The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon-Cutting ceremony to celebrate the new location of Lake Town Wellness.

Lake Town Wellness expanded its services to the Batesville area in early 2024 and has recently relocated to the Midtown Plaza. Lake Town Wellness values creating a culture of wellness. Their mission is to educate, support, and empower clients to improve and maintain their health & wellness

“I appreciate all of the support we have had from Batesville. It has been an incredible move, moving to a more family atmosphere,” said Dr. Stephanie Thompson, Lake Town Wellness founder. “The very first day, we had a couple of walk-ins and I was very excited to see how we are going to be able to grow here.” 

“The word is out; people are starting to see that we can help them feel better and do better,” continued Thompson. “I am a functional medicine provider; I get to the root cause. We find out what problems we need to work on and act as medical investigators to find the path to get you to optimal health. We do a lot of IV infusions, medical grade infusions, beauty, weight-loss, and anti-aging, which help you feel better and have more energy. We also focus on vision, respiratory, and more to provide support to patients.” 

Additional services available at Lake Town Wellness include medical weight loss. Kate Costner, RN, provides beauty services such as Botox and filler. To meet the needs of those without insurance, Lake Town Wellness also provides cash-based acute sick visits. 

Lake Town Wellness is located at 700 Harrison Street, Suite C in Batesville.

Ambassadors in attendance include Adam Curtwright (Centennial Bank), Alexandra McClain (Myers-Davis Life Coaching ), Amy Crouch-Howard (Weichert, Realtors - The Property Shoppe), Andrea Bruner (Network of Community Options), Brenda Rivera (First Community Bank), Ashley Engles (Citizens Bank), Caitlyn Guzman (First Community Bank), Cori Perkey (Southern Bank), Eva Henriksen (Merchants & Planters Bank), Kendra Collier-McMahan (Approve Home Health and Caring Hands), Kristi Morgan (FNBC), Lori Tacker (Batesville Eye Care Center), Lucy Rodriguez (George's Inc), Meredith Simmons (Home Instead ), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Roxanne Rananudo (United Way of North Central AR), Sarah Ring (Southern Bank), Silje Antonsen (Venture Realty Group), Tammy Jeffrey (First Community Bank), and Julie Hinkle (Bank of Cave City).

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a topping ceremony for the Batesville School District’s cafeteria and fine arts facility project led by Nabholz Construction.

During the topping ceremony, attendees were invited to "leave their mark" by signing the main support beam of the structure.

“Strong public education isn’t just about classrooms,” said Jamie Rayford, COO of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce. “It’s about building a foundation that supports every aspect of life in our community. That foundation strengthens our workforce, attracts and retains families in our community, and creates opportunities for business growth. We have been a tight partner with the Batesville School District and will continue to do so. We are excited to be here celebrating progress.”

Dr. Ken James, Interim Superintendent of Batesville School District, expressed pride in the district’s growth, stating, “This facility will stay with us for years to come and be enjoyed by the community.” He said construction is going according to plan and is expected to finish next fall.

James also acknowledged the date's significance as the group honored Sara Low, a Batesville High School alumna who died on Sept. 11, 2001, with a moment of silence. “As we stand here proud of our district's growth and expansion, we are also mindful of the sacrifices that come with progress. On this day of remembrance, [September 11th], we honor the service men and women who have answered the call to protect and serve.”

Eric Euler, Nabholz Construction project manager, thanked the Batesville School District for allowing them to participate in the facility’s construction and recognized trade partners for contributing to the project. 

Randy Palculicit, the project architect from Jackson Brown Palculict Architects, described the project, saying, “By the time the project is complete, it will have a 2,000-seat auditorium, rehearsal spaces for band, choir, and orchestra, drama, an art room, social studies classroom, and a culinary kitchen, As well as the cafeteria—a central and essential part of the facility. It has been an honor to work with the school district and construction company on this project.” 

“We are fortunate to be looking at this wonderful facility. It will be a showpiece for Independence County and the Batesville community,” concluded Dr. James.

Ambassadors in attendance included: Aaron Herndon (Citizens Bank), Adam Curtwright (Centennial Bank), Alexandra McClain (Myers-Davis Life Coaching ), Brenda Rivera (First Community Bank), Ashley Engles (Citizens Bank), Cassidy Mitchell (Lyon College), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), Cori Perkey (Southern Bank), Kendra Collier-McMahan (Approve Home Health and Caring Hands), Lindy Hopper (First Community Bank), Lori Campbell (Batesville School District), Lori Tacker (Batesville Eye Care Center), Meredith Simmons (Home Instead ), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Peter Rouiler (First Community Bank), Rickie Westbrook (Centennial Bank), Roxanne Rananudo (United Way of North Central AR), Sarah Ring (Southern Bank), Silje Antonsen (Venture Realty Group), Sydney Wood (Main Street Batesville), and Becky Warren (UACCB). 

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for 7 Brew.

7 Brew is a drive-thru coffee concept revolutionizing drive-thru drinks by highlighting a positive experience, hand-crafted beverages, and exceptional speed of service. They opened their first stand in 2017 in Rogers, Arkansas, to serve premium coffee in record time. Today, 7 Brew has 273 locations in 30 states.

“We have over 20,000 drink combinations, but more than the drinks we offer, we sell the experience,” commented Dylan Stephens, Local Manager for 7 Brew Coffee. “At 7 Brew, our brand is about cultivating kindness, and we really appreciate the kindness we were shown by the city of Batesville and the Chamber of Commerce.” 

7 Brew is open Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. at 770 South St. Louis Street in Batesville. Learn more at 7brew.com.

Ambassadors in attendance include 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), Kristi Morgan (FNBC), Lindy Hopper (First Community Bank), Lori Tacker (Batesville Eye Care Center), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Rickie Westbrook (Centennial Bank), Seanna Horn (Lyon College), Silje Antonsen (Venture Realty Group), Tammy Jeffrey (First Community Bank), and Julie Hinkle (Bank of Cave City).

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Bruno’s Pizzeria on Tuesday, October 8th, at 1 p.m. at 2489 Harrison Street in Batesville.

Bruno's Pizzeria in Batesville is the go-to spot for fresh pizza and delicious game-night or date-night flavors. The open-concept, two-story restaurant is perfect for catching a game on one of its big screens or hanging out with friends and family in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. With a solid selection of drinks on tap and a menu full of game-day favorites, Bruno's is a local favorite for good food, great drinks, and friendly service.

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

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Lyon College Garner Student Recreation Center on Friday, October 11, at 12 p.m. at Becknell Gymnasium 2300 Highland Road in Batesville.

Lyon College is a selective undergraduate liberal arts college located in Batesville. Founded in 1872, it is one of the oldest colleges in Arkansas. Lyon College will celebrate the renovation of the former pool room in Becknell Gymnasium into the Garner Student Recreation Center. This center will be used for athletic competitions, practices, and events. 

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

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce will host a relocation ribbon-cutting ceremony for Jay Chafin State Farm. The ceremony will occur on Friday, October 25, at 2 p.m. at 2199 Harrison Street in Batesville. 

Jay Chafin and his team at State Farm are celebrating their one-year anniversary and have recently relocated their office. Jay Chafin State Farm is now located at 2199 Harrison Street in Batesville. Jay Chafin has been with State Farm for 27 years, with 13 being in agency. The talented team is ready to continue serving the Batesville community and surrounding areas for their insurance and financial service needs. They are known as a trusted place for excellent customer care, educating existing and future customers on what insurance is all about — protecting what you value most. 

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

The Batesville Area Arts Council is thrilled to host the eighth annual Artoberfest, an arts and music festival on Main Street, Saturday, October 12, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. This vibrant festival will showcase over 45 vendors, featuring local and regional artists who will present a diverse array of unique artworks and handcrafted items. In addition to artistic offerings, a variety of food trucks will be on-site. Attendees can also enjoy live music by Ed Casper, Matthew Lebrato & Jon Healey, and The Natural Disasters, along with other family-friendly activities! 

​​Artoberfest will also feature a sidewalk chalk art contest. This competition aims to engage students, teachers, families, and community groups by creating temporary public art. Trophies will be awarded to the top designs in two age groups, Kindergarten - 6th grade and Junior High - College. K - 6th grade students will compete 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. and Jr. High - College students will compete from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. All contestants must register to compete. Find full details and the free registration form on our website (batesvilleareaartscouncil.org/artoberfest).

This one-day festival is FREE for the community to enjoy, made possible by the generous support of our sponsors! This year’s festival is proudly presented by Citizens Bank and sponsored by FutureFuel Chemical Co., Lyon College, Wood Family Dealerships, First Community Bank, and the Bank of Cave City. 

For more information about Artoberfest, please call (870) 793-3382 or email us at info@batesvilleareaartscouncil.org. We look forward to celebrating the arts with you!

Gallery 246 welcomes Trisha Gooch as the guest artist for September & October. Trisha was born in California raised in Florida. She and her husband left Hawaii in 2021 and began a new life journey in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Watercolor is her medium of choice. Her love of bright colors and tropical vibes are reflected in her paintings. Her art can be viewed at the gallery or on her web site Tag Art Works.

Lyon College invites public to election talk by Skip Rutherford

Lyon College will welcome political strategist and former dean of the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service, James L. "Skip" Rutherford, for a presentation on the upcoming presidential election on Friday, Oct. 11, at 4 p.m. in Bevens Music Room in the Brown Fine Arts Building on the Lyon College campus, 2300 Highland Rd.

The free event will be hosted by the Lyon College Political Science program. Light refreshments and coffee will be provided. The presentation will be followed by a brief question-and-answer session, allowing attendees to engage with Rutherford on the topics discussed.

Rutherford, a member of the Lyon College Board of Trustees, is a widely respected expert on politics and public service. As a visiting professor, Rutherford previously taught classes at Lyon including most recently a seminar on the 2022 elections. He will offer his insights on the candidates, key issues and trends shaping the 2024 election.

"Lyon College is thrilled to bring in Skip Rutherford to discuss the upcoming presidential election,” said Dr. Brendan Connell, assistant professor of Political Science at Lyon College. This election, whatever the result, is sure to be one of the most pivotal in our nation's history. Given Skip's wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience with presidential campaigns, I can't think of a better voice to comment on each of the candidate's positions as well as the future direction of our country. This is an event you are not going to want to miss."

For more information about the event, please contact Dr. Connell in the Lyon College Political Science program at Brendan.Connell@lyon.edu.

About James L. "Skip" Rutherford
Rutherford is known for his extensive work in public service and his role in the establishment of the Clinton Presidential Center. He has also been a key voice in numerous national political campaigns, making him a sought-after speaker and commentator on elections and government.

Gallery 246 is welcoming artists to the seventh annual “Plein on Main” open air art competition taking place Wednesday, October 9, through Saturday, October 12.

Artists are invited to create artworks in their mediums of choice in historic Batesville during this three day event in Arkansas' oldest town. Visitors to the state's oldest town as well as Batesville community members will be able to watch and chat with the artists working in the open air, while participating in a new contest to collect the most names of the plein air artist/contestants.

With the support of local businesses and professionals, Gallery 246 offers more than $1,500 in cash awards, including a generous Purchase Prize and a People's Choice Award. Each entrant will receive a T-shirt and dinner at a local restaurant in addition to other gifts.

In preparation for the competition, Dana Johnston of Yellville will present a plein air workshop Wednesday, Oct. 9. Actual competition begins Thursday through submission for judging by noon Saturday. There will be a separate Quick Draw contest on Saturday.

Gallery 246 invites all to vote on the People's Choice and visit the gallery to view the winners which will be on display until October 26. Past artworks have featured local historic homes and commercial buildings, street scenes and parks. This year the area where artists can paint includes the city of Batesville as well as the beautifully revitalised Main Street Batesville.

This event concludes during the Batesville Area Arts Council's Artoberfest, making for a fantastic arts Saturday.

Gallery 246, located at 243 East Main Street, Batesville, AR, is a non-profit artist co-operative featuring Arkansas artists and craftspeople working in all mediums.

Lyon College will launch its 2024-25 Convocation speaker series with a lecture by Dr. Denver Brunsman, associate professor and chair of the history department at George Washington University, on Thursday, Oct. 17, at 4 p.m. in the Nucor Auditorium of the Lyon Business and Economics Building on the Lyon College campus, 2300 Highland Rd., Batesville.

The free event is open to the public.

The lecture, “Neither to Stretch, nor Relax: George Washington and the Origins of Executive Power,” will explore the foundation of executive authority through the lens of America’s first president, George Washington.

Dr. Brunsman will examine how Washington shaped the presidency by balancing the need for a strong executive office with the legal limits imposed by the Constitution. As president of the Philadelphia Convention and later the nation’s first president, Washington faced pivotal decisions that defined the role of executive power in the early United States. His leadership provides key insights into current discussions surrounding the limits of executive authority, a particularly relevant issue as the nation approaches the next presidential election.

“This is an incredible opportunity for our students and community to hear from one of the leading scholars on George Washington,” said Kieran O’Keefe, assistant professor of history at Lyon College. “Denver Brunsman’s work on Washington and the origins of executive power provides a timely perspective on how the first president navigated the challenges of his role—an issue that still resonates today.”

Dr. Brunsman is an expert in early American history and the life of George Washington. He is the author of “The Evil Necessity: British Naval Impressment in the 18th-Century Atlantic World” and coauthor of the textbook “Liberty, Equality, Power: A History of the American People.” His publications also include e-books such as “Leading Change: George Washington and Establishing the Presidency” and “George Washington and the Establishment of the Federal Government.”

A recipient of multiple teaching awards at George Washington University, Dr. Brunsman leads the popular course “George Washington and His World,” taught annually at Washington’s Mount Vernon estate.

For more information about the event, please contact Carol Langston, director of college communications, at Carol.Langston@lyon.edu.

John Hornor Jacobs, acclaimed author of genre-bending adult and young adult fiction, will give a public reading on Tuesday, Oct. 22, at 7 p.m. in the Bevens Music Room, located in the historic Brown Chapel and Fine Arts Building on the Lyon College campus, 2300 Highland Rd., Batesville.

Following the reading, Lyon College will award Jacobs the Leila Lenore Heasley Prize for Fiction. The prize, presented annually to a noted writer, is a recognition endowed by Lyon alumna Martha Heasley Cox and named for her sister. 

The event is free and open to the public, and no reservation or ticket is required.

Jacobs, a celebrated writer, screenwriter and co-creator of the forthcoming narrative podcast “The Listening Station,” is renowned for his work across various literary genres. His debut novel, “Southern Gods,” was a finalist for the Bram Stoker Award for Excellence in a First Novel and won the Darrell Award. Described by The Onion AV as “a sumptuous Southern Gothic thriller steeped in the distinct American mythologies of Cthulhu and the blues,” “Southern Gods” has garnered widespread critical acclaim.

A 1994 Lyon College alumnus, Jacobs has also made his mark with “This Dark Earth,” which author Brian Keene hailed as “the best zombie novel I’ve read in years.” His young adult trilogy, beginning with “The Twelve-Fingered Boy,” has been praised by Cory Doctorow as “amazing” and “mesmerizing.” Jacobs’s first fantasy novel, “The Incorruptibles,” was shortlisted for the Morningstar and Gemmell Awards in the UK. Pat Rothfuss described the novel as “strange alchemy” blending elements of ancient Rome, the Wild West and Faustian myth.

Jacobs’s recent work includes “A Lush and Seething Hell,” which was shortlisted for the Shirley Jackson Award and the World Fantasy Award and has been optioned for television. His fiction has appeared in prominent publications such as Playboy, Cemetery Dance and Apex Magazine, while his essays have been featured on CBS Weekly and the Huffington Post.

“For over 25 years the Heasley Prize event has been bringing unique voices to campus, and John Hornor Jacobs is no exception,” said Dr. Terrell Tebbetts, Martha Heasley Cox Chair in American Literature at Lyon College. “In his work, John blends Southern Gothic, horror and fantasy, creating a fresh, exciting take on American storytelling. John is the first Lyon graduate to receive this award, so we are especially thrilled to have h

University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) will host the 3rd annual Run the College 5K on Saturday, October 26 beginning at 8:00 a.m. at UACCB’s Independence Hall.

The registration fee is $25 per runner with proceeds benefitting the UACCB Foundation Student Emergency Fund. The UACCB Foundation Student Emergency Fund serves to assist students through financial challenges, allowing them to remain in school and meet their needs.

The race will begin and end on the east side of Independence Hall on the UACCB campus, with packet pick up beginning at 7:00 a.m. Awards will go to the top 3 overall male and female competitors. To guarantee shirt size, please sign up on or before October 11.

Further race information and sign-up can be found by visiting https://runsignup.com/Race/AR/Batesville/RuntheCollege5K.

Lyon College will welcome world-renowned pianist Dr. Teresa Walters for a special concert on Sunday, Oct. 20, at 2 p.m. in Sloan Auditorium, located in the Brown Fine Arts Building on the Batesville campus, 2300 Highland Rd.

Admission is free and open to the public.

Dr. Walters, recognized as "The International First Lady of Piano" by The New York Times, is donating this performance in support of the Lyon College Music department. In addition to her concert, Dr. Walters will lead a masterclass on Monday, Oct. 21, with Lyon College pianists Paige Howell and Vera Richardson.

Growing up in the American Midwest, Dr. Walters began playing piano at age four and has since performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including New York’s Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, Wigmore Hall in London, the Salle Cortot in Paris and the Great Hall of Moscow.

Whether performing for European royalty at Esterházy Palace or raising funds for children’s charities in Delhi, Dr. Walters brings inspiration and joy to audiences worldwide. During the 2020 pandemic, she uplifted spirits with her video series “Music for Hope and Healing” and combined her love for nature and music in her “Lakehouse Video Series.” As international tours resumed in 2021-22, she performed in Amsterdam, Singapore, St. Petersburg and South Africa.

In celebration of Franz Liszt’s Bicentennial, Dr. Walters gave a gala recital at Copenhagen’s Hungarian Embassy and at Beijing’s Forbidden City Concert Hall. Her recent “Celebrating Our World” tour, honoring shared heritage and humanity, garnered praise across the globe, as did her 500th Birthday Party recital series, which commemorated the Reformation’s Quincentennial.

An International Steinway Artist, Dr. Walters earned her doctorate from the Peabody Conservatory and was awarded an international fellowship for study in Paris. She resides in the New York City area with her husband and two beloved cats, Maxine and Cocopuff Chanel, while enjoying a lakeside cottage filled with abundant wildlife.

The Lyon College concert will cap off ScotsFest, the annual Arkansas Scottish Festival and Lyon College Homecoming celebration, set for Friday through Sunday, Oct. 18-20, on the Lyon College campus.

For more information about ScotsFest, please visit arscottishfest.com.

Who else is ready for fall? We invite families in Batesville and the surrounding areas to our community appreciation event for an afternoon of games, food, and festive family fun. 🍂🍁🎃 Stay up to date by following us on Facebook!

The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Phillips as the Director of Industry and Community Partnerships. In this pivotal role, Phillips will lead efforts to enhance UACCB’s collaborations with local businesses, industry organizations, and community stakeholders, furthering the college’s mission to provide top-tier educational opportunities and workforce development.

Phillips brings an extensive background in strategic communications and policy development, having most recently served as the Policy and Communications Chief at the Idaho Department of Lands. There, he established the department's first Policy and Communications unit, significantly boosting public outreach and transparency. With over 15 years of experience in communications and public affairs across various government roles, Phillips has consistently demonstrated his ability to foster impactful partnerships and drive community engagement.

“Scott’s wealth of experience and his proven ability to cultivate strong partnerships make him an invaluable addition to our team,” said Dr. Holly Smith, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at UACCB. “We are confident that his leadership will complement and enhance our efforts to support the local workforce and community through innovative and collaborative programs.”

As the primary liaison between UACCB and external partners, Phillips will focus on enhancing communication and building strong relationships between the college, industry, and community entities. His responsibilities will include overseeing apprenticeship programs, creating new partnership opportunities, and leading the college’s career credit and non-credit workforce initiatives.

“I’m honored to help UACCB improve lives by expanding our skilled local workforce and creating pathways to economic success for the hardworking citizens of our community,” said Phillips. “I can’t imagine a more fulfilling job.”

Phillips will also play a critical role in recruiting and supervising career credit instructors and staff, researching industry trends and labor market demands, and identifying funding opportunities to support partnership initiatives. His emphasis on continuously evaluating and improving programs aims to drive innovation and promote economic sustainability within the community.

Lisa Pinkston, Executive Director of Network of Community Options, Inc., has recently been elected to the Arkansas Developmental Disabilities Provider Association Board, representing Region II.

The Arkansas DDPA represents 71 non-profit community programs, including NCO, Inc., that provide an array of services and supports to children and adults with developmental disabilities across the state.

“On behalf of NCO, Inc. I am very proud to express how excited our agency is to announce the election of our Executive Director, Lisa Pinkston, to the DDPA Board of Directors. Serving in this capacity will enable Lisa to be an integral member of a statewide team that works hard to ensure quality of services and enhancement of the lifestyles of people developmental disabilities and delays. With their efforts, we are looking forward to a brighter future for those we serve,” said Jennie Lee Stobaugh, NCO, Inc. Administrative Consultant.

Pinkston said she is looking forward to working with member providers within DDPA Region II and learning more about their programs as well as the issues currently facing IDD providers in Arkansas.

“These incredible organizations provide support to children and adults with developmental disabilities to live and work comfortably at home and to participate in social, cultural, and recreational activities. It is my honor to represent NCO, Inc., on the DDPA Board,” Pinkston said.

“DDPA is honored and excited to welcome Lisa Pinkston to our board of directors,” said Yukiko Taylor, Executive Director of the Developmental Disabilities Provider Association. “Her extensive experience and dedication will undoubtedly enhance our advocacy efforts and amplify the voice of over 14,000 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and 71 IDD providers in Arkansas that we represent.”

Pinkston has been employed by NCO, Inc. for the past 17 years. During the majority of those years she was the executive administrative assistant which included being a NCO, Inc. strategic planning committee member. Two years ago, Pinkston accepted a new role to lead the organization as Executive Director.

“I am very thankful for the opportunities Network of Community Options, Inc., has given me to grow professionally and personally,” Pinkston said. “Our Board works diligently to ensure that we are creating the best care and outcomes for all of our clients and their families as we work to fulfill our goals. And of course, we could not do what we do without our amazing employees – we appreciate everything they do!”

Pinkston and her husband, Andrew, reside in Batesville and are the proud parents of four children. She is an active member of the community having served as a Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassador for six years, as well as, being a charter member and president of White River Valley Civitan Club. Pinkston completed the Leadership Batesville Class of 2019 and is a graduate of the Arkansas Governor’s Developmental Disability Council’s Family Leadership Project.

Founded in 1974, NCO, Inc. is marking its 50th anniversary of providing support and services to individuals with disabilities. NCO serves families and individuals in 21 counties throughout Arkansas, including Baxter, Clay, Cleburne, Craighead, Faulkner, Fulton, Garland, Greene, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Lonoke, Poinsett, Pulaski, Randolph, Sharp, Stone, Van Buren, White and Woodruff. For more information, call Pinkston at (870) 612-5900 ext. 101, email lisa.pinkston@nco-inc.com, or visit networkofcommunityoptions.org.

John Christian, an internationally experienced music educator and conductor, has been named the new director of bands at Lyon College. Christian will oversee the college's band program, conduct all campus bands, and teach a variety of music courses.

Christian’s career spans the globe, having previously served as director of university bands at the University of Charleston in West Virginia, fine arts chair and music educator at Almaty International School in Almaty, Kazakhstan, and various schools in Morocco and the United States. His academic journey, which includes stints at Southern Catholic College, Barry University, Alma College, Kazakh National Conservatory and the State University of New York at Buffalo, reflects his extensive global experience in music education.

“I am honored to be part of our music program at Lyon College,” Christian said. “We have an opportunity for renewal and offer a unique experience to our talented students while honoring the strong tradition of music excellence by our faculty and alumni. I’ve had the privilege of working with musicians and educators from all over the world, and I’m eager to collaborate with band directors and instrumentalists across the state.”

Christian has built a distinguished career as a guest conductor and adjudicator, conducting honor bands across 12 states, Asia and Africa. His work has taken him to notable events such as the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor, the Australian Band and Orchestra Association Convention in Melbourne and the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) National Convention in Minneapolis. His service as a National Instrumental Music Teacher Mentor for NAfME further underscores his commitment to developing the next generation of music educators.

"We are thrilled to welcome John to Lyon College," said Vice President for Enrollment Services Tommy Newton. "His remarkable background, combined with his passion for mentoring and developing the next generation of musicians, makes him a perfect fit for Lyon College. We look forward to seeing the positive impact he will have on our students and the community."

A champion of new music, Christian has commissioned more than 10 works for winds at the elementary, middle and high school levels. His ensembles have participated in the American Composer’s Forum Bandquest Project and collaborated with the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation. Christian has also worked with recognized composers, including Stephan Paulus, David Gillingham, Timothy Broege and Randall Standridge, among others.

Christian earned a Bachelor of Music from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and a Master of Arts from Central Michigan University. He also completed postgraduate studies in instrumental conducting and music education at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Central Michigan University. His professional affiliations include NAfME, the Arkansas Music Educators Association, the Arkansas School Band and Orchestra Association, the College Band Directors National Association, the World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles, the Society for Arts Entrepreneurship Education, the International Society for Music Education, The College Music Society, Kappa Kappa Psi Band Fraternity and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Music Fraternity.

For more information about the Lyon College band program, contact the Lyon College Admissions office at Admissions@Lyon.edu or Christian at John.Christian@Lyon.edu.

Say Hello to Tavolo's Favorite Brew!

Flyway's Blue Wing is a refreshing wheat blend of tangy citrus and sweet blueberry flavors, perfect for any occasion. Experience this delightful balanced brew at Tavolo Italian Ristorante for a limited time only!

Location: 3000 Jennings Ln Suite G Phone: 870-569-8569

Main Street Hideaway, a unique terrace studio apartment on Historic Main Street, is now offering a 20% discount on all stays booked by Chamber Members!

Family-owned since the 1940s and recently renovated, the space features an urban industrial feel with modern furniture and appliances. Enjoy easy access to local shops, restaurants, and attractions like Stella’s, Big’s, antique stores, and art galleries. Whether you park at ground level or enter from Main Street, you'll love being within walking distance of Batesville's best spots!

Mention your membership when you book online to redeem your discount.

The Batesville Area Arts Council is excited to announce renovations for our workshop expansion are officially underway. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we have raised 88% of the funds needed to bring this project to life.

BAAC is witnessing an extraordinary level of interest and participation in arts programming in Batesville; as a result, our current workshop space has reached its capacity, limiting the number of participants we can accommodate and diversity of programming we can offer. The expanded workshop will address these needs and will allow more opportunities for adult arts programs, new art education programming, and enhance the experience of our art camp students. Additionally, this space will create a Community Gallery, generously sponsored by First Community Bank.

This new gallery will showcase a rotating array of local and regional artists throughout the year, in addition to our main gallery space, where we display artwork from both local and national artists. This project would not be possible without the support of our Corporate Sponsors: First Community Bank, Future Fuel Chemical Company, White River Health, and Bad Boy Mowers, and our Community Investors: Ray & Diane LaCroix; Abby and Zach Perrine; Racheal and Alex Roofe; and Bob Carius. Their contributions have been instrumental in reaching this milestone.

As construction begins, we are still actively fundraising to cover the remaining costs and ensure the project’s success. We invite those who believe in the transformative power of the arts to contribute to this project: Together, we can create a space where art truly has the ability to change lives.

To learn more about the expansion and how you can help us reach our goal, please visit https://www.batesvilleareaartscouncil.org/help-the-arts-grow.

Stanley Wood Chevrolet is proud to recognize and reward the exceptional educators in our community.

Fifteen dedicated teachers from the Batesville, Cave City, Midland, Concord, Cedar Ridge, and Southside School Districts were honored with $500 awards. These educators applied and were selected by a panel of representatives from their respective districts.

The award ceremony took place on Wednesday, September 4th at 4:00 PM at the Stanley Wood Chevrolet dealership located at 1674 Batesville Blvd.

During the reception, Mr. Scott Wood and Mr. Phil Brissey presented the awards, acknowledging the educators’ outstanding teaching skills, commitment to students, and positive impact on the community.

Congratulations to the following educators for their exceptional contributions:

• Chloe Martin (Concord School District)
• Amy Baker (Concord School District)
• Kerri Grace (Southside School District)
• Jessica Marks (Southside School District)
• Abby Barker (Southside School District)
• Matthew West (Midland School District)
• Kali Payne (Midland School District)
• Jalisa Milligan (Cave City School District)
• Tara Ball (Cave City School District)
• Dason Lee (Cedar Ridge School District)
• Lynnette McKinney (Cedar Ridge School District)
• Charlie Bridgeman (Batesville School District)
• Gloria Brown (Batesville School District)
• Ian Kerley (Batesville School District)
• Jamie McMinn & Kristen Luetschwager (Batesville School District)

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) BreastCare program coordinates efforts with a statewide network of providers offering no-cost breast and cervical cancer screenings and follow-up services.

The Breast Cancer Act of 1997 was signed March 11, 1997, by the Arkansas General Assembly, which led to the development of the ADH’s BreastCare program. This program will provide eligible women aged 21-64 free cervical cancer screening and women ages 40-64 free breast cancer screening. Since its inception, the BreastCare Program has enrolled over 141,850 women for breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services. Additionally, the program provides educational information to communities about the importance of regular breast exams as well as the risks associated with breast cancer.

Nearly 400 women die due to breast cancer and over 2680 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in Arkansas. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, one in eight women will develop breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common cancer for women in Arkansas and the second leading cause of cancer death for women both in Arkansas and in the United States. The state currently ranks as the 28th lowest for mammography and 41st lowest for pap tests. While the breast and cervical cancer screening rates among women in Arkansas have improved over the years, we still have a long way to go in improving the screening rates.

Cancers diagnosed at late stages (III or IV) are generally associated with poor outcomes and higher treatment costs. Women who are diagnosed at earlier stages have a greater chance of survival. Breast cancer screening services are imperative for early detection and better treatment outcomes. It is now recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) that women who are aged 40-74 years old get a screening mammogram every two years.

For more information about BreastCare, call 1-833-693-2942 or visit www.ARBreastCare.com to see if you are eligible and to find a provider. Chances are there is a BreastCare provider near you.

Help us to fight the battle against breast and cervical cancer by getting screened.

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.

Students in the Class of 2027 and beyond are now required to complete community service to earn a high school diploma (Act 237 of 2023, pages 38-39). The law specifies students will earn 15 hours of community service in ninth grade and 20 hours of community service in each subsequent year of high school for 75 total hours.

We believe that parents should lead, guide, and direct service. We know it is a very personal, family lesson for life. We will be approving service vetted by parents for safety and all other protocols. Our training includes safety protocols and suggestions. See our website for the most up to date information and a recorded webinar or call us for more information.

Dr. Terrell L. Tebbetts, the Martha Heasley Cox Chair in American Literature at Lyon College, was a featured guest on a recent episode of the Lyon College “Career Pathways” podcast, available at https://www.youtube.com/@careerpathwayspodcast.

In the episode, Dr. Tebbetts shares personal stories and insights from his 54-year career at Lyon College, reflecting on his time as a professor and community leader.

Throughout the podcast, Dr. Tebbetts discusses his career journey, the art of teaching English composition and literature, and the timeless value of learning how to write well. He also shares his passion for poetry, reciting selections of important works of literature, and offers a historical perspective on Batesville, his long-time home.

Moderating the conversation is Jayson Nichols, an English major and the producer of “Career Pathways.” Patrick Lynch, director of the Center for Career and Professional Development at Lyon College and advisor to the podcast, expressed his admiration for Dr. Tebbetts' influence on generations of students.

“Dr. Tebbetts’ dedication to his students, his craft, and the Lyon community is extraordinary,” said Lynch. “His commitment to developing strong writers and thinkers has shaped countless careers, and we’re thrilled to have him on the podcast to share his journey.”

Dr. Tebbetts reflected on his long-standing connection to Lyon College, saying, "I know God created me as a teacher and led me to Lyon. I feel most myself when I'm working with students."

Dr. Tebbetts has been a pillar of the English department at Lyon College for over five decades, earning multiple accolades, including the Williamson Prize for Faculty Excellence and being named Professor of the Year four times by his students. In 1992, he was recognized as the Arkansas Professor of the Year by the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education and the Carnegie Foundation.

An accomplished scholar, Dr. Tebbetts has published more than 40 articles on American literature in prominent journals such as “Philological Review,” “Christianity & Literature” and “The Faulkner Journal.” His poetry has appeared in “Whole Notes” and “Voices International.”

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Tebbetts has made significant contributions to the state and the Batesville community, serving in leadership roles for the Arkansas Governor’s Developmental Disabilities Council and the Batesville Historic District Commission. His dedication to service has earned him recognitions, including Batesville Citizen of the Year and the Independence County Heritage Award.

The “Career Pathways” podcast, produced by Lyon College students and staff, features conversations with alumni, faculty, and professionals about their career journeys, offering insights and advice for students and aspiring professionals. Current and past episodes are available at https://www.lyon.edu/career-pathways-podcast.

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.