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CHAMBER NEWS |
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The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce invites the public to its annual Business Expo, presented by Citizens Bank, on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Batesville Community Center. The event is free and open to the public.
This year’s theme, Fan Zone, encourages businesses to bring the hype, show off their brand, and turn customers into fans! Vendors are invited to tailgate, celebrate, and showcase what makes their business a true champion.
“We are excited to see over 100 local businesses connect with thousands of fans under one roof,” said Amanda Roberts, BACC Membership Engagement Specialist. “We’re excited to see familiar faces and welcome new vendors this year. We’ve added booth spaces and more activities to accommodate the event’s growth.”
Vendors will decorate their booths with spirited, fan-centered themes highlighting their brand and engaging attendees. The most festive booth will receive an award.
“We look forward to the Business Expo every year,” continued Roberts. “It’s a great opportunity for businesses to showcase their innovative products and services, connect with potential and existing customers, and turn customers into fans!”
The Expo features networking, education, entertainment, and fun for all ages. Visitors will enjoy interactive booths, giveaways, creative contests, and live demonstrations. A Taste of the Chamber, featuring delicious food served by Chamber member restaurants, will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Kids Zone will run throughout the event with games and activities, including a Mascot Dance-Off at 1 p.m.
“Our vendors are incredibly creative and go all out,” Roberts added. “The Fan Zone theme is going to bring a whole new level of energy to the Expo. We hope everyone will come out to network, sample some great food, and have a great time!”
This year’s event also includes an interactive expo experience on the Chamber’s Experience Builder app, which gives community members an easy way to explore vendors and learn more about the participating businesses.
“The Expo continues to be one of the region’s best and biggest trade shows,” concluded Roberts. “It’s a tradition we’re proud of, and a key way we promote our members to the wider community.”
Citizens Bank presents the 2025 Business Expo with additional support from Bad Boy Mowers, the City of Batesville, Lyon College, Merchants & Planters Bank, Onin Staffing, Optimum, Peco Foods, RAWK Imprinting, Spartan Mowers & UTVs, the UPS Store, and White River Health.
Learn more about the 2025 Business Expo at batesvilleareachamber.com or contact Amanda Roberts at membership@batesvilleareachamber.com. |
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The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for KJ Virtual Assisting on May 29th at 1 p.m. The ceremony will take place at the Chamber’s offices located at 409 Vine Street in Batesville.
KJ Virtual Assisting is a new, locally owned and operated business working to redefine the traditional virtual assistant experience. KJ Virtual Assisting offers a team-based approach that goes beyond task completion and strives to provide personalized service, industry-specific expertise, and a true partnership in each client’s success. From scheduling and hiring to billing, document creation, and social media management, KJ Virtual Assisting supports businesses with strategic, customized solutions.
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The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon-Cutting ceremony for the opening of Beebe Hall at the Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches (ASYR). Beebe Hall is named in honor of former Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe, recognizing his 30 years of service as a volunteer and advocate for ASYR.
Nancy Fulton, ASYR CEO, welcomed the crowd and expressed gratitude to the builders, contractors, donors, and staff who contributed to making Beebe Hall a reality. She also praised the efforts of the fundraising committee, led by Ray Dillon, ASYR Board President.
"Ray Dillon took this on so we could expand our mission, which is why we come to work every day," stated Fulton. "We know the children are why we are here, and Ray didn't hesitate to make this a reality."
Dillon expressed his appreciation for the donors, saying, "I want to thank all our donors for raising over a million dollars and believing in the Ranch and its mission. It is in this spirit that we honor and recognize one of our most loyal and dedicated volunteers, Governor Mike Beebe, for over 30 years of timeless support of the Ranch." Fulton shared her gratitude for Governor Beebe's commitment: "I want to thank Governor Beebe, the humblest man, and we had to talk him into letting us name the home after him. The story goes that when he became Governor, he had to give up all his volunteer work except for the youth ranch, and for that, we wanted to honor him." Governor Mike Beebe took the podium and thanked ASYR staff and supporters for their dedication. He reflected on his upbringing in Amagon, Arkansas, where he was raised by a single mother. "I was the kind of kid, I think, to a large degree, represented by some of the kids growing up here. They have hope and a light at the end of the tunnel thanks to the house parents and programs here that provide so many opportunities from people who believe in them, who believe in helping kids," Beebe remarked.
"This is a great day for the youth ranch as we cut the ribbon on Beebe Hall and move more ranchers and kids into a new home," said Dillon.
Founded by the sheriffs of Arkansas in 1976, Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches provides hope, healing, and a home to thousands of children across the state. Children who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned come to the Ranch through no fault of their own, seeking a safe, loving place to call home. The Ranch's mission is to address, remedy, and prevent child abuse and neglect by creating safe, healthy, and permanent homes for children.
For more information on the Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranch and how you can help, contact Matt Cleveland at matt@youthranches.com or 501.940.3440. "We all have the opportunity to pass on to others our own fortune and pay it forward, because what you do can make a difference," concluded Governor Beebe.
Ambassadors in attendance include: Aaron Herndon (Citizens Bank), Amy Crouch-Howard (Weichert, Realtors - The Property Shoppe), Andrea Bruner (Network of Community Options), Brenda Rivera (First Community Bank), Ashley Davis (Citizens Bank), Cassidy Mitchell (Lyon College), Chad Whiteaker (White River Now), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), Cori Perkey (Southern Bank), Eva Henriksen (Merchants & Planters Bank), Sarah Ring (Southern Bank), Sydney Wood (Main Street Batesville), and Tiffany Traw (UACCB). |
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The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for White River Specialized Industries (WRSI) to celebrate its successful relocation to its new facility at 300 Blossom Drive in West Batesville. Community members were given tours of the facility to view all the activities and education stations for clients and observe group classes.
"The longevity and dedication of our team is amazing, with a majority of our employees serving 30-plus years helping our clients thrive and meet their highest potential," said Joe McAdams, Director of WRSI. "We have one individual that began his journey with us as a baby at our parent organization, The Community School, and is still with the program today, which shows us that our work is important and impactful throughout our clients' lives.”
WRSI provides adult day services with supervised programs that are designed to give care and companionship for older adults who need assistance or supervision during the day. These programs offer a variety of activities to promote social, physical, and emotional well-being in a community-based setting. They can help with activities of daily living, provide respite for family caregivers, and offer opportunities for social interaction and engagement. WRSI is a division of The Community School Inc. and serves adults with cognitive impairments and physical disabilities.
Ambassadors in attendance include Amy Crouch-Howard (Weichert, Realtors - The Property Shoppe), Andrea Bruner (Network of Community Options), Brenda Rivera (First Community Bank), Cassidy Mitchell (Lyon College), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), Cori Perkey (Southern Bank), Eva Henriksen (Merchants & Planters Bank), John High (Qualls Batesville Funeral Service), Katelyn Holt (Family Chiropractic Care), Kristi Morgan (FNBC), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), and Peter Rouiler (First Community Bank). |
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The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon-Cutting ceremony for Premiere Poultry Supply with business owners, Dr. Jason and Sara Cater, and their sons, Wes and Tanner.
Premiere Poultry Supply specializes in poultry houses and sells parts, equipment, and supplies for all your farm and poultry needs! The Premiere Poultry team lives by the motto “Helping Farmers Feed the World” by offering custom technical poultry health and production advice. Premiere Poultry strives to educate growers on an array of poultry farming interests.
Dr. Cater, who has worked for 25 years in the poultry business, expressed his excitement about the poultry industry's future in the Batesville area and across the state.
“The future is bright, and I always like to tell farmers that we’re here to feed the world with the demand growing as our world population grows,” stated Cater. “With poultry being the cheapest protein that can be produced, our work will have a big impact.”
Cater continued by thanking AgHeritage Farm Credit Services for strongly supporting his ideas and dreams. Premiere Poultry also has operations in Pocahontas and Rison, Arkansas. Dr. Cater also thanked his staff for their hard work and dedication. Attendees enjoyed lunch provided by AgHeritage and drawings for door prizes donated by Premiere Poultry and its partners.
For more information or to follow Premiere Poultry on social media, visit https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572817275404
Ambassadors in attendance include Silje Antonsen (First Community Bank), Kendra Collier-McMahan (Approve Home Health and Caring Hands), Eva Henriksen (Merchants & Planters Bank), Tammy Jeffrey (First Community Bank), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Cassidy Mitchell (Lyon College), Brenda Rivera (First Community Bank), Peter Rouiler (First Community Bank), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), and Rickie Westbrook (Centennial Bank).
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The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon-Cutting ceremony for The Batesville Area Arts Council (BAAC) in celebration of its newly expanded and renovated Work/Shop on Main concept and space. The event marked a major milestone for BAAC, which recently completed an expansion within its historic Main Street building. The renovation includes a new gift shop, an expanded workshop space, and the unveiling of a Community Gallery that will feature work by talented local artists.
BAAC Board President Abby Perrine addressed the crowd. She shared the organization’s journey from utilizing the space as a rental property to transforming it into a beautiful extension of the former workshop area that can accommodate more participants in the many art classes offered by BAAC. “None of this would be possible without the visionary talent and drive of our BAAC Executive Director, Carly Dahl. Once she sets her mind on something, it happens. So, this wouldn’t be possible without her leadership and talent. Thanks to Carly, the workshop space can now seat 40 students and host more classes for the community,” stated Perrine.
“We are so excited to share this new chapter with our supporters and the community,” said BAAC Executive Director Carly Dahl. “This renovation was made possible through the generosity of our sponsors and community investors. I want to extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make my vision come true, including First Community Bank, Batesville Preservation Association, Citizens Bank, Lyon College, White River Health, Bad Boy Mowers, FARCO, Precise, Bob Carius, Ray & Diane LaCroix, Abby & Zach Perrine, and Racheal & Alex Roofe. And my husband, Dustyn Bork, helped with a long list of last-minute tasks, so I want to thank him for making today possible,” remarked Dahl.
The Batesville Area Arts Council (BAAC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides enriching learning opportunities through the promotion of the arts. BAAC plays a vital role in the community by advancing arts education and cultural engagement through various programs, including Arts In Education, the Gallery on Main, and a wide range of workshops for all ages. The Gallery on Main is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is closed on Sunday and Monday. The new expanded space can be rented for private events, workshops, or corporate gatherings in a unique and creative setting. Call the BAAC staff at 870-793-3382 or email them at info@batesvilleareaartscouncil.org for more information on booking this new space for unforgettable moments. To learn more about BAAC, visit www.batesvilleareaartscouncil.org or follow BAAC on social media.
Chamber ambassadors in attendance include Kendra Collier-McMahan (Approve Home Health and Caring Hands), Adam Curtwright (Centennial Bank), Ashley Davis (Citizens Bank), Amy Finster (FARCO), Aaron Herndon (Citizens Bank), Lindy Hopper (First Community Bank), Amy Crouch Howard (Weichert, Realtors – The Property Shoppe), Tammy Jeffrey (First Community Bank), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Alexandra McClain (Myers-Davis Life Coaching), Cassidy Mitchell (Lyon College), Sarah Ring (Southern Bank), Brenda Rivera (First Community Bank), Lucy Rodriguez (George’s Inc.), Lori Tacker (Batesville Eye Care Center), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), Chad Whiteaker (White River Now), and Sydney Wood (Main Street Batesville). |
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The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) proudly announces that Novella Humphrey will join the organization as Chief Operating Officer (COO) in July. A dedicated leader with extensive experience in education and program coordination, Humphrey brings a wealth of experience that aligns with the Chamber's mission to drive economic growth, enhance community partnerships, and strengthen the workforce in Independence County. "We are thrilled to announce that Novella is joining our team at the Chamber," said BACC CEO Crystal Johnson. "I have had the opportunity to work with Novella over the past 15 years through our shared work in education. She has an exceptional ability to lead teams, create vision, and execute, making her the perfect addition to our team." Prior to joining the Chamber, Humphrey served as the Director of Curriculum and Federal Programs for the Southside School District. The Arkansas Literacy Association recognized her as the Administrator in Reading recipient, highlighting her impactful efforts in promoting literacy within the community and across the state. Humphrey is deeply involved in community initiatives such as the IMPACT Foundation, IMPACT Independence County's Educational Excellence hub, and the WorkWired initiative, among others, aimed at economic development and local business support. "I am excited to join the chamber team and contribute to our community's continued growth and success," said Humphrey. "I look forward to working alongside local leaders and businesses to create meaningful opportunities and lasting impact. Together, I believe we can build on the strong foundation already in place, driving innovation and fostering connections that strengthen our local economy and enhance quality of life for all in our community." This announcement follows the news that Jamie Rayford will assume the new Chief Strategy Officer role at the Chamber, focused on leveraging her strategic leadership to further advance long-term economic and community development goals. Since joining the organization in 2015, Rayford has led significant efforts to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of chamber operations while facilitating cross-sector partnerships within the IMPACT Independence County network, resulting in meaningful growth and increased impact county-wide. This strategic shift reflects the BACC commitment to sustainability, innovation, and impactful community development, setting the stage for even greater growth in the years ahead. |
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We were thrilled to welcome the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, the Arkansas State Parks, Recreation, and Travel Commission, and the Secreatary of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism Shea Lewis, to our beautiful community! It was a joy to share the heart of Batesville with you—from the charm of our historic Main Street and the scenic beauty of the White River to our unique local shops and dining experiences.
We appreciate the opportunity to showcase what makes Batesville such a special part of Arkansas. You’re always welcome here, and we look forward to your next visit! Special thanks to the Batesville Community Center, Polk & Paddle, Batesville Area Arts Council, Poke Bayou Outfitters, The Royal on Main, The Board on 3rd , Stella's Bistro, Hampton Inn, Sarah•Dipity, MorningSide Coffee House, Nova Joe's, Jamestown Crag, Main Street Batesville, The City of Batesville, Natalie's, and Experience Independence for making this trip extra special!
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The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Independence County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations, and residents affected by severe storms and tornadoes occurring March 14-15.
Beginning Tuesday, May 27, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Batesville to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.
The center’s hours of operation are as follows: Disaster Loan Outreach Center Independence County Office of Emergency Management – EOC Building 1800 Myers St. Batesville, AR 72501 Mondays - Fridays, 9 a.m. –6 p.m. Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
“When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”
Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.
Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.
Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.
The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.62% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition. To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster.
Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 7, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 9, 2026. |
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Dress like a local |
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Celebrate your spirit of Independence with shirts, cups, gifts, and more! You'll be supporting the hometown brand you love. Buy online or in-store at the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce. |
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Join us in welcoming the newest Chamber members! |
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Introducing the all-new Experience Builder app—your ultimate guide to Batesville! |
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Member Events |
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✨ NADT presents "Little Red!" 🎭 Friday, May 30 | 6:30 p.m. |
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The Independence Library's May 2025 calendar is here, and it’s packed with something for everyone! This month brings:
Whether you're looking to relax, learn something new, or connect with others in the community, the Independence County Library has a place for you this May.
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Spring is in the air and summer is just around the corner. The fourth annual Bill Walmsley Scots Golf Classic will be held Friday, June 20, 2025 at The Course at Eagle Mountain. Get those clubs out and put your team together for a fun day of golf supporting Lyon Athletics.
The team fee of $650 includes the following: gift bag, beverages, lunch, 2 cart rentals per team (if needed), green fees, range balls, and prizes!
The tournament pool is limited to the first 32 paid teams. Please indicate how many carts you will need on the registration form.
Prizes include:
Schedule: |
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MEMBER NEWS |
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In response to a Presidential disaster declaration issued May 8, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to Arkansas small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms and tornadoes occurring March 14-15.
The disaster declaration covers the Arkansas counties of Greene, Hot Spring, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Randolph, Sharp, and Stone.
Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.
Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.
Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.
SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNPs impacted by financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. They may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
“One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s mitigation loans.”
Interest rates can be as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.62% for PNPs and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
As soon as Federal-State Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the affected area, SBA will provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants. Additional information and details on the location of disaster recovery centers is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.
To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. |
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Congratulations to Dustin and Tham Dayberry of Polk & Paddle for being named the Ozark Gateway Tourist Council's 2025 Member of the Year! 👏
Located in downtown Batesville, Polk & Paddle is a cozy restaurant and private club known for its rotating weekly menu and adventurous dining experience. 🍽️ Whether you're sipping something refreshing on tap or trying a new twist on your favorite comfort food, every visit is uniquely satisfying.
Our friends at the Paddle are building community—one bite, one smile, and one shared table at a time. Their passion for food, people, and place is helping redefine what it means to dine local and live local. Cheers to the Dayberrys for turning great taste into a great place! 🥪🍻 |
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The CFO Network, an accounting firm based in North Little Rock, has announced the launch of a program providing free financial guidance to nonprofits across Arkansas.
We believe that when nonprofits succeed, communities thrive. The CFO Network recently created The Impact Hour, a new pro-bono program designed to bring financial clarity and strategic guidance to nonprofits.
During one of their Impact Hour sessions, nonprofit organizations can discuss the following information with a member of the CFO Network's team:
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🌟 Pardon Our Progress! 🌟 Riverside Park is currently CLOSED for construction as we work to bring exciting improvements to our community space!
An official groundbreaking ceremony will be held in June. Check back later for more information about this event! Riverside Park is projected to reopen in December 2026.
🐾 Sara Low Memorial Dog Park, the Municipal Golf Course, and The River Waterfront Steak & Grill will remain open throughout the project. Minimal disruptions to Chaney Drive are anticipated.
While we're improving Riverside Park, we invite you to explore one of our other amazing parks:
Thank you for your patience as we build a better Batesville! |
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Lyon College graduate Ayden T. Heitmann, ’24, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has co-authored a study published in Kidney Research and Clinical Practice, one of the field’s most prestigious peer-reviewed journals.
The study investigates the role of supervised exercise as an adjunctive therapy for patients undergoing maintenance hemodiafiltration, a form of dialysis, and represents a significant international research collaboration. Under the direct mentorship of Dr. Mayron Faria, assistant professor of exercise science at Lyon College, Heitmann played a key role in data analysis and methodology development alongside a multidisciplinary team of scientists from Brazil, Canada, and the United States. “This is a powerful example of how undergraduate students at Lyon can engage in research with global impact,” said Dr. Faria. “Ayden’s contributions were critical to this study, and the experience showcases the type of student-faculty collaboration that defines the Lyon College experience.” The six-month multicenter study found that exercise training — whether performed during or between dialysis sessions — significantly improved dialysis efficiency, muscle strength, and quality of life in patients with chronic kidney disease. These findings could shape future clinical practices for a patient population often burdened by fatigue and physical decline. Heitmann, who majored in biology with minors in chemistry and exercise science, was involved through Lyon’s Exercise Physiology and Integrated Cardiopulmonary (EPIC) research group, which partnered with institutions such as the Federal University of São Paulo and VO2 Care. “I deeply value this experience for the opportunity it gave me to deepen my understanding of research and academic writing. It helped me build essential skills that continue to support my work throughout graduate school,” said Heitmann, who also played on the Scots baseball team while at Lyon College. “I still rely on the guidance and feedback I received from Dr. Faria, especially when reading research papers and navigating other aspects of my academic journey. Although it was a new and somewhat challenging experience that pushed me outside my comfort zone, I would strongly encourage other students interested in research to get involved." The paper, titled “Exercise as an adjunctive therapy for patients on maintenance hemodiafiltration,” marks a significant academic milestone for Heitmann and for Lyon College’s growing research footprint. It also highlights the college’s commitment to fostering high-impact undergraduate research opportunities, even at the international level. The project was supported by the Arkansas INBRE program, funded by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. The full article is available online ahead of print through the Korean Society of Nephrology at https://www.krcp-ksn.org/journal/view.php?number=6461. “The Exercise Science program at Lyon College goes far beyond the classroom. Our students gain hands-on experience through real-world research, access to cutting-edge technology, and opportunities to collaborate with international scientists," Dr. Faria said. "This isn’t just preparation for graduate school — it’s preparation for leadership in healthcare, research, and beyond. At Lyon, we’re training the next generation of innovators in exercise science.” |
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University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) student Kali Combs was one of four students from University of Arkansas System campuses earning grants from an endowment honoring James L. “Skip” Rutherford III, dean emeritus of the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service.
“I am once again so impressed with the individuals selected to receive this year’s mini-grants,” Rutherford said. “It’s humbling to have this program established in my name, and I hope that these awards provide a financial boost to help these students reach their goals in higher education and beyond. I appreciate the selection committee for their hard work in this process and all of the donors who have helped make this program possible.
Kali Combs is pursuing her associate’s degree in general education at the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville where she also serves as campus photographer and marketing assistant in the UACCB chancellor’s office. A graduate of Batesville High School, Combs has worked in banking and retail and owns her own photography business. Combs intends to transfer to Lyon College to complete her bachelor’s degree. She will use her grant to purchase a new camera lens to improve her work and to provide the necessary equipment to pursue a career in photojournalism.
Those receiving 2025 grants include: • Taylor Brooks, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff • Paige Callender, University of Arkansas at Monticello • Kali Combs, University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville • Samantha Kohoutek-Miller, University of Arkansas at Little Rock
The endowment was established in 2021 at the University of Arkansas Foundation to honor Rutherford and provide support to student leaders across the UA System. This is the fourth year for grants to be awarded from the fund. Contributions to the fund are tax deductible and can be made online by selecting “Skip Rutherford Student Leadership Endowment” in the drop-down menu or mailing a check to the Clinton School at 1200 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock, AR 72201.
The grants were awarded by an independent committee appointed by Dr. Michael Moore, UA System vice president for academic affairs, in accordance with the terms of the endowment. Each spring, undergraduate and graduate students from any UA System campus have the chance to apply for the grant. This year, roughly 150 students from UA System campuses from across the state submitted applications, said Eric Wilson, chair of the selection committee.
“It is always so difficult for the committee to choose from so many deserving applicants,” Wilson said. “There are truly remarkable students all across Arkansas, and I am proud that we get a chance to help out a few each year thanks to the legacy of Dean Rutherford. We appreciate everyone who applied this year, and encourage those who did not receive an award to consider applying again next year.”
James L. “Skip” Rutherford III was dean of the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service from 2006 to 2021. During his deanship he emphasized the unique project-based learning model in the school’s Master of Public Service degree program and built a nationally renowned public speakers’ program, among other accomplishments. Before becoming dean, Rutherford oversaw the planning, construction and opening of the Clinton Presidential Center. He also has an extensive private sector background in communications and public relations. The Rutherford Student Leadership Endowment was founded in 2021 by friends of Rutherford upon his retirement to honor his life and career in public service. |
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The City of Batesville has been awarded a $250,000 matching grant from the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism to enhance outdoor recreation in our community! 🌳🏞️
This funding will help construct a new inclusive play area at Riverside Park and install a new swing set at Westside Park, creating more opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors together.
This is part of $3.85 million in FY2025 Outdoor Recreation Grants awarded across Arkansas, supporting projects that enrich communities and strengthen local economies.
📸 Pictured: Mayor Rick Elumbaugh alongside Director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation Katherine Andrews, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, and Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism Shea Lewis.
We’re excited to see these improvements come to life! Stay tuned for updates. 🙌 |
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Dr. Mónica Rodríguez Explores Latinx Identity Through Food in Annual Lamar Williamson Prize Lecture at Lyon College
How can food serve as a powerful tool of cultural identity preservation?
Dr. Mónica Rodríguez, the 2024 recipient of the Lamar Williamson Prize for Faculty Excellence at Lyon College, tackled this question in her recent lecture, “Resisting Assimilation and Preserving Identity through Food in Latinx Communities,” at Lyon College.
Dr. Rodríguez’s presentation explored the cultural significance of food as a means of maintaining identity and resisting societal pressures to assimilate. Her research focused on U.S. Latino literature, depictions of Latinx individuals in film, and the role of food as a vital link to cultural preservation.
Dr. Rodríguez received the Lamar Williamson Prize for Faculty Excellence from Dr. Melissa Taverner, president of Lyon College, and Dr. Kurt Grafton, provost. The prize is awarded annually to a Lyon College faculty member who exemplifies outstanding teaching, scholarly achievement, and service to the college and community.
Born in Lima, Peru, Dr. Rodríguez joined the Lyon College faculty in 2001. She serves as adviser to Sigma Delta Pi, the Spanish honor society, and the Spanish Club. Her commitment to academic excellence was recognized when she was named Alpha Chi Professor of the Year for 2012-2013.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Rodríguez has been an active member of the Batesville community. She has served on the Humane Society of Independence County Board of Directors and has volunteered with the organization for more than a decade. Additionally, she has provided translation services at parent-teacher conferences alongside her students and was a former volunteer fitness instructor at the Batesville Community Center.
The 2025 Lamar Williamson Prize recipient will be named at the spring 2025 Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 17. |
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The Batesville Preservation Association has an exciting opportunity to present to the downtown residential and business district. The Sulphur Rock Elementary EAST Program has approached us with a project to create virtual tours for our historic homes and businesses within the historic district. This is at no cost and brings the benefit of access while promoting our area. I have attached an infographic with more details and included the links to apply for this service and an example tour. You may choose a portion, single room, exterior only, or entire structure. These tours will be uploaded to the brand-new BPA website www.historicbatesville.org. We are very proud to bring this initiative. These girls are very talented and we wish them success in their endeavor to create Timeless Tours. You can sign up today! Please share this as you see fit for any of your historic home/business owners. |
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There is Hope. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org to connect with compassionate care and support for mental health-related distress. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, 988 provides a 24/7 connection to confidential support. |
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EDUCATION |
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The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce is the leading voice of business in Independence County, providing chamber members advocacy, promotion, and resources. The Chamber works to set the standard for service, collaboration, growth, and high quality of life in the Batesville area. We are unwavering in our commitment to strengthening our business community. |
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