The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Tharp’s Automotive and Sales.

Tharp's Automotive and Sales is a full-service auto repair center and pre-owned auto sales lot. Their mission is to provide quality services at an affordable price. Tharp’s Automotive and Sales is a small, family-owned business with customer satisfaction at its core. One of the things they are most excited to offer is complimentary pick-up and delivery services to anyone needing a full-service oil change. In addition to the service center, they also have a pre-owned auto lot. Financing is available to anyone, regardless of credit issues, through a finance company they have partnered with. In addition, they offer in-house financing as a secondary option. Customers can access the link to the credit app on the Tharp’s Automotive and Sales Facebook page and view their vehicle inventory.

“We started our business 15 years ago, working on cars, and now have 2 car lots and a trucking company,” said Jeremy Tharp, Owner of Tharp’s Automotive and Sales. “We are full-service. We do tires, brakes, oil changes, air conditioner work, front-end alignments, exhaust, and more. We also offer car sales with several different lenders and options for in-house financing,” 

“Another thing we offer is free pick-up and delivery,” continued Tharp. “If you need an oil change, brakes, or tires, we will come to get it, do the work, and bring it back while you are working. You don’t miss time with your family after work. That is a big deal for us, and it’s really starting to pick up. 

In addition to providing automotive services, Tharp’s builds race cars and sells fuel and tires. 

“We meet new faces daily, and being here is a privilege. We see what’s going on in the Batesville and Southside area; it's growing daily, and we want to be a part of that. We are returning to our roots and where we’re from,” concluded Tharp.

Ambassadors in attendance Adam Curtwright (Centennial Bank), Alexandra McClain (Myers-Davis Life Coaching ), Andrea Bruner (Network of Community Options), Brenda Rivera (First Community Bank), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), Kristi Morgan (FNBC), Kristi Morgan (FNBC), Lori Tacker (Batesville Eye Care Center), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Rickie Westbrook (Centennial Bank). Roxanne Rananudo (United Way of North Central AR). Silje Antonsen (Venture Realty Group), Tammy Jeffrey (First Community Bank), and Julie Hinkle (Bank of Cave City). 

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Real Deal of Batesville. 

The Real Deal of Batesville recently built and opened a new office location. The company offers the rental of 15-yard roll-off dumpsters for commercial and residential projects. As a contractor serving Arkansas, its services also include home remodeling and construction. The Real Deal of Batesville team aims to deliver quality work on time.

“We have been very successful here in Batesville,” said Terrane Osborne, the owner of The Real Deal of Batesville. “I started this company three years ago with construction and after one year, I started the dumpster roll-off. We service the surrounding area and are versatile in our construction business. We do roofs, privacy fences, decks, finished concrete, and excavation work in addition to our remodels.” 

Osborne concluded by thanking many community supporters and family. “My staff takes pride in working for the community of Batesville.”

The Real Deal of Batesville is located at 1257 North Central Avenue 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), Cassidy Mitchell (Lyon College), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), 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), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Rickie Westbrook (Centennial Bank), Rickie Westbrook (Centennial Bank), Silje Antonsen (Venture Realty Group), Tammy Jeffrey (First Community Bank), Tammy Jeffrey (First Community Bank), and Julie Hinkle (Bank of Cave City).

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 will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for 7 Brew on Friday, September 20th, at 1:30 p.m. at 770 South St. Louis Street in Batesville.

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. Swag Day will be held on September 21st, 7 Brew’s favorite day. With the purchase of a large drink, you can take home a free 7 Brew t-shirt!

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

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Batesville Parks and Recreation Department will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the establishment of West Park playground on Thursday, October 3rd, at 4:00 p.m. located on the southern side of West Elementary at North Hill Street and East Carter Street in Batesville.

West Park playground, brought to life through the collaborative vision of community partners and the Batesville Parks and Recreation Department, is a physical representation of the community's commitment to enhancing children's developmental growth. The playground provides interactive and engaging equipment designed to help develop fine and gross motor skills. Families can enjoy outdoor play and discovery while promoting their children’s connection to nature. 

The new playground is located beside West Splash Pad, near North Hill Street and East Carter Street. Children in attendance will receive a free child-size smoothie provided by Planet Smoothie while supplies last.

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 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.

Lyon College’s Kresge Gallery is kicking off the academic year with an exhibit by Christina Kerns, an innovative artist and associate professor of visual art at Lincoln University, Pennsylvania.

Kerns, a photographer who works with alternative printed materials, GIFs, net art and artist books, explores themes of individuality, the influence of the internet on the physical world, and archiving personal and cultural history.

Kerns received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in photography with a minor in art history from Pratt Institute and a Master of Fine Arts in interdisciplinary art from the University of Pennsylvania’s PennDesign. Her artistic practice is deeply influenced by concepts of ephemerality, permanence and decay, using a contemporary American photographic vernacular to investigate regional histories and the ways individuals archive personal identity and culture. Her work has been exhibited in New York, Philadelphia, London, Berlin, Australia and San Francisco.

“Travelling across the U.S. is a pivotal part of my practice,” Kerns explains. “I am fascinated by the aesthetic and social norms of small towns, particularly their local history and cultural centers operated by everyday people. The organizational systems used to present material culture in these institutions parallel the way familiar images are cataloged on social media.”

In “Beyond Violet,” open now through Sept. 20, Kerns employs lenticular technology (also known as moving pictures, wiggle pictures or tilt cards) to echo the duplexity of IRL or real life and an online experience.

A special artist reception and talk will take place on Thursday, Sept. 19, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Kresge Gallery, offering an opportunity to meet the artist and gain insight into her creative process.

The exhibition is free and open to the public. Kresge Gallery hours are Monday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Batesville Area Arts Council is pleased to present Shared Spaces, an exhibition by Daniella Napolitano, at the BAAC Gallery on Main (226 E Main St) through September 28, 2024. This exhibition is sponsored by the Future Fuel Chemical Company.

Daniella Napolitano is a printmaker, designer, and art educator living and working in Phoenix, AZ. Drawing inspiration from nature and ecology, her art explores the diverse and complex relationships between animals, humans, and the environment. Her current body of work focuses on animals commonly seen throughout the Sonoran Desert Region specifically animals that live near humans.

Through a collection of recent print works, Napolitano delves into the intricate narratives of animals navigating and adapting to the ever-evolving urban space. Step into a world where hawks hunt between parking decks, coyotes stealthily traverse highways, and grackles ingeniously scavenge amidst backyard barbecues. Each piece in this exhibition captures the resilience, resourcefulness, and sometimes even the whimsical interactions of these urban dwellers.

Please join us for a reception on Friday, September 27, from 5 - 7 p.m. with a brief artist talk at 6 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Tuesday – Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Visit our website, batesvilleareaartscouncil.org, to read Daniella’s full biography and artist statement.

Reception: Friday, September 27, 5 -7 p.m.

Members Only Happy Hour: 4 - 5 p.m

Lyon College to Host Constitution Day Presentation Featuring UALR Law Professor

In celebration of Constitution Day, Lyon College will host a presentation on constitutional interpretation by Professor Theresa Beiner, a constitutional law expert and former dean of the William H. Bowen School of Law of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. The event is set for noon on Tuesday, Sept. 17, in the Nucor Auditorium of the Lyon Business and Economics Building on the Lyon College campus, 2300 Highland Rd., Batesville. The public is invited.

Professor Beiner’s talk, titled "Methods of Constitutional Interpretation," will explore the different approaches used by courts and legal scholars to interpret the U.S. Constitution. As constitutional issues continue to shape national debates, this presentation promises to offer timely insights into how legal interpretation impacts the application of constitutional principles today.

Professor Beiner joined the Bowen School of Law in 1994, following private practice as an associate at the San Francisco law firm of Howard, Rice, Nemerovski, Canady, Falk & Rabkin, and a clerkship with the Honorable John F. Grady, U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois in Chicago. She was appointed Bowen’s first permanent female dean in 2018 and served in that role for five years before returning to the faculty in 2023. Prior to her deanship, Professor Beiner served as the law school’s associate dean for Faculty Development and associate dean for Academic Affairs.

Professor Beiner teaches Civil Procedure, Constitutional Law, Employment Discrimination, Gender and the Law, and other courses aligned with her passion for civil rights and the adjudication process. She is an award-winning scholar, known for her interdisciplinary approach to law, and has won Bowen’s Faculty Excellence Awards in both teaching and scholarship.

Dr. Scott Roulier, David Trimble Professor of Political Philosophy at Lyon College, emphasized the importance of Professor Beiner’s visit: “Professor Beiner brings a depth of expertise and a unique perspective on constitutional law that will resonate with students, faculty, and the wider community. Her insights on how legal interpretation shapes the application of our nation’s most fundamental document make this Constitution Day presentation incredibly timely and relevant.”

This event is part of Lyon College's annual observance of Constitution Day, a federal holiday commemorating the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787. Constitution Day celebrates the enduring principles of liberty, justice and democracy that continue to shape the nation.

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.

Fall 2024 Career Expo is Oct. 1 at Lyon College

The Lyon College Center for Career and Professional Development will sponsor its fall 2024 Career Expo for current students, alumni and the community from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 1, in the Becknell Gymnasium 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 thrilled 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. "The demand for talent is at an all-time high, and employers are eager to be here and 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

New Arrivals at Tavolo Italian Ristorante

We are thrilled to announce that Tavolo is now serving the exquisite Widow Jane's Baby Jane Bourbon! Known for its rich history and exceptional quality, Widow Jane Bourbon is a true gem in the world of fine spirits.

Tasting notes: Salty air, green grape, honeycomb, and cream soda. Join us for delicious food and exquisite bourbon!

Location: 3000 Jennings Ln Suite G, Batesville, AR 72501 Phone: (870) 569-8569

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)

First Community Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Brian Zeliff to the position of assistant vice president, lender of the financial institution’s dealer direct program.

Zeliff, who joined First Community Bank in January of 2022, has demonstrated exceptional dedication and expertise, previously serving as senior loan support and funding for nearly two years.

“I am extremely excited for my new role and opportunity,” said Zeliff. “As soon as I started with First Community, I could tell this is the place that I wanted to be. It is great to be recognized and take this next step on my career path.”

With nearly six years of experience in the banking industry and a degree in business management, Zeliff has proven to be a valuable asset to the dealer direct team. His dedication to his work and commitment to providing excellent service to our clients have not gone unnoticed.

“Brian’s promotion is a testament to his hard work and dedication,” said his supervisor, Steve Wilcoxon, president of the dealer direct program. “We are confident that in his new role, he will continue to excel and contribute to the growth and success of First Community Bank.”

Outside of work, Zeliff enjoys spending time with his family, including his wife and two children, an 8-year-old daughter and a 1-year-old son.

Availability from Campbell Leasing! 

• 570 23rd St.
• Duplex 520 and 530 23rd St.
• Studio 2090 B Neeley St.
• 2090 Neeley St.
• Duplex: 760 & 780 30th Street
• 4-plex townhouse 1965, 1975, 1985, and 1995 Neeley Street  

Call Billy Campbell at 870-613-2276 or 870-613-5240.

Duplex for Rent! Denison Heights Duplex. 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath. Will be available August 1st. Deposit up front of $950. Monthly rent of $950. Must sign 1 year lease. ABSOLUTELY NO PETS!! Contact us at 870-251-2468 for more details and to begin application process.

The Strategic Committee for Maternal Health has delivered a report to Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders outlining recommended new policies, programs, and approaches aimed at improving health outcomes for pregnant women, new moms, and babies, the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) and the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) announced today.

Gov. Sanders established the Committee and initiated a six-month timeline to consider potential reforms when she signed the Executive Order to Support Moms, Protect Babies, and Improve Maternal Health on March 6, 2024. Since then, more than 100 stakeholders representing dozens of organizations across the state have met to develop the recommendations contained in the report.

“We are incredibly grateful that so many partners came together to consider obstacles to maternal and postpartum care that exist in our state today, and to align around this set of meaningful solutions which promise to make a real and positive difference in our state,” said DHS Secretary Kristi Putnam. “We will act on these changes as quickly as possible because we know they have the potential to improve the health of countless women and babies, and to save lives.”

“We are proud to present these strategies and recommendations today,” said Renee Mallory, Arkansas Secretary of Health. “This report is the result of many meetings and listening sessions with stakeholders across the state. While we’ve already begun this important work, we look forward to continuing to enact solutions to improve the health and well-being of moms and babies in Arkansas.”

The Committee divided into four subgroups, each of which provided recommendations within their respective focus areas: Data, Reporting, and Technology; Education and Outreach; Clinical and Practice Improvements; and Health Care Access and Medicaid.

“Medicaid pays for more than half of the pregnancies in our state, so it’s critical that we optimize the system so that care is available and encouraged every step of the way before, during, and after birth,” said Janet Mann, DHS Deputy Secretary of Programs and State Medicaid Director. “These recommendations put in place significant changes that will remove barriers, improve care, and lead to better health outcomes.”

Dr. Sam Greenfield, ADH Medical Director for Family Health, serves on the Strategic Committee for Maternal Health, and said the recommendations are a positive step toward improving maternal health across the state.

“I am encouraged to see so many people from different sectors come together to address this issue,” he said. “As Chair of the Arkansas Maternal Mortality Review Committee, I can attest that the challenges surrounding maternal health are complex. This is a significant step that addresses specific findings and needs in Arkansas. I am supportive of these recommendations and look forward to the role enactment will play in improving health outcomes for mothers in our state.”

Recommendations in the report include developing a dashboard reporting key maternal health indicators; evaluating Medicaid reimbursement rates; implementing presumptive eligibility for Medicaid-eligible pregnant women; creating a pathway for Medicaid provider types and reimbursements for both Doulas and Community Health Workers; expanding the number of obstetrics and gynecology residencies in Arkansas; and developing a maternal health education and advertising campaign.

“As someone who has spent her career taking care of Arkansas women, I am inspired by the many conversations this committee started and the actions we will take as a result,” said Dr. Kay Chandler, Arkansas Surgeon General. “It will take efforts from many different groups across the state to move the needle, and I believe we’ve put together a road map to make that happen.”

The report also details a number of activities that have already been completed or are underway, including holding stakeholder meetings in five pilot counties that had high rates of women receiving no prenatal care, developing a Transforming Maternal Health (TMaH) Model grant application, and reviewing several key Medicaid processes tied to maternal care.

The full report is available by clicking here.

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, will be the featured guest on the upcoming episode of the Lyon College “Career Pathways” podcast, available starting Monday, Sept. 16, on YouTube 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.