Water's Edge Magazine March 2023

Escaping Our Earthly Bounds

WE Adopt a Pet

Meet Nala and Spooky, two gorgeous young cats excited to be part of your family. Nala is a 6 month old female dilute calico kitten and Spooky is a 6 month old male DLH kitten. Both were surrendered from the same household through no fault of their own.The owner’s dog chased and harassed them. Each kitty is full of curiosity and playfulness combined with calmness. They both enjoy being rubbed and petted. They are litter trained and get along with other cats. These two have been together, but are not bonded and could be adopted together or separately. Don’t hesitate to complete an application to adopt Nala and/or Spooky today!

If you want a great dog, pick Russell for your family addition. Russell is a 3 year old Labrador mix brought to the shelter as a stray. He’s handsome, well mannered, and a pooch that loves everyone. Russell’s favorite activities include playing in the doggy parks with other dogs, taking walks, eating treats, and getting lots of love. Your search is over, Russell is the one for you! Woof Woof! Russell’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. Fill out an adoption application at heberspringshumanesociety. com . A volunteer will contact you.

editors note

Okay, let’s shake off the winter blues and bring on Spring 2023!

Maybe it’s cabin fever, maybe it’s just my love for warmer weather, either way I am ready to be outside digging in the dirt and planting new trees and flowers etc. I will even endure the allergies that come along with all of the blooming beauties.

I have the spring Cleburne County Master Gardeners plant sale on my radar, as well as the Downtown Heber

Springs Springfest which will take place Friday June 2nd and Saturday June 3rd. Along with many other events that will be on the Chamber of Commerce Calendar very soon.

Now, if Mother Nature cooperates, we can get a jump on all things spring and enjoy the warmth. I will patiently and impatiently be waiting and keeping my blanket and jacket close by, as we all know that living in Arkansas we get a bonus season of fools spring! Here’s to hoping it goes by quickly!

Shake It Off

Nala

Spooky

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 by Kimberlee Thomas

Cover Design by Joey Thomas

WE Neighbor of the Month

Where do you work and what is your connection to Cleburne County?

I have the privilege to work at the ARcare Heber Springs clinic located at 1511 Highway 25B with excellent providers, nurses, dieticians, insurance agents, diabetes educators, and front office that are willing to help anyone. As a young child, Heber Springs was the family vacation spot making this area very dear to my heart. As an adult, my husband, Jeff, and I bought a “getaway” place and have met some wonderful people that we love dearly. We both love the beauty of the area and the laid-back atmosphere of Cleburne County. Cleburne County provides a peace and clarity of the mind that you cannot get just anywhere. Seeing the sun rise over the mountains or setting behind them shows a beauty that only God could create.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up between Poinsette, Jackson, and Independence Counties. My younger years I grew up in the country at Midway, between Amagon and Waldenburg, AR, but spending much of my time, with my sister, in Fisher, AR with my Granny and Uncle Joe. I went to Grubbs Elementary for Kindergarten, 1st grade. I transferred to Weiner in the 2nd grade and went there through the 6th grade. My Daddy and Mom wanted a better life for my sister and I and moved us to Newark in the summer of 1990. Newark High School is where I graduated in 1996. Now I am showing my age. LOL!

Where did you attend School?

I graduated high school in 1996 with an interest in the medical field, really not knowing if I wanted to go to Physical Therapy School or nursing school. I decided on nursing school. I graduated from LPN school in 1998, worked for a while and decided on going back to get my RN. I graduated RN school in 2003, worked a while before going back for my APRN. I graduated with my master’s degree in 2015. Now, I’m once again, back in school to obtain my post-master’s degree as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I will be better prepared to treat our patients.

Tell us about your family.

My family is definitely something else. We are all completely country at heart and it shows through our actions. I married my high school sweetheart, Jeff Bagwell. Together we have six 4-legged fur babies – Lucy, Sadie, River, Frankie Grace, Bella, and Jake (when he decides to come home), all are rescue babies. Jeff and I have built a wonderful life together and I could not see myself without all his love and support. My Mom, sister, and I are very close and love each other whole heartedly, I do not know what I would do without either one of them. My Daddy (our rock), went to be with the Lord in December 2005, and how I miss him is unexplainable. My sister and brother-in-law have a son, my nephew that I love dearly. I have 2 of the most amazing in-laws a girl can have and have great respect and love for them.

Of course, family is not always about blood relation.

I do have a brother overseas that serves this amazing Country in the Navy. He and my sister-in-law are raising 2 precious little girls. I have many more friends I consider family and they know who they are and how much I love each one of them.

Community Activities

There are several activities in the area, from Farmer’s Market to community craft fairs. I enjoy going, browsing, and supporting. At the ARcare clinic we do collect clothes for children of all ages and give them to anyone that is in need.

What is something people might not know about you?

I have a huge respect for the United States of America and our brave military men and women, Active and Veterans. I am a HUGE Christmas fanatic. I absolutely LOVE to travel anywhere, especially when the ocean is involved. I love with all my heart. I will never turn down a good campfire with friends or family.

My Hobbies

Anything outside in the warm sunshine. I like to hunt, fish, work in the yard, 4-wheeling, road tripping, junking, and floating for hours on Greers Ferry Lake. What do you enjoy most about being part of the Cleburne County Community?

The love and kindness of the people of Cleburne County. Cleburne County possess something that I haven’t seen in other communities in quite some time – tranquility. There are many places you can go here to find peacefulness like hiking trails, riding trails, and the 63 sq. mile lake. People can come here to rest or find themselves again.

Ashely Bagwell, APRN

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.

you

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Radiation

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

Escaping our Earthly Bounds

Kimberlee Thomas

In mid-June of 1940, the world welcomed future Master Pilot, Charles Evans. While his little feet kept him planted solidly on the ground, his young heart soared in the skies above. “My mother would often tell that as a young boy, I would run in the yard with my arms outstretched and making airplane sounds.”

Charles has been interested in aviation for as long as he can remember.

He was born and raised in Heber Springs, “I graduated from Heber Springs High School in 1958 and went on to study engineering at the University of Arkansas where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1964.”

Charles’ brother worked as an aircraft mechanic at the Heber Springs airport and Charles began to spend time with him there. In 1970, at the age of 30, Charles started his flight training. “I trained at the Heber Springs airport in a 1968 Cessna 150, N50171 and earned my private pilot’s license in 1972.” He continued flight training over the next several years and earned a commercial pilot’s license, a certified flight instructor’s rating, an instrument rating, and a multi engine rating. Charles shared, “I’ll always consider my first solo flight a mountain top experience. A bit scary but very exciting.”

Once becoming a flight instructor Charles instructed many on their way to becoming private pilots. Most of this training was done in the 1968 Cessna 150, N50171. Charles noted, “Instruction has been my passion.”

Over the years Charles has owned three airplanes; a Cherokee Six, a RV6 which he built, and the aforementioned N50171, which he

currently owns. Charles began the RV6 project in 2000. When he retired from his engineering career in 2004 he filled his time over the next two years completing the RV6, “I flew it for the first time in 2006. I sold it in 2018 after flying it for over 600 fun filled hours.” Most of his flying has been single engine piston powered with some multi engine and a little single engine turboprop.

In 2010 the City of Heber Springs asked Charles to manage the Heber Springs airport. Charles shared, “I’m still working in that role and enjoy it immensely.” He and his wife, Pamela, enjoy living in Heber Springs. Together they have six children, eleven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

Recently Charles was awarded the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award. The Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award is the most prestigious award the FAA issues to pilots certified under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 61. This award, named after the Wright Brothers, is to recognize individuals who have exhibited exemplary aviation expertise, distinguished professionalism, and steadfast commitment for at least 50 years of piloting experience or 50 or more years combined experience in both piloting and aircraft operations. Once the award has been issued, the recipient’s name, city and state will be added to a published “Roll of Honor” located at https://www.faasafety. gov/content/MasterPilot/RecipientList.aspx . Charles stated, “I thank all those who worked on my behalf for this honor.”

In conclusion Charles shared, “It’s been said

Charles Evans was honored by the FAA for his 50 years of exemplary aviation flight experience and commitment to aviation safety when they awarded him The Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award.

that flying allows us to escape our earthly bounds and enjoy the freedom to go most anywhere any time. This is what I enjoy most about flying.”

Soon, available for preorders at Amazon.com

First Electric Cooperative is now accepting applications for the 2023 Youth Tour!

Apply online or download an application at https://www. firstelectric.coop/youth-tour . Applicants must be high school juniors during the 2022-2023 school year, and their parents or guardians must be First Electric members. Deadline to apply is March 31.

High School FBLA students attended the District V Spring ConferenceLeadership in Conway on January 30th. Congratulations to the following students for qualifying for the State Leadership Conference in their competitions:

Miah Tharp - 1st PlaceElectronic Career Portfolio.

Merrick Luibel - 1st PlaceIntroduction to Information Technology.

Ricky Leal - 2nd PlaceIntroduction to Financial Math.

Sam Gilley - 5th PlaceJob Interview.

Jessica Trejo - 6th PlaceAccounting. I

Lindsey Cox - 6th PlaceIntroduction to Business Concepts.

WE see you

Proudly keeping Heber Springs in Good Hands

we

Calendar

St. Patricks’s Day Dinner and Entertainment

Monday March 20th or Friday March 17th 4:30pm to 7:30pm. At the Bayside in the Cobblestone Inn, Fairfield Bay, Arkansas. Join us for a traditional Irish dinner of Corn beef, boiled potatoes, carrots, salad and a special Irish dessert, cash bar and the musical entertainment of G/K in the Bay. Tickets are $28.00 per person and must be purchased in advance. See if you have the luck of the Irish!!! For More Information contact Phyllis Couran 570-468-5220 or pcournan@eaglebank.com.

Summit 55 presents an Amy Grant Concert on Friday, March 31, 2023

Join Summit 55 and enjoy dinner and a concert with contemporary singer Amy Grant in concert at the Reynolds Auditorium on the UCA campus. The Summit 55 group will be picked up in Fairfield Bay first at 3:00pm, followed by a pick-up in Greer’s Ferry at 3:20 pm, followed by a pick-up in Heber Springs at the Eagle Bank Main location at 4:00pm. Sign up today! We only have a few bus seats left for this amazing event. The cost of the trip is $120.00 which includes, transportation, dinner and a concert ticket! Don’t delay, call today!!

For More Info: Phyllis Cournan 501-884-6501 pcournan@eaglebank.com.

Spring Stay-cation Heber Springs Ultimate Spring Break Camp March 20th – 23rd. Open to grades K-6th. Monday through Thursday 1pm – 4pm. $20 per child. Register now at the Heber Springs Community Center 201 Bobbie Jean Lane or call 501362-4901 for more information.

Maker’s Market Saturday, April 01, 2023. 10am thru 5pm on the Cleburne County Court House Lawn. There will be Artisans, Crafters, Farmers. For more information or vendor applications call 501-3624901 or events@cityof heber.org

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,

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.

April 11, 2023 11am thru 12pm at the Waycoff Senior Center 320 Trailwood Drive, Heber Springs. For More Information contact Phyllis Couran 570468-5220 or pcournan@eaglebank.com.

https://www.cityofhebersprings.com/ about-heber-springs/pages/attractions

WE see you

Swim day at Recess in mid-February! A Huge thanks to Luke and Leah McClure and friends for teaching our group some awesome skills in the pool.

Stella Tubbs is a BUSY 3rd grader at Heber Springs Elementary. Along with her involvement in basketball, softball, cheer and church, Stella dances for the Judi King Dance Company studying ballet, tap, and clogging. Stella said, “My favorite thing about being at HSE are the teachers. They make my week fun, I also enjoy the activities they have throughout the week. I love learning new things!”

Stella Tubbs

Home Town Heroes Cynthia

Herrin

I grew up with seven brothers and two sisters. I was the third youngest. I played a lot of sports in high school

The court system and learning about everyone’s

My father. We didn’t come from much…we had a big family and he always did all he could to provide for us. We always had clothes on our backs, a roof over our head,

James Jennings

Bradey Adkins

WE see you

Team work makes the dream work. More February fun from Recess at the Heber Springs Community Center.

Notes from the Clearing

Joey Thomas

The majestic tree, rooted in the beautiful meadow, stands proud below the volley of birds that come and go, flitting, flying, and gluiding. All under the canvas of sky where clouds roil and turn, stretch and fade, while the lowly fungus bloom to gather in circles and bloom along, in the footsteps of man. Which means more, or might they all hold equivalence in the epic scheme of it all? Is the breath of a blade of grass really less important than the snorted retort of a giant Sperm Whale? Mosquito? And, who thinks they get to decided?

Batesville

Ash Flat

Team work makes the dream work. More February fun from Recess at the Heber Springs Community Center.

23 Club VIP Court and Panther Party On the Evening of January 14th the Heber Springs School District honored their 2023 Very Influential Panthers - students elected by their clubs and organizations for their leadership and service to their school.

WE see you

On January 14th HSHS introduced their 2023 Club Court Very Influential Panthers at their Black Out pep rally. These students were elected by their club members for their leadership and service. Each was escorted by a member(s) of the Heber Springs basketball team. The presentation was followed by the Black Out pep rally hosted by the cheer squad, dance team, band members, and student council.