Hot Springs On The GO!

My cousin recently started his own local business. He's taken to urban farming, particularly raising chickens and selling eggs by the dozen to save up for his college fund. He is 2 years old. I grew up in a family that valued growing your own food, and while we never tended to a large garden, we had our good years with abundant fresh vegetables. In the years that weren't as fruitful, we made sure to support those making a living from their green thumbs and talents, and celebrate their creative, entrepreneurial spirit.

In this issue, we're showcasing Blooming Wands Farm, which is the brainchild of third-generation farmer Dayna Carter-Smith.

Visiting her farm in Bismarck late last month, she introduced us to her herd of Nigerian Dwarf Goats and a seemingly endless stream of chickens that poured out of their coop as we left the grounds. After years in the “big city,” working in New York City and Dallas before returning home to Hot Springs, Carter-Smith will be the first to tell you she is now “living the dream,” providing produce for local restaurants.

Much like Carter-Smith, many of Hot Springs' and Garland County's young people are getting involved with the Hot Springs Farmers & Artisans Market on designated Youth Days at the Market. Young farmers and artists are encouraged to bring their products to sell on these days.

We're also spotlighting Amelia Houser, who creates unique upcycled art pieces from found objects, including suitcases, soda bottles and cereal boxes. Houser considers herself a folk artist with projects often forming from objects she's collected.

Whether artistic, resourceful or a mix of both, Hot Springs has plenty of eco-friendly opportunities.