Calendar of Events
CANSTRUCTION PRESIDENTIAL CENTER
February 1 thru 15: Canstruction at the Clinton Presidential Center is a design/build competition that puts a visual spotlight on hunger while showcasing the design community of central Arkansas. Local architecture firms compete with each other to build giant sized structures made entirely out of canned food. The Mayor’s Youth Council of both Little Rock and North Little Rock will also participate in the event. The creations will be on view to the public as giant art exhibits until February 15th. At the close of the exhibit, all cans used to create the structures will be donated to the Arkansas Food Bank. For more information, contact Mary Jean Walker at 571-344-3925 or via e-mail maryjeanw@scmarchitects.com.
2012 HEART-FILLED WISH-A-THON
February 3: Show your love for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid-South during the 2012 Heart-Filled Wish-A-Thon with The Buzz, KATV and The Point! Join us at the Rev Room where we will broadcast live from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., sharing inspirational wish stories, volunteer favorites, and donor testimonials. For more information visit www.midsouth.wish.org.
NATIONAL WEAR RED DAY
February 3: Heart Disease is the number one killer of women, claiming almost 435,000 lives a year, or nearly one woman every minute. Since 2004, through its fundraising efforts, Go Red For Women has contributed almost $44 million to women-focused research and has provided additional funds to life-saving educational programs and tools for physicians. For more information, visit www.goredforwomen.org/wearredday or call 501-379-1193.
DUCK DUCK GOOSE CONSIGNMENT SALE
February 2 thru 4: Moms who shop Duck Duck Goose can find name brand, quality children’s clothing such as Gymboree, Polo, Hilfiger, Gap, Limited Too, Children’s Place, Baby LuLu, American Eagle, Old Navy, Smocked Dresses, and more. Picky moms shop at Duck Duck Goose. This event will take place at LR Expo Center (Old Wal-Mart in Jacksonville) take the LR Air Force Base ext. For more information call Cindy Brantley at 501-804-6762 or via e-mail duck.duck.goose@comcast.net.
STORYTIME AT ARGENTA
February 9: Join us on the 2nd Thursday of each month for storytime at 11 a.m. until noon. Home school children are welcome. For more information call 501-687-1061.
3rd ANNUAL TEA & TIARAS TEA PARTY
February 11: This is a mother-daughter tea party. Let the fairytale begin with crafts, tiaras, photos, brunch fit for a queen, and a fashion parade including every princess. Doctor Lisa Buckmiller will be honored as 2012 Tea Party Princess. The event will take place at the Country Club of Little Rock, AR. Attire: Tea Party Dress. Event time: 10:30 a.m. For tickets visit www.wanerkids.org or call 501-680-0973.
9TH ANNUAL CHOCOLATE FANTASY BALL
February 11: Presented by McDonald’s of Central Arkansas. The event will take place at 6 p.m. at the Peabody Hotel in Little Rock, AR. You won’t want to miss it, so mark your calendar now! Contact Emily Piechocki for tickets, for event details, and for sponsorship opportunities at 501-978-3119 or via e-mail emily@rmhclittlerock.org. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charties.
SWEETHEART HAYRIDE & CAMPFIRE
February 11: Take your sweetheart on a romantic hayride through fields and woods followed by a cozy campfire, blankets, and snuggling recommended. Advance reservations and payment required. Meeting place: Pinnacle Valley Rd. ¼ mile East on Hwy. 300. Meeting time: 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission: $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 6 -12. For more information and to make your reservation call 501-868-5806.
LIL’ WILD ONES
February 11: You are invited to join us for the program series Lil’ Wild Ones the second Saturday of each month through the school year at 2 p.m. We will explore the wildlife and habitats of Arkansas through nature stories and hands-on activities! These programs are recommended for children ages 4-8. For more information call the Will Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center at 501-907-0636.
“TAIL WAGGIN’ TUTORS” THERAPY DOG READING PROGRAM
February 11: This program is to provide a relaxed and “dog-friendly” atmosphere, which allows children to practice their reading skills. It helps build self-esteem by sitting down next to a dog and reading to them. For more information call 501-687-1061.
RHEA LANA’S SALE EVENT
February 12 thru 18: Come shop for all your children’s needs in one spot. You’ll find clothing, toys, baby equipment, nursery furniture, maternity, and more. Sell your children’s items as a consignor and earn 70-80%. Volunteer and shop before the public to get the best deals first. Join our mailing list at www.rhealana.com. We’ve been clothing and connecting with families since 1997! This event will take place at Conway Expo Center, 2505 East Oak Street, Hwy. 64 East (one mile past Chick-fil-A on the right). Event time: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information call 501-499-0009 or via e-mail rhealana@rhealana.com.
REEL CLASSICS WITH THE REP PRESENTS, “THE WIZARD OF OZ”
February 13: This event takes place at the Main Library from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. We’re off to see the Wizard at this month’s Reel Classics With The Rep! In partnership with The Arkansas Repertory Theatre, “Reel Classics…” brings classic film to life with pre-film discussion by The Rep’s artistic production staff. This month, join the Rep’s costume designer, Rafael Castanera, as he shares an exclusive sneak peek at the costume sketches for The Rep’s upcoming production of The Wiz, opening March 9, and talks about designing costumes for the stage. For more information call 501-918-3000.
FREESTYLE MOTOCROSS: NUCLEAR COWBOYZ
February 17 and 18: This event will take place at the Verizon Arena starting at 7:30 p.m. Purchase your tickets now to see Freestyle Motocross: Nuclear Cowboyz with live dancers and entertainment! Tickets available at the Verizon Arena Box Office, all Ticketmaster Outlets, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or online at www. ticketmaster.com.
ARKANSAS RV SHOW
February 17 thru 19: Arkansas RV Show is Arkansas’ largest RV Show where it features nearly 100,000 square feet of RV exhibits. Over 125 recreational vehicles on display… Motor Homes, Travel Trailers, Fifth Wheels, and Camping Trailers plus exhibits featuring resorts, campgrounds, RV accessories and other items related to the RV industry. Manufacturer will have factory reps on hand to answer any questions. Whether you are an experienced RVer looking to trade up or a first time buyer looking for answers… you have the opportunity to shop and compare dozens of dealers at one time… in one place! Friday & Saturday open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Statehouse Convention Center. Tickets: $5 for adults and children 12 and under get in free. For more information call 501-765-1423 or visit www.dgattractions.com.
HEART BALL
February 18: The Central Arkansas Heart Ball is gala benefiting the American Heart Association. The evening features a hosted reception, dinner, sweetheart presentation, silent and live auction, award presentation and dancing to the B Flats. Black tie evening/dinner. Event starts at 6 p.m. Tickets: $500. For more information call 501-375-9148 or visit https://ahalittlerock.ejoinme.org/myevents/2011201.
2012 WINTER JAM
February 19: The Winter Jam 2012 Tour Spectacular will be headlined by Grammy-nominated alternative rockers Skillet. The 47-city tour will also feature Sanctus Real, former Newsboys frontman Peter Furler, Kari Jobe, Building 429, Group 1 Crew, illusionist Brock Gill, and national speaker Nick Hall. In addition, the OneVerse Pre-Jam Party will include performances from Dara Maclean, For King & Country, and We As Human. VeggieTales’ Bob and Larry will also make a special appearance. Event place: Verizon Arena. Doors open: 5 p.m. Admission: $10 at the door, no tickets are required! For more information call 501-975-9000 or visit www.jamtour.com.
UNDERSTANDING IQ
February 21: Presented by Dr. Sabine Falls, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist, ACCESS. Why would you need to know your child’s Intelligence Quotient? What exactly is IQ? Why is assessing and knowing IQ important? Does a child’s IQ stay the same over the course of his or her life? How is IQ determined, and what information does it provide when planning therapeutic and educational treatments? Did you know there are IQ tests for children as young as 2 and cognitive development indexes for babies who are only six days old? Why would you test a child that young, what does your 8 year old’s IQ tell you, and what to do with the student whose IQ doesn’t seem to match his or her abilities? Get these answers and more at this informative session. All classes are at the ACCESS Stella Boyle Smith Campus, 10618 Breckenridge Drive, Little Rock. Cost is $10 per person. (The less formal Brown Bags are free). All parent training workshops are free for ACCESS parents. Class time: 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Contact Shalene Hammons at 501-217-8600 or via e-mail shalene@accessgroupinc.org for reservations. Due to staff availability, childcare is available to ACCESS families only at this time. Childcare reservations must be made one week in advance. There is a $10 fee for the first child and $5 for each subsequent child per family.
TODDLER STORY TIME AT ARGENTA
February 23: Enjoy storytime and a craft starting at 11 a.m. until noon. For children 4 years and under. For more information call 501-687-1061.
STRIKE TWO
February 23 and 24: Parkview Arts and Science Magnet High School presents “Stike Two,” which utilizes songs and spoken word to explore the Negro Baseball Leagues and the integration of professional baseball. Meeting place: Great Hall at the Clinton Presidential Center. For more information call 501-374-4242 or visit www.clintonpresidentialcenter.org.
ARKANSAS GARDEN AND FLOWER SHOW
February 24 thru 26: This is a family-friendly event celebrating gardening in Arkansas. Events include educational speakers and demonstrations, shopping for garden-related items, a silent auction, and interactive children’s activities. Admission: $8 for adults, Seniors (60 +) $6, and Children under 12 are FREE. Meeting place for this event: The Statehouse Convention Center. Parking: Park for FREE at Dickey-Stephens Park and then take the shuttle ($1 round-trip for adults, free for children under 12) provided by Arkansas Destinations to the show! For more information visit www.arflowerandgarendshow.org or call 501-821-4000.
ARKANSAS FIRST LEGO LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP AND JUNIOR FLL EXPO
February 25: The competition has two parts: the challenge and the project. This year’s project is “Food Factor: Keeping Food Safe.” In the Food Factor challenge, teams of up to 10 children will build, test and program a robot using LEGO MINDSTORM NXT to solve a set of food safety missions, as well as research, develop and share their innovative food safety solutions. Throughout their experience, teams will operate under FLL’s signature set of core values. More details to be announced. Event place: Clinton Presidential Center. For more information call 501-374-4242 or visit www.clintonpresidentialcenter.org.
5th ANNUAL PAWS ON THE RUNWAY
March 1: Join us for an unforgettable evening of canine show stoppers, engrossed bidding, and fabulous friends. CARE’s Annual canine style show and silent auction is something you won’t want to miss. The event will take place at the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion (1800 Center Street, LR). For more information call 50-603-2273 or visit www.careforanimals.org.
ODYSSEY’S SHIPWRECK! PIRATES & TREASURES
March 1 thru 31: Mid-America Science Museum is proud to host this exciting special Exhibition in the spring & summer of 2012. This exhibit encompasses 8,000 sq. ft. and features more than 500 authentic artifacts recovered by Odyssey from various shipwrecks in the Atlantic Ocean, the English Channel & Mediterranean Sea. It takes visitors through the thrilling quest to discover the ocean’s greatest shipwreck stories & treasures. It fuses history, science & technology into an exciting educational experience through the use of interactive elements & real life treasure displays from some of the most extraordinary shipwrecks in the world! A fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the research & technology used to be involved in hands-on activities relating to shipwreck exploration. With the opportunity to participate in the pioneering exploration of shipwrecks, while learning about the cutting-edge technology, archaeology & fascinating stories of ships lost at sea over the centuries. To come on board with the Odyssey crew & explore the exciting world of deep-ocean exploration, science, technology & history as your journey through thousands of years of maritime travel. For more information and hours of operation call 501-767-3461 or visit www.midamericamuseum.org.
BARGAIN BOUTIQUE
March 2 and 3: Bargain Boutique is women and children’s consignment sale held at the Junior League of Little Rock Building. We are the only consignment sale that offers shoppers both brand new items from local retailers, as well as gently used quality items from local consignors. 100% of profits raised by Bargain Boutique goes toward funding JLLR community programs such as Be Wise Immunize, Buckle Up and Be Safe, FACT, GROW, KOTA Camp, Nightinggales, SCAT Night Owls, and Stuff the Bus. Happy Hour: Come Sip, Shop & Save at the JLLR building located at 401 S. Scott Street, LR, on Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tickets are only $10 per person, and this includes light appetizers, drinks, raffle, and the first chance to shop the fabulous clothes at great prices! Come shop the bargains and help support JLLR and our community projects. General Sale: FREE admission on Saturday from 7:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Head downtown to the JLLR building for a day of fun activities and great deals! For more information visit www.jllr.org.
LITTLE ROCK MARATHON HEALTH & FITNESS EXPO
March 2 and 3: The 10th Annual Little Rock Marathon Health & Fitness Expo will kick-off the marathon weekend Friday starting at 12 p.m. until 7 p.m. and then Saturday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. at the Statehouse Convention Center in downtown Little Rock. In conjunction with the Expo, free seminars on a number of topics relating to running/walking, health, beauty and fitness, and the course overview will be offered, as well as the Award Ceremony for the 5K Fun Run/Walk. Bart Yasso, Chief Running Officer of Runner’s World Magazine will be on hand to sign autographs and share his wealth of knowledge and many great stories. With a focus on the latest in running, fitness and lifestyle improvements, the Little Rock Marathon Health and Fitness Expo is the ultimate opportunity to showcase your company’s products and services to athletes, family members, sports enthusiasts, and guests. We anticipate over 12,000 registrants and more than 20,000 expo attendees based on last year’s participation. For more information contact Gina Pharis at 501-918-5321 or via e-mail lrmarathonexpo@gmail.com or visit www.littlerockmarathon.com.
LITTLE ROCK MARATHON 5K RACE
March 3: As part of the celebration of Little Rock’s 10th Anniversary Marathon, this 5K race will start at 8 a.m. starting in the River Market at President Clinton Avenue and Sherman Street. The 5K is a running and walking tour through the scenic streets of Arkansas’ capital city. We are a race for every pace. Come enjoy our lively brand of southern hospitality. Registration is $25. For more information contact Gina Pharis at 501-918-5321 or via e-mail gmarchese@littlerock.org or visit www.littlerockmarathon.com.
LITTLE ROCKERS KIDS FINAL MILE MARATHON
March 3: The Little Rockers Kids Marathon is an event that gives children ages 7-12, the opportunity to compete a modified marathon over an extended period of time. Kids complete 25.2 miles prior to race day using the Little Rockers Kids Marathon Training Program, presented by Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Participants have several months to complete the miles on their own or through their school (if their school is officially participating in the program) by running, jogging or walking. On race day, all participants finish their marathon as they run the last mile of the actual course and cross the official Little Rock Marathon finish line. The mission of the Little Rockers Kids Marathon is to provide participants ages 7-12 with the opportunity to enhance their physical activity while focusing on reaching a goal. We hope to motivate children to commit to a health and fitness routine and experience the overall rewards of achieving their goals, not only in crossing the finish line but in life as well. If you would like to start a program at your child’s school, place of worship, community, or civic group, please contact Geneva Hampton at 501-371-4639 or via e-mail ghampton@littlerock.org. For more information about the race visit www.littlerockmarathon.com in the Little Rockers section of the site.
RHEA LANA’S IN WLR
March 4-10: Come shop for all your children’s needs in one spot. You’ll find clothing, toys, baby equipment, nursery furniture, maternity, and more. Sell your children’s items as a consignor and earn 70-80%. Volunteer and shop before the public to get the best deals first. Join our mailing list at www.rhealana.com. We’ve been clothing and connecting with families since 1997! This event will take place at the Bowman Plaza Shopping Center (12120 Colonel Glenn Rd. across from Rave Movie Theater and next to LR Climbing Center). We have more than doubled our square footage this Spring! For more information call 501-499-0009 or via e-mail rhealana@rhealana.com.
RHEA LANA’S IN SALINE COUNTY
March 7-10: Come shop for all your children’s needs in one spot. You’ll find clothing, toys, baby equipment, nursery furniture, maternity, and more. Sell your children’s items as a consignor and earn 70-80%. Volunteer and shop before the public to get the best deals first. Join our mailing list at www.rhealana.com. We’ve been clothing and connecting with families since 1997! This event will take place at the former Mid-State/Creative Foods Building located at 24351 I-30 at Raymar Road Overpass. For more information call 501-499-0009 or via e-mail rhealana@rhealana.com.
“THE WIZ”
March 9 thru April 1: Just in time for spring, Rep audiences will be invited to “ease on down the road” with one of Broadway’s most popular musicals, THE WIZ. With music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls and story from a book by William F. Brown, this funky musical adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved classic “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” explodes onstage with Dorothy, her friends and her little dog, too, in a vibrant fusion of ‘70’s rock and Motown melodies. For tickets and additional information call the Box Office at 501-378-0405 or visit www.therep.org.
SPRING BREAK PROGRAMS
March 9 thru April 1: School’s out, State Parks are in! Adventure awaits students and their families searching for a break from the academic grind. Kayaking, lake tours, night hikes, demonstrations, games, fun, and excitement are offered daily beginning March 9 and ending April 1. Admission: free except for lake tours and kayak tours. See individual programs for prices. Contact DeGray Lake Resort State Park for a schedule at 501-865-5810.
2012 ARKANSAS DIETETIC ASSOC. 5K RUN/1 MILE WALK
March 10: It’s time for the 2012 Going Bananas for Nutrition & Fitness 5K Fun Run/1 Mile Health Walk. Registration & T-Shirt pick-up: 8:30 a.m. 5K Run and 1 Miles Walk: 10 a.m. Health Fair and Award Presentation: 10:45 a.m. This event will take place at the River Trail Rentals (200 Olive Street/across from Verizon Arena). For more information call 501-425-2155 or visit www.arkansaseatright.org.
PANCAKES AT THE FARM
March 10: Come have pancakes at the farm, located at Overlook Farm at Heifer International from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tour the farm to see the animals, learn about maple sugaring and enjoy a hearty pancake breakfast with maple syrup and pork sausage. Reservations are required, so call 508-886-5002. For more information call 800-422-0474 or visit www.heifer.org.
THE HOPE BALL
March 10: The Hope Ball is an annual gala event hosted by the 20th Century Club to raise funding for the continued operation of the 20th Century Club’s Lodge. The 2012 Ball, themed “Garden of Hope”, will be held in the Statehouse Convention Center, Wally Allen Ballroom. The elegant evening will include both live and silent auctions, a delicious seated dinner, cocktails, and dancing until midnight. For more information call 501-907-1760 or visit www.hopeawayfromhome.org.
TECH TIPS AND TRICKS
March 13: Move beyond basic word processing with an overview of fun, engaging software programs, websites and apps designed to enhance and encourage your student’s reading, writing, organization and math skills. See demonstrations and get the skinny on free trials, costs and more. Many of the programs are designed especially for individuals with learning disabilities and are taught in ACCESS training workshops. Easy to use, affordable solutions you can “try before you buy”- you’ll wonder why you haven’t heard of these before! This will be presented by Janice Edmonson, M.S., CCC-SLP, Technology Resource Coordinator, ACCESS. Class time: 6 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. All classes are at the ACCESS Stella Boyle Smith Campus, 10618 Breckenridge Drive, Little Rock. Cost is $10 per person. (The less formal Brown Bags are free). All parent training workshops are free for ACCESS parents. Class time: 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Contact Shalene Hammons at 501-217-8600 or via e-mail shalene@accessgroupinc.org for reservations. Due to staff availability, childcare is available to ACCESS families only at this time. Childcare reservations must be made one week in advance. There is a $10 fee for the first child and $5 for each subsequent child per family.
3RD ANNUAL HIGH SCHOOL TRIVIA CHALLENGE
March 15: High Schools from the Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Pulaski County School Districts will compete in a “Jeopardy”-type game related to the Center’s exhibits and Encyclopedia of Arkansas. Topics include: Famous Arkansans, Arkansas Politics, Arkansas Places and Symbols, and Presidents and First Ladies. Prizes will be awarded to the winning team. Last year’s winning team was Jacksonville High School. Event time: 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. inside The Great Hall. For more information call 501-374-4242 or visit www.clintonpresidentialcenter.org.
DUCK DUCK GOOSE CONSIGNMENT SALE
March 15 thru 17: Moms who shop Duck Duck Goose can find name brand, quality children’s clothing such as Gymboree, Polo, Hilfiger, Gap, Limited Too, Children’s Place, Baby LuLu, American Eagle, Old Navy, Smocked Dresses, and more. Picky moms shop at Duck Duck Goose. This event will take place at the State Fairgrounds/Hall of Industry. For more information call Cindy Brantley at 501-804-6762 or via e-mail duck.duck.goose@comcast.net.
ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARTY
March 17: This will be an all day event on Level 4 of the Main Library. For more information call 501-918-3057 or visit www.cals.org.
SPRING BREAK CAMP AT LRAC
March 19 thru 23: Little Rock Athletic Club is offering a camp for children ages 3 through 12 years. 3-5 years is from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. with complimentary extended care from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. 6-12 years is from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with complimentary extended care from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Morning snack, lunch, afternoon snack, and field trips included in camp price. Each day is an action packed adventure! Reservations must be made and children must be potty trained. Hurry…space is limited! For more information and to make your reservations call 501-225-3600.
MINI-DAY CAMP
March 21: Come and try a Pinnacle Mountain day camp for a day. See if your child would like to spend a full week with us in one of our summer day camps in our up coming summer program. Activities will include nature programs and a guided hike on a park trail. Advance payment is required. Admission: $15. Meeting place: Pinnacle Mountain visitor center. Meeting time: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information and to make your reservation call 501-868-5806.
KITE FLYING COMPETITION
March 25: Do you have a kite that flies high? Bring your kite out for some sun competition in the park! Meeting place: Pinnacle Mountain State Park overflow parking area. Meeting time: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. For more information call 501-868-5806.
SANDERS EASTER EXTRAVAGANZA
March 31: This event starts at 10 a.m. and will last until 12 p.m. at the Amy Sanders Library. Easter egg hunts for children of all ages. For more information call 501-835-7756 or visit www.cals.org.
CINDERELLA
November 1 thru 6: It’s the story of Cinderella like you’ve never seen it before! This classic story of love and footwear is told in a rockin’ new way. Stand up, sing along and rock n’ roll all the way to the ball in this modern fairy tale musical. And, you won’t need your colored glasses to experience this Cinderella in 3D. Sponsored by: Metropolitan National Bank. Performance place: Arkansas Arts Center. Performance times: Fridays 7 p.m., Saturdays 3 p.m. and Sundays 2 p.m. For more information call 501-372-4000 or visit www.arkarts.com.
INFORMED CHOICES=INJURY PREVENTION
November 3: Join the Statewide Injury Prevention Program for a conference for teachers, health educators, and nurses on preventing injuries. Event place: Pulaski Technical College in North Little Rock (CEUs available). Event time: 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Topics include: Medication misuse, Teen driving, Traumatic brain injury and concussion, Sexual assault, and Bullying. For more information contact the IPC at 501-364-3400 or via e-mail at injuryprevention@archildrens.org.
PAWS IN THE VINEYARD
November 3: This event will benefit CARE for Animals. There will be wine tasting, hors d’ oeuvres, and drawings. Admission is $40 per guest. The event will take place at Unitarian Universalist Church of Little Rock (1818 Reservoir Road) from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. A framed print by Amy Reges will be raffled off. For more information and to purchase tickets call 501-603-2273 or visit www.careforanimals.org.
HOLLYFEST BAZAAR
November 4: NLR Mayor’s Youth Council will be leading children’s activities during the HollyFest Bazaar. Admission: $5 for child and parent. Includes crafts, face painting, photo with Santa, and more. Bazaar also includes sale of new or gently used toys, chili supper, live entertainment, silent auction, handmade gifts, bake shop, and live auction. For ages 3 and up. Free nursery available for children under 3. For more information contact Laura Thompson via e-mail at laurathompson612@att.net.
JINGLE BELL JUBILEE
November 5: A holiday shopping event to benefit Chenal Valley Montessori School. Featuring assorted vendors, photos, refreshments, a supervised children’s area, and a silent auction. Enter to win a year scholarship for an elementary-aged child! Admission: $3. For more information visit www.chenalvalleymotessori.com or call 501-868-6030.
THE 2011 INAUGRAL CORNBREAD FESTIVAL
November 5: Ask any Arkansan what his or her favorite meal is, and the answer will include cornbread in some way. To celebrate this simple dish in all of its comforting glory, the Bernice Garden will host the first Arkansas Cornbread Festival. In addition to cornbread, sides and beverages, the festival will include blues, bluegrass and folk bands, children’s activities, nonprofit booths and vendors selling new and vintage goods. “The area south of Interstate 630 in downtown Little Rock is revitalizing by focusing on things that refresh everyone’s spirit-simple, pure and good food, nature, music and community,” said Anita Davis, community advocate and owner of the Bernice Garden. “The Cornbread Festival is an opportunity for people throughout Arkansas to see for themselves what the people in the southern part of downtown Little Rock find so appealing about the area.” The festival is seeking up to 40 participants to compete for the best cornbread in Arkansas. Categories include traditional, nontraditional and sweet, and it is up to the participant to determine what category his or her cornbread is entered and judged. Space is available for 20 professionals, who are people or organizations that cook at a restaurant, as caterers, or otherwise are paid for their culinary creations. In addition, space is available for 20 amateurs, who are people or organizations who cook without compensation. Cornbread will be ranked by two sets of judges: those attending the festival and a celebrity panel. Entries will be judged on a 1-10 (10 being best) scale based on flavor, texture, aroma, appearance and creativity. The New Orleans Roadfood Festival has extended an invitation to the best overall professional winner of 2011 Cornbread Festival to compete in next year’s event. This is an exclusive invitation to less than 50 restaurants representing the best of what American cuisine has to offer. Bernice Garden is located at the southeast corner of South Main Street and Daisy Bates Avenue in downtown Little Rock. Event time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets to the Cornbread Festival are $5 for adults, $3 for children age 6-12, and FREE for children five and younger. For more information about the Cornbread Festival or the Bernice Garden visit www.arcornbreadfestival.com or contact Liz Sanders (coordinator of the Bernice Garden) at 501-617-2511 or via e-mail bernicegarden@gmail.com.
O.N.E. ISLAND CAMPOUT
November 5 and 6: Have you ever wanted to take your family on a camping trip, but were afraid you didn’t have the knowledge and skills necessary to create a fun and memorable experience? Here’s your opportunity to introduce the kids to the great outdoors during Lake Ouachita State Park’s newest overnight adventure, the Ouachita Nature Experience (O.N.E.). This family-friendly campout is designed for those who have never camped before or haven’t camped in a long time. It’s also great for people who lack the know how to properly use camping equipment such as a tent, camp stove or lantern. By the end of the weekend, campers will know how to pick a campsite, set up camp, and get a roaring campfire going for some good old fashioned quality family time in the great outdoors. Campers will take a boat ride out to one of Lake Ouachita’s numerous islands for the ultimate overnight camping trip with experienced, trained park interpreters for this one-of-a-kind adventure. Meeting place: Lake Ouachita State Park Marina Boat Ramp. For more information, fees or to make reservations, contact the park at 501-767-9366 or visit www.arkansasstateparks.com.
1-UP CINEMA: TRANSFORMERS – DARK OF THE MOON
November 12: The Main Library will be showing this movie at 4 p.m. Do you support the Autobots or the Decepticons? Whatever side you choose, come and watch giant, transforming robots battle it out in this Michael Bay extravaganza! For more information call 501-918-3000 or visit www.cals.org.
NLRAC PARENT’S NIGHT OUT
November 12: Drop the kids off at the Kids’ Galaxy located inside the North Little Rock Athletic Club and let our staff treat them to a fun evening of pizza, arts & crafts, moonwalk, and other fun activities. For children ages 3-12 years from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information call Diane Collie at 501-812-5555 ext. 232.
HOLIDAYS IN HILLCREST
November 12: In the afternoon jump start the Christmas Season with trolley and carriage rides through the neighborhood stopping at shops bursting with cheery music, sweet treats, and wonderful gifts for everyone on your list. Make sure you register in the shops for a Hillcrest Merchants Association Christmas Basket drawing. Relax over dinner a any of Hillcrest’s fine restaurants then join the open house party at Gallery 26 at 7:30 p.m. Call 501-666-3600 for more information.
FREE ADMISSION DAY AT THE WILLIAM J. CLINTON PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY
November 12: Don’t miss this opportunity! Come celebrate the Clinton Center’s Seventh Anniversary with FREE admission to the library, free acoustiguide audio tours narrated by President Clinton and free family activities. For more information visit www.clintonpresidentialcenter.org.
PASSIONATE FOR PURPLE GALA
November 13: Join us for an exciting night! DJ Hapa, nationally recognized disc jockey and epilepsy advocate, will be speaking and entertaining the crowd with his skills on the turn tables. Enter raffle to win a perfect romantic log cabin get-away 20 minutes west of Little Rock. Romance, luxury, privacy await you in a hot tub under the stars. Cabin provided by An Enchanted Evening. Event time: 7 p.m. until midnight. Event place: The Wildwood Performing Arts. For more information visit www.peaceinark.com.
TRIBAL TRAILS
November 16 thru 18: Join the Pahsetopah family for Native American dancing and storytelling. This project is supported in part by a grant from the Arkansas Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Special workshops may be arranged with artist William Worden centered around ancient Native American legends and flute playing. Event place: Connor Performance Hall at Pulaski Academy. For more information visit www.amod.org or call 501-396-7050.
DAZZLE DAZE
November 17 thru 19: Dazzle Daze is the annual fundraiser for the Conway Regional Women’s Council. This fall event is a three-day shopping extravaganza featuring specialty shopping in one location. More than 90 merchants from around the country will offer gourmet food, holiday items, jewelry, children’s items, accessories, collectibles, and much more. Live entertainment, Chicks Who Click photos, door prizes and photos with Santa and Mrs. Clause add to the fun! The event will take place at Conway Expo Center. Raffle to win a 2011 Convertible Ford Mustang and other great prizes – $100 per ticket and only 500 sold! For more information visit www.conwayregional.org.
3RD ANNUAL ROYAL NIGHT OUT
November 18: Community Connections will host its third annual “A Royal Night Out” event on Friday, November 18, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. at New Life Church in North Little Rock. This is a sit-down dinner and auction fundraising event for the whole family! Children will dress up as knights, princesses, and other royal attire and will have special dinner and activities while parents enjoy the evening. Entertainment for the night will include performances by the I Can! Dancers and ACTS Jr. theatre team. This is Community Connections’ major fundraising event of the year which allows us to offer extra-curricular activities free of charge during the year for children with special needs. TuTus for a Cause are being sold for $10 each to help support the I Can! Dance classes. For more information about the event or about how to purchase a tutu visit www.communityconnectionsar.org.
1-UP CINEMA: GREEN LANTERN
November 19: The Main Library will be showing this movie at 2 p.m. Get ready to power-up your love for superheroes with this action-packed movie staring the Green Lantern! For more information call 501-918-3000 or visit www.cals.org.
JONESBORO BOARD OF REALTORS POKER TOURNAMENT
November 19: Please join the Jonesboro Board of Realtors at the Jonesboro Elk’s Lodge 2113 W. Washington, for a great evening of food, fun and giving while playing in charity poker tournament benefiting Make-A-Wish Foundation. Our dealers are ready to shuffle up a great hand at a no limit Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament. Seven top place prizes will be awarded. Door prizes will also be given. Hor d’oeurves and sodas provided for tournament players; cash bar available. Professional poker tables, dealers, and tournament director. Registration limited to the first 100 players. Suggested charitable contribution before event: $40; Day of/Walk-Up; $60. Registration opens at 5 p.m. Tournament begins at 6 p.m. To reserve your spot, please contact Kerri Gann at 870-972-0154 or visit www.midsouth.wish.org for more information.
GARVAN WOODLAND GARDENS – LIGHTS ON THE LANDSCAPE
November 19 thru December 31: More than 1.7 million holiday lights will illuminate Garvan Woodland Gardens daily from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. each evening, transforming the woodland landscape into a winter wonderland of delight. The display is one of Arkansas’ most impressive holiday events. Admission: $6 for adults, $4 for children 6 to 12 years old and children 5 and under get in FREE. For more information call 501-262-9300 or visit www.hotsprings.org.
RIVER MARKET ICE RINK
November 19 thru January 8: The ice rink will be in the River Market Pavilions again this year. For dates of operation and times, visit www.littlerock.com . Tickets $9 per person (which includes taxes) for 60 minutes and includes skates. Children (4) four and under are FREE. Ticket sales will cease one hour prior to the closing time. Group discount of $1 per ticket for groups of 15 or more.
MOSCOW BALLET’S GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER
November 20: The Ballet will take place at the Robinson Center Music Hall. Event time: 3 p.m. Tickets: $29.50 -$70. Tickets available at any Ticketmaster location, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or may be purchased online.
THANKSGIVING-GET-AWAY
November 23 thru 27: Owl prowls, guided hikes, nature games, and lake tours to search for wintering bald eagles make a visit to DeGray Lake Resort State Park a must for this family holiday. Walk a trail, ride a bike or join an activity and leave your day-to-day schedules at home. A traditional Thanksgiving Day meal at our Lodge Shoreline Restaurant is certain to help make this a pleasant memory for you and yours. For lodging reservations call 800-737-8355. For camping reservations call 501-865-5810.
THANKSGIVING WEEKEND AT HARBOR
November 24 thru 27: Join us for our annual Thanksgiving celebration. We last all weekend long! Thursday our Lodge Restaurant creates a beautiful Thanksgiving meal complete with all the trimmings. Seating is limited so book early. Friday we have a holiday party set to music with bonfires, cocoa, and hayrides. Kids, come help Santa throw the big switch and turn on the resort-wide holiday lights. Saturday night we meet at the Joplin Firehouse for our annual spaghetti dinner auction and fundraiser. Don’t worry-we’ll have the big game on so don’t let that stop you! It’s a family fun weekend jam-packed with good friends, good food, and good times! So, come on out to Mountain Harbor Resort in Mount Ida, AR and help us celebrate Thanksgiving. For more information call 870-867-2191 or visit www.mountainharborresort.com.
14TH ANNUAL MOUNTAIN RENDEZVOUS
November 25 thru 27: Experience a primitive camp and learn some of the survival skills used by Arkansas pioneers. Watch a variety of demonstrations including muzzleloading rifles, tomahawk throwing, and more inside Petit Jean State Park! Co-sponsored by the Early Arkansaw Reenactor Association. Contact the park for a schedule and more information 501-727-5441 or visit www.petitjeanstatepark.com.
FALL HAYRIDE & CAMPFIRE AT PINNACLE MOUNTAIN
November 26: Jostle, bounce, and laugh your way across the fields and through the woods on a guided hayride with a warm campfire, stories, hot chocolate, and marshmallows. Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-12. For more information call 501-868-5806 or visit www.arkansasstateparks.com.
BREAKFAST WITH PENGUINS
November 26: Looking for a special place to spend some quality time with your family? Join us for breakfast at the Little Rock Zoo and a special animal event with the penguins. Guests will get a VIP zoo keeper chat all about penguins and will enjoy a breakfast buffet at Café Africa. Seating is limited and prior reservations are a must! Event time: 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Admission: Non-Member Adult $21.95, Non-Member Child $16.95, Member Adult $16.95 and Member Child $12.95. For more information call 501-661-7218 or visit www.littlerockzoo.com.
HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
November 26: Join us at The Promenade at Chenal from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. to see Santa Clause, fireworks, Charity Vance in concert and much more! For more information visit www.chenalshopping.com.
“FIDDLER ON THE ROOF”
November 29 thru December 1: Fiddler on the Roof, the Tony Award-winning musical that has captured the hearts of people all over the world with its universal appeal, embarks on its North American Tour. Based on the stories of Sholom Aleichem, Fiddler on the Roof has been lauded by critics again and again, and won the hearts of people all around the world. Filled with a rousing, heartwarming score, which includes “Tradition,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker,” “Sunrise, Sunset,” Fiddler on the Roof is a timeless classic. No other musical has so magically woven music, dance, poignancy and laugher into such an electrifying and unforgettable experience. Relive a glorious tradition of the musical theatre with Fiddler on the Roof. Event place: Robinson Center Music Hall. Tickets may be purchased by phone at 501-244-8800 or 800-982-2787, in person at Celebrity Attractions Ticket Office, located at 300 S. Spring, Ste. 100 in Downtown Little Rock, or online at Ticketmaster. Celebrity Attractions Ticket Office Hours: Monday thru Thursday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday 9 a.m. to noon. For more information visit www.celebrityattractions.com.