Hot In Little Rock

Weekend Happenings

Aug 19th, 2011 by hotinlittlerock

Weekend Happenings

August 19, 2011

We are pumped and ready for a great weekend! How about you? We’ve got the first week of school behind us, and a host of great opportunities in front of us. We’re ready to make it a great weekend. Here are our top three things to do this weekend:

Walk: What a great evening to come to Argenta for Third Friday Art Walk! Join in on the festival atmosphere and enjoy great art and food with your BFF or your family. Whoever you bring, Third Fridays in Argenta are always lively and fun – and shouldn’t be missed. Friday, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m., 300 to 700 blocks of Main Street, North Little Rock.

Groove: We love Elvis. There’s just something about his life, his music, his swagger that we’ve always been drawn to … so now it’s time to let your kids enjoy him, too! Bring the whole family to Super Summer Saturday at the Clinton Presidential Center to celebrate Elvis! There will be dance parties, movie matinees and more. Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Free with regular admission. Great Hall, Clinton Presidential Center. Visit www.clintonpresidentialcenter.org for more information.

Learn: The Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center is exhibiting over 80 bird and wildlife carvings and materials right now. Wow. And on Saturday, you have the opportunity to visit with Gerry and Sheri Chisholm as they discuss their 20 year career in nature carving and how nature impacts their work. Saturday, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center, Free, visit their website or call 501-907-0636 for more information.

And don’t forget: if you want to be part of our club and save at lots of local places, join us! We are adding more businesses every day, and we don’t want you to miss out on these great deals. All for just $5 a month!

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An Affair to Remember

Aug 17th, 2011 by hotinlittlerock

An Affair to Remember

August 17, 2011

Wow. It seems like just yesterday that we were sitting in the Arkansas Repertory Theatre applauding the successful completion of another season and anxiously awaiting the beginning of the next. And now here we sit, wondering where the summer went, but thrilled to be that much closer to the grand re-opening of the Rep’s newly renovated theatre!

Yes, after their amazingly successful capital campaign, the Rep has been very busy this summer. New carpet, new seats, new floors, new sound, new lights … new everything! We wonder if we’ll recognize the place when we walk in for the first time in September.

But we know only the outside has received a much needed facelift. The soul of the Rep remains the same, and with Artistic Director Bob Hupp at the helm, we can’t wait to see the quality productions sitting in our new, larger seats!

The excitement begins with a gala preview party on September 14. You can be one of the first theater-goers to see “Ring of Fire” before opening night in the newly renovated theatre. Doesn’t that sound exciting? A red carpet reception and performance await you. Plus, by attending this gala, you’ll be helping raise money for the maintenance fund to help keep the Rep’s new look looking new!

Now, if for some reason you can’t make it on September 14, opening night for “Ring of Fire” is September 16, and you really should get your tickets now. Single tickets recently went on sale – and they won’t last long. The buzz has started and everyone wants to be a part of the celebration and see the new theatre. Don’t get left out!

The Arkansas Repertory Theatre
Grand Reopening Gala & Preview
September 14, 2011
6:00 p.m.
$100 per person

“Ring of Fire”
September 16 – October 9, 2011

Visit www.therep.org for tickets and more information.

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Raise a Glass: Wine Picks of the Week

Aug 9th, 2011 by hotinlittlerock

Raise a Glass: Wine Picks of the Week

August 9, 2011

In those long ago and far away years when we regularly went to the state fair, the treat we longed for was a “lemon shake-up.” It seemed that even the hottest August day could be defeated by lemons, sugar, and water shaken with ice. So, it should be no surprise that when the temperature rises, we turn our attention just about anything with lemon as a major ingredient.

Both of our children became vegetarians at a fairly young age, so we learned to prepare meals that would provide appropriate nourishment and taste good. A summertime favorite is lemon risotto with fresh peas, accompanied by a green salad.

Like any good risotto, it all begins with Arborio rice, chopped onions, and olive oil (maybe some butter). After cooking the onions until they are soft, we add the rice (1 ½ cups for four servings) and stir for a couple of minutes. Pour in about ¾ cup of good white wine and continue stirring as the rice begins to absorb the liquid. Then begin to add the stock (we use a vegetable stock, but most recipes call for chicken stock), ¾ cup at a time. Keep stirring the rice until it is clear that the liquid is being absorbed, and then add more stock. You will know when the rice is done because it will have a creamy consistency. Zest a lemon into the mixture, and add the juice of one or two lemons (depending on your own taste). Now is the time to add the peas (fresh or fresh frozen). Presto…well not exactly presto; since this can take 15-20 minutes…you have a wonderful meal for a hot day.

The other day we chose a lovely French white: B&G Vouvray (2009), from the Loire Valley. The grape is Chenin Blanc. A floral aroma is followed by ripe white fruit and a bit of melon. Generally, this is a well-priced wine, too.

So, cool off tonight by (1) staying inside, (2) chilling a bottle or two of the B&G Vouvray, and (3) stir-up a lemon risotto with peas. You won’t be sorry.

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Weekend Happenings

Aug 5th, 2011 by hotinlittlerock

Weekend Happenings

August 5, 2011

Are you ready for August? There is so much to do this month, and with the first week already behind us, we’re gearing up for lots of activity! School starts in a week…how did that happen? So routines will shortly be under way. Enjoy these last few days of summer. Here are our top three things to do this weekend:

Walk: Tonight is family night. And we encourage you to spend your family night at the Big Dam Bridge helping raise money for Methodist Family Health at their 5th Annual Walk for Children and Families. There will be live music, ice cream and pizza and plenty of fun for all ages! Friday, North Little Rock side of the Big Dam Bridge; Registration begins at 6:00 p.m. Walk begins at 7:00 p.m.; $20 per person or $50 per family. Visit www.methodistfamily.org for more information.

Laugh: When a circus is good – we love it! Watching the animals perform is a magical thing. Add clowns and acrobats and stunts – and you have the making of an amazing and fun outing for the family. That’s why we love Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus! And they are in town this weekend with their Zing Zang Zoom show! So grab the family and be prepared to be entertained! Friday – Sunday; Verizon Arena. Click here for tickets.

Shop: Okay. With school just around the corner, we all need to make sure that our kids are outfitted properly! So new clothes, school supplies, you name it – this time of year can be more costly that Christmas! But this weekend is Arkansas’ first Tax Holiday! When you purchase clothing and footwear of less than $100 and clothing accessories and equipment of less that $50, school supplies, art supplies and instructional materials this Saturday and Sunday – you won’t pay ANY sales tax! So we just ran out of excuses to go shopping. Saturday beginning at 12:01 a.m. through Sunday at 11:59 p.m.

Click Here to join The Club today!

Premium Club Partners:

Advance Ticket Discounts

25% off all tickets

20% off all bras

Free Knife Sharpening

10% off all purchases

15% off storewide

10% off all purchases

West Markham:
30% off Waffle Cones

Free Delivery

15% off all food

Click Here
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Get Busy

Aug 1st, 2011 by hotinlittlerock

Get Busy!

August 1, 2011

Is it really August? How did that happen? School starts in two weeks – so if you’ve been procrastinating and enjoying summer – like us – it’s time to get organized! School supplies, backpacks, and, yes, those school clothes from last year are probably a tad tight now.

This is a new year for us. One of our ministaffers is entering middle school – without uniforms. We’re still not sure we like that. But our middle ministaffer thankfully still wears uniforms. But with so many options and places to shop – where can you make sure you’ve got the right clothes for the right school?

Our answer is simple: shop The Toggery. This local store has two locations – one in the Heights and one in West Little Rock. It’s been in business since 1948 and they are committed to providing quality children’s merchandise to the greater Little Rock community.

If you are looking for uniforms, look no further than The Toggery. Their website is easy to navigate and if your school is a member – you don’t have to wonder if you’ve picked the right plaid.

We’ve been impressed with The Toggery’s website and how easy it was to get our ministaffer outfitted online – but still shop locally. It’s the best of both worlds!

So now that we’ve got the uniforms taken care of, perhaps we better get those school supply lists filled….

The Toggery
University at R Street
Monday – Saturday:
9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
(501) 663-8662

Pleasant Ridge Town Center
11525 Cantrell Road Suite 405
Monday – Saturday:
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
(501) 227-8492

www.toggerykids.com

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Tags: The Toggery

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Change is a Good Thing

Jul 28th, 2011 by hotinlittlerock

Change is a Good Thing

July 28, 2011

Change. Most people really don’t like it. Some run from it. But our perspective is that to be really great, you can’t get stagnant. Sometimes you have to mix it up a bit and grow and move forward. Well, that’s just what we think Capi’s did with their new menu.

Don’t get us wrong, we loved Capi’s small plate menu. The food was always delicious and it is one of our favorite restaurants. But even when you are doing something good, a change can be empowering!

Capi’s now has a Nuevo Latino menu. What’s that? It’s fresh, bold and modern Southwestern and Mexican cuisine – and it is outstanding. So good, that we ate there three times in one week!

From brunch to dinner, the choices on the new menu are a breath of fresh air. At brunch, where else can you get warm bananas, eggs, black beans, green peas, feta cheese and salsa on top of corn tortillas? This traditional recipe from the Yucatan was a surprise but a delicious change from the ordinary. Even our youngest ministaffer gobbled it up!

And for dinner? We’ve enjoyed shrimp quesadillias, tuna tostadas, and our most favorite dish: a chili relleno filled with corn, scallops and shrimp in a wonderfully spicy sauce.

Yes, sometimes change can be scary, but ultimately, change is the only way to grow and become better. So our hats go off to Capi’s, for their inventive, inspiring, and delicious menu change. We can’t wait to go back.Capi’s Restaurant

11525 Cantrell Road

(501) 225-9600

www.capisrestaurant.com

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Tags: Capi's Restaurant

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Weekend Happenings

Jul 22nd, 2011 by hotinlittlerock

Weekend Happenings

July 22, 2011

In the middle of July, things do seem to slow down a bit. Maybe because it’s so hot, we all just slow down! But this weekend has some neat events that you don’t want to miss. Here are our top three things to do this weekend:

Learn: Do you have the same fascination with Elvis Presley as we do? There’s just something about the phenomenon of his life and music that keeps people drawn to him. And today at lunch, Scott Williams, the VP of marketing and media for Elvis Presley Enterprises will be giving a lecture on The Elvis Brand. Williams is in charge of all the development and marketing that maintains Elvis Week, Graceland and Elvis.com, among other things! Bring your lunch, and be prepared to be amazed. Friday, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Clinton School for Public Service, Sturgis Hall. Call (501) 683-5239 for reservations.

Cheer: Looking for something fun to do with the kiddos this afternoon? Look no further than the Rubber Ducky Regatta! This fun event benefits Camp Aldersgate and lets kids of all ages root for their rubber ducky as it races along the Lazy River. Food, prizes, and all kinds of fun await you this afternoon! Plus, your admission is good for the rest of the night. Friday, 3:00 p.m., Wild River Country, $9.00. Visit www.campaldersgate.net for more information.

Play: Love a good poker game? How about one that benefits Youth Home? Tomorrow is the First Annual Texas Hold ‘Em Charity Tournament! There will be food, raffle prizes and lots more in store for both players and spectators – so don’t miss this fun event! Saturday, VIP Reception, 4:00 p.m., Play begins at 5:00 p.m. $50 for regular players, $100 for VIP players, $10 for non-players. Visit www.youthhome.org/poker.htm for more information.

Click Here to join The Club today!

Premium Club Partners:

Advance Ticket Discounts

25% off all tickets

20% off all bras

Free Knife Sharpening

10% off all purchases

15% off storewide

10% off all purchases

West Markham:
30% off Yovana

Free Delivery

15% off all food

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Tell Me a Story

Jul 20th, 2011 by hotinlittlerock

Tell Me a Story

July 20, 2011

We are amazed at how many great art exhibits are hanging around town this summer. How blessed we feel to live in a town that doesn’t skimp on the fine arts scene. Even bigger towns don’t seem to have as many options for art exhibits, concerts and shows.
During 2nd Friday Art Night, we were pleased to be able to attend the opening for Lawrence Finney’s new exhibit at Hearne Fine Art, “Poetry.” This exhibit features works on both canvas and paper by a very talented figurative artist.

We were especially drawn to Finney’s work entitled, “Daddy Watches,” which evokes feelings of parental protection and love. All of Finney’s works have a beauty and sensitivity to them that speak to the human condition. Some are scenes straight out of the Bible, while others tell an everyday story or remind us of the past.

Finney’s ability to create the human body, both in charcoal and oil, is impressive. Muscles bulge through clothing, and faces tell a story of joy, heartbreak or longing. Each work captivates the viewer and brings one deeper and closer to the work and the story being told.

We enjoyed this exhibit immensely, and always are pleased to be introduced to a new artist – especially one whose work gives us butterflies.

Lawrence Finney: Poetry

Hearne Fine Art

through August 15

1001 Wright Ave, Suite C

(501) 372-6822

Monday – Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

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Weekend Happenings

Jul 15th, 2011 by hotinlittlerock

Weekend Happenings

July 15, 2011

We sure loved that brief rain that came to visit this week, didn’t you? The rains cooled the air and refreshed everyone. Now the heat is back, but it’s Friday, so we’re ready to get out and enjoy. Here are our top three things to do this weekend:

Walk: Who cares about a little heat when Argenta is all a flurry with the festival of activities that happen on Third Friday Art Walk! Charles Harrington’s new work is on display tonight at Greg Thompson Fine Art, and both the Ketz Gallery and the THEA Foundation have some fun in store, too. Don’t forget to step into Claytime Pottery to pick up some gorgeous pieces and make reservations for dinner. It’s always a fun time! Friday, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Main Street in downtown North Little Rock.

Drop: Did you know that one in three moms struggles to provide their children with clean diapers? The Arkansas Diaper Depot was started in 2010 as part of the Arkansas Rice Depot as the state’s only program to help address this need. Now, they’ve teamed up with Today’s THV and momslikeme.com to have a summer diaper drive to help those families in Arkansas who can’t afford diapers. Stop by the Walmart on South Shackleford today to drop off diapers and help cover those bottoms! Friday, 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Ride: Looking for some great family fun? Then head over to Scott and check out J&P Ranch for horseback rides, hayrides and more on Saturday! This large farm has a great picnic area and lots of activities for the kids – including a petting zoo! We promise the kids will be worn out and sleep well! Saturday, Admission $4. 966 McCoy Lane, Scott. Call (501) 961-9938 for more information.

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Premium Club Partners:

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25% off all tickets

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30% off Yovana

Free Delivery

15% off all food

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Raise a Glass: Wine Picks of the Week

Jul 12th, 2011 by hotinlittlerock

Raise a Glass: Wine Picks of the Week

July 12, 2011

The first time we visited Rome we were not, in the eyes of the parental units, old enough to drink the wine. Several years later, now married, we returned to Rome, this time without parents, and proceeded to enjoy Rome’s signature wine, Frascati. Some of our friends prefer not to even think about this ubiquitous Roman wine, and in fact, it is rightly thought of as a table wine. For us, Frascati was love at first sip.

We continue to visit Italy, after all we have family there, and we drink a whole variety of Italian wines, depending where we are staying at the time. But time and time again, we come back to Frascati as one of our favorite summer wines.

This weekend we will be drinking Tenuta di Pietra Porzia Regillo (Superiore). The color is like straw we see in the fields near our summer place. The nose gives up scents of pears and peaches, and on the palate there is more fruit and a touch of citrus. The wine feels round and generous in the mouth. And, as one would expect, this is a wine that can be enjoyed without dipping into the grandchildren’s trust funds.

Here is what we plan for dinner. We take salmon fillets and marinate them in lime juice, olive oil, fresh oregano and thyme, and a bit of honey. When the grill is ready we’ll salt/pepper the fillets and give them about 4 minutes on each side. We’ll serve them on a bed of julienned carrots, yellow squash, and green peppers, which have been steamed and seasoned. You might want to add some steamed fingerling potatoes that have been tossed in lemon and butter as well.

Perhaps we should prepare something more “Roman” to go with the Frascati. Maybe next time.
And don’t forget: if you want to be part of our club and save at lots of local places, join us! We are adding more businesses every day, and we don’t want you to miss out on these great deals. All for just $5 a month!

Click Here to join The Club today!

Premium Club Partners:

Advance Ticket Discounts

25% off all tickets

20% off all bras

Free Knife Sharpening

10% off all purchases

15% off storewide

10% off all purchases

West Markham:
30% off Yovana

Free Delivery