FROM HER

The March/April issue of HER is all about being GREEN. I have to admit, I didn’t know much about the subject matter inside this issue before I started working on it this month. Organic food, recycling, electronic waste, stormwater quality — all important things, but I think many people, like myself, have never been educated on just how important they are.

Our cover story this month features local artists Julie Williams and Roxy Rose. Having been involved in the arts community for more than 20 years, when you talk to these two women, creativity radiates out of them. Hot Springs’ Stormwater Division came up with a plan in 2016 to raise public awareness about water quality and the stormwater drains throughout the city — colorful mural paintings.

One can take a stroll to the 800 block of Park Avenue, or Orange Street by the Hot Springs Farmers & Artisans Market, and see these colorful mural paintings on the stormwater inlets, adorning the streets and their curbs with messages such as “water is life” and “protect our waters.”

Julie and Roxy were called upon by the city to make this plan a reality, and in August 2016, they did just that.

In the HER Pets feature this month we learn that nearly 3 million animals are euthanized per year due to pet overpopulation. By preventing unplanned litters and adopting from shelters instead of buying from breeders, we can help to shut down the puppy mills that are becoming such a problem in Arkansas and put an end to pet homelessness.

A March issue of a Hot Springs magazine wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade, now in its 14th year. Lakeside School Board President Carla Mouton will reign as parade queen and will be joined by John Vines, former House District 25 state representative, as parade king. This year’s celebrity grand marshal will be TV star Alfonso Ribeiro, and wrestling legend Ric Flair will serve as the official parade starter. Read more about Carla in this month’s HER Career feature.

We’re getting a jump start on spring this year in the Spa City. I hope everyone is taking advantage of this weather and getting out and enjoying it!

Until next month,