The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon cutting ceremony for Evolve Therapy Solutions, PLLC. The ceremony will take place on Tuesday, March 4, at 1 p.m. at 235 S 3rd Street, Batesville.

Since its opening in 2023, the practice has provided high-quality mental health care to the community. Recently rebranded to Evolve Therapy Solutions, PLLC, the new name reflects their mission to support individuals on their growth, healing, and transformation journey.

Led by Mary Banks, LCSW, Evolve Therapy Solutions offers a range of services, including individual counseling, family therapy, and personalized support to help clients navigate life’s challenges. Their approach integrates evidence-based practices with a warm and welcoming environment, ensuring that clients feel heard, understood, and valued. From managing stress and anxiety to overcoming trauma and major life transitions, Evolve Therapy Solutions empowers individuals and families to thrive.

All community supporters, chamber members, ambassadors, board members, and staff are invited to attend.

The City of Batesville, in partnership with Olsson Engineering and Construction Manager TOLM Group, broke ground on Batesville’s new water treatment plant. This milestone marks a significant step in modernizing Batesville's water infrastructure, ensuring a safe, reliable, and sustainable water supply for future generations.

The new plant, designed to replace the aging 1960s-era facility, will meet the needs of Batesville's growing population and provide cost-effective, high-quality water service. The project's development reflects the strong collaboration between the City of Batesville, Olsson Engineering, and TOLM Group, all working to meet both present and future demands.

Community members gathered to celebrate the project's launch, highlighting the City's commitment to infrastructure improvements and growth.

"Critical infrastructure projects like this do not happen without a strong community, strong partnerships, and strong leadership," said Crystal Johnson, CEO of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce. "Thank you to all who are helping us build a better Batesville."

"In 2023, Batesville citizens overwhelmingly supported this key project at the polls," said Mayor Rick Elumbaugh, emphasizing the importance of public support. "Water infrastructure is essential to any community's survival. I want to thank our citizens for stepping up time and time again. In 2017, we completed our award-winning wastewater treatment plant. Now, this new facility will continue our progress."

Elumbaugh also acknowledged the City Council's past and present role in supporting this vision.

Damon Johnson, Public Works Engineer for the City of Batesville, expressed gratitude to the community for their dedication, thanking the citizens of Batesville who voted to fund this facility with their sales tax. He also thanked the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce for communicating with and educating the public about these ballot measures, saying, "without their efforts, I'm not sure we would have been as successful as we have been."

"This new 16-million-gallon-a-day system is an investment in our future, securing high-quality water for residents, industries, and future growth across the community," continued Johnson.

President of TOLM Group, Brian Rohlman, underscored the project's significance: "Drinking water is something people take for granted, but it's the most basic necessity of life. We're honored to steward this project because we understand its importance."

Mayor Elumbaugh noted the years of planning that led to this moment: "This project has been over five years in the making. Here in Batesville, we don't kick the can down the road; we face challenges head-on."

Greg Smith, Vice President of the TOLM Group, added: "The collaboration between the TOLM, Olsson, and the City has been remarkable. A great team is assembled to execute this project over the next three years."

The new water treatment plant is part of a long-term effort to strengthen Batesville's infrastructure, supporting future development and ensuring the community's ongoing prosperity.

"I can't wait to see you all here in three years for the ribbon cutting," concluded Johnson.

Ambassadors in attendance included: Andrea Bruner (Network of Community Options), Amy Crouch-Howard (Weichert, Realtors - The Property Shoppe), Adam Curtwright (Centennial Bank), Amy Finster (FARCO), Julie Hinkle (Bank of Cave City), Lindy Hopper (First Community Bank), Tammy Jeffrey (First Community Bank), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Roxanne Rananudo (Family Violence Prevention), Sarah Ring (Southern Bank), Peter Rouiler (First Community Bank), Lori Tacker (Batesville Eye Care Center), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), and Rickie Westbrook (Centennial Bank).

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of White River Commons, located at 1325 North Saint Louis Street in Batesville.

White River Commons is a new 100-unit apartment complex offering studio and one-bedroom units with all utilities and internet included. The development meets the growing demand for quality housing in the area, providing residents with a convenient, hassle-free living experience. Amenities include onsite laundry, and the community is family- and pet-friendly.

“We’re here to celebrate The Dels Corporation’s investment in White River Commons,” said Jamie Rayford, Chief Operating Officer of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce. “We’re excited to see this reimagined space and the additional affordable housing opportunities it provides for our residents.”

The property is owned and operated by Dels Corporation, headquartered in Mountain Home, Arkansas. Dels Corporation is dedicated to creating sustainable, community-focused housing. With a focus on minimalism and eco-conscious living, the company offers modern, energy-efficient spaces that prioritize convenience and affordability.

“We’re thrilled to be here in Batesville,” said Abbie Poche, leasing director at The Dels Corporation. “We currently have 23 properties open and don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Our mission is to bring affordable, high-quality housing to communities in need.”

For more information about the complex and current availability, visit thedelscorp.com.

“We’ve received an amazing response from the community about revitalizing this property,” Poche added. “It’s truly been a fantastic experience.”

Ambassadors in attendance included: Silje Antonsen (Venture Realty Group), Andrea Bruner (Network of Community Options), Jesse Cargill (UAMS), Amy Crouch-Howard (Weichert, Realtors - The Property Shoppe), Adam Curtwright (Centennial Bank), Ashley Engles (Citizens Bank), Eva Henriksen (Merchants & Planters Bank), Aaron Herndon (Citizens Bank), Julie Hinkle (Bank of Cave City), Katelyn Holt (Family Chiropractic Care), Tammy Jeffrey (First Community Bank), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Peter Rouiler (First Community Bank), and Sydney Wood (Main Street Batesville). 

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of Family Violence Prevention’s Anti-Human-Trafficking Resource Center at 2026 Byers Street in Batesville.

“It’s a wonderful day to welcome this vital new resource to our community,” said BACC COO Jamie Rayford. “We’re thrilled to celebrate the opening of the Anti-Human-Trafficking Resource Center, hosted by Family Violence Prevention, an organization that plays a crucial role in preventing and healing the wounds caused by violence in our community.”

“We want to raise awareness about this horrendous crime happening right before our eyes,” said Anti-Human-Trafficking Specialist Marilee House. “This center is open to the community, and we hope to offer a safe place for those in need.”

The center aims to provide a sanctuary for human trafficking victims to recover and heal. One key feature of the center is the “soft room”—a calming, comfortable space designed to help victims feel safe and at ease.

“Victims can come in and not feel like they’re being scrutinized or judged,” House explained. “A comforting environment makes it easier for them to recall events and share their stories.”

Family Violence Prevention’s Anti-Human-Trafficking Resource Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. The center offers advocacy, resources, and shelter to individuals in need.

Ambassadors in attendance included: Silje Antonsen (Venture Realty Group), Amy Crouch-Howard (Weichert, Realtor - The Property Shoppe), Katelyn Holt (Family Chiropractic Care), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Cassidy Mitchell (Lyon College), Roxanne Ranaudo (Family Violence Prevention), Brenda Rivera (First Community Bank), Lori Tacker (Batesville Eye Care Center), Tiffany Traw (University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), Sydney Wood (Main Street Batesville).

Introducing the all-new Experience Builder app—your ultimate guide to Batesville!
 
Plan personalized itineraries, explore top attractions, and stay updated on local events. With features showcasing the area’s culture, history, and natural beauty, you’ll never miss a thing.
 
Now available on the Apple and Google Play stores, the app enhances visits while supporting local businesses with exclusive deals and prizes for those who check into destinations with the Batesville Insider’s Pass.

The Lyon College Center for Career and Professional Development will sponsor its spring 2025 Career Expo for current students, alumni and the community from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4, in the Becknell Gymnasium Garner Student Recreation Center on the Lyon College campus, 2300 Highland Rd., Batesville.

Recruiters from business and industry, as well as university graduate programs, will be on hand for the event designed to introduce both Lyon College students and other interested persons to potential future employers, internships and graduate studies.

"We’re excited to welcome employer representatives back to campus to connect with our students, faculty and community," said Patrick Lynch, director of the Center for Career and Professional Development. "With demand for talent at an all-time high, employers are eager to engage with the Lyon College community."

Attendees are encouraged to update their resumes and LinkedIn profiles, wear professional business attire, create a list of target companies, research the companies, prepare insightful questions and practice a 30-second elevator speech. 

More than 30 companies and organizations are scheduled to participate in this year’s event. The Lyon College Marketing and Communications department will offer complimentary professional photographs suitable for use in LinkedIn profiles.

The Center for Career and Professional Development works year-round to help students land full-time jobs and internships, offering programs for both students and companies. Students are offered one-on-one training in essential skills such as resume preparation, interviewing skills and career search.

Companies interested in being a part of the Career Expo can contact Patrick Lynch at Patrick.Lynch@Lyon.edu or call (870) 307-7227.

Lyon College Sets Black History Month Events

Lyon College will honor Black History Month this February with a series of special events hosted by the Black Student Association (BSA) to celebrate the achievements and history of African Americans. All events are free and open to the public.

“The events planned by the BSA shine a light on the rich history and accomplishments of Black individuals while encouraging important conversations, enhancing cultural awareness and building a stronger sense of community on our campus,” said Dr. Branndii Peterson, TRIO executive director and BSA adviser.

Observed annually, Black History Month serves as an opportunity to highlight the pivotal role Black individuals have played in U.S. history and to recognize their continued contributions to society. The campus-wide celebration features a variety of events designed to educate, inspire and engage the Lyon College community.

The following events are planned throughout the month:

Feb. 27: Movie Night Featuring “Selma”
The month’s programming concludes with a screening of “Selma,” the critically acclaimed film depicting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s leadership during the historic 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama.
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Maxfield Room, Edwards Commons

Gallery 246 is pleased to feature the watercolors of multi-talented artist, Aline McCracken during the months of February and March. Her watercolors of U. S. Highway Route 66, the Mother Road, the famous U. S. highway that connected the Midwest to the East Coast, helps remind us that we should "Always Take The Scenic Route." Aline was born in Stuttgart, Arkansas. She received degrees from the Memphis College of Art and Ole Miss. She studied Art Education at the University of Bridgeport, Connecticut to become certified to teach public school art. After 50 years of teaching art at all levels she is retired and now painting, sculpting and most recently returned to woodblock printing. Her work has been shown in many regional competitions and has won numerous awards. Aline can be found each week at the gallery painting and teaching. There will be an artist reception in her honor on March 7 from 5-7 p.m. at the gallery.

The Batesville Landing has a 3 bedroom, 2 bath bottom floor apartment that will be move-in ready by the 21st of February. Check it out: https://p7q.21a.myftpupload.com/

Is 2025 the year you leave the 9 to 5 job and step into your life's work? If you are ready to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families, we want you on our team! The Children's Advocacy Center of Independence County is hiring a Child & Family Advocate to support child abuse victims and their families. If rolling up your sleeves to support and help others is second nature to you, this is your chance to trade the ordinary for something extraordinary! Submit your resume to Rhonda@cacindependence.org and start making a difference today!

Urgent Community Appeal for Donations

A severe blood shortage is impacting the community, and Our Blood Institute needs your help. Recent illness outbreaks have removed the ill and their caregivers from the donor pool. Preemptive school closures and corporate and institutional drive cancellations are piling up due to impending severe weather. Work from home precautions have removed donors from their routine habits of giving blood. The net result is thousands of lost blood donation appointments. As a result, OBI’s ability to maintain a stable blood supply is critically strained. With a storm approaching, we are suffering disruptions at a time when the blood safety net is already weakened. Immediate community support is essential to support vital medical care.

Compounding this challenge, blood centers nationwide are struggling. Typically, in times of emergency, other blood centers could be relied on to help each other with the blood supply. However, with widespread illness and technical disruptions affecting one of the largest blood centers in the U.S., many other centers had to divert their reserve, sharable supplies to assist, leaving the national blood inventory severely drained. Without this safety buffer, we must rely on our local community to ensure patients receive the lifesaving blood they desperately need on an every-day-without-fail basis, not just achieving collections success measured by week-to-week or monthly averages.

“The situation is dire,” said Dr. John Armitage, president and CEO of Our Blood Institute. “It’s like discovering your pantry is empty just when you need to prepare a meal—except the stores are closed, and the shelves are bare. We must act now to replenish the supply before things become a lot worse than a missed lunch or dinner.”

The urgency is further intensified by one of the most severe flu seasons in 15 years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "one indicator of flu activity is the percentage of doctor’s office visits driven by flu-like symptoms. Two weeks ago, that number was clearly higher than the peak of any winter flu season since 2009-2010, when a swine flu epidemic hit the nation." This widespread illness has directly impacted donor turnout for many weeks now, making blood donations more critical than ever.

Blood donations are essential for cancer patients, trauma victims, burn survivors, mothers giving birth and others facing life-threatening conditions. Right now, demand is high while donations are declining, leaving hospitals with dangerously low supplies. Every donation can mean the difference between life and death.

We urge all eligible donors to make an appointment today. Your donation is a direct lifeline for those in need. Visit www.obi.org/appeal to schedule your lifesaving donation now.

Anyone who is healthy and 16 years old* or older can give blood. Donation typically takes only about an hour, and one donation saves up to three lives. Appointments to donate can be made online at obi.org or by calling 877-340-8777. Walk-ins are also welcome.

*16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds. Photo ID required.

[Batesville, AR] Independence County Library is proud to share its 2024 Year-in-Review, highlighting significant accomplishments and community engagement that demonstrate the library’s vital role in Independence County.

Throughout 2024, the library welcomed an impressive 89,757 patrons, with the library open 265 days to the public. This marks a daily average of 339 visitors, showcasing the library’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and service.

Circulation reached new heights, with 98,756 physical items borrowed and an additional 53,899 e-materials accessed through the library’s digital platforms, ensuring resources are available anytime, anywhere.

In 2024, 1,127 new library cards were issued, connecting even more community members to the wealth of resources and services offered by the library. The library’s dedicated volunteers generously contributed 2,340 hours, supporting daily operations and special projects.

The library also served as a hub for learning and community connection through its programming efforts. A total of 689 programs were hosted throughout the year, with a combined attendance of 12,369 participants. These programs ranged from educational workshops and cultural events to activities for children, teens, and adults.

The genealogy department remained a vital resource for patrons exploring their heritage, with 169 genealogy sessions facilitated by the library’s skilled staff. Technology access was another key service, as 4,013 individual sessions were logged in the public computer lab, highlighting the library’s role in promoting digital literacy and bridging the digital divide.

“Our 2024 statistics tell a story of growth, impact, and community connection,” said Sloane Lott, Community Engagement Liaison. “We are grateful to our patrons, volunteers, and staff for making these achievements possible. Together, we’re creating a space that fosters learning, discovery, and belonging for all.”

Looking at 2025, Independence County Library remains committed to innovation and service, continuing to adapt to the evolving needs of the community.

For more information about library services, programs, or upcoming events, please visit https://indcolib.com/ or contact Sloane Lott at 870-793-8814 or sloane@indcolib.com.

In recognition of Black History Month in February, Batesville native James L. “Skip” Rutherford III, dean emeritus of the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service and member of the Lyon College Board of Trustees, has generously donated a curated selection of Black history books to the Mabee-Simpson Library at Lyon College.

This is the third consecutive year Rutherford has contributed to the collection, which now includes 54 volumes dedicated to celebrating and preserving Black culture and history.

The 20 new titles added this year include powerful works that highlight the lives of influential African American leaders and the broader cultural and historical contributions of Black Americans. Among the additions are “Stayed On Freedom: The Long History of Black Power through One Family’s Journey” by Dan Berger, “Medgar and Myrlie” by Joy Reid, “Black Women Taught Us” by Dr. Jenn M. Jackson, and “Night Flyer: Harriet Tubman and the Faith Dreams of a Free People” by Tiya Miles.

Rutherford emphasized the importance of making these resources accessible to students and the broader community.

“Black history has been underrepresented for years. Continuing to expand the Black History Collection at the Lyon College library provides more access and resources for students, faculty and staff,” he said. “These books tell important stories of struggle, perseverance and triumph, and I hope they inspire readers to reflect on the past while striving for a more just future.”

Rutherford, who served as dean of the Clinton School of Public Service from 2006 to 2021, has long been committed to advancing education and public service. A proud Batesville native, Rutherford has also served as a visiting professor at Lyon College and has consistently supported its mission of preparing students to think critically.

“This acquisition is symbolic of the broader progress our school has made over the years. From its early days, where books on diversity were limited, to now, where our library’s shelves feature an increasingly wide range of voices and perspectives, the school has come a long way,” said Dr. Branndii Peterson, executive director of TRIO and Black Student Association adviser at Lyon College. “The decision by board member Rutherford to acquire these amazing books, aligns with the school’s ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. These books are more than just a resource; they are an acknowledgment of the school’s role in shaping a curriculum that mirrors the diversity of the world outside its walls.”

For the latest additions to the collection, Rutherford partnered with Lyon College Digital Media Librarian Fable Sonia-Bolduc to carefully curate a selection of titles that includes not only historical accounts but also works on contemporary issues such as racial justice and Black cultural contributions.

To honor Rutherford’s contributions, the Mabee-Simpson Library will feature a special exhibit showcasing the expanded Black History Collection throughout February. The exhibit, open to the public, will coincide with Lyon College’s Black History Month celebration, which includes weekly events open to students, faculty, staff and the general public.

For more information and to visit the Mabee-Simpson Library online, please access https://libguides.lyon.edu/home.

Lyon College broke ground Friday on Bad Boy Stadium, the future home of Scots football, set to open in time for the team’s first home game of the 2025 season on Sept. 13. 

“This is a historic day for Lyon College,” said President Dr. Melissa Taverner. “Bad Boy Stadium will not only elevate our football program but also bring students, alumni, and the community together in a shared space of pride and tradition.” 

The stadium’s first phase will include a regulation-size playing field, a press box, seating for 600 fans, a digital scoreboard, concessions and restroom facilities. Designed to be a hub for campus and community events, the facility will incorporate modern amenities and sustainable construction practices.

“This project is a game-changer for Lyon College Athletics,” said Director of Athletics Kevin Jenkins. “It will provide a top-tier experience for players and fans and help us recruit and retain talented student-athletes.”

The project is funded through significant community and corporate partnerships. Bad Boy Mowers has secured naming rights for the stadium, while Atlas Asphalt/White River Materials will name the playing field. 

“As I was coming up I was retrospecting on how we got here, and thinking about all of the countless hours of meetings, ideas, negotiations, commitments and things of that nature,” said Robert McIntire, chief financial officer at Bad Boy Mowers. “Being here makes it real. It gives a new sense of excitement, and being a fan of the game, I think that this is really going to be an awesome project to partner on.”

Additional major contributions have come from The Bank of Cave City, First Community Bank, and Merchants and Planters Bank. Local firm FARCO will oversee construction.

“This is more than a football stadium—it’s a statement about our commitment to student-athletes and the future of Lyon College,” said Head Coach Chris Douglas. “Our team is grateful for the support and excited to take the field in 2025.”

"The generosity and support from so many companies and individuals to bring our football Scots home is heartwarming and a testament to the deep connection between our community and Lyon College," said Provost Dr. Kurt Grafton. "This new stadium and plaza will not only benefit our athletics program but will also serve the entire college community. Lyon College's commitment to fostering strong, positive relationships will be greatly enhanced by these exceptional gathering spaces."

The $2.5 million project has raised $1.5 million to date, with fundraising ongoing. Future plans include expanded seating, visitor stands, a dedicated locker room for visiting teams, and a grand entry plaza for game-day and community events.

“We are deeply grateful for the generosity that has made today possible,” said Dr. David Hutchison, vice president for advancement. “There are still opportunities to be part of this historic project, and we invite others to help us bring this vision to life.”

Naming opportunities remain for various elements of the stadium, including seating sections and additional facility features. For more information or to contribute, please visit http://www.Lyon.edu/StadiumChallenge or contact Dr. Hutchison at David.Hutchison@Lyon.edu or (870) 307-7208.

View the full groundbreaking album at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/lyoncollegescots/albums/72177720323524865

The Rotary Club of Batesville brought joy and hope to nearly 120 families and almost 300 children through its inaugural sponsorship of the Angel Tree project. With the support of local businesses, community members, and dedicated volunteers, the project ensured that children aged 2 to 16 received bicycles, toys, and other essential items to brighten their holiday season.

“This year’s Angel Tree project was a resounding success thanks to the overwhelming support from our community and partners,” said Deanna Green, chair of the Angel Tree project for the Rotary Club of Batesville. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who played a role in making this project possible, especially our fellow Rotarians, whose dedication and hard work were instrumental in bringing joy to so many families this holiday season.”

The Angel Tree project, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Batesville this year, reflects the club’s ongoing commitment to community service. Through a wide network of contributors, the project provided vital support to families across Independence County.

Key contributors to the project were as follows:

• Intimidator Group/The Toro Company: Hosted the distribution event at its location, providing exceptional hospitality and employee participation in the gift-giving.
• FutureFuel: Transported gifts collected at their location and at Citizens Bank and First Community Bank. The FutureFuel employees also adopted angels and made a significant monetary contribution.
• Entergy: Ensured every child who requested a bicycle received one, with employee volunteers assisting at the distribution event.
• First Community Bank: Offered angel adoption opportunities for employees and the community, in addition to a significant monetary donation for the project.
• Citizens Bank, Bank of Cave City, and Centennial Bank: Served as adoption sites for community members and employees, providing valuable support for the project.
• LaCroix Precision Optics employees and leadership: Served as an adoption site and provided support for the project.
• First Presbyterian Church and Old Independence Regional Museum: Provided locations for community members to adopt angels.
• Lyon College Athletics: Hosted a toy toss event that contributed significantly to the project’s gift collection.
• Cave City High School: Organized a toy drive that expanded the project’s reach.Local media outlets: Promoted the Angel Tree project to ensure its success.

Additionally, breakfasts and lunches for volunteers were sponsored by Acrisure Insurance, Centennial Bank, Dorothy Hennings, Jay Chafin State Farm, and several anonymous donors.

Special acknowledgement goes to the Independence County Department of Human Services staff, who partnered with the Rotary Club in the application process, and the Rotary Club members who dedicated countless hours to the project. Their efforts ensured that the holidays were brighter for every child involved.

“The success of this project demonstrates the power of community collaboration and the true spirit of the season,” Green said. “We are already looking forward to continuing this meaningful tradition in the years to come.”

The Rotary Club of Batesville extends its heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the Angel Tree project, whether through donations, time, or resources. The project’s success highlights the community’s shared commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need.

For more information about the Rotary Club of Batesville and its community initiatives, visit https://batesvillerotary.org/.

Lyon College recently received a $100,000 grant from the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) through the 2024 Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and Recreational Trails Program (RTP) to enhance the SCOTS Cross Country Trail. The award was announced on Dec. 4 as ARDOT unveiled the recipients for these programs, which are designed to support non-motorized transportation and recreational trail development across the state.

The funding will be used to resurface and improve accessibility on the college’s scenic bluff trails, ensuring safer and more functional pathways for students, faculty, staff and the community. These improvements will foster environmental stewardship, promote healthy lifestyles and enhance recreational opportunities in the Batesville area.

“This grant underscores the importance of fostering connections between our campus and the natural beauty surrounding us,” said Dr. Melissa Taverner, president of Lyon College. “By improving the SCOTS Cross Country Trail, we’re not only enhancing the experience for our students and employees but also supporting community access to outdoor recreation.”

The TAP, reauthorized under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, funds transportation alternatives for pedestrians, bicyclists and other non-motorized forms of transportation. TAP is an 80 percent-federal and 20 percent-local match reimbursement program that supports projects such as trail construction, safety infrastructure and the conversion of abandoned railroads into trails. A portion of TAP funds is allocated to the RTP, which focuses on recreational trail development and maintenance. For 2024, ARDOT awarded 54 TAP projects totaling $16.7 million and 11 RTP projects totaling $2.5 million.

“This project represents a collaborative effort to enhance both safety and accessibility on the bluff trails,” said Dr. David Hutchison, vice president for advancement at Lyon College. “We’re grateful for ARDOT’s support and look forward to creating a resource that will benefit the entire community for years to come.”

The SCOTS Cross Country Trail is a central feature of the college’s outdoor recreational program, the Lyon College Education and Adventure Program (LEAP). The improvements will make the trails more inclusive and functional for a variety of users.

“Resurfacing and enhancing the trails will allow us to expand outdoor education and adventure opportunities for our students,” said Mac Harn, director of LEAP. “The upgrades align perfectly with our mission to connect students with nature and encourage active lifestyles.”

The project will also support the Safe Scots program, an initiative aimed at fostering a culture of safety and well-being on campus. Amanda Roberts, director of the Safe Scots program, emphasized the importance of accessible trails in promoting health and wellness.

“Having well-maintained trails is critical to encouraging outdoor activity and a sense of well-being among our campus and community members,” Roberts said. “These improvements will make a real difference in ensuring everyone can enjoy the trails safely.”

Earlier this year, Lyon College received a $30,000 grant from the Intimidator Group and The Toro Company as part of nearly $90,000 in funding to five local nonprofits, which also supports trail improvements.

Together, these grants represent a significant investment in the college’s outdoor infrastructure and commitment to community engagement.

The Batesville Area Arts Council is pleased to present Lowkey Mixtape Metaphysic, an exhibition by Justin Tyler Bryant, at the BAAC Gallery on Main through March 7, 2025. This exhibition is sponsored by First Community Bank.

Bryant is currently an Assistant Professor of Visual Art and Curator of the African Art Collection at Philander Smith University in Little Rock, AR. His recent work investigates the past and present imagery of African-Americans to reflect a multicontextual narrative. In his work, he uses found objects, paintings, drawings, and videos to suggest a fugitive notion of Blackness.

Lowkey Mixtape Metaphysic is a series of paintings that reflect on Black fugitivity and cosmology. It uses a multifaceted aesthetic approach to show a multitude of Black modalities as to say that we are multidimensional, ontologically bountiful, and quasi quasar like; as it is believed that a quasar is the brightest star and contains massive black holes.

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. Thank you for your support of this BPA + EAST Collaboration. 

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.

The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) and Reach University are creating pathways where practical job experience leads directly to a degree. This initiative is part of a national movement to increase apprenticeship programs to meet industry demand. Led by the National Center for the Apprenticeship Degree (NCAD), these programs will integrate work and learning, focusing on high-demand fields.

On September 6, 2024, members of UACCB and Reach University met with UACCB faculty and staff and regional industry partners to explain the new apprenticeship degree programs. This model blends on-the-job experience with academic learning, enabling employees to earn a degree while advancing in their careers. The goal is to create a sustainable system enabling local industries to partner with UACCB to leverage apprenticeship degree opportunities to cultivate a skilled workforce while providing employees with meaningful educational advancements. We encourage community and industry partners to join the conversation on how to transform the workplace into a powerful learning environment.

“The partnership between UACCB and Reach University, facilitated by NCAD, represents a significant step forward in addressing the workforce needs of our region,” said Dr. Holly Smith, vice chancellor for academic affairs at UACCB. “By aligning on-the-job training with academic achievement, we are not only providing individuals with a debt-free pathway to a degree but also meeting the pressing talent demands of our local industries.”

This innovative approach is not just about filling jobs but about creating sustainable career paths. Apprenticeship degrees offered through Reach University emphasize job-embedded learning, where students gain valuable experience in their field while simultaneously completing their academic studies. This method ensures that graduates are fully equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their professions.

“We believe that by making the workplace a learning place, we can revolutionize how education and industry work together to develop talent,” said Dr. Brian Shonk, chancellor of UACCB.

“This partnership is about more than just earning a degree; it's about creating opportunities for individuals to thrive in their careers and for businesses to grow with a highly skilled workforce.”

For more information, please visit www.reach.edu/apprenticeship-degree.

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.