Water's Edge Magazine August 2023

Let Freedom Ring! FreedomFest & FoodieFest 2023

WE Adopt a Pet

Dodge is a good guy who will absolutely steal your heart. Dodge is a handsome 2 year old Staffordshire Terrier mix that was abandoned. He enjoys giving body hugs, eating treats, and soaking up love and attention. Dodge is happy, friendly, social, and will make a wonderful companion. He has gone to many public events and everyone loves him. Dodge is great with other dogs and children. He has not been cat tested. Dodge is just the best boy, please give him the life he deserves. Adopt sweet Dodge. Apply to adopt Dodge at heberspringshumanesociety.com

Lucky is a petite 1 year old DSH male cat brought to the shelter from a home with too many cats. He is extremely sweet to people and loves attention. Lucky roams freely around the shelter to explore things and greet new cats. He gets along with most cats. He has Herpesvirus, which is common in cats and non-contagious to people or other species. He takes medicine for this to help reduce the gunk in his eyes. Lucky is a sweetie that can’t wait to be part of your family. Pick Lucky to be the lucky one to go home with you! Apply to adopt Lucky at heberspringshumanesociety.com

Lucky’s adoption fee is $60.00 and this includes first shots, worming, and sterilization. heberspringshumanesociety.

Dodge’s adoption fee is reduced and includes sterilization, 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. Anyone interested in adopting Joe, please go to heberspringshumanesociety. com and complete an adoption application. A volunteer will contact you. August 2023

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: Cynthia Herrin

Cover Design by Joey Thomas

editors note

School bells will soon be ringing as we loosen our grip on another summer well lived. It seems as if the days slip by in a blur of giggles, water balloon fights, and lounging in or near the water. The smell of sunscreen and bug spray heavy as we end the day delightfully exhausted from so much well deserved playtime. Not to worry though, Autumn brings

its own delights of cozy sweaters and bonfires.

Inside you will find a delightful reminder of just some of the fun that was had this summer in Heber Springs. Thanks to those who poured so much of themselves into these festivities. And thank you, our faithful reader for picking us up once more, enjoy!

Let freedom ring

Freedom Fest 2023!

Kimberlee Thomas Photos: Cynthia Herrin

Spending summer days on the lake is one of my favorite childhood memories. As I grew up in Oklahoma, Lake Eufaula or Tenkiller Ferry Lake were our destination choices and well over an hour’s drive away from home. I can’t imagine the joy of living less than ten minutes from the local swim beach or marina. What’s even more fascinating to me is the hustle and bustle that July brings to Heber Springs and the shores of Greers Ferry Lake.

The 3rd Annual Freedom Fest on the lake was organized by the Heber Springs Chamber of Commerce and made possible by all the local sponsors and volunteers. The 2023 Freedom Fest included the World Champion Cardboard Boat Races, activities for kids during the day, two free concerts, and a huge fireworks show over Greers Ferry Lake.

It would not be Freedom Fest without the World Champion Cardboard Boat Races. This year’s Cardboard Boat Races brought boats from far and wide, with Mayor Kasey Griffin being the overall

winner with the fastest race time. The Blue Comet, a father and son team took home the Titanic Award. Other events included the legendary Watermelon eating contest which was enjoyed by young and old alike. The Treasure dig was a huge hit among the kids as they dug through the sand seeking prizes! Everyone enjoyed the sounds of Just Sayin’, a local band from Little Rock. They played a great show full of fan favorite songs for the crowds. Locals and visitors mingled on Sandy Beach and boats flooded the lake in preparation of the fireworks show. This year’s event, by all accounts, was a huge success!

Another fun event held in July was Foodie Fest. This event brought the Heber Springs community together on the court square on a hot, Friday evening. Food trucks selling all sorts of delicious meals and treats were lined along the streets of the courthouse. Downtown stores stayed opened later and the courthouse lawn was filled with vendors and people having a great time. Locals and visitors

more freedom fest!

Cynthia Herrin

Kacex won 1st place overall.

avenues 7.875 X 4.681 waters E 7.37 x 4.38

Jessica Gardner, Ashley Adams, and Cynthia Herrin volunteering at Freedom Fest.

The Blue Comet won The Titanic Award for best sinking ship.

ate, shopped, and visited with each other, all while listening to music until Foodie Fest came to a close.

Heber Springs Chamber of Commerce Director, Ginger Lewellyn Harper, stated, “On behalf of the Chamber, I would like to thank everyone who was involved in making Freedom Fest on the Lake a success. It is truly a community-wide effort to plan and organize such a large event. We are blessed to live in a place where people volunteer their time and resources for the good of the community. Freedom Fest on the Lake would not be possible without the generosity of our sponsors, community partners, and volunteers.”

Thank you to the following: City of Heber Springs / Mayor Kasey Griffin / Heber Springs Parks and Recreation Department / Heber Springs Community Center / Heber Springs Police Department / Heber Springs Fire Department / Heber Springs Dispatch / Heber Springs Street Department / Cleburne County AR Search & Rescue / U.S. Army Corps of Engineers / Arkansas Game and Fish Commission / Arkansas State Police / Survival Flight / All local law enforcement and emergency personnel / Jim Godush and JM Services, LLC / Local Boy Scouts / Razorback Concrete Company / Countless volunteers from our

community.

A special thank you from the Chamber to our sponsors for their support. Presenting Sponsor: Red River Dodge. Stars and Stripes Sponsors: Baptist Health Medical Center / McDonald’s. Liberty Sponsors: 101.9 The Lake- KSUG / Heber Springs A & P Commission. Independence Sponsors: Red River Boating Center / First National Bank / Centennial Bank / Super Splash Car Wash / First Security Bank / Walmart Heber Springs. Patriot Sponsors: FAB&T / First Electric Cooperative / JM Services, LLC. Community Sponsors: Julian Heat and Air / ReedHutchins Pharmacy / ESA Staffing & Screening / Creative Carpets & Interiors / Jitterbug Coffeehouse / Brent Brainerd State Farm Agency / Harps Food Stores - Heber Springs, AR / Tina Moor: Allstate Insurance Heber Springs. Stage Sponsor: Mayville Engineering Company, Inc. Watermelon Eating Contest: Farris Therapy—Heber Springs. Treasure Dig: The Springs of Greers Ferry. Volunteer Lunch: Southridge Village Nursing And Rehab / Cleburne County Library / Domino’s Pizza. Mark your calendar now; you won’t want to miss the 4th Annual Freedom Fest 2024! See you there at the water’s edge.

Keeping time during the races.

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Cynthia Herrin

Kids digging in the Treasure Dig.

This was my 7th year working the cardboard boat races and they never disappoint. The thought, creativity, and hard work the racers put into their boat is really amazing. You never know if they will sink or not. That’s part of the fun. -Toi

MFRC Enterprise taking the lead against The Falcon.

Team Southridge Village with their boat, Buck Rogers.

The MFRC Enterprise won Pride of the Fleet for best team spirit.

The Falcon won Pride of the Fleet for the best built boat.

Logan

Calendar we

The 136th Annual Olde Soldiers Reunion will be Thursday, August 3rd - Saturday, August 5th. The Parade will be on Thursday, August 3rd at 6:00pm. On Friday night at Spring Park there will be a Karaoke contest beginning at 7:00pm. Entry fee is $10. Spring Park will have food, vendors, kiddy rides and live music. For more information contact Ron Fenner at 501-362-9979.

FREE Hunter Education Course offered by the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission on Tuesday, August 8th thru Wednesday, August 9th. Class meets in the Administration Building, Entergy Room on the ASUB-Heber Springs Campus; 101 River Crest Drive, Heber Springs. For more information contact Lorrie Ingram at 501-362-1115.

Bookstore Romance Day is Saturday, August 19th from 10am - 8pm at 513 W. Main Street in Heber Springs. The event will feature local authors: Karen Badders, Taryn Rivers, Mary Schaffer and Edward Freeman. Enter to win FREE books! The first 20 people to enter get a free goodie bag!

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Greers Ferry Lake Project Office reopened the William Carl Garner Visitor Center. Hours of operation are Friday-Sunday 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

Summit 55 Upcoming Events: October 4-12, 2023-New England Rails and Trails, call Phyllis at 501-884-6501 for all the trip details!

Heber Springs Makers Market on the Square: Artisans, Crafters & Farmers 9am - 2pm on the Courthouse lawn. August 5 & 19 / September 2 & 16 / October 7 & 21 / November 4 / December 2. Follow them on FB.

August 17 - 19 Heber Fever 2023 Pickleball Tournament

Event will include Singles, Men/Women Doubles, Mixed Doubles. The event is hosted by the Heber Springs Community Center located at 201 Bobbie Jean Lane. The $75 entry fee covers all 3 events, T-shirt, lunch on Saturday and hospitality room. For more information call 501-362-4901

The Cleburne County Fair & Livestock Show will be held

September 5th - 9th. Local fair grounds are located at 880 Bittle Road, Heber Springs. Register online August 15th30th. www.cleburnecofair.com.

Save the date: April 8, 2024 The City of Heber Springs has something wonderful in store...mark your calendars now, you won’t want to miss it. A solar eclipse will occur in Arkansas and we are in the path of totality! This is one of those events you HAVE to witness once. The next chance you’ll have won’t be until 2044 and 2045. (See attached artwork). https://www.cityofhebersprings.com/ about-heber-springs/pages/attractions

kimberlee.watersedge@gmail.com

Cleburne County Library, 1009

W. Main, Heber Springs, AR 72543 501-362-2477

www.cleburnecountylibrary.com

August 2023

more freedom fest!

Cynthia Herrin

I loved helping with the watermelon eating contest at the cardboard boat races. So many happy faces digging in to try to be the first to finish that yummy watermelon. From young to old everyone seemed to have such a great time! Everyone left with smiles on their faces and sticky watermelon from head to toe. -Kelly

Bresnahan

High fives after a win

Cynthia Herrin more freedom fest!

10 and under watermelon eating contestants.

Annaleigh, Foster, and Cal are ready for the fireworks show!

Buck Rogers racing Kacex.

Drasco played a free concert at Sandy Beach on Friday night.

Buck Rogers won 1st place in the adult division.

Father and daughter won their age categories in the Watermelon Eating Contest.

Gary Redd and Billy Morgan - It was great to be alongside my friend Gary Redd calling the Cardboard Boat races at Sandy Beach this year. It’s always fun to see everyone enjoying the day with family and friend.

Home Town Heroes Cynthia Herrin

I’m married to Stephanie Jones. We’ve been married for 20 years. We have two sons, Corbin and Tyson Jones.

What made you decide to serve Cleburne County?

I’ve always had a servants heart in some form. I do get paid to work for the Cleburne County Sheriff’s Department. I’m also serve on the Heber Springs School Board, on my local volunteer fire department, and on the Cleburne County Search and Rescue. When I’m not busy with all of those things, I coach little league baseball and pee wee football. It’s not about me most of the time, or any of the time, it’s about trying to make a

Probably the most challenging thing, but also the most rewarding to me, is interaction with the staff and interaction with all of the law enforcement agencies that work in the county.

My favorite quote is kinda my own… “We have to use todays time today”. We can’t get anything back from yesterday, last week, or last month…whatever time we

What do you find most challenging about being the

It’s me, my mom and dad, and my little sister.

What got you interested in this line of work?

I just really wanted to help people. Since I graduated high school it’s what I wanted to do. I want to be a nurse and being an EMT is a nice segue into

I don’t have just one hero in my life. I’ve met a lot of people that helped me pursue my goals more than I had before. My buddies Carter and Butler, whom I met at AIT at Fort Sam Houston, really motivated me to get through the training and decide my career path.

What do you find most rewarding about being an

I enjoy coming to work each shift. Some people don’t get that luxury, but I really do enjoy coming to

Dakota Bryant

Jason Jones

WE see you

Foodie Fest 2023!

Foodie Fest brought the Heber Springs community together on the court square on a hot, Friday evening. Food trucks selling all sorts of delicious meals and treats were lined along the streets of the courthouse. Downtown stores stayed opened later and the courthouse lawn was filled with vendors and people having a great time. Locals and visitors ate, shopped, and visited with each other, all while listening to music until Foodie Fest came to a close.

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Notes from the Clearing

Joey Thomas

The painted sky was a mirror of her heart. The echoing thunder of the glorious fireworks, were percussion for the Joy she felt. It was the month and day of her birth and she felt patriotism and appreciation for all that she’d been given. Humbled with the knowledge that it was far more than so many. The golden-pink light of the earlier sunset wouldn’t leave her smile. It was a day of celebration, of reverie, and of setting intention to make days like this available to more in the days to come.

Cynthia Herrin

April and Felicia, the women behind Foodie Fest !

Foodie Fest was created to help start creating activity downtown after normal business hours! Our motto is, “Eat local, shop local and live local.” We had locals and out of towners requesting stores to open later, and that’s exactly what we’ve done. But with Foodie Fest, it’s an event that will bring people in from out of town while also gaining a lot of attention from locals. A ton of stores have hopped on the “stay open” train, and with 12 consistent stores opening until 8 pm on Foodie Fest nights, we’ve really helped boost the morale of business owners, customers, and our vendors!

As a new business owner downtown, I’ve learned a lot about how events are pivotal in bringing people in to your store, and downtown as a whole. But, I wouldn’t be able to help host Foodie Fest without Felicia Stone, the owner of the Lofts, she has truly been a blessing to have downtown. Not only to me but, all the business owners. Her positive attitude, and willingness to help in any aspect is why she is the best partner in helping with Foodie Fest!

-April Decker, owner of The Yellowbird

WE see you

Foodie Fest 2023!

Expert Cardiac Care

Unity Health received the American College of Cardiology's NCDR Chest Pain - MI Registry Silver Performance Achievement Award for providing expert, high-quality cardiac care.

We are one of 82 hospitals nationwide to receive this honor. Unity Health continues to “raise the bar of service for our patients.” - Dr. David Evans, MD, FACC