Rep. Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

 Warmer weather, longer days, and budding trees. All signs that spring has arrived in Arkansas and across the country. Many of our students across the state are likely enjoying the final days of a restful break from school, as Spring Break wraps up at the end of this week. 

 Hopefully numerous Arkansans were able to take advantage of the warmer weather while on break by exploring all the Natural State has to offer. Whether that be paddling down the Buffalo National River, camping out at one of our beautiful lakes, or enjoying all that can be found outdoors like hiking, biking, and fishing. And of course, many Arkansans ventured outside of the state to visit family or major cities across the country.

 We welcomed several constituents to Washington DC this week, several of whom were visiting our nation’s capital on a memorable family vacation. There is certainly no shortage of attractions or things to do – from the countless Smithsonian museums that line the National Mall where you can enjoy beautiful artwork and artifacts, and tours for notable places like the Arlington National Cemetery, the White House, and the Capitol. The options are endless, and I’m pleased to have seen so many Arkansans enjoy their time in DC. 

 A notable attraction for many who make their way to Washington DC are the beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom for a very limited time, framing the Tidal Basin and scattered throughout the city. The Capitol grounds are home to several of these Japanese-native trees like the prunus serrulata, prunus 'NCPH1', and prunus subhirtella – a few of the varieties that can be found on the grounds surrounding the Capitol building. 

 The most iconic cherry trees dotting the Tidal Basin, featured in all the photographs you’re likely familiar with, are of the prunus yedoensis variety. These trees aren’t usually too big in size, reaching about forty to fifty feet upon maturity with a broad, open crown and attracting birds, butterflies, bees, and tourists with cameras. These beloved cherry trees were a gift of friendship from Japan in 1912, and after experiencing a flood that decimated many of their trees seventy years later in 1982, horticulturalists used cuttings from the trees gifted to the United States to restore the ones that had been lost in Japan. 

 However you found yourself enjoying spring break, or even just enjoying the changing of the season, it is my sincere hope that you were able to take in our abundant, natural surroundings and reflect on all the beauty and opportunity our great state and nation have to offer.