Growing Up...War Eagle

Book excerpt: WAR EAGLE, ARKANSAS has long been a favorite attraction of the Ozarks, whether for a Sunday drive, a fishing trip, swim in the water, or a visit to the Mill. However, War Eagle is home to the Sharp Family. The Sharps are the founders of the bi-annual Sharp Show. Today, the Sharp Show is one of the supreme arts and crafts fairs in the country with more than 250 booths that offer visitors arts, crafts, antiques, services, and foods from artisans all over the country. Running the Sharp Show for decades may be what this family is best known for today. This book, however, is much more than a description of the Sharp Show. It also explores how growing up in War Eagle shaped and molded the family. This is the story of Billy and Lucy Sharp's journey through time, as well as descriptions of the War Eagle area through their eyes. Jeni Bea Hopkins has long had a passion for writing and passing on stories and memories. Her attention to detail and appreciation for valued history prompted her to pursue writing as a tool to preserve experiences and stories. Jeni is currently a School Counselor, Teacher and Girls Basketball Coach that has had numerous articles published. She has two degrees, one in Electronic Media-Radio and Television Production and another in Education, plus a Masters in Guidance and Counseling. She has 23 years experience in Media and Education. Jeni lives on a farm with her husband, Scott, and two children, Hailey Jo and Hayden. She currently works at a high school in Springfi eld, Missouri and often visits the Hailey Cabin located in War Eagle, Arkansas where her family enjoys canoeing, fishing, hiking, swimming, and of course attending the Sharp Show Arts and Craft Fair every fall and spring.