Guardians of HSV Beauty

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The pristine beauty of Hot Springs Village's winding roadways doesn't happen by accident—it's the result of dedicated environmental stewardship by the Evening Lions Club. Our members proudly serve as frontline defenders against litter and debris that would otherwise mar our community's natural splendor. Through formal participation in the Keep HSV Beautiful campaign, we maintain direct responsibility for an extensive six-mile section of Desoto Boulevard spanning from Carmona to Ponce de Leon—one of the most traveled and visible corridors in our community.

On scheduled cleanup days throughout the year, our team assembles with safety vests, grabber tools, and collection bags—prepared to meticulously scour roadside areas for everything from discarded beverage containers to windblown debris. This consistent environmental commitment represents a substantial annual investment of volunteer resources, with fifteen or more Lions collectively contributing between 125-150 service hours each year to this single initiative. The visible results of these efforts contribute significantly to property values, tourism appeal, wildlife protection, and the overall aesthetic experience of residents and visitors alike.

As a capstone celebration of our half-century legacy in Hot Springs Village, the Evening Lions Club conceptualized and executed an ambitious community enhancement project centered on the popular Balboa Beach area. Recognizing the need for expanded recreational opportunities for residents of all ages, we launched a strategic community fundraising campaign that ultimately secured nearly $45,000 in financial support from individual donors, local businesses, and club members committed to enhancing village amenities.

This successful fundraising effort enabled the creation of a comprehensive recreation zone spanning 200 feet adjacent to the existing Balboa Beach swimming area. Working in close partnership with the HSV POA Recreation Department, we carefully selected amenities designed to serve multiple age groups and interest levels, creating a truly multigenerational space that encourages both physical activity and social connection. The transformed area now features diverse recreational options including:

• A regulation sand volleyball court for competitive and casual play
• A Baggo court providing accessible recreation for all ages
• A classic merry-go-round invoking nostalgic playground experiences
• A modern swing set accommodating multiple users simultaneously
• A geodome climbing apparatus challenging young adventurers
• A shaded picnic canopy creating a comfortable gathering space
• An integrated playset with slide for younger children
• Strategically placed benches allowing for comfortable observation

This comprehensive recreation enhancement represents far more than simply adding play equipment—it creates a vibrant community hub where grandparents, parents, and children can engage together in healthy outdoor activities. By transforming an underutilized area into a vibrant activity center, the Evening Lions Club has created an enduring community asset that will serve generations of village residents while enhancing property values and community appeal for decades to come.