turner’s legacy and leaves crowds dancing, cheering, and wanting more!The Entertainment Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit organization, has the mission of enriching the lives of veterans, senior adults, and the underserved by providing quality, live entertainment and excellence in music.Since its inception, TEF has entertained well over 14,000 through its programming, transforming the lives of those who often feel forgotten or removed from the outside world. By providing an interactive and engaging performance from a professional entertainer, audience members become the “stars” actively radiating light to outshine the dark clouds of loneliness by singing, sharing stories, laughing, and even dancing. The results are palpable. Lives are changed.To purchase tickets, go to www.HSVTicketSales.com. For those living outside Hot Springs Village, please show ticket(s) for gate access.The Entertainment Foundation thanks Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, Ike Eisenhauer State Farm Insurance, and Village Home Care for their continued yearlong support. Tina Turner Tribute Comes to HS VillageGet ready for big hair, bold style, and a high-energy celebration that honorsTina Turner’s legacyWhen the sun dips below the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs reveals a vibrant and surprisingly diverse nightlife scene waiting to be explored. From cozy dive bars and bustling craft breweries to cocktail lounges and venues pulsing with live music, there’s an after-dark adventure suited for every mood.Whether you’re looking to unwind with a local pint or dance the night away, get ready to discover a city overflowing with after-dark activities. You’ll find Places to Stay, Places to Eat, Things to Do, and Events to Attend on the Hot Springs Blog. To dive into the local nightlife, visit www.hotsprings.org/blog/your-guide-tonightlife-in-hot-springs/.

29 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026The Arkansas Historic Preservation Program (AHPP) is accepting submissions for the 2026 “Preserve Our Past” Art & Essay Contest. This annual contest invites Arkansas students in grades five through eight to explore the state’s rich architectural and cultural history through creative expression.The contest is held in conjunction with National Historic Preservation Month, observed each May. It aims to foster an appreciation for Arkansas’ historic places and the importance of preserving them for future generations.In addition, this year, students may want to consider themes relating to the U.S. Semiquincentennial, such as featuring Arkansas historic sites that have national significance.“By engaging with historic structures and sites in their own communities, students gain a deeper understanding of the stories that have shaped our state,” said Scott Kaufman, Director of the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program. “The ‘Preserve Our Past’ contest encourages the next generation of Arkansans to become active stewards of our heritage.”Contest Guidelines: The competition is open to all Arkansas students in the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grades, including those in public, private, and homeschool settings. Entries are divided into two age categories: 5th/6th grade and 7th/8th grade.Theme: All submissions must focus on a historic Arkansas property that is at least 50 years old.Art Category: Original artwork must be 11 x 14 inches and executed on paper (no stretched canvas or oil paints). Entries must be able to be framed in a standard 11 x 14-inch frame. Art submissions must be mailed or hand-delivered; digital entries are not accepted for this category.Essay Category: Original essays should be no longer than 500 words. Creativity is encouraged, though the subject must be a real Arkansas property. Essays may be submitted via mail or email.Prizes and Recognition: All participants will receive a certificate of participation. First, second, and third-place winners in each category will receive trophies, and two honorable mentions will receive ribbons. Winning artwork will be professionally framed and exhibited at the Historic Arkansas Museum in Little Rock from May through August 2026. Submitted works may also be featured on AHPP social media.All entries must be postmarked or submitted digitally by 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.Arkansas Historic Preservation Program Announces \"Preserve Our Past\" Art and Essay ContestThe AHPP “Preserve Our Past” competition is open to all Arkansas students in the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grades, including those in public, private,and homeschool settings.

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 30Citizens of Earth: The Clan of the Bones is a collaborative endeavor by 13 women artists who have transformed 13 animal pelvis bones into an awakened “Tribe of Skulls.” Each woman has given a voice to these collected, weathered bones that carry an imagined memory and remind us that death is not silent- but a doorway that witnesses the many names of the sacred to those who enter. As the faces emerged, each danced with the shared vision of a tribe connecting them to each other as a whole.“This exhibit challenges us to see and feel an ‘other’ as themselves, not identical per se, but as an individuated part of the whole, each expressing an aspect of the All,” stated Gigi Gaulin, facilitator of the project. “When we are aware of this, how we treat each aspect has the potential to unify us rather than separate us. Join us during Arts in the Park and the Studio tour weekend for a journey into a larger view of that which surrounds us.“Hear the stories shared by the artists as they developed the evolution of the archetypes, dynamic forces that guide our inner lives and collective narratives, that became the ‘Tribe of Skulls’.” April 25-26: 1-4 PM, The Crystal Cave, 435 Whittington Avenue- (no children or pets). May 2-3: 10 AM to 4 PM Studio tour at 196 Gobert Road.Visit This Collaborative Exhibitat the Crystal Cave Citizens of Earth: The Clan of the Bones exhibit is scheduled for two weekends.During Arts & The Park, Collective Arts Gallery invites you to help create a public work of art at the gallery, located at 620 Central Avenue, 2nd floor.As part of their “Let It Grow” exhibit, which is located at the gallery and includes paintings by artists of the gallery, Collective will host an Arts & The Park Festival Project, which will include a panel that visitors can paint throughout the festival. Visitors of all ages are welcome to add a small mark—paint a leaf, draw a flower, write a word, or add a symbol of growth.One brushstroke at a time, the artwork will grow into a vibrant work-of-art garden of shared creativity, reflecting the voices and imagination of our community and festival visitors. No experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to make your mark. Come be part of something that grows a little more beautiful with every contribution. For more information, visit Facebook: Collective Arts Gallery.Collective Arts Invites the Public to“Let It Grow,” a Community Art ProjectACNMWA Announces 2026 Artist Award RecipientThe Arkansas Committee of the National Museum of Women in the Arts (ACNMWA) announces Laura Terry, of West Fork, as the Artist Award recipient for 2026.The purpose of the award is to assist an accomplished woman artist to realize her vision and help to make her achievements more visible to the art community and the public. “The 2026 Artist Award committee selected Laura Terry for the unique way she uses art to tell the story and history of small towns and rural landscapes in Northwest Arkansas,” said ACNMWA President Demara Titzer. “A full-time educator, Laura will use the Artist Award to focus on a project during the summer that will support this storytelling through art.”“This award will sustain me over the summer and allow me to focus on a project, started and tentatively titled Atlas Arkansas,” Terry said. “In this work, I use historical photographs, maps, alongside my own drawings, paintings, and photographs to create what I am calling \"paper quilts.\" The technique of piecing paper that I have been using incorporates historical photographs and maps to create another layer of imagery in the works.”Terry holds a Master of Fine Arts from Savannah College of Art and Design and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Design from Auburn University. She is an associate professor of architecture at the University of Arkansas, in addition to being a practicing artist. Her work has been featured in national juried exhibitions across the country and is held nationally in public and private collections.Information about the ACNMWA Artist Award and a sample of Terry’s work is available at www.acnmwa.org/programs/artist-award.Artist Laura Terry, of West Fork

31 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026The Garland County Historical Society (in association with the Garland County Library) will host Romero Lopez and Layne Skinner presenting “From Healing Waters to Mystic Ozark: The Story of the Ozark Bathhouse and the birth of the Mystic Ozark Museum” at noon, Tuesday, March 17, at the Garland County Library. People can attend in person or view the program virtually at Facebook: GarlandCountyLibrary or youtube.com/garlandcolibrary.The Ozark Bathhouse on Hot Springs’ famed Bathhouse Row has witnessed decades of visitors drawn by the promise of healing thermal waters. This presentation will explore the rich history of the Ozark Bathhouse—from its early days as a working bathhouse to what it has now become.Approximately five years ago, Mid-America Science Museum approached the National Park Service about using the then-empty Ozark building to create a museum focused on the thermal waters that give the national park and city their names.The new museum, the Mystic Ozark, partnered with Process Curiosity, world-renowned exhibit builders who have created exhibits for the Smithsonian and for Disney parks. The “old” Ozark went from an empty historic bathhouse to an interactive museum filled with sensory exhibits.Opened in May 2025, the Mystic Ozark, located at 425 Central Avenue, is a modern, familyfriendly science museum that blends history, storytelling, and hands-on learning. Romeo and Skinner will share how the bathhouse’s past inspired the creation of Mystic Ozark, how myth and science work together to engage visitors, and how preserving history can spark curiosity and education for future generations. Photos courtesy of Garland County Historical Society“From Healing Waters to Mystic Ozark:The Story of the Ozark Bathhouse and the Birth of the Mystic Ozark Museum”This 1920s postcard shows the brick and stucco Ozark Bathhouse soon after it opened in 1922. It was built in the Spanish Colonial Style for $93,000. This 1940s photo shows that a 1942 renovation had brought the Ozark Bathhouse’s wings forward in line with the front porch, which was enclosed at the same time. The painted wooden porch enclosure was removed in the late 1900s to return the building to its original appearance.The Fourth Annual Hot Springs Gem & Mineral Show returns to The Club House Hot Springs from May 1–3, bringing together a vibrant mix of local and traveling vendors, collectors, and enthusiasts for a weekend dedicated to the beauty and wonder of earth’s natural treasures.Guests can explore a diverse selection of gemstones, minerals, crystals, fossils, jewelry, and handcrafted goods from vendors traveling from across the region alongside beloved local sellers. Whether you are an experienced collector or simply curious about the natural artistry found beneath the earth’s surface, the show offers an inviting environment to browse, learn, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.In addition to art, gems, and minerals, the weekend will feature live music and entertainment throughout the event. Friday evening’s Gallery Walk will include a special performance by Haley Crabb, creating a relaxed and creative atmosphere to open the show. Live music continues Saturday with Mike Chase, followed by a Sunday sound bowl performance from Karina Jo to close out the weekend.The Hot Springs Gem & Mineral Show has quickly grown into a beloved annual gathering, celebrating art, craftsmanship, geology, and the creative spirit of the community. The event is family-friendly with free public admission and is open to anyone interested in discovering the unique stories and beauty found within stones from around the world. More info at www.thelocalartentity.com.Fourth Annual Hot Springs Gem & Mineral Show Returns toThe Club House

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 32Legacy Fine Art GalleryArtwork by local & int’l artistsRobo World Coffee shop & arcade Malco TheatreHammer & StainEstablished & emerging artistsJustus Fine Art Gallery Established & emerging artistsDeluca’s Pizzeria NapoletanaAuthentic NY brick oven pizzaRebecca Peterman PhotographyPortraits photography Next Generation Tye-Dyes & ApparelCotton clothes & beddingPicante’s Mexican GrillAuthentic Mexican dishesBrick House GrillSteaks, burgers, salads and much more Steinhaus Keller German food & biergarten Outdoor seatingJenna-Rosity GiftsGift shopCatch My Eye MagicFreehand, temporary body artUnderground Lounge1-of-a-kind artistic beer & wine barGary Morris InteriorsUnique décor, lamps and giftsA Narrow EscapeBrain-teaser escape room. Ages 8 & upGo Foto Yourselfie StudioCreative selfie studio for all agesEspresso YourselfieCoffee & cafeSubwaySubmarine sandwich shopSmall’s Barbershop & Shave ParlorMirror Mirror SalonBeauty, cosmetics & personal care Lazyone of Hot SpringsHigh quality pajamas for family & petsOuachita Bar & GrillBurgers & BBQ Cafe KahloMexican Breakfast & brunchDestiny’s Bake ShopBreakfast, lunch, desserts, cakesGrateful Head Pizza Oven & Beer Garden Deadhead-Brauhaus Culture. Gin JointBathhouse Row400 Block Central AveFat Jack’s Oyster & Sports BarGreat food, music. Pets OK on patioKollective Coffee + TeaOrganic & local for breakfast & lunchThe Colonial Pancake & Waffle HouseBreakfast & brunch. Kringles & KonesChristmas-themed sweet shopDapper and DebonaireMen’s grooming goodsRings ‘n’ ThingsFun fashion jewelryFreedom United SalonHighly trained staff. Progressive work.The Villa BoutiqueApparel, bath & body, linens, jewelryColonial Candy CornerRetro & nostalgic candy, ice creamKringles in the ParkChristmas, seasonal, collectibles & giftsFaith & Flair BoutiqueWomen’s boutique clothingThe Springs Hotel & SpaCasual hotel and spa with 139 roomsMountain Valley Spring CompanyVisitor Center/Museum. Full line of MV Water merchandise.Rolando’s RestauranteLatin American fare. Full bar & patioSavory PantryGourmet gift baskets & edible essentialsPancake ShopServing breakfast exclusively. 3AM Gallery & GiftsArt gallery & gift shopRun StopSpecialty running merchandiseSilver CoconutCollegiate, boutique baby items, & moreBathhouse Row WineryAR wine selections. Tastings dailyHot Springs Hemp CompanyHemp oils and accessories Snazzies, Inc.Young, contemporary, funky boutiqueBeef Jerky OutletWall to wall jerky. Popcorn, saucesYOUR CBD STOREAlternative health servicesArlington Hotel Historic hotel, largest hotel in ARStarbucks Coffee (Arlington)Arlington Beauty Salon (Arlington)Arlington Bathhouse/Spa (Arlington)Black Ribbon Books (Arlington)Downtown Record & CDs (Arlington)Mamoo’s Paradice Cream (Arlington)Homemade ice cream.Uptown Market & SpiritsEssentials from sunscreen to spiritsJosephine Tussaud Wax MuseumJourney through its 7 Magic WorldsMaharaja BoutiqueEmbroidered dresses, sterling, t-shirtsChill & Go Handcrafted Ice CreamRolled ice cream4D AdventureAmazing 4D simulation KilwinsSince 1947, chocolates, ice cream & moreEarthbound Trading CompanyUnique apparel, accessories & home decorThe Buffalo Clothing Co.High quality men’s clothing & accessoriesTombstone Old Time PhotosWild West, gangster portraitsThai-Me SpaMassage, nail, body, & skin services Argentinian Coffee & Wine BarArgentinian delicacies, bar experience! Oxy-ZenOxygen bar to restore, relax & revive!Hot Springs Hat Co.Hats for men and womenSpa Souvenirs & GiftsUnique & locally made/designed items.The Ohio ClubOldest bar in AR. Great food & musicThe AvenueUpscale restaurant & bar in Waters HotelThe Waters HotelHistoric, boutique hotel, 62 roomsIt’s All About RocksRocks & unique merchandiseEVILO Oils & VinegarsDelectable oils & vinegars, tastings dailyGranny’s KitchenSouthern breakfast, lunch and dinnerBathhouse Soapery & CaldariumHandcrafted locally-soap & bath luxuriesNational Park Gifts & SouvenirsHS best selection of souvenirs & giftsVillianess AlchemyBath & beauty apotheclassesSuperior Bathhouse BreweryThermal springs brewery, restaurant & special event venueHotel HaleBoutique hotel and restaurantFordyce BathhouseNat’l Park Visitor Center & museumQuapaw Baths & SpaThermal pools & baths, spa servicesOzark BathhouseCultural center, open on weekendsBuckstaff BathsOur only remaining traditional thermal bathing facilityLamar Bathhouse Bathhouse Row Emporium Lauray’s JewelersBridal, custom designs, & repairsSpa City MarketConvenience storeWrapped Gift BoutiqueA gift for every occasionBubbaLu’s Bodacious BurgersBurgers, hot dogs & ice creamStella Mae’s…Out of the OrdinaryRetro inspired clothingJoJo and JessHome, fashion & personal accessoriesGinger’s PopcornThe best darn popcorn in the South!All Things NaturalBring home the wonder & beauty of natureNational Park Duck ToursLand & water tours on Lake HamiltonThe Glitzy Girls by Bear NecessitiesUpscale women’s boutiqueRenee’sWomen’s apparel, jewelry & home décorHot Springs Haunted ToursFacts, myths & legends of Hot SpringsFat Bottomed Girl’s Cupcake ShoppeAs seen on CUPCAKE WARS!MacKenzie’s Extraordinary Gift ShoppeUnique boutique gifts & plush animals Pour Some Sugar on Me Sweet ShoppeCandy & delectable delights.Gangster Museum of AmericaGuided tour of the HS gangster worldHistoric District AntiquesEstate jewelry, lighting, glass, & furniturePodunk AnniesWestern Boho - Boots, clothing, decorTrail MixOutdoor apparel & trail gearThe Gift GalleryUnique gifts, home decor, & apparelDiablos Tacos and MescalUrban tacos, tapas, drinks. Patio diningHot Springs Internal Medicine ClinicFamily internal medical clinicArtists’ Workshop GalleryCooperative gallery with 30 local artistsAll Things ArkansasProducts made in AR & relating to ARJubiTea Hot SpringsBubble tea, milk tea, smoothiesUS Post OfficeCollective Art GalleryCooperative art gallery. Upstairs.Beverly’s Casual ShopWomen’s boutiqueDeSoto Rock & Gift ShopLocally crafted jewelry & mineralsHot Springs Visitor Center Tourist information centerMaxine’s LiveLive music, food, craft beer & drinksHot Springs Trolley ToursTrolley tours. Special events.The Porterhouse Steak and SeafoodPrime-only steaks and seafood cuisineCopper Penny PubIrish pub, food, beer, big screen TVs Vault 723Timeless Vault Dining Downtowner MarketplaceVendors in one location with home decor, boutiques and artisansRocket FizzSoda pop & candy shopAmerican Art Gallery & Gifts Local, regional, national & int’l artistsJoanna A. BoutiqueWomen’s fashions & accessoriesThe HumidorCigar LoungeCapone’s LoftVacation Rental500 Block Central Ave600 Block Central Ave700 Block Central Ave800 Block Central Ave100 Block ExchangeBUBBALU’S BURGERS & DOGS200 Block Central Ave300 Block Central AveCOLLECTIVE ARTS GALLERY1000 Block Central AvePARKING 128 Exchange St Parking Deck PAID PARKING PAID Meters on Central AveSTEINHAUS KELLER100 Block Central Aveamerican art galleryJUSTUS ART GALLERY900 Block Central Ave801Spencer’s Corner

33 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026Inspired by classic European beer halls, 421 Beer Garden, located at 421 Broadway Street, offers outdoor seating, communal tables, and a relaxed setting where friends and families can gather to eat, drink, and enjoy great company.An explosion of craft beer awaits, featuring an inspired mix of imported favorites and standout local brews. With 20 rotating taps pouring some of the finest draught beer around, plus a carefully curated selection of bottles and cans, there’s something here for every beer lover.Whether you’re chasing bold new flavors or enjoying a trusted classic, 421 Beer Garden is where Hot Springs comes to drink.The menu delivers scrumptious, crave‑worthy offerings, anchored by an extensive selection of appetizers designed to pair perfectly with your beer. Once you’ve sampled the starters, dive into hearty favorites including juicy burgers, flavorful wraps, fall‑off‑the‑bone ribs, savory pork chops, perfectly grilled ribeye, or tender filet mignon—all crafted to match the bold character of our beer selection. They feature live music on the patio most weekends, creating the perfect atmosphere for dancing, celebrating birthdays, and making unforgettable memories with friends. Catch all the action on large‑screen TVs throughout the patio and dining room, featuring daily sports and Razorback games.So, grab your family, round up your friends, and enjoy everything 421 Beer Garden has to offer. They can’t wait to welcome you. For more information, visit Facebook: 421 Beer Garden Hot Springs, AR.Hot Springs’ Newest Hotspot is Taking the Town by StormAnd the sipping is good at421 Beer Garden.The Arkansas Office of Outdoor Recreation is now accepting applications for Guide ARK, the state’s new trusted network of verified outdoor guides. Connecting adventurers with experts for high-quality outdoor experiences year-round, it will feature licensed and insured professionals offering guided trips in hunting, fishing, paddling, hiking, climbing, and cycling across The Natural State.\"From world-record brown trout to mountain bike trails that put Arkansas on the map, this state has outdoor experiences that rival anywhere in the country,” said Shea Lewis, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. “Guide ARK connects visitors to the professionals who know these places best, and that connection is good for adventurers, good for guides, and good for Arkansas.\"The first phase of the program is focused on guide enrollment. To be listed in the directory, guides can now apply online at no cost by submitting proof of licenses, insurance, safety certifications, and business registration. Once the initial guide database is established, the free online directory will be made available to the public on the state’s tourism website, Arkansas.com. New applicants will continue to be added to the database. Approved guides will renew their applications annually to remain in the directory. Joining Guide ARK puts businesses in front of more people. Approved members earn visibility on Arkansas.com and exposure through travel guides, newsletters, Welcome Centers, and state parks. Members also gain access to the Arkansas promotional toolkit and tourism visitation data, and may be invited to participate in trade shows, promotional campaigns, and the annual Governor's Conference on Tourism and Outdoor Recreation.To apply as a guide, visit https://adpht.arkansas.gov/office-of-outdoor-recreation/guide-ark/.Guide ARK Directory Will Connect Outdoor Adventurers with Verified Guides

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 34The Velvet Attic Boutique is owned by Annie Smith and Melodi Cone, two local entrepreneurs who have a shared love for unique, eclectic style, creativity, and community.What began as an idea between friends has grown into a thoughtfully curated boutique offering distinctive pieces not commonly found elsewhere.As a women-owned small business rooted in the heart of Hot Springs, The Velvet Attic is committed to creating a welcoming, one-of-a-kind shopping experience.The owners take pride in supporting their local community and celebrating the people and small businesses that make it thrive. They have created a warm, welcoming space with style for everyone—offering pieces for all ages, all body types, and for men, women, and children.Visit them at 800 Central Avenue, Suite 2, (upstairs), and follow at Facebook: The Velvet Attic.Shop Local atThe Velvet Attic BoutiqueAnnie Smith and Melodi Cone,the girls of The Velvet Attic.By David Malcolm RoseThe information I get from most of my body parts is reliable. If my feet tell me they’re cold, they are. When my nose tells me the carton of milk that has been sitting in the back of the refrigerator since before Christmas has turned, there is no need to ask my tongue for a second opinion. If my hand tells me the dish in the microwave is hot, you can bet that it is. But lately, the information I’ve been getting directly from my brain needs to be taken with a grain, or often a pillar of salt. Let’s take the example of the hot dish in the microwave. My brain should have known that dish was hot when it sent my hands in there. If it had run that half-baked plan of action past the hands first, they would never have done it.My brain is reliable enough when passing along information it gets from other body parts, but when it’s called upon to formulate thoughts on its own, it just can’t be trusted anymore. I send it on a simple memory retrieval errand and there’s no telling what it’s likely to come back with. Information in my brain is stored in the form of short clips of audio and video tape. To retrieve a memory, my brain must gather the pertinent clips and arrange them in proper order and then deliver the finished product. There are times when it does an adequate job, but sometimes not so much. Often it returns with partial information or with a data reel with info that’s out of order or flat out wrong. Sometimes it doesn’t come back at all. It just goes wandering through the memory banks with no reason or rhyme to the ramble. When that happens, I just go along for the ride.David Rose, of Hot Springs, is an author and artist. {More of David’s musings can be found at thespringsmagazine.com/category/arts/david-rose/.}Ghost in the MachineTim Trawick has been a staple in Central Arkansas for the fiddle community and has taught nationally recognized and award-winning fiddlers.Trawick grew up playing music with his father, who won the Arkansas Old Time State Fiddle Championship in 1979. He is a third-generation Arkansas fiddle player and continued the craft by teaching his sons, along with hundreds of fiddle players statewide and regionally.Beyond teaching, Trawick has performed fiddle statewide and internationally and has helped preserve the Ozark fiddle-playing style. His contributions stretch back into the 70s and include performing and teaching at festivals, events, and camps, as well as tutoring for individuals and families in Arkansas. He is a fiddler, songwriter, mentor, performer, educator, and old-time fiddle advocate of 40-plus years.Trawick and many of his students have participated in the Arkansas State Fiddle Championships at the Ozark Folk Center in Mountain View, often winning or placing well in their divisions. In 2017, 2018, and 2022, “Mr. Tim” won in the senior division and was presented the overall prize in 2007. Three of his students have won the top prize in the Arkansas Old Time State Championship, as well. He and his students have competed well in other talent competitions and fiddle contests and have performed for weddings, church services, and community events.Started in 2002, the Arkansas Living Treasure Award program recognizes a master of traditional craft or folk arts. Community members nominate traditional craftspeople, and an independent panel selects one creative for the honor. Trawick, who was nominated by Gabe Holmstrom of Little Rock, was selected from among 20 nominees. The panel chose a runner-up award for Bertha Arleen Parsley, a quilter in Pine Bluff.For more information on the Arkansas Living Treasure Award, please visit www.ArkansasArts.org. For questions, please contact Scarlet Sims, artist services manager, at [email protected]. Nominations reopen in November.2026 Arkansas Living Treasure Award goes to Fiddler, Tim Trawick

35 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026Master Gardeners:Am Better Away from YouBy Sharon DentChemistry is everything in relationships. True for humans and for plants. Often, indifference is the situation. But sometimes it is love at first sight, or there can be violent clashes too. Making decisions about the layout of a garden can be complicated because these chemical impacts need to be considered.Many plants release compounds called allelochemicals that repel or inhibit the growth of other plants. This is called allelopathy and means to cause suffering. Allelochemicals in leaves can allow them to target (repel or inhibit) by expelling gases through transpiration or through leaf decomposition.Some plants contain repelling chemicals in their roots. As these toxins are released into the soil, nearby roots or plants absorb them, and their growth is stunted. Even death can be caused. Allelochemicals can hinder seed germination as well. This is thought of as negative, but harnessing it can be positive when used for weed control.Most of the examples that follow are based in science, but there are also touches of folklore scattered here and there.• Carrots and parsnips should not be planted next to each other. They get same soil-borne diseases.• Tomatoes do not like brassicas (cabbage, broccoli, kale, etc.). They become stunted, and production is reduced. Brassicas contain glucosinolates (sulfur-containing phytochemicals).• Potatoes are detrimental to asparagus, brassicas, carrots, cucumbers, eggplant, melons, peppers, squash, tomatoes, and sunflowers.• Beans do not plant beans close to chives, garlic, onions, and leeks.• Beets can be stunted by pole beans, but bush beans seem to do fine.• Asters and goldenrod inhibit sugar maple trees and tulip poplar trees.• Black walnut trees produce juglone, which inhibit growth of many plants—tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and potatoes. Whereas melons, beans, and carrots tolerate juglone.• Eastern red cedar trees should be planted away from apple trees to protect them from cedar-apple rust.On a positive note, spinach gets along with all plants. Sharon Dent volunteers with Garland County 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.Some plants are best kept apart, lest they bicker, pout,or stunt each other’s grand botnical ambitions.

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 36Yoga: Benefits of High Crescent Lunge & Warrior 2, aka Balance By Karen Watson ReevesSometimes things don’t turn out as one plans. I am definitely a planner. I can go with Plan B, but I typically really like Plan A. Last fall, I planned the entire 12 months of articles/poses for The Springs Magazinefor 2026, knowing which yoga poses I was going to do (all of them are twists) and which murals I was going to be using as the background.Then, in December and early January, the plan for me to retire and move to Fayetteville, where one of my son’s family lives, came to fruition much sooner than I had planned. It just seemed like the right time. So, this article is not so much about the benefits of the yoga pose I am photographed in (the pose is a twist that is kind of a combination of High Crescent Lunge and Warrior 2; give it a try-it’s FUN! It represents the 95th pose and article I’ve written, and I had not run out of poses nor locales), but more about the benefits of owning a yoga studio in an amazing and accepting community, being invited to write a monthly article for this magnificent publication, and trying to figure out how to say farewell to all the things I’ve loved so much about this adventure.Being a business owner was never anything I really saw myself doing, so stepping out of a comfort zone resulted in benefits of confidence and having to become a little bit more of an extrovert. I have been gifted with so many amazing opportunities doing some really quirky things, all in the name of yoga. And along that journey, the people I have met and become friends with have been nothing less than astounding. Hot Springs National Park is such a treasure. It has been a privilege and a joy to live here for 20 years, to teach yoga here for 15 years, and to be a studio owner just shy of 13 years. As with most major life changes, this one is definitely bittersweet. The bitter part includes, as previously mentioned, missing all the people and the beauty of this National Park, as well as the physical aspect of a move, which is definitely not fun!But the sweet part is that I’m going to a place where my son, daughter-in-law, and two youngest grandchildren want me to be. They’ve been encouraging me for several years to make the move.I’ll also be an hour closer to my older son’s family. And that is definitely something to celebrate. I am so blessed to have such loving sons, daughters-in-law, and five of the most special grandchildren you’ll ever meet. As a yoga instructor and author of this article for 95 editions, I’ve spoken frequently about “balance.” It is certainly an essential part of the yoga postures and our life off the mat as well. These past few weeks have brought many opportunities to balance out the bitter with the sweet. And if I can just maintain that balance, I know I will be OK.NOTE FROM THE SPRINGS TEAM: Karen, we have loved getting to know you over these 95 poses, and feel blessed to have our friendship grow in so many different ways. We will miss you, but understand where your heart is at this time. We love you and namaste...Lynn & JoAnnKaren 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. {Karen’s yoga poses are archived on our website at thespringsmagazine.com/category/health-wellness/yoga/.}Karen Watson Reeves says we should try this pose - because it’s FUN!It’s a combination of High Crescent Lunge and Warrior 2. photo by Fred Padilla.By Alison CraneThe connection between bees and biodiversity and ecosystem health is a common theme among environmentalists. Bees pollinate about one-third of the world’s food crops. They indirectly aid in absorbing carbon dioxide by supporting the reproduction of plants and trees. Declining bee populations serve as a warning sign of broader environmental damage in an area. Supporting bee populations by providing floral habitats and nesting sites, avoiding the use of spray insecticides, or beekeeping can have an impact on the environment. But have you considered the impact supporting bees can have on your wellbeing?While little is known about the full influence of bees on humans, researchers in Ireland found that farmers participating in the Let it Bee project, which targeted water source protection and biodiversity, experienced a positive impact on their well-being. The farmers were provided with bee hives and later were interviewed by researchers to explore how beekeeping affected the farmers and their families emotionally, psychologically, and socially.The researchers found the effects of keeping bees revealed five central themes connected to wellbeing. Since beekeeping is good for the environment, there is a sense of pride that grows out of what is accomplished. Beekeeping evolves into a sense of togetherness with nature, family, and community.Because beekeeping is a journey and not just something that can be learned through books, beekeepers experience psychological growth and relaxation through the process. Beekeeping also provides opportunities for beekeepers to utilize their character strengths. Beekeeping or supporting bees allows creativity to grow and can even mitigate feelings of loneliness by connecting with local beekeepers and associations.Spring is a great time to take an interest in learning more about supporting both native bees and honeybees in your area. Everyone can do something to help the bees do what they do. To learn more about beekeeping and supporting pollinators, contact the Garland County Extension Service at 501-623-6841 or email [email protected]. Visit our UAEX website for research-based information for you and your family. Alison Crane is a Family and Consumer Sciences Agent with the Garland County Extension Service. Pursuant to 7 CFR § 15.3, the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers all its Extension and Research programs and services (including employment) without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual preference, pregnancy or any other legally protected status, and is an equal opportunity institution. {Catch up on past articles by Alison at thespringsmagazine.com/category/health-wellness/crane/.}Supporting Bees Has a Wide ImpactSpring is a great time to take an interest in learning more about supporting native bees and honeybees in your area.

37 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026By Peggy LindseyIf your life were a book, what title would you give it? Every soul arrives here with a bunch of blank pages. Every experience, every desire, every hope, every choice is written in our very own hand. Each day we awaken to a fresh sheet, ready to continue our story.Some chapters are filled with excitement and adventure, while others reflect the calmness of daily routines. Beautiful moments are etched within . . . falling in love, the tenderness of family and friends, the serenity of a peaceful retreat.But so too, are the sorrowful moments . . . of illness, loss, and pain. We know we cannot change the pages of the past, but each morning gives us an opportunity to create anew. We may not be able to select the cast of characters who appear in our story, but we know who we are and what we bring. Each circumstance allows us to choose how we show up . . . pen in hand. Our book of life will not be a Hallmark movie. It won’t be predictable. It won’t be a fairy tale. It will, however, be your masterpiece, your legacy, your truth. Everything you capture will be remembered by so many . . . and it will whisper to the hearts long after the book is finished. Every book in the library of life has a purpose. Write yours guided by love and kindness. And remember, the best parts of your story are still being written, and the glorious ending is still a mystery!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, www.OnAngelsWingsHealing.com/.{Explore more of Peggy’s wisdom on our website at thespringsmagazine.com/category/health-wellness/lindsey/.}The Story of Your Life

The Springs Magazine • April 2026 • 38Michelle Crandell explores Tarot in 2026.Fives represent obstacles encountered when you attempt to actualize dreams and desires. —photo by Steve Bonner. AMP’D UP: Awareness Changes EverythingTAROT: The Lessons of the Fives in 2026By Michelle Crandell2026 begins with endings (tens) and ends with beginnings (ones). Fives are the midpoint. Fives represent obstacles encountered when you attempt to actualize dreams and desires.At TEN: Reflect upon how you handled challenges, “the fives” presented along the way.At ONE: Anticipate obstacles. Problem-solve; avoid, or accept them as part of the journey.FIVES: Situations you did not create, not under your control; challenges emerging on your new path. SWORDS: The challenge? Staying mentally centered while coping with the chaos around you. Can you separate your own thoughts, feelings, energy, and behavior from others? Examine your beliefs about the changes you are witnessing. Fulfill your own potential in the best way you know how, regardless of the current environment. CUPS: The challenge? Tasting the pleasures found in each day. Clutching your box of memories prevents you from seeing what is possible. Disappointment over who/what is “not here” causes you to miss out on life. Ask “What is there to love right now?”RODS: The challenge? Practicing total attentiveness to the present moment. Giving energy to multiple concerns only creates strife and anxiety. How you allocate your energy matters. Complete what you start before initiating another energetic commitment. Choose wisely.DISCS: The challenge? Experiencing real-world losses, seeing them as situational rather than personal or interpersonal. “The Outsider” perspective can be valuable, bringing clarity and objectivity rather than pain and misery. You are still connected to life, to all being. Open the gate. Enter the persona you most long to become. 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.{Find more of Michelle’s Tarot wisdom and articles on our website at thespringsmagazine.com/category/health-wellness/tarot/.}By Rick BontkowskiThe room is quiet except for the soft mechanical rhythm of a prosthetic foot meeting the floor. Step. Pause. Step again. For many amputees, that sound marks the beginning of a completely new life.April is Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, and for the past several years, I’ve used this space in The Springs Magazine to highlight remarkable people in the amputee community. Veterans, athletes, first responders, musicians, parents, and kids who have all faced the unimaginable and somehow found a way forward. This month, I thought it might be time to share a little bit of my own story.Becoming an amputee is not something you plan for. One day, life feels predictable, and the next day the ground beneath you has shifted. The journey back isn’t linear. There are moments of frustration and grief, but also unexpected victories, the first confident steps. The first time you realize you are stronger than the moment that changed your life.Along the way, I discovered something extraordinary: the amputee community. When I launched The AMP’D UP211 Podcast, I simply wanted to create a space for these stories to be told. What happened next surprised me. The podcast now reaches listeners in more than 50 countries, and each conversation reveals another example of the human spirit refusing to be limited by circumstance.One guest told me something I’ll never forget: “You don’t lose your life when you lose a limb. You just learn how to live it differently.” Another shared a line that has stayed with me ever since: “The prosthetic isn’t what makes you strong. The decision to keep moving forward is.”Those voices are why Limb Loss Awareness Month matters. For people outside the community, awareness helps break down misconceptions. It reminds the world that amputees are not defined by what we lost, but by what we build afterward. It shines a light on the importance of prosthetic innovation, rehabilitation, and the peer support that helps thousands of people rediscover independence every year.If my journey has taught me anything, it’s this: limb loss may change the way we walk through life, but it never changes the strength it takes to keep moving forward.Rick Bontkowski, a Chicago native and amputee, is the host creator of The AMP’D UP211 Podcast. A drummer, cyclist, and advocate, Rick shares the stories of people with limb differences to inspire, inform, and challenge perceptions worldwide. Contact info: [email protected], ampup211.com, youtube.com/@theampdup211podcast6, instagram.com/rick_bontkowski.{Discover additional stories from Rick’s podcast on our website at thespringsmagazine.com/category/health-wellness/ampd-up211/.}Limb loss changed my body. Awareness changed my purpose.

39 • The Springs Magazine • April 2026By Chana PrinceGreetings Fellow Travelers,April brings powerful lunar energy, with a Full Moon on April 1 and a New Moon on April 17—guiding a cycle of release and fresh beginnings. Fueled by Aries drive and Taurus stability, this is one of the best months of the year for purposeful, productive action aligned with long-term goals.A key theme is strong planetary conjunctions —“wild card” alignments that amplify energy and open doors for breakthroughs. With fewer overall aspects and many harmonious aspects, April offers a smoother path forward.Momentum builds as Jupiter awakens and Mercury moves direct. After April 10, all planets are moving forward, clearing delays and accelerating progress.This is a powerful window for big decisions, launches, investments, and stepping boldly into your next chapter.With love, ChanaChana Prince is a Hot Springs native, lover of all things musical and mystical. Professional astrologer available for coaching & readings. [email protected].{Follow Chana’s “Signs” on our website at thespringsmagazine.com/category/healthwellness/signs-of-the-times/.}APRIL 2026April’s Cosmic Green Light:A Month to Move and ManifestMosaic Templars Cultural Center is holding a t-shirt design contest for their official Juneteenth in Da Rock festival t-shirt. The contest is open to all ages. Each participant may submit one original design.Designs should reflect the spirit of Juneteenth in Da Rock — freedom, Black history, culture, unity, and celebration.Designs must be limited to a maximum of four (4) colors to ensure effective and economical printing. Artwork must be positive, inclusive, and appropriate for all audiences. All submitted designs must be original. No AI-generated designs are allowed.Designs should fit within the dimensions of 12” x 14” and must be submitted electronically. Designs will be evaluated on originality, creativity, relevance, visual impact, print readiness, and overall quality. Any work that is deemed offensive or political in nature will not be accepted.The winning designer will be recognized on the main stage during the Juneteenth in Da Rock festival, and the design will be used as the official Juneteenth in Da Rock t-shirt.The winning t-shirt will also be announced in a media press release.Design the official T-shirt for Juneteenth in Da Rock and help visually represent the spirit of freedom, resilience, culture, and community celebration!To learn more about the contest, visit https://www.arkansasheritage.com/mosaic-templars-cultural-center/mtcc-juneteenth/t-shirt-design-competition/Mosaic Templars Holds Juneteenth T-shirt Design Contest

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