Water's Edge Magazine January 2023

ANSWERINGTHECALL

Stormy is a beautiful 1 year old DSH brought to the shelter as a stray. She certainly doesn’t act like a stray. Stormy is very sweet and loving to her humans. She loves everyone, especially women. She is the happiest close to her person helping with anything needed. She needs a home without dogs, cats, or children. Stormy will make a wonderful companion. Adopt Stormy to be your furry friend!

Stormy’s adoption fee is $60.00 which includes first shots, worming, and sterilization. Anyone interested in adopting Stormy, please go to heberspringshumanesociety.com and complete an adoption application. A volunteer will contact you to set up a meet and greet appointment.

Fun and Energetic Sandy is ready for her forever home. Sandy is an adorable 1 ½ year old Coonhound whose owner could not care for her. This girl has a sweet and fun-loving personality, loves her humans, and will be very loyal. Sandy likes to run and play with her doggy friends and a fenced in yard would be perfect. She enjoys treats, attention, and playing with toys. Complete the application for this sweetie to go home with you soon. Adopt Sandy! Sandy’s adoption fee is $100.00 which 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. Fill out an adoption application at heberspringshumanesociety.com . 501.362.7322

Heber Springs Humane Society

humanesocietyhebersprings@yahoo.com 49 Shelter Lane, Heber Springs, Arkansas 72543

Tuesday thru Saturday 12:00 to 4:30 | Sunday and Monday Closed.

editors note

The past year, as so many others, had highs and lows, but for me personally it held a lifetime of growth with releases and lessons that I feel I have finally grasped!

Wow, what a wonderful feeling it is to write those words and share that with you! Sometimes we have to dig pretty deep to adjust our sails in the right direction and feel the freedom that it brings. So, no matter what obstacles the coming year brings our way, know that taking a step back or setting

Farewell 2022!

boundaries or taking care of yourself first definitely has its rewards!

John 14:27. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

Peace is a valuable thing, and it is what I wish for you all in 2023.

- Gina Slagley

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.

Cover Photographs by Kimberlee Thomas Cover Design by Joey Thomas

WE Neighbor of the Month

Where did you grow up?:

Well, I come from a few places. I was born in Tracy, CA in 1992. I moved to Las Vegas, NV when I was a year old. At the age of 14 in 2006, my family and I moved to Green Forest, AR. After High school, I lived in Clarksville, AR from 2011 to 2016. I lived in San Angelo, TX from the fall of 2016 to the spring of 2018. Shortly after graduating from grad school, I moved to Midland, TX to start my first teaching job. In 2020, I moved to Jacksonville, AR and taught at the high school until May of 2022. The day after school got out, my family and I moved into our new home here in Heber Springs.

Education:

I attended Green Forest Schools in 2006 and graduated from GFHS in 2011. After high school, I attended the University of the Ozarks in Clarksville, AR. There, I majored in Art and health science. Now some consider these choices of majors to be “unique” but there is a little bit of a backstory. As a child, my late grandfathers encouraged me to pursue a career in art but at the time, I wasn’t quite sure what to do with it. As a senior in high school, I was involved with student coaching during my study hall periods. I knew I wanted to pursue a career in both the visual arts and athletics. Thus, I decided to become an art teacher while taking any opportunities to coach sports such as football and baseball. In 2016, I attended grad school at Angelo State University in San Angelo, TX. In 2018, I earned a Master’s in Education and Coaching Administration from ASU.

Work:

Prior to teaching full time, I worked with Angelo State’s football program. Assisting the coaches and designing graphics to promote their program. After graduating grad school and living in Midland, Texas, I was an art teacher and coach at Texas Leadership Charter Academy. While there, I taught high school and middle school art while coaching cross country, basketball, and track. TLCA at the time did not have a football team; however, I was blessed to have the opportunity to coach with Norman Elite during my off time in 2019. While volunteering at Norman Elite, I coached a K-1st team through the Under Armour Under the Lights Flag Football Program; going undefeated, winning the district champion, and coming in 2nd place during the state championship. The following year in 2020, I felt like it was time to come back to Arkansas to be closer to my family. When I returned to Arkansas, I worked for Jacksonville High School becoming one of the two art teachers. Additionally, I was given the opportunity to work as an assistant baseball coach for two seasons. When the opportunity was given to teach at Heber Springs Middle School, I could not pass up on it. Today, I am working for the Middle School as a visual art teacher.

Family:

My mom and her husband live in Huntsville, AR. I have an older sister but I also have 9 younger siblings. I have a beautiful wife, Danielle. We have a daughter, Jennie, who will be turning 2 this March. What is something people don’t know about you?:

Anyone who knows me knows that I am industrious, caring, and passionate. However, not everyone knows about mental struggles I’ve gone through. At a young age, I was

diagnosed with severe AD/HD and comprehension disabilities in reading and math. These things often hindered me from staying focused or understanding certain aspects in school and life. Although these things were considered as barriers, I used these so called “disabilities” as motivational tools. Rather than becoming another statistic, I sought assistance from my teachers and/or coaches whom broke down concepts in smaller pieces. Thus, making it easier for me to understand the world a lot better at a young age. After learning these concepts, I would work even harder by applying the skills to the best of my abilities. Although it was difficult at times, I never allowed my disabilities to define who I was/am, nor allowed them to hinder my success in life.

Hobbies:

One of my favorite hobbies is creating artwork. Since I was able to pick up a pencil, I created artworks as a way to express myself by creating things inspired by my love for pop culture. Especially Star Wars. To this day, I create artworks to practice my artistic capabilities while utilizing my creativity as a form of escapism from stress. Besides art, I am very big into Kayaking! I can go Kayaking for hours and be completely satisfied. As mentioned previously, I love to coach, helping student athletes grow. Teaching them essential skills that can help them on and off of the field. My favorite hobby of all time is being a dad. As cheesy as it sounds, I really enjoy seeing the happiness in my child. I love being able to play with my daughter and to see the excitement in her eyes whenever I come home from a long work day.

Idea of a fun weekend:

My idea of a fun weekend would be spending time with my family. Whether, watching the hogs play on tv, watching a movie, or taking them out on an adventure, I just love spending my time with my wife and child. Any time with them is my idea of fun!

What do you enjoy most about living/working in the Heber Springs Community?

The first is the community. After moving to Heber, my family and I felt at home and were welcomed with open arms. My family and I also love living here because Heber Springs feels like a good balance between not being too big and not being too small. Lastly, we love living near a lake. Prior and after moving to Heber Springs, my family and I would come out to the lake to swim and barbeque. It’s an affordable getaway for us.

I love working in Heber Springs for two reasons; the supportive staff and the students. I am very grateful for the assistance, guidance, and support; I know I can count on these guys. I have taught for about five years, but I love learning new things from these guys each and every day. This past semester, I took a group of students on a trip to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Crystal Bridges. Additionally, my art students were featured in a exhibit during the Christmas Concert performances. These opportunities were due to the support from my principal, Mrs. Kristin Euton and superintendent, Dr. Andy Ashley; they graciously allow opportunities to explore different perspectives in visual art.

I love working with and seeing my students grow in their artistic and cognitive capabilities. Everyday, I try to find

LUNG CANCER SCREENING

new and innovative ways to help them become successful. This includes teaching new art skill/techniques, applying constructive criticisms, or building some form of relationship. It is challenging at times; However, my goal is to help each of them succeed by applying the skills they learn on daily basis. I have learned so much from my students! Learning about their backgrounds, interests, and their abilities, helps me develop as an educator. Something that I am grateful for!

Men or women ages 45 & up with at least one risk factor can schedule a Lung Screening. Cost is $100, and the risk factors include:

• Long-term smoking history of 10+ years

• History of secondhand smoke exposure

• Work environment involving chemicals, dust, diesel, herbicides, pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, and fertilizer

• Exposure to asbestos

• Two or more first-degree relatives (parents, siblings, grandparents) in the same household

Call Chelsey Davis, RN TTS, Oncology Nurse Navigator, at (870) 262-6205 to schedule your screening at White River Medical Center. A Lung Cancer Screening could save your life!

Caring Beyond Healthcare

Matt Noyes

Answering the Call

Kimberlee Thomas

When you ask a small boy what it is he wants to be when he grows up, the answers are endless. There are however a few that seem to repeat; Cowboy, policeman, astronaut, fireman.

Ryan Herrin has answered the call of his younger self as he now carries the title of Chief for the Heber Springs Fire Department. Growing up in Heber Springs, his best friend was the fire chief’s son. Herrin was exposed early on to the fire service. His curiosity and willingness to help his community grew with his friendship. If asked today why being in the fire service is important to him, he would tell you that it’s because you have the chance

to give someone the best possible outcome on what could be their worst day, while knowing that you are making a difference.

Ryan Herrin has been a resident of Heber

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Springs for over half his life. He is a graduate from Heber Springs High School and started “ride alongs” with the Heber Springs Fire Department when he was 17 years old. Herrin currently resides in Heber Springs with his wife Cynthia, and two children, Foster and Finley.

Herrin started volunteering with the Heber Springs Fire Department when he was 19 years

old in 2010 while attending Arkansas State University - Heber Springs. In 2012, he started working part time with the Department and in 2016 moved up to full time when a position became available. He also worked for a few years as a firefighter with the Searcy Fire Department, where he obtained his NREMT-B certification, became a hazmat technician, and

various other certifications.

When the opportunity to become Chief presented itself, Herrin wanted to pursue the chance to continue the advancement and growth of the Heber Springs Fire Department while serving alongside the men he’s been working with for years. During his time with the Heber Springs Fire Department, Herrin has worked his way up from firefighter to the rank of Captain and now Chief. Before becoming Chief, Herrin was involved in the building process of both the new Rescue One and Engine One. The new Engine One was delivered in early November and will be placed into service in early 2023. These two additions will serve the community for many years to come.

Herrin is proud to have the opportunity to serve his community as Fire Chief; he will strive to always give the citizens of Heber Springs the best service possible.

Heber Spring’s Social and Community Magazine

“Herrin is proud to have the opportunity to serve his community as Fire Chief...”

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.

Haleigh used her single-parent scholarship to earn a nursing degree so she can take care of patients — and her daughter. Ready to help hardworking single parents succeed? Donate now at aspsf.org

“I was not alone in this journey. There were people who wanted to help me!”

Haleigh S. & her daughter Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund Recipient

3rd Annual Heber Springs Police Department Shop with a Cop WE see you

WE Student of the Month

John Rice and Jack Rice are 12 year old twins currently in the 6th grade at Heber Springs Middle School. Jack’s favorite thing about Middle School has been participating in bowling with the HSSD Special Olympics team. He won a Bronze medal at the recent State Championships.

John loves Art and spending time with his peers. The Halloween 6th grade dance is a wonderful example of how important inclusion is at the Middle School. John was laughing and dancing with his classmates! Mrs. Euton and her staff continue to go the extra mile to ensure everyone is included and having fun!

John and Jack are making memories of a lifetime at Heber Springs Middle School!

Jack Rice

John Rice

3rd Annual Heber Springs Police Department Shop with a Cop

WE see you

Heber Springs Christmas Parade - Cynthia Herrin

The Heber Springs Christmas Parade is always a huge turnout! This year was a lighted Christmas Parade and people had their floats lit up! Pleasant Ridge General Baptist Church won first place in the float contest, Dalrymple Real Estate Heber Springs came in second, and the Community School of Cleburne County came in third. Santa always closes out the parade by making his entrance on the Heber Springs Fire Department Ladder Truck.

1st Place - Pleasant Ridge General Baptist Church.

2nd Place - Dalrymple Real Estate Heber Springs.

home for Better

Notes from the Clearing

Joey Thomas

The only sound he could hear, was the hum of the house; the heat and creaks and moans of the aged wooden structure. His closed eyes let in the golden light of sun sneaking through the sky light. It was another New Year, in this same old space, in this same old life. But, it was new, silently offering the perfect time for renewal, letting go, and firsts. His mind was made for such places, in such times; he was a perpetual phoenix, eager for change. Rebirth.

Heber Springs Christmas Parade - Cynthia Herrin

3rd Place - Community School of Cleburne County. Water’s

The 3rd Annual Heber Springs Police Department Shop with a Cop was December 20. Thank you to all the people who donated and supported this outreach! The officers raised over $4000 this year and threw several local kids and their families a pizza party with Santa and his elf Buddy!! The Officers convoyed the kids over to Walmart in their police cars and let the kids have a shopping spree. Thank you to all those who donated! Thank you to Walmart, Dominoes, Harps, The City of Heber Springs, Santa and Buddy, and the Community Center staff for everything they helped with! A special thank you to Cleburne County Sheriffs Office, Arkansas Probation and Parole, Arkansas State Police, Arkansas Highway Patrol, Arkansas Game and Fish, and Concord Police Department for all of their officers, deputies, and troopers that shopped with a kid.

- Cynthia Herrin