Avenues March 2022

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VENUES

March 2022

A Free M ag az ine for t h e Oz ark s

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15 +/- Acres, 5 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Home 3599 AR Hwy 56 in Evening Shade, AR Price: $374,500 PAMELA WELCH, Principal Broker/Owner

®

520 N. Main ∙ P.O. Box 483 ∙ Cave City, AR 72521 Cell: 870-897-0700 ∙ Office: 870-495-2123 ∙ Fax: 870-416-3191 Email: pwelch@mossyoakproperties.com Website: www.ArkansasLandAndHomes.us

GORGEOUS 2005 Home, 3 Bed, 2.5 Bath 5.75 +/- Acres, Pond, Shared Lake Price: $289,000 6 Jace Lane, Cave City, AR 72521

PAMELA WELCH, Principal Broker/Owner

®

520 N. Main ∙ P.O. Box 483 ∙ Cave City, AR 72521 Cell: 870-897-0700 ∙ Office: 870-495-2123 ∙ Fax: 870-416-3191 Email: pwelch@mossyoakproperties.com Website: www.ArkansasLandAndHomes.us

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Located in the historical Castleberry Building on the Square in Salem.

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MARCH

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Gardening in the Ozarks Medical Directory Local Taste What’s Cookin’?

ACNA Artist of the Month Free Dinner GIveaway info

Welcoming visitors to the Ozarks Successful year for annual Country Cares for Kid’s St. Jude Radiothon Don’t hesitate to call: Compassionate help is on the way Preparing for the 2022 Spring gardening season

ON THE COVER Photo/Renee Janes Left is a picture of the dam at Mammoth Spring State Park. By Donell Russell.

AVENUES • March, 2022

AVENUES

From the Editor: Renee Janes, Editor smn@areawidenews.com 870-895-3207 Salem, Ark.

SA ES S A

Sales Director

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ENEE ANES Photographer

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t is hard to believe it is already March and spring will be here before we know it. This change in season also brings big change for me as I have entered the role of editor at Areawide Media after six years of being a reporter.

With the arrival of warmer weather, it is a great time to get out and explore.

Recently, I visited the Ozarks Heritage Welcome Center, which has been remodeled since originally being built in 1997. It has many great resources to guide residents and tourists to the many beautiful Ozarks sites to visit.

Also featured is the recent Country Cares for Kids St. Jude Radiothon held by E-Communications. During this amazing annual event, the community came together to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn.

Elaine Brown visited with David Woods the founder and director of Sharp County Search and Rescue Team (SCSAR). Elaine covers how Woods’ law enforcement background and interest in following weather patterns led him to become involved in search and rescue.

As we transition from winter into spring, many begin to make gardening plans. University of Arkansas - Fulton County Extension Agent Cory Tyler shares tips for preparing for the upcoming season.

Renee Janes An Areawide Media Publication Concord Publishing, Inc. Rust Communications

AVENUES • March, 2022

Gardening in the Ozarks The Bulbs Are “Bulbing”….

The “March” toward Spring has everyone getting ready for another fun gardening season. This is the time of year that gardeners get a “shot” of adrenaline when they finally see their flowerbeds wake up from their winter nap. For you see, it is March when John Norberg your bulbs begin to “showSharp County out”.

Master Gardener Remember back in the fall, you picked up a package of, let’s say’ tulips or daffodils or maybe some crocus bulbs from the store. You went home and began working up the soil so you would have a place to put your new found treasures. Because most of the dirt around here is clay to heavy clay, you took the time to amend the prepared area with possi-

bly compost, peat moss or some other humus rich material. You also did some research and found, that when planting, you want to feed the bulbs with a balanced fertilizer along with Bonemeal, to bring the phosphorous levels up. In doing this, you are encouraging the bulbs to send down new roots.

So now spring forward to now. As you enjoy your morning coffee or a walk past your flowerbeds or as you stroll through Doctor Thompson Park in Hardy, you catch a glimpse. You think to yourself, what do “I spy with my little eye”? It can not be, but it is, is this for real? Cresting out of the ground, you notice the beautiful multi colors of green popping up in the once empty looking bed.

Last fall, as we were putting in the pansies at Doctor Thompson Park, we ordered hundreds of tulip bulbs in a whole variety of way cool colors.

But we did not stop there. We also ordered hun-

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AVENUES • March, 2022

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dreds and hundreds of daffodils and crocus bulbs. We put the fertilizers down and waited with “bated breath” to see them begin their show we planned for this spring. Well mark your calendars, as March should give you quite a show at this Amazing Park in Hardy, Ark. I have been asked when we get a late snow or freeze, of what should they do to protect the leaves that are coming up from their bulbs. Well, I tell them “Nothing”. The leaves of these bulbs can grow through the snow and not get harmed. Now if the bud is forming you may want to protect them during this time.

Bulb leaves should be allowed to die back naturally. They say this is about six to nine weeks after the bloom period. This allows the bulb to build back energy so that they are stronger and even more amazing next year.

It seems like a lot of work to place bulbs into your garden, but it is well worth the effort you put in. Once they are planted, bulbs become an almost carefree plant that does not need much attention.

And, in about three The law offices of to five years, you can dig up and divide your bulbs and end up with way more than you had planted. So, it is a win win situation.

Think of it this way, after your hard work, you can just sit back and know that your Practicing in the areas of bulbs are “bulbing” all Divorce • Family Law by themselves.

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HARRELL

Custody • Adoption Criminal • Personal injury.

Office: (870) 520-8611 • Cell: (870) 897-3326 Fax: 1-866-232-0699 | Email: calvinharrell.lawyer@gmail.com 603 S. Madison St, Jonesboro, AR 72403 3623 Hwy 62/412, Hardy, AR 72532

AVENUES • March, 2022 7

Area FFA organizations recently celebrated National FFA Week

Highland FFA members

Couch FFA members

Viola FFA members

Mammoth Spring FFA members

Alton FFA members

8 AVENUES • March, 2022

TRIPLE

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Please visit us at www.barkerfuneral.com P.O.Box 783, 857 Hwy 62/412 W., Salem, AR 72576 Phone: (870) 895-3990 • Fax: (870) 895-3992

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Welcoming visitors to the Ozarks

Story & Photos by Renee Janes Greeting residents and visitors atop a hill on the edge of West Plains is the Ozarks Heritage Welcome Center.

Located at 2999 Porter Wagoner Boulevard, the facility offers many great resources for travelers including city and county maps, brochures of area attractions as

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well as locally made crafts and goods.

Built in 1997 by donations from the Southern Missouri Home Builders Association, the structure inhabits an area that was once a roadside park and has recently undergone renovation.

The remodel of the interior of the building began at

Pictured are Ozarks Heritage Welcome Center Greeter Veta Briscoe and Tourism Coordinator Melissa Wharton.

the end of 2020 consisting of painting the walls and trim, new furniture, and a more defined retail section for the gift shop and souvenir items.

This past fall, the roof was replaced as were soffits, gutters, and outside trim, which is still the process of being finished due to recent winter weather. The floors were also redone the first of January.

“We are still going to be getting new signage,” said Melissa Amyx Wharton, Tourism Coordinator, stating it should be changed in the next few months.

Since being built 25 years ago, no changes had been made. “It was just time to give it a face lift and make

132 N. Pickren St., Salem, AR 870-895-2551 Inside Bank of Salem 870-895-6122

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it a warm and welcoming place for the visitors that stop in,” said Wharton.

Wharton stated the center is representative of West Plains and Missouri as it is a Missouri affiliated welcome center.

When asked how the remodel has had a positive impact on employees and visitors, Wharton said, “Is something I think that everyone is really proud of.”

She stated they get a lot of compliments on the cleanliness of the facility and the expanded shopping items not just from tourists but also locals. “We’ve gotten a lot of locals to come up here that hadn’t either been here or hadn’t been here for a long time and they have been pleasantly surprised to see the changes.”

Unique features of the building include three murals, one inside and two outside. The colorful inside mural features famous West Plains natives created by Mike McClure. Greeting visitors on the front of the building is a mural of wings by Laura Bales and the vintage postcard on the side of the building was designed by Wharton.

Murals have become increasingly popular and the Greater West Plains Area Chamber of Commerce is encouraging businesses to add murals to their buildings by offering grant money. “Some of the murals added this year in West Plains were made possible through grant funds available through a hotel/motel tax. The Chamber of Commerce applied last year for funding from the Community Development Grant,” said Wharton, stating there is a page in the guidebook that references where to find them as well as various activities in West Plains.

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Additional attractions to view include memorabilia of Porter Wagoner, Preacher Roe, Bill Virdon and Dick Van Dyke.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of visitors to the Ozarks Heritage Welcome Center has not yet reached its pre-pandemic totals.

In 2019, there was a total of 4,839 visitors and in 2021, there were 3,400 visitors. “So, it was down about 1,500, and you really can’t look at 2020s numbers because we were closed for about three months,” said Wharton. Referencing 2013 numbers, the center had 8,300 visitors. “Even in those six years between 2013 and 2019, you could see the difference in how people who were traveling were getting their information,” said Wharton, who started at the center in September 2020.

Advances in technology has also impacted the number of visitors to the center. Many may not stop at a welcome center with access to infor-

AVENUES • March, 2022 13

mation and maps on cell phones and other devices.

During her time at the center, Wharton has worked on expanding the Ozarks Heritage Welcome Center’s online presence as well as creating a guidebook to encourage tourism to the area.

“When I started in September of 2020, there was not a website for West Plains tourism and we had a small day-trip brochure to hand out,” said Wharton, stating they also just received their new 96-page Explore West Plains guidebook, of which 4,500 copies have been distributed to other welcome centers across the state of Missouri and additional 15,000 will be distributed locally including at hotels, retail stores, restaurants, etc.

“Our second focus is for visitors to come and stay in West Plains and then do day trips out to see the mills and springs or visit West Plains to dine or shop if they are staying at a resort or a campground,” said Wharton.

The guidebook features day trip routes as well as turn-by-turn directions for each individual place and includes information and history of the places. The back of the book features a business listing by category.

“I would encourage people to pick up a guidebook or if they are in West Plains to stop by the welcome center and see us,” said Wharton.

Ozarks Heritage Welcome Center business hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Gammill Sewing Center

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Michael Kersey, DDS General Dentistry

(870) 625-3262 180 Main Street Mammoth Spring,AR www.mammothspringdental.com

Anderson Tax Service In God We Trust

Rosemary Anderson Registered Tax Preparer 6081 Byron Road Salem, AR 72576

870-847-0834

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AVENUES • March, 2022 15

MEDICAL DIRECTORY

COUNSELING SERVICES

HOME HEALTH

NURSING/REHAB

Families, Inc. Counseling Services Ash Flat - 870-994-7060 75K Hwy. 62/412, Ste. J Ash Flat, AR Mountain Home - 870-425-1041 700 S. Main, Mountain Home, AR

Elite Home Health 111 N. Main St. • Ste. 1, Salem, AR 72576 Phone: 870-895-2273 • Fax: 870-895-5515 www.lhcgroup.com Hours of operation: 8:00-4:30 Monday-Friday RN on call 24/7 We provide home health services of nursing, physical, occupational, and speech therapy and in-home aid services in the comfort of your home.

“It’s all about helping people.”

Shady Oaks Healthcare Center 715 S. State Route 19, Thayer, MO 65791 417-264-7256 Dr. Christopher Cochran - Medical Director Leigh Kincheloe, RN, LNHA - Administrator Lynsey Miller, RN - Director of Nursing Long Term Care • Rehabilitation Services Wound Care • Hospice Care In House PT OT ST Services • IV Services

DENTISTS Sonya Hames Wiles, D.D.S. Family Practice Dentistry 28 E. Court St., Melbourne, AR 72556 Telephone: 870-368-6666 Most insurances accepted MCNA Dental & Delta Dental Smiles Mammoth Spring Dental Clinic Main Street, Mammoth Spring, AR 72554 870-625-3262 Dr. Mike Kersey, DDS Tuesday thru Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.mammothspringdental.com

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT Delta Medical Supply www.ARdeltamedical.com facebook.com/ARdeltamedical 15 Choctaw Trace, Cherokee Village, AR 72529 870-257-4445 916 Sidney St., Batesville, AR 72501 870-612-0049 401 Hwy. 5 N., Mountain Home, AR 72653 870-656-4140 Tri-County Medical Supply We’re Here To Serve You” 260 Hwy. 62 E. Salem, AR 72576 Toll Free: 888-476-2234 www.tricountymedicalsupply.com

MENTAL HEALTH Joe Hackworth, LCSW Southern Missouri Community Health Center West Plains • 417-255-8464 1137 Independence Dr., West Plains Thayer • 417-264-2990 U.S. Hwy. 63 North, Thayer

Shepherd’s View ALF Alton, MO 65606 417-778-7959 Level 2 Assisted Living for Seniors Activities of Daily Living Diabetic Care • Restorative Care • Rehab Care SouthFork River Therapy & Living 624 62/412 West, Salem, AR 72576 870-895-3817 Mincie Thomas - Administrator Emma Cooper - Director of Nursing Doug Cameron - Admissions

PHARMACIES Alton Drug Store 201 State Hwy. 19, Alton, MO 65606 417-778-7000 Mon.-Fri. 8 am to 5 pm • Sat. 9 am to noon Becky Peace RPh Matthew Combs RPh RX--drive thru--mail--delivery Home Health Services Gifts Available

To reserve your listing in Avenues’ Medical Directory, contact Areawide Media at 800-995-3209 1 AVENUES • March, 2022

WE REMAIN OPEN FOR ALL YOUR COVID-19 CONCERNS

AVENUES • March, 2022 17

S

ess year or ann a o ntry ares or s St J e Ra othon

Pictured from left to right are Bec Eckman, Bob Eckman, Tim Eckman, Amber Dern, Trena Spears, Hayden Savage, Mike Crase, Rob Butler and Peggy Underwood.

Story by Renee Janes Photos Renee Janes S b

tte

Every year, many in the community work toward a common goal, helping to raise as much as possible for E-Communications’ annual Country Cares for Kid’s St. Jude Radiothon.

Many area schools, businesses, organizations and individuals raise funds through the year to donate to this worthy cause as well as donate the day of the radiothon.

Held on Wednesday, Feb. 9 from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., area school students from Couch, Koshkonong, Mammoth Spring, Thayer, Junction Hill and other groups helped to answer phones to take donations through the day.

1 AVENUES • March, 2022

This year, the radiothon raised $213,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn.

“Timothy Eckman, Co-Owner and General Manager of E-Communications, said, “It was great to have the community back inside the station this year for the annual radiothon.” Eckman said, “Though we didn’t reach our goal of $250,000, we know the money raised will be put to good use.

We want to thank everyone for the support they give us each year.”

Bob Eckman, President and CEO of E-Communications, commented, “I told before the radiothon of how blessed we were to live in the community that we do, and that statement proved to be correct Wednesday night.” Eckman said, “We just want to extend our deepest gratitude to every group that had a part in contributing to the radiothon, whether that be answering phones, greeting people, or donating money. It was crucial, ” was stated in a press release.

E BEVERAGE

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SHOPPE

• BEER • WINE • SPIRITS • ICE • LOTTERY

On The Missouri-Arkansas State Line

So. Hwy. 63, Thayer, MO 417.264.3118 AVENUES • March, 2022 19

NCI

North Central Insurance Pride In Independence

1896

Since

Tiffany Sitton Agent

P.O. Box 420 • 67 North Lunen St. • Melbourne, AR 72556 Fax: (870) 368-4999 Phone: (870) 368-4311 E-Mail: nci.jem@centurytel.net Toll Free: (888) 811-8505

20 AVENUES • March, 2022

Spring River Chiropractic 870-625-3355 Brent Garrison, D.C. 350 Bethel Avenue Mammoth Spring, AR 72554

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Local

Taste

Ash Flat SIDEWINDER CAFE

MEACHAM’S

(870) 751-2020 Mon., Wed., Thurs. 11-9; Tues. 11-5;

(870) 994-2101 Tues. - Thurs. 11-8; Fri -Sat. 11-9 Dine-In & Carry-Out Facebook.com/meachamsashflat

191 HWY 62/412 ASH FLAT, AR

962 HWY 62/412 ASH FLAT, AR

Fri. 11-11; Sat. 12-11; Sun. 12-5

Call ahead, Dine-In, Carry-Out Facebook.com/Frontier-Lanes

Cave City

BUTTERCUP’S KITCHEN 922 N. Main St. Cave City, AR (870) 283-5000 Mon. - Sat. 6 am - 3 pm Breakfast till 10:30 am

Facebook.com/Buttercups-Kitchen

SMOKIN’ RICKS BAR-B-QUE

SMOKIN’ RICK’S 3844 Hwy 62/412 Hardy, AR BAR-B-QUE

(870) 751-0970 3844 Hwy. 62/412 Wed. - Thurs. 11 am - 6pm, Hardy, Fri. - Sat. 11Arkansas am - 7 pm Wed - Thurs 11 am to 6 pm Facebook.com/ SmokinRicksBBQ Fri - Sat 11 am to 7 pm

Hardy A R T A S I A

ARTASIA MAIN ST. BISTRO / TWILIGHT APOTHECARY

112 E. Main St. | Hardy, AR (870) 209-7606 Homemade baked goods-pizza, bulk foods and spices, health store items Sun. 9-3; Mon. 7-3; Thurs.-Sat. 7-3 Facebook.com/artasia

Salem

SWINGLES FAMILY DINER 126 Locust St. Salem, AR (870) 895-5008 Mon. - Sat. 6 am - 2 pm Facebook.com/pages/Swingles

870-751-0970

For your restaurant to be featured in our Local Taste, call 870-895-3207 and ask for the sales department. $20/month, contracted through Aug. 2022.

What’s Cookin’ in the Ozarks?

The Best Homemade Alfredo Sauce Ever!

By Linda Welch 1/2 cup butter 1 pint (2 cups) heavy whipping cream 4 ounces cream cheese 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 cup grated parmesan cheese In a medium saucepan add butter, heavy whipping cream, and cream cheese.

Cook over medium heat and whisk until melted.

Add the minced garlic, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Continue to whisk until smooth.

Add the grated parmesan cheese.

Bring to a simmer and continue to cook for about 3-5 minutes or until it starts to thicken.

Toss it with your favorite pasta!

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C urc Directory Ash Flat Church of G od 124 Arnhart St. • Ash Flat, AR 501-574-8294 Sunday School 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship 11:00 a.m.

Sunday Evening 5:00 p.m.

Thursday Services 6:00 p.m.

Pastor CL Abbott

P eace Lutheran Church 4 Iro uois Dr. • Cherokee Village 870-257-3957 Pastor Brian Pummill 9 a.m. Traditional Worship 10:15 a.m. Adult Bible Study Sunday School 11:15 a.m. Contemporary Praise Service

Salem U nited Methodist Church 205 Church St., Salem, AR 72576 Sunday School 10:00 am Worship 11:00 a.m 870-847-6030 • 870-895-5157 Pastor Ken Anderson

Hardy Church of Christ 305 ohnston, Hardy, AR 870-847-6024 Sunday Morning Bible Study 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship 5:00 p.m.

Minister: Don House 501-412-3532

Welcome Hill Church of Christ 16309 Highway 9 South, Mammoth Spring, AR PO Box 495 / 417-293-6355 Sunday Morning Bible Study 10 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship 10:45 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship 5 p.m.

Wednesday Evening Bible Study 7 p.m.

Minister: Erman Croney - 417-264-3371

First B aptist Church of Mammoth Spring 16600 Highway 9, Mammoth Spring, AR 625-3273 • www.mammothspringfbc.com Chris Powers, Pastor Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

Evening Worship 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Evening Service 6:30 p.m.

B randsville Church of G od 10902 S Hwy. 63, West Plains, MO 65775 7 miles South of West Plains and 7 miles North of Koshkonong on Hwy. 63 Come Meet The Lord Sunday School - 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship - 11:00 a.m.

Pastor Bruce nderhill • Call 417-204-2452

N ew Hope B aptist Church 1244 Hwy. 175 • Hardy, AR 72542 Sunday School 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship 11:00 a.m.

Sunday Discipleship Training 5:00 p.m.

Sunday Worship 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Awanas 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Bible Study 6:00 p.m.

Cherokee Village U nited Methodist Church Worship Service 8:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.

Sunday School all ages 9:45 a.m.

Choir Practice Wednesday 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Coffee Talk 8:45 a.m.

Located in Cherokee Village at 21 Otter Dr. between Keno Nava o Dr. Senior Pastor Rev. Angie Gage - 870-257-3869 Associate Pastor Rev. immy Anderson

St. Michael’s Catholic Church Corner of Tekakwitha Dr. Hwy. 62/412 Cherokee Village, AR • 870-257-2850 Email: stmichaelcv yahoo.com www.stmichaelscv.org Daily Mass: Mon., Thur., Fri. - 9 am Wed. - 6 p.m. Saturday Vigil - 4 p.m.

Sunday - 9 a.m.

Rev. Amal Punganoor • 870-257-4456

Christian Lif e Center Non Denominational - Full Gospel Rev. Matthew Wann, Pastor Sunday Service 10:00 a.m.

For Directions Call 870-346-5556 or 870-636-0023 GPS Location: 244 AR 58 Spur Hwy.

Hardy U nited Methodist Church Fourth Spring / Every Sunday Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

Open Hearts Open Minds Open Doors First Missionary B aptist Ab a Highway 62 West At Spruce, Salem, AR Sunday School-9:45 a.m.

Sunday Worship-11:00 a.m.

Sunday Night Services - 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday Services - 6:30 p.m.

Call 870-895-2634 or 895-4728

Wheeling Church of Christ Hwy. 9 South, Wheeling, AR 870-219-9067 Sunday School 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Bible Study 6:00 p.m.

St. P aul U nited Methodist Church Business Highway 63, PO Box 241 Thayer, MO 65791 Sunday School - 10:15 a.m.

Sunday Worship - 11:30 a.m.

Email: stpaulumc centurytel.net www.stpaulthayerumc.org 417-264-3296 • Pastor Pam Ekey Faith P resb yterian Church 1001 Third Street, Horseshoe Bend, AR 72512 Sunday School - 9:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship - 10:30 a.m.

2nd Day Bible Study - Monday, 10:30 a.m.

Email: faithpresby centurytel.net www.horseshoepresbyterian.org Rev. David Schaller Call 870-670-4103 Horseshoe B end U nited Methodist Church 600 West Church Street 870-670-5392 Christian Conversation Wednesday - 12 noon Sunday Worship - 9:00 a.m.

Pastor Ken Anderson First B aptist Church of Hardy Highway 63-412, Hardy, AR Sunday School-9:30 a.m.

Worship-10:45 a.m.

Evening Worship - 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Prayer Meeting - 6:00 p.m.

Dr. Larry Kindrick, Pastor - 870-847-0897 First Christian Church “Disciples of Christ” 7th Archer Street, Mammoth Spring, AR Sunday School - 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship - 11:00 a.m.

Bible Study Wednesday Evenings - 6:00 p.m. www.fccms.org Spring River P resb yterian Church 151 Wahpeton Hill Rd., Hardy, AR 870-856-3426 Pastor im Ratliff Sunday Service 10 a.m.

Office Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m. - noon Closed on Mondays Email: springriverpres outlook.com

To reserve your c urc ’s listing in Avenues’ C urc Directory contact Areawide Media at 800-995-3209 2 AVENUES • March, 2022

Don’t hesitate to call: Compassionate help is on the way

Story by a ne ro n Photos a ne ro n S b

tte

You are worried sick, afraid of the worst, palms sweating, pacing, not sure what to do, tracking back in your mind wondering what could have possibly happened, tracing your own steps, feeling guilty there was some-

thing you could have said or done…sound familiar? Ever lost track of someone that you are very close to, perhaps someone you love and feel responsible for, and suddenly, you turn around…and they are gone?! No where in the

AVENUES • March, 2022 2

immediate vicinity, no where outside the vicinity or even within shouting distance… what do you do?!

It’s a tragic scenario we never imagine being in until it happens. Calling 911 is not a bad option, but doesn’t usually bring immediate results, much less mental comfort knowing someone who can understand and empathize with the situation is on the hunt.

Here in the remote lands of the Ozarks and beyond, we do have access to a very special service you may not be aware of. A service offered by a team of caring and devoted individuals who will come to your side on a phone call’s notice from you, who will painstakingly search and find the individual you are worried about, and they will NOT STOP until an outcome has been reached, no matter what the outcome may be…until the individual has been found. This team is known as the Sharp County Search and Rescue Team (SCSAR), founded and directed by David Woods, a man of faith, reason and compassion…and wits and know-how…

Woods has been forming teams for search and rescue since the early 80’s in counties all over Arkansas, including Grant, Jefferson and more recently Sharp County. Outside of the Sharp County name, his team has no particular affiliation with Sharp County or any other government agency, other than cooperation

26 AVENUES • March, 2022

and communication with local law enforcement agencies and fire departments in the area when engaging in a search and rescue.

David Woods was raised in Payneway, Ark., just south of Trumann, but according to him, he didn’t actually “grow up” until he turned 18 and moved to Little Rock.

“Most of life’s lessons are dealt to you as an adult, making your own way,” Woods reflects.

He was raised in a tight-knit Christian family by his parents with one younger brother. Woods developed close bonds with his brother, Jay Paul, at an early age, bonds that have only strengthened in adulthood to this day. His father was killed by a drunk driver in a tragic accident in 1978 when Woods was just 17-years-old, his brother the age of 10. At that time, his grandparents stepped forward as a big part of his up-bringing, along with his mother.

“I’d have to say as a young man, my Grandpa, my mom and my Uncle Jurl Clayton were the three people

I admired most,” offered Woods. “My grandpa for the things a young man had to know to become a respected old man. My mom for showing me a person with faith in Christ could overcome most anything…My Uncle Jurl for his attitude towards life.” Woods remembers those lessons they taught him, “There are times you have to be serious, but there are also times life can be fun…just be smart enough to know the difference.”

Law enforcement was a big part of Woods’ family. His grandfather was a Poinsett County Deputy for over 40 years, which had a big influence for him to go into law enforcement. Woods received a degree in law enforcement from St. Petersburg Jr. College, Fla. and served on beach patrol in Clearwater, Fla. He also served as Grant County Reserve Deputy and Mounted Patrol, state certified K-9 handler/trainer, Sergeant and Senior Investigator in the Redfield Police Department, Jefferson County Reserve Deputy and Arkansas Department of Corrections Police Officer, Sergeant and Senior Investigator.

AVENUES • March, 2022 27

He has served as an officer for search and rescue teams in many capacities throughout Arkansas.

Woods also served as a paramedic during his training.

He has delivered several babies and rescued people from burning homes. After some reflection, he adds, “I’ve learned that if you treat people with respect, generally you’ll be given respect back.”

In addition, Woods’ brother has been in law enforcement for over 30 years. His daughter is a police officer in Bradford, Ark., as well as his son-in-law who is a sergeant with the Searcy Police Department. Woods said, “I’d guess you’d say it’s in my blood.” He added, “As I got to be a man, some of my biggest influences came

28 AVENUES • March, 2022

from my brother, Jay Paul, who taught me how to live a professional life in law enforcement and maintain your faith.” To this day, his faith is an important part of his life. Woods begins every team dinner, event or search and rescue effort with a prayer, guided by team member Chaplain Donnie Clayton. “EVERYTHING is possible with God’s influences,” said Woods.

During his life, Woods developed and coached a youth football team in Redfield, Ark. It started with just 14 kids, and grew to 120 kids before he left 10 years later.

“They named the football field after me,” Woods offered, humbly yet proudly. He also designed and managed “Hero’s Memorial Park” in Trumann, Ark., a park dedicated

to law enforcement, EMS and fire fighters who gave their lives to protect others in the area.

Woods has added a youth component to his SCSAR group. When asked about how much of a role the youth have in a search and rescue operation, Woods said they are 100 percent involved. He expects them to show dedication in their actions, not just be there to observe.

Outside of the SCSAR team, Woods also has rigorous expectations for the kids to perform well in school and to show respect to authority figures, including their parents.

Before his search and rescue efforts, Woods developed an interest in following weather patterns at the young age of 22. He found when following severe storm devel-

opments, as a first responder in the field, storms often lead to looking for people who may be lost. “You instantly become a search and rescue person as you are usually a first rescuer on the scene,” explained Woods.

His love of watching weather systems continued throughout his life. He started the SkyWarn system from Cherokee Village, and Woods monitors weather patterns for the north Arkansas area in association with the National Weather Service. A great deal of Woods’ time is spent watching radar and predicted radar to follow storm systems as they develop. The SCSAR team members are also trained and involved in following serious storm tracks and help in advising residents in the area via

AVENUES • March, 2022 29

Facebook and a text messaging system. Woods’ SkyWarn weather updates can be accessed regularly on Facebook on his Sharp County SkyWarn page.

Woods moved to the Sharp County area in 2016. His local SCSAR and SkyWarn efforts began when he was volunteering as Director of the Office of Emergency Management in Cherokee Village. He developed the three-siren SkyWarn system to warn local residents of approaching tornadoes in the area. “Be good to your community, and it will be good to you,” offered Woods.

The SCSAR and SkyWarn team operates independently from any specific city or county, and is licensed to bring their expertise to wherever it is needed.

Woods’ SCSAR/SkyWarn team works free-of-charge, no cost to anyone. They are a completely volunteer

30 AVENUES • March, 2022

non-profit organization. They have paid for most of their education, equipment, and services out of their own pockets. Donations toward their efforts are graciously accepted, but never asked for. Their motivation truly comes from their hearts to help people and families under duress. Should you ever feel in distress, over a storm or concern over a loved one, just pick up your phone and call David Woods himself at 870-329-3459, any day/any time, 24/7…he will answer, and his team will be ready to respond, on site.

The SCSAR has become nationally certified through the Arkansas Search and Rescue Association (ASARA), and are offering their services, free of charge, 24/7, primarily in northern Arkansas and southern Missouri, but they can extend their services as far as needed.

AVENUES • March, 2022 31

ACNA’s February Artist of the Month: Linda Gonzales

By Cheri Lynn Quattrochi The Arts Center of North Arkansas’s March Artist of the Month is painter Linda Gonzales, who works primarily in oil, acrylic and mixed medium.

While walking down Main Street in Hardy one day, she saw Touch of Class, a branch of the Arts Center at that time. She entered, and her journey with ACNA began.

Linda hails from Cambridge, Mass. She attended Cambridge High and Latin High School. When she graduated, she had won a four-year scholarship to the Boston Museum School of Fine Arts. In 1966, two of her paintings won the Art Scholastic Awards in New York. Due to circumstances beyond her control, she left the school after two years.

She worked in the corporate world where she had an office in Melbourne and another in Orlando, Fla. While in Florida, a friend asked if she wanted to sail his sailboat to Florida from the Bahamas. She agreed, and they flew to the islands. While there, she fell in love with island life. Unfortunately, they were unable to sail back because of warnings of an approaching hurricane.

Despite the danger alert of living on an island, Linda began researching the demographics of the United States Virgin Islands. There are three: St. John, St. Thomas and St. Croix. With a population of around 2,500, she felt St. John was too small.

St. Thomas was not only a tourist trap but also had a population higher than she liked. St. Croix, the largest, seven miles wide and twenty-seven miles long, appealed to her the most.

Linda gave notice to her vice-president at work, had an estate sale, and as of July 1, 199l, flew on a one-way ticket to St. Croix. What a fantastic experience! And the view? Breathtaking—turquoise water, blue skies, mountains overlooking the seas. At first, she lived in a condo, then a sailboat, and finally

32 AVENUES • March, 2022

a house on the side of a mountain, which she called her “tree house.” It had one bedroom, a living-dining area, and a deck that overlooked the Caribbean.

St. Croix, according to some people, has two capitals, Christiansted in the East and Frederiksted in the West. Linda lived on the northern side of the island. She made many friends and met her second husband there. Linda has two grown sons. One lives in Tennessee, the other in Arkansas. She also has two stepchildren.

In 1998 Linda and her husband moved to Hardy, Arkansas.

They went back to St. Croix in 2007-08 due to her husband’s

work. Afterwards, they returned to Hardy and love it here! The people are so pleasant.

Linda has always loved art, and after 44 years, she began painting again. She is having a great time attending college art classes and art workshops, one as far away as Eureka at the Eureka School of Art. She has joined three local art galleries and is also exhibiting in Tennessee. She goes on an annual women’s retreat for art in Mountain Home. She has participated in art shows throughout Arkansas: Newport, Little Rock, Searcy, Rogers and Bella Vista—and eagerly awaits making the circuit again.

For Linda, art is more than a hobby. As she puts it, “Art is my passion. Always.”

ACNA March Activities Call ACNA (870-7513793) for up-to-date CDC COVID-19 protocol and class details, most of which were unavailable at publication. Watch for flyers and newspaper no-

tices, check ACNA’s Facebook page or call ACNA. Writing/Visual Journaling, first Saturday - Select a painting/photograph that “speaks” to you. Write an essay, poem or short story.

Art Club, second Saturday, 10 a.m. - 12 noon Photography Club, third Saturday, 10 a.m. - 12 noon - Members will share photos from Heber Springs trip Sewing Club, fourth Saturday, 10 a.m. -12 noon Sound Immersion, second Sunday, 1-2 p.m.

Tai Chi, Mondays,10-11 a.m.

Open Studio, Tuesdays, 5-7 p.m.

Tai Chi, Mondays, 10-11 a.m.

Mountain Dulcimer - Call for information.

March 19, 10 a.m.-12 noon - Play-with-Clay Workshop with Marty Williams: Members, $5 + expenses (clay, glaze); nonmembers, $10 + expenses March 21, 2:30 p.m. - Open Board Meeting

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AVENUES • March, 2022 33

P r epar ing f or the 2 0 2 2 S pr ing g ar d ening season y ory y er Photos S b tte

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February is the month of “weather unknowns”, as temperatures could be extremely cold or very mild, wet, with rain or snow, windy or calm, and whatever else Mother Nature decides to throw at us. But, during those February days when you are stuck inside, go ahead and start thinking about the upcoming gardening season and what you need to be doing to get ready. If you aren’t sure where to start, here are some basic tips on how to prepare.

One of the first things home gardeners should consider doing right now, is taking a soil sample for a complete nutrient analysis of the garden area. The primary nutrients tested in each sample is Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) along with the pH of your soil. Knowing soil pH can help determine if the garden needs any other amendments, such as lime. Each of the numbers provided on that soil test serve a critical role in the growth, development and yield of all garden vegetables. The best part though, soil testing through your local Arkansas Cooperative Extension Office is free of charge!

Second, decide what vegetables to plant in the garden and when they need to be planted. It can be helpful to draw a garden diagram to see if there is enough space to grow needed quantities.

Keep in mind, some vegetables require a cool growing season and must be planted early enough to mature before hot weather or late enough to mature in the cooler fall months. Others require warmer or even hot weather and longer periods to reach maturity. As far as plant selection goes, many new cultivars are resistant to diseases and have heavy yields but, if individuals have a favorite cultivar that works well for them, I recommend that they continue to use it. If you do however decide to try a new variety, be sure and choose one that is well adapted to Arkansas.

Another important factor when planning for the spring garden season is “site selection”. Factors that need to be considered with site selection include garden size, amount of sunlight that area receives, and choosing areas that are slightly sloped. In regard to the size of the garden, consider what available space you have,

AVENUES • March, 2022

the number of members in the family and how the vegetables will be used. Next, locate areas that receive the most sunlight.

As we all know, sunlight is essential to plant growth, so locations with a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight during the day work best. Tomatoes, corn, peppers, cucumbers, root crops and melons need full sunlight, but leafy vegetables like cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower will tolerate more shade. When it comes to surface runoff, make sure to pick slightly sloping areas to allow for excessive rainfall to flow away from the garden. Individuals can also contour the garden rows to the shape of the slope (plant around the hill) or construct terraces or raised beds if the slope is too steep.

When it comes to planting time, be cautious on planting warm season vegetables too early. On average, the last spring freeze will occur on April 10, but this date is just a reference and should not be used as a “safe to plant” day. Over the last few years, we have had hard freezes occur towards the end of April and even into the first of May, so be prepared to cover plants if the threat of frost is in the forecast. My best recommendations for when to plant warm season vegetables would be very late April or the first of May.

Garden season is fast approaching, and I hope that this year you have a bountiful crop! However, if problems do arise, do not hesitate to reach out to your local county agent for advice. In addition to that, be sure to check out the “Gardening A-Z” information page on our website. It has numerous amounts of online resources gardeners can use to help improve and maintain their gardens throughout the year. The website can be found at this link: https://www.uaex.uada.edu/yard-garden/vegetables/a-z/plan.aspx

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AVENUES • March, 2022 35

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AVENUES • March, 2022

WIN A DINNER FOR TWO FRED’S FISH HOUSE RULES: To register for the drawing, fill out a card on location at Fred’s Fish House in Mammoth Spring, Ark. Look for the pictured box to drop your card in to be registered. The drawing will still take place around the end of each month at the restaurant.

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AVENUES • March, 2022

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Prepping for the Season and Life

By Dewayne French As a cold winter day comes to an end, I find myself in my bass boat playing with fishing tackle. As cold as I may be, I’m prepping my tackle, boat, rods, reels, and myself for another year of fishing bass tournaments in and around the Ozarks region. I’m a tournament angler as you can tell from my articles. Some of my articles are heavy on that and some are more just fishing in general. When I was asked a few years ago to write articles for the Avenues and base them on the Ozarks region and the fishing we have in the area I was honored to be a voice for our beautiful fishing community we have here in the Ozarks. Our lakes, rivers, and streams are visited by people from all over the country. Our water is clear and pristine compared to some areas of the country.

Our Ozarks region is a prized place to fish and recreational opportunities abound. This article is about preparation in fishing and in life.

As I travel around the Ozarks and the country bass fishing and doing sponsor related shows and talks, one thing is always a top priority with me, well actually 3 things. At the end of last month’s article I left off with this statement.

“Enjoy fishing, family, and faith and your life will speak volumes” As I sat in my boat that cold day with snow all around the outside of my boat shed and with tackle and fishing equipment around me I was caught up “in the moment”. While re-spooling line on a fishing reel comes second nature to me and I can tie most fishing knots without even looking. I was also thinking about family and my faith. Fishing is a big part of me and who I am, but I hope and pray that the lord shines out of me for people to see. As I fish bass tournaments I tend to have more failures than first place wins. As a tournament angler you will have many more of those famous Talladega night’s catch phrase moments of “second place is just the first loser” type of tournaments. I generally relate how the tournament day goes to either a good catching day or just fishing day. I like to catch fish better than just fish, if you know what I mean. I like to have a limit of big fish rather than just 1 or 2 in my weigh-in bag at the end of the day and it is a feeling of accomplishment for me. While I fish my family stands behind me and supports me with all that I do. I have their love and kindness

and isn’t that what a family is there for. As I prep my tackle for a tournament coming up I also have to focus on my life and prepare that also.

As I wrapped up tackle prep on that cold winter day I was thinking of warm days and big fish for the upcoming year. Big fish that I catch, weigh, and release back into the Ozarks lakes to be caught again by another person. It is circle that is played out many times though out the year, not only by me but many of you readers as well. As the covid virus has changed all of our lives and seems to still be doing that to some point, we all need a little release in our busy, crazy, stress filled lives. I choose fishing and tackle prep for the release and as I prep for my upcoming tournament I also prep with praying and the bible for my daily strength and courage.

We all need help and it is there for me 24/7/365 just waiting. As you prepare for another year of fishing the Ozarks as I do, I hope you get caught up in the beauty we have. I pray that you share our Ozarks region with your family and friends. I also pray for a simple life, happiness, and health as we strive to accomplish our goals, in fishing and in life. Let’s all hope and pray that 2022 is a better year and a blessed year for us all, from my family to yours.

Remember we all “Live Downstream” so please pick up your trash and any other trash you see out floating around! Never discard old fishing line in the river or lake! Wear your life jacket, and tell your family your expected return times, and a general location of where you plan to fish.

Check out my social media pages and follow my fishing adventures around the Ozark waters we call home.

Facebook: Dewayne French Fishing Twitter: @French_fishin • Instagram: french_fishin Youtube: Dewayne French or French fishing

And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.

KJV Mark 1:17

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AVENUES • March, 2022 39

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Starla Smit

40 AVENUES • March, 2022