Water's Edge Magazine APRIL 2023

April 2023

Rosetta Sparks

Heber Springs and Cleburne County’s Number One Fan!

WE Adopt a Pet

Willy is a handsome DSH cat that is missing homelife because his owner died. Willy enjoys people and attention as long as it is on his terms. He likes to play and explore around the shelter. Willy needs to be the only pet because he doesn’t like cats or dogs. A home is just what Willy needs along with someone to love him!

Willy’s adoption fee is $60.00 which includes first shots, worming, and sterilization. heberspringshumanesociety. com .

Meet Little Bit and Paco, a fantastic duo. Little Bit is an 8 year old Labrador mix and Paco is an 8 year old Heeler mix. These two are a bonded pair who’s owner could no longer care for them. They are well-mannered, friendly, and potty trained. Little Bit loves toys and they both love attention. Little Bit takes daily medicine for arthritis, but gets around fine. Shelter life is hard on these two and they really miss home life. Please open your heart to Little Bit and Paco and adopt these sweethearts.

Little Bit and Paco’s adoption fee is $100.00 and this includes sterilization, first shots, and worming with an optional microchipping and registration for an additional $20.00. We have a dog park to check compatibility with existing dogs. heberspringshumanesociety.com

editors note

Spring is in the air along with the smell of fresh cut grass. The tulips are showing off their colors in my front flower bed and the wasps have made their return. Which for me is not a good thing as I am allergic. The good news is among the spring arrivals is the purple dead nettle. Most folks see only a pesky weed. I, however, see one of the first foods for the bees who have also returned. Most recently I discovered the many virtues of this prolific plant. One of which includes its ability to take the fire out of a wasp sting! After taking the first sting of the season from a red wasp that attached itself to my shirt and then my thumb! I grabbed some purple dead nettle I had oven dried and crushed a few days before. I mixed it with some coconut oil to make a paste and put a dab on the sting securing it with a band-aid. To my surprise the burning subsided almost

Kimberlee Thomas

immediately and there was zero swelling, none! Now folks I’ve had visits to the local ER for wasp stings to the hand in years past, so I was beyond excited to have found a wonderful all natural antidote that grows in my own yard!

Purple dead nettle is also high in vitamins A, K, and C which makes it great for teas. Its high fiber & protein content makes it a great addition to a salad. Its flavor is earthy and aromatic. Look it up on your favorite search engine and add it to your pantry and medicine cabinet.

With all that being said, I did make a call to my friends at Eagle Pest, those pesky wasp’s days are numbered!

Enjoy the sunny days of spring, have a wonderful and joy filled Easter and read on to see who you know in this month’s issue!

WE Writers and Staff

Gina Slagley is a co-owner of Water’s Edge magazine, a contributing writer, and sales representative for W.E. She lives in Jackson County and has two adult children and eight grandchildren. Her goal for Water’s Edge is to bring the reader’s a collection of stories, photographs, interviews and moments together in each publication that they will enjoy and be proud of.

Gina brings over twenty years of print publishing experience to Water’s Edge and knows that local matters.

Kimberlee Dannette Thomas is a Chandler, Oklahoma native. She relocated to Jackson County in 1986. She has five children, five grandchildren, is co-owner, creator, and ad builder for Water’s Edge and Eye On Magazine. She is proudly serving her home community as a newly elected Alderman. She is recognized from her years of co-hosting Cable Channel programming in Jackson and Independence County. She earned her Associates from ASUN in Fine Arts.

Joey Thomas is a freelance graphic designer, a writer, and book cover designer for hire. He is elevated by his wife, five children, five grandchildren and is attempting to evolve at every turn.

Cynthia Herrin is a contributing writer for Water's Edge. She lives in Heber Springs with her husband and two kids. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications from Harding University and currently sits on the Heber Springs Chamber of Commerce Board. She has a background in advertising, radio, marketing, photography, and now real estate.

For advertising, distribution, or editorial contribution, contact:

Gina Slagley

870.217.2837

ginas.watersedge@gmail.com

Kimberlee Thomas 870.503.1150

PUBLISHER / ASSOCIATE EDITOR / MANAGING

EDITOR / CREATIVE DIRECTOR / AD DESIGN: Gina Slagley & Kimberlee Thomas ADVERTISING: Kimberlee Thomas & Gina Slagley, PROOFING

DEPARTMENT: Gina Slagley & Kimberlee Thomas

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS: Gina Slagley, Kimberlee Thomas. GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Thomas.

kimberlee.watersedge@gmail.com

Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements, unless otherwise noted, do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher or the staff. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information presented in this issue is accurate and neither Waters Edge Magazine or any of its staff is responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Copyright © 2021 Waters Edge Magazine All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without the permission in writing from the Publisher. All pictorial material reproduced in this book has been accepted on the condition that it is reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer concerned. As such, Water’s Edge Magazine, is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof.

Cover photo by Gina Slagley

Cover Design by Joey Thomas

kimberlee.watersedge@gmail.comginas.watersedge@gmail.com

WE Neighbor of the Month

Where did you grow up?

Heber Springs currently in Quitman.

Family: My husband’s name is Casey, we met in middle school and have been together ever since. Our daughter’s name is Carley and our son’s name is Ryan.

Education: I attended ASU and graduated with my Bachelors in 2015.

Work: I have been with the Community School of Cleburne County for 10 years. I started as a preschool teacher and moved to the Adult Center in 2015. I am currently the Adult Coordinator/ Supervisor of the program.

Community Activities: Family wise – my daughter dances for Judi King and my son plays baseball. I stay busy with the kids. We love to adventure when we can.

Work related – I coach Special Olympics.

What is something people may not know about you? I love to travel and see new places with the family.

Hobbies: I love being outside.

Idea of a fun weekend: Spending time with my family.

Words to live by: Throw Kindness Around Like Confetti.

What do you enjoy most about being a part of the Heber Springs community? I love the lake views – Anyway I go to work or town I can see the beautiful lake.

Stephanie Clemons

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Stephen Ko to our team! Dr. Ko uses state-of-the-art technology to provide radiation therapy services for cancer treatment. Radiation therapy is one of many cancer treatment options. Dr. Ko works with individual patients to plan the best course of treatment depending on the type of cancer, stage of the disease, and overall health of the patient. Accepting

Rosetta Sparks, Heber Springs and Cleburne County’s Number One Fan!

Gina Slagley

Rosetta Sparks refers to the town of Heber Springs as if it were a majestic, well aged southern belle who is one of her dearest and most adored friends!

Rosetta, who is a student at the Heber Springs Community School Adult Center, and Stephanie Clemons, Adult Coordinator/ Supervisor with the School, took some time to speak with Water’s Edge recently.

When I tell you that Rosetta is a fountain of enthusiasm and wisdom about all things Heber Springs and Cleburne County Arkansas, that statement does not do her knowledge justice! The day we met for the interview was March 17th, Rosetta was quick to share with me that it was the birthday of Cleburne Counties namesake, Patrick Cleburne who was born in Ireland.

Asking her anything about the history of the town/county, such as, when was Heber Springs town established? She springs forth a wealth of information and a living advertisement on the town’s behalf.

Rosetta, “It was established in 1883 - It has been renamed three times - It was originally called Sugar Loaf then Sugar Loaf Springs and now Heber Springs”. She goes on to explain that the name Heber came from Dr. Heber Jones, a physician in Memphis, Tennessee.

Rosetta continues throughout our interview to share bits and pieces of information about the area;

• The many trails to hike

• The old rail yards

• The many places to explore when Greers Ferry Lake is low

• She explains that there are actually 3 Sugar Loaf Mountains, one in Heber and one outside of town and there is one under the lake

• She points out the fact that many roads simply dead end into the lake because they predate the lakes existence

• She mentioned a Missle Base that was once in the area in the 70’s

• Native American relics that have been found on Eden Isle

Rosetta not only explores the town’s buildings she also enjoys learning about the people who resided here by venturing to the many historical graveyards. “I once found a grave in Cove -Kendall Cemetery dating back to 1650 and some are in the 1700’s”, Rosetta said.

Water’s Edge Magazine - What is your favorite thing about Heber Springs?

Rosetta Sparks - My favorite thing is all of the history! The old buildings in the square and the historic Cleburne County Courthouse, built in 1914, it is truly beautiful. Also, I love Heber’s story and the way that the people who live here realize how amazing it is!”

Water’s Edge Magazine - What would you tell someone who was coming to visit Cleburne County for the first time?

Rosetta - I would take them on a tour and

start with the natural springs in Spring Park, there are 7 of them and then move on the the old Anderson House, which use to be a hotel, then to The Gem Theater which burned December 7th, 1941 (ironically was the day Pearl Harbour was bombed) next would take them along Main Street which has buildings that date from the 1800’s to recent.

I would tell them to explore as much as possible and just take it all in!

It was truly my pleasure to meet Rosetta, such a lovely lady, and by far, Heber Springs’ biggest fan!

“Everyone has a story and Heber Spring’s story is intertwined with the people that have lived here and those that currently reside here! Each write a new piece of the puzzle, a new piece of the story within ourselves and as you learn about Heber Springs you learn about the town’s people, its culture and its personality!”

On March 6th HSHS freshmen and sophomores had the opportunity to hear from HSHS alumni and West Point Cadet James (Mason) Harris as he shared information concerning the process of application for West Point. Mason set a goal in the 8th grade to attend West Point after graduation, and shared the importance of looking at the future now with the underclassmen.

WE see you

In early March Mrs. Baker’s 6th Grade students had the opportunity to participate in a national essay contest through our local American Legion Auxiliary. This year the Americanism Essay Contest had the students respond to a prompt that asked the students what patriotism meant to them. These students won on the local level, received a cash prize, and had a donation made in their name to the Children of Warriors National Presidents Scholarship fund. We are proud of our 6th Grade Panthers! 1st Place-Kylie Moody,2nd Place-Emma Dows, 3rd Place- Mason Halk, 4th Place-Jordan O’Neill.

we

Calendar

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Greers Ferry Lake Project Office reopened the William Carl Garner Visitor Center. Hours of operation are FridaySunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with additional days and hours potentially being added on later in the season. The visitor center offers numerous educational exhibits related to local and state history, hydropower usage, local fisheries and wildlife information, as well as a model of the dam. A variety of maps are also available to assist visitors with outdoor activities. For more information contact the Greers Ferry Project Office at (501) 362-2416

Legal Aid of Arkansas in conjunction with Eagle Bank/Summit 55 and the Waycoff Center will be presenting an informational session on Wills, Trusts, and Estates. Please come and join us for this valuable informational presentation. Tuesday, April 11, 11am thru 12pm at the Waycoff Senior Center 320 Trailwood Drive, Heber Springs. For More Information contact Phyllis Couran 570-468-5220 or pcournan@eaglebank.com.

April 15th & 16th The City of Mountain View, Arkansas welcomes everyone to the 61st Annual Arkansas Folk Festival. Take a walk around the historic downtown area and see many window displays, the Artisans Market featuring handmade arts and crafts, antique cars, food vendors, and of course, live music! The parade is Saturday and begins at 10 a.m. The Ozark Folk Center has free shuttle service to and from the court square. Bring your instruments and have some fun with us pickin’ and grinnin’! For more info visit https://www. mountainviewarkansas.com/arkansasfolkfest

Saturday, April 29th at 9 a.m. the HSMS Parents Auxiliary presents the 3rd Annual 5K Color Run & Walk. The Color Run is a fun activity that helps fund the local PTA. All profits go back to the HSMS staff and students. Registration deadline is April 7th. For more information and to register online visit https:// forms.gle/p1z1mRQm6jSvXAMx9.

May 4th the Heber Springs Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their 67th Annual Chamber

TINA MOORE AGENCY 501-270-6680 700 N 2nd Street HEBER SPRINGS 501-270-6680

I’m always here with local advice you can trust.

Banquet at the Barn at Fawn Hollow! For more details and tickets visit www.heber-springs.com or call 501-362-2444

June 2nd & 3rd Springfest 2023 will be hosted by YoungLife as a fundraiser that ministers to the youth in Heber Springs. Come join the fun and festivities at Spring Park. There will be vendors, food trucks and entertainment. For more information or a vendor application contact YoungLife at (501) 206-2003 or by email at heberspringsyounglife@gmail.com.

June 30th - July 1st / The Heber Springs Chamber of Commerce presents the 3rd Annual Freedom Fest on the Lake presented by Red River Dodge! Concert Friday night, June 30th, at Sandy Beach. World Championship Cardboard Boat Races “Space” theme will be held on Saturday, July 1st with a 10 a.m. start at Sandy Beach. The Fireworks Extravaganza display will be Saturday, July 1st at 9:30 pm, broadcasted by 101.9 the Lake-KSUG. There will also be live music by the band, Just Sayin’ beginning at 7 p.m. For more information about this event, local attractions, and things to do, you can check out our website at www.heber-springs.com. For event registration information or volunteer inquiries, please contact the Heber Springs Chamber at (501) 362.2444.

Living in Heber Springs can be expensive, but I’m here to help you find ways to save. I’ll help you find the right amount of coverage specific to your needs to keep more of your hardearned money in your wallet. Give me a call today.

April

WE see you

These Heber Springs Preschool students recently enjoyed some Green Eggs and Ham and got to wear their favorite pjs while doing it!

WE see you SUMMIT 55 - MYSTERY TRIP - August 25-27, 2023

How well do you know yourself?

Are you as smart as you think?

Here is a chance to test your wits while having fun. This Mystery Trip is for 3 days / 2 nights in an Historic Hotel, a short walk from a beautiful downtown area. Enjoy a massage, sitting by the pool or shopping while still being engaged in the activity. Check your observational skills as you many be surprised. What’s included?

3 days / 2 nights

A welcome reception on Friday, August 25, with a smorgasbord of finger foods and a cash bar.

Breakfast Buffet, Lunch Buffet, and Dinner on Saturday and another breakfast buffet on Sunday.

On Sunday, you may be surprised to find out how observant you are...or not. Sunday, August 27, we check out of our hotel to search out another adventure. See if you make it or not! On the way home, dinner will be served.

$875 per person double occupancy includes room, taxes, gratuities, motorcoach transportation, admission into attractions and all meals. Single occupancy $1475. Deadline to sign up is May 1, 2023 and space is limited.

Three Survival Flight EMS staff were awarded the “Star of Life Award” at the Arkansas State Capitol on 3/8/2023 for their roles as EMS professionals and in events they were involved in over the past year. Each recipient was recognized for one or more events over the past year in which they made a difference to their patients. All three employees of Survival Flight EMS work in the Cleburne County/ Heber Springs operation area. The recipients were also recognized upon the State Senate floor by Proclamation Deeming a day in their honor and for their service to the state. Recipients were EMT Jason Mobley, Communications Specialist Melissa Strother, and Paramedic James “BJ” Swayze.

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Notes from the Clearing

Joey Thomas

What if time is not linear? What if we only thinks so because it is all our three-dimensional bodies can percieve? What if every moment of our lives are stretched out like a stop-motion movie, existing all at the same time? What if our consciousness, spirit, soul, can only experience each moment as a circuit to run through? What will a fouth dimensional next life look like? Will we be afraid of everything in it as well? There is nothing to fear? Death is a new beginning. Nothing is lost, nothing is wasted.

Heber Springs Schools hosted the 4A Northeast Sr High Quiz Bowl Regional Tournament on Saturday, March 4. The team and Ms. Brown would like to thank Mrs. Emily Cordes and First Baptist Church for providing lunch to all 100 participants from six area schools. Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Mullens for hosting and Mrs. Euton for donuts. Congratulations to Wyatt Thompson for making the All-Tournament team!

you can’t be everywhere at once, but we can be anywhere you are.

First National Bank’s Anywhere app allows you to take care of your banking needs wherever you are. Scan the QR code to find it in your app store.

fnbank.net |

Welcoming upcoming freshmen.

WE see you On March 3rd the Heber Springs High School faculty had a great day welcoming their upcoming freshmen! Students visited each department, met the 9th grade teachers, and had the opportunity to talk with HSHS club members to learn more about how to get plugged in this fall.