FROM THE EDITOR:

Officially speaking, spring is still a few days away, but the spirit of the season is already quite evident.

It could be that local denizens are whistling a happy tune, walking with a livelier step, offering “Top of the morning” greetings to one and all because they welcome the time of year when Hot Springs is all about shamrocks, leprechauns, the kissing of the blarney stone and, of course, the World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

History buffs know that this is the 10th year for the fun event that annually draws thousands to the resort city.

Fittingly, the March 17, 2013, happening on Bridge Street will feature actress-model Bo Derek, who gained public acclaim after starring in the 1979 romantic comedy, “10,” as co-celebrity grand marshal with singer-actor John Corbett. Both have previously served as celebrity guests for the parade and their return to head up the St. Patrick’s Day festivities are sure to rate a “10” with fans and parade attendees, who will crowd into downtown for the traditional “wearing o‘ the green.”

And let’s give a tip of the derby hat to the 2013 Shamrock King and Queen, Clyde Covington and Beth McFadden Sanders, longtime and enthusiastic supporters of the arts, tourism and projects or gatherings that reflect the joy de vivre of the community.

Without question, this regal duo will reign over the proceedings with gracious ebullience.

Having known Clyde since our days at Hot Springs High School, I can attest to his keen wit and generous nature. He has always been a goodwill ambassador for his hometown, eager and ready to point out the attractions and amenities that make Hot Springs such a good place to live, work and visit.

Clyde is among the first to volunteer his assistance for special occasions and he makes them all the more so by sharing an amazing store of knowledge about how these occurrences came to be.

I imagine that on St. Patrick’s Day, Clyde will say more than once how lucky he feels to have grown up here, to reside here, to enjoy everything there is to see and do in such a lovely setting.

My paternal grandfather, George Schneck, felt the same way about Hot Springs. He was a downtown businessman who ran a drug store, later managed the former Marquette Hotel, which had as its slogan, “1 minute from everything,” was active in several civic groups and a faithful parishioner at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. He was outgoing, optimistic and loved to socialize. He would have relished The First Ever 10th Annual World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

And like everyone else who claims to be Irish on this particular day, he would be counting his blessings, smiling with pride, and wishing everyone nothing but four-leaf clovers at the end of their rainbow.