Batesville Breaks Ground on Reimagined Riverside Park

The City of Batesville, in partnership with Clark Contractors, Taggart Architects, and Ecological Design Group, broke ground on a transformative $25 million renovation of Riverside Park.

Funded without increasing taxes, this milestone marks a bold new chapter in Batesville's ongoing commitment to healthy living, recreation, and quality of life for all residents. The project, which voters overwhelmingly supported in a 2023 special election, will transform Riverside Park into a regional destination for outdoor activities, inclusive play, and community gatherings.

"This is about building a better Batesville for everyone," said Crystal Johnson, CEO of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce. "This park has served our community for decades, and now, with the vision and backing of our residents, it will become a space we can all be proud of — for generations to come."

Reimagined Features Designed to Serve All

The reimagined Riverside Park features a diverse range of thoughtfully designed elements to meet the needs of a growing and diverse community:

• Events Center: Located near the intersection of North Saint Louis Street and Myers Avenue, the all-new Events Center will anchor the entire park. This multi-purpose facility will host weddings, corporate conferences, galas, reunions, civic ceremonies, and community celebrations. With sweeping views of the White River and flexible indoor-outdoor space, it is designed to function as "Batesville's front porch" — a central gathering place that welcomes residents and visitors alike.

"The new Events Center is more than just a building — it's a symbol of what's possible when a community invests in itself," said James Meyer, Taggart Architects’ Managing Partner. "Inspired by the surrounding natural beauty of Arkansas’ rivers, woodlands, and native wildlife, the architecture blends contemporary design with organic influence. Large expanses of glass and open interior volumes invite daylight and frame views of the White River to the south and the existing tree canopy and stream to the east. This intentional connection to the landscape reinforces the building’s role as both a destination and an extension of the park itself. Whether it's a wedding, a festival, or a civic celebration, this space will bring people together and showcase the best of Batesville."

• Sports Courts: Near the park entrance, a new court sports complex will include fully-lit courts for pickleball, tennis, and other court-based recreation. These spaces will foster friendly competition and promote physical fitness. Seating areas and adjacent restrooms will make it easier for spectators and participants to enjoy extended time at the park.

• Skate Park: Designed and built by the nationally renowned American Ramp Company, the new Riverside Park Skate Park will provide a modern, safe space for skateboarding, scootering, and BMX biking. Designed for users of all ages and skill levels, the facility will encourage active lifestyles and create a welcoming, creative outlet for youth.

• Water Play and Nature Play: Near the playground, children will find interactive water and nature play areas that celebrate the park's riverside setting. These elements enable children to splash, climb, and explore, helping them learn through unstructured outdoor play — a proven method that enhances problem-solving, emotional regulation, and physical health.

• Inclusive Play: The new playground at Riverside Park is designed to serve children of all ages and abilities, ensuring universal accessibility. Unlike traditional playgrounds, it will feature a sensory-rich, nature-inspired environment that encourages creativity, imagination, and social connection. Thoughtful grading, materials, and equipment selection ensure that all children can play together in the same space, including those with mobility, sensory, or cognitive challenges.

• Amphitheater & Expanded Greenspace: Batesville's beloved riverside amphitheater will see expanded greenspace, allowing the park to host larger concerts, festivals, movie nights, and community events, making it a premier outdoor venue in the region. Additional uninterrupted stretches of greenspace will provide room for unstructured recreation — like flying kites, playing catch, or laying out a picnic.

• Trail System: The park’s extensive trail system includes loops for walking, jogging, and biking. Winding along the banks of the White River, these trails will offer moments of quiet reflection, scenic views, and physical activity — supporting both individual wellness and environmental awareness.

• Additional Parking and Updated Restrooms: The reimagined park features a 2.5 times increase in parking capacity, ensuring easy access for both daily visitors and major event crowds alike. Clean, modern restroom facilities will be conveniently located near major activity zones — something longtime park-goers have overwhelmingly requested.

Investing in Health, Happiness, and the Future

"This is what happens when a community says yes to progress, accessibility, nature, and health," said Mayor Rick Elumbaugh. "We're investing in our people and our place without raising taxes. That's a win across the board."

Elumbaugh credited residents for their decisive support at the ballot box: "In 2023, Batesville voters overwhelmingly approved measures to support water and recreation infrastructure. These projects are a direct result of that support."

Damon Johnson, Public Works Engineer for the City of Batesville, acknowledged the Chamber's role in public education: "The Chamber helped our residents understand the value of these projects. We're not just adding new amenities — we're building something that reflects who we are and where we're going as a community."

"From inclusive play to large-scale events, this park has been intentionally designed to serve a wide variety of community needs," said Tanner Weeks, principal and co-founder of Ecological Design Group (EDG). "It's more than a park — it's an investment in quality of life and economic opportunity."

"The design team has done an excellent job collaborating with community stakeholders and city leadership," said William Clark, CEO of Clark Contractors. "We're honored to help bring this vision to life with the help of talented subcontractors like Atlas Asphalt, Wade's Heat, Air, and Electric, and Smith Plumbing."

Why It Matters

This project is more than bricks and blueprints — it's about health, connection, and long-term well-being. Time outdoors is a critical part of a thriving life. Research shows that:

• Children who play outside are more confident, less anxious, and better at focusing in school.

• Nature-based play encourages creativity, collaboration, and physical activity.

• Adults who spend time in parks report lower stress levels, improved moods, and stronger community bonds.

• Green spaces drive economic growth by making communities more attractive to residents, workers, and visitors.

“Parks are where memories are made — first bike rides, family reunions, little league championships, neighborhood games, and quiet walks. Parks and green spaces give us all opportunities for freedom, friendship, and fresh air,” said Lowen Lermitte, City of Batesville Parks Director. “A creative, active and engaged community starts with access. This transformation of Riverside Park will cultivate unforgettable memories for generations. Batesville’s parks are yours to explore!”

Riverside Park is currently closed for construction and is expected to reopen in December 2026. During this time, residents are encouraged to explore Batesville's other parks and outdoor spaces. 

"When we say we're building a better Batesville, this is what we mean," said Mayor Elumbaugh. "A place where our kids grow up exploring trails, learning about the White River, and playing freely together. A place that says we care about our future."

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for All Things Possible (ATP) Business Services, on July 1st at 1pm at the Chamber office. ATP is locally owned and operated by Barretta Robinson who holds a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership.

“ATP’s business services come from my heart,” said Robinson. “Many small businesses start up everyday but fail as quickly as they get started. I want to share my experiences through ATP and teach business owners how to stay afloat and grow in scale."

"I am following in the footsteps of my parents who were serial entrepreneurs which helped give me the confidence to begin my own enterprise. My goal is to help people perform the back office work and learn the operational side of managing a business” continued Barretta. 

Services offered by ATP include assistance with creating the legal foundation for businesses, establishing a non-profit organization’s 501 ( c ) 3 status, and feasibility studies to determine the need for a service or product in predicting the success of a business. For a consultation, contact Barretta at (870) 251-6904 or barretta.robinson@gmail.com to learn how she can help you reach your fullest potential.

The ATP’s website is located at http://atpbusinessleader.com.

Ambassadors in attendance include: Alexandra McClain (Myers-Davis Life Coaching), Andrea Bruner (Network of Community Options), Brenda Rivera (First Community Bank), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), Eva Henriksen (Merchants & Planters Bank), Lindy Hopper (First Community Bank), Lori Tacker (Batesville Eye Care Center), Roxanne Rananudo (Family Violence Prevention), Sarah Ring (Southern Bank), Tammy Jeffrey (First Community Bank), and Tiffany Traw (UACCB).

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce will host a Ribbon-Cutting ceremony for Education, Travel, & Culture (ETC) to welcome the organization to the Chamber and create awareness around ETC’s mission. The ceremony will take place on Tuesday, July 15, at 10:30 a.m. at the Southside Charter High School campus.

Education Travel & Culture (ETC) is a non-profit [501(c)(3) educational exchange organization goaled to promote international understanding and goodwill by providing high quality educational and cultural exchange programs in the United States and abroad. ETC provides inbound program opportunities for high school students throughout the world to study in an American high school and live with an American family.

“Host families provide room and board, a quiet place to study, and an American family experience for guest students during their semester or academic year in the United States” says ETC Assistant Field Manager, Amanda Sharp. “There is a large demand from international students to study abroad in America and learn more about our culture and experience all facets of being an American teenager. I have witnessed firsthand the strong, life-long bonds that are created between students and their host families. We hold events for these families all year long so they can share their experiences and support each other."  

Join us on July 15th to meet Amanda Sharp and learn how you can become a host family with ETC. You can contact Amanda at asharp@edutrav.org or 870-805-1306.  Visit the ETC website for more information www.edutrav.org.

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce will host a Ribbon-Cutting ceremony for the Grand Opening of Sarah Dipity at its new location at 100 East Main Street in Batesville on Thursday, July 17th, 10:30 a.m. 

“Experience the convenience of our grab-and-go or dine-in lunch spot, offering a variety of healthy options, including a fruit and veggie bar and made-to-order items, all freshly prepared and never frozen. Our menu features salads, sandwiches, soups, and homemade entrées for take-out and plate lunches, and we also specialize in catering weddings and events”, states Sarah.

“I would love everyone to be a part of this new chapter of my story. There will be treats, giveaways, and so much more as I celebrate my new location in the heart of Batesville’s downtown”, said Sarah. 

Join the Chamber on July 17th to meet Sarah Castleberry and her team to sample delicious food and see the NEW Sarah Dipity location.  To contact Sarah about the restaurant, catering, or events call (870) 613-1331 or email her at Sarahdipity72501@gmail.com.

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Business Expo, presented by Citizens Bank, on Wednesday, June 11. This year's theme — Fan Zone — challenged businesses to bring the hype, decorate like champions, and turn customers into fans.

"This year's Business Expo was a major win," said Amanda Roberts, BACC Membership Engagement Specialist. "We're so thankful for our sponsors and the incredible businesses that brought the gameday energy. Over three thousand people came out to enjoy food, freebies, and fun. It's always exciting to see the community come together in such a big way."

More than 120 vendors participated in the expo, which featured interactive booths, live demonstrations, giveaways, and spirited displays filled with team pride. Guests enjoyed Taste of the Chamber — a showcase of Chamber-member restaurants — and a Kid Zone packed with games and activities all day long.

Myers-Davis Life Coaching & Disability Services earned the coveted Best Booth Award for their immersive hockey arena, complete with slapshot games, puck giveaways, and unique fan-first experiences.

The always-popular Mascot Dance-Off brought the crowd to its feet, with Peco Foods' Super Chicken earning the title of Best Dancer after a high-energy showdown. Other spirited contenders included Wally the White River Water Monster (Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce), a Pizza Slice (Bruno's Pizzeria), Ceebee the Money Bee (Citizens Bank), Seymour Money (First Community Bank), George the Dancing Chicken (Georges/OMP), Homer D. Poe (Home Depot), The Safety Pup (Independence County Sheriff's Department), The Fighting Scot (Lyon College), RAWK-it the RAWK Hand (RAWK Imprinting), Anita Coffee (Scooter's Coffee), and the Chef (Tavolo Italian Ristorante).

Michael Kelley of Peco Foods was honored with the 2025 Spirit Stick, recognizing his outstanding energy and MVP-level engagement with attendees throughout the day.

The 2025 Business Expo was made possible by presenting sponsor Citizens Bank, with additional support from Bad Boy Mowers, City of Batesville, Lyon College, Merchants and Planters Bank, Onin Staffing, Optimum, Peco Foods, RAWK Imprinting, Spartan Mowers, The UPS Store, and White River Health.

"We're proud to be part of an event that continues to grow each year," said Roberts. "Fan Zone gave our vendors the perfect opportunity to turn customers into fans—and they truly delivered. It's always more than a business expo. It's a celebration of creativity, community, and connection."

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon-Cutting ceremony for KJ Virtual Assisting. KJ Virtual Assisting is a new business, locally owned and operated, working to redefine the traditional virtual assistant experience.

“As a proud Chamber member, we’re excited to connect with local businesses and offer exclusive member rates to help our community grow together,” said Victoria Reicheneker, Co-Owner & Founder. 

“While KJ Virtual Assisting serves the United States and some parts of Canada, we want to change the way of virtual assisting by integrating into our local communities and offering a hybrid service you just don’t get with our industry,” explained Victoria. “Often with virtual assisting, you think it is a task-based situation, and that’s not what we do. We provide a team-based approach.”  

KJ Virtual Assisting is HIPAA certified and helps people in the medical field with credentialing and billing; assists bank managers with B-list activities; supports the operation of small, solo, and medium enterprises with full-service reception, scheduling, social media, document generation, and more.  

“With over 56 years of combined experience on my team, I am proud to say that there is nothing that someone could present us with that we cannot figure out and help you navigate. So, it may not be today; maybe it’s down the road that you think I’m overwhelmed, and I should call Victoria to figure out how we can work together,” stated Victoria, who was joined at the ceremony by her husband, Braxton, and their daughter, Keelie. 

Join Victoria and her team to learn more about their specialized areas of work and how you can partner with KJ Virtual Assisting to take your business to the next level in service and efficiency. For more information, contact Victoria Reicheneker at 531-289-8893 or assistingkjvirtual@gmail.com.

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), Chad Whiteaker (White River Now), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), Eva Henriksen (Merchants & Planters Bank), Julie Hinkle (Bank of Cave City), Lindy Hopper (First Community Bank), Lori Campbell (Batesville School District), Lori Tacker (Batesville Eye Care Center), and Sarah Ring (Southern Bank).

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon-Cutting ceremony for the opening of Beebe Hall at the Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches (ASYR). Beebe Hall is named in honor of former Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe, recognizing his 30 years of service as a volunteer and advocate for ASYR. 

Nancy Fulton, ASYR CEO, welcomed the crowd and expressed gratitude to the builders, contractors, donors, and staff who contributed to making Beebe Hall a reality. She also praised the efforts of the fundraising committee, led by Ray Dillon, ASYR Board President.

"Ray Dillon took this on so we could expand our mission, which is why we come to work every day," stated Fulton. "We know the children are why we are here, and Ray didn't hesitate to make this a reality." 

Dillon expressed his appreciation for the donors, saying, "I want to thank all our donors for raising over a million dollars and believing in the Ranch and its mission. It is in this spirit that we honor and recognize one of our most loyal and dedicated volunteers, Governor Mike Beebe, for over 30 years of timeless support of the Ranch."

Fulton shared her gratitude for Governor Beebe's commitment: "I want to thank Governor Beebe, the humblest man, and we had to talk him into letting us name the home after him. The story goes that when he became Governor, he had to give up all his volunteer work except for the youth ranch, and for that, we wanted to honor him."

Governor Mike Beebe took the podium and thanked ASYR staff and supporters for their dedication. He reflected on his upbringing in Amagon, Arkansas, where he was raised by a single mother. "I was the kind of kid, I think, to a large degree, represented by some of the kids growing up here. They have hope and a light at the end of the tunnel thanks to the house parents and programs here that provide so many opportunities from people who believe in them, who believe in helping kids," Beebe remarked.

"This is a great day for the youth ranch as we cut the ribbon on Beebe Hall and move more ranchers and kids into a new home," said Dillon.

Founded by the sheriffs of Arkansas in 1976, Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches provides hope, healing, and a home to thousands of children across the state. Children who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned come to the Ranch through no fault of their own, seeking a safe, loving place to call home. The Ranch's mission is to address, remedy, and prevent child abuse and neglect by creating safe, healthy, and permanent homes for children.

For more information on the Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranch and how you can help, contact Matt Cleveland at matt@youthranches.com or 501.940.3440.

"We all have the opportunity to pass on to others our own fortune and pay it forward, because what you do can make a difference," concluded Governor Beebe.

Ambassadors in attendance include: Aaron Herndon (Citizens Bank), Amy Crouch-Howard (Weichert, Realtors - The Property Shoppe), Andrea Bruner (Network of Community Options), Brenda Rivera (First Community Bank), Ashley Davis (Citizens Bank), Cassidy Mitchell (Lyon College), Chad Whiteaker (White River Now), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), Cori Perkey (Southern Bank), Eva Henriksen (Merchants & Planters Bank), Sarah Ring (Southern Bank), Sydney Wood (Main Street Batesville), and Tiffany Traw (UACCB).

Batesville officially takes the spotlight as Arkansas’ 14ᵗʰ “Capital for a Day” on June 5!

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Independence County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations, and residents affected by severe storms and tornadoes occurring March 14-15.

SBA customer service representatives are on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Batesville to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

The center’s hours of operation are as follows:

Disaster Loan Outreach Center

Independence County Office of Emergency Management – EOC Building

1800 Myers St.

Batesville, AR 72501

Mondays - Fridays, 9 a.m. –6 p.m. Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

“When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”

Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.62% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition. To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster.

Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 7, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 9, 2026.

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.

Limitless Café is back for its third summer at 200 Warrior Road in Batesville, open Tuesdays through Thursdays until July 31. But this isn’t your average lunch spot. Limitless Café is a pop-up restaurant experience designed to provide real-world job training for high school students with disabilities.

Created through a partnership between Myers-Davis Life Coaching and Disability Services and Arkansas Rehabilitation Services, the program offers sophomores through seniors hands-on experience in food service, customer interaction, and teamwork in a supportive, inclusive setting.

The menu offers something for everyone. Each day features grilled chicken salads and wraps, along with a rotating plate lunch special, such as Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Loaded Baked Potatoes, Enchiladas, or Mexican Chicken. Meals are just $11.99, with fresh-made desserts available for an additional purchase.

This program is called Limitless because that’s exactly what these students are. They’re gaining skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose while serving up some of the best lunches in town.

Whether you’re coming for the food or the mission, Limitless Café is a summer favorite you don’t want to miss.

Café Hours:
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays (June 24 – July 31) 11a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Location: 200 Warrior Road, Batesville, AR 72501

For more information regarding this event, please contact Charity White (Program Director) at (870) 569-1052.

The Batesville Area Arts Council is excited to announce registration is open for its Summer Art Camp, led by instructor Dustyn Bork. Students will explore the work of various influential artists and practice a wide range of art techniques in a fun, hands-on environment.

Camp for Students Entering Grades K–3

Dates: July 21–25

Choose from two sessions:

• Morning Session: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• Afternoon Session: 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Participants will showcase their artwork at the BAAC Gallery on Main from August 5–8, with a reception on Friday, August 8, from 5 to 7 p.m.

Camp for Students Entering Grades 4–12

Dates: July 28–August 1 Sessions:

• Grades 4–6: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• Grades 7–12: 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Artwork will be displayed at the BAAC Gallery on Main from August 12–15, with a reception on Friday, August 15, from 5 to 7 p.m.

The registration fee for each week is $95, and snacks will be provided. Classes will be held at the BAAC Work/Shop on Main, located at 246 E Main Street. Due to limited space, pre-registration is required.

For more information or to register, please call (870) 793-3382 or visit www.batesvilleareaartscouncil.org. This program is generously supported by The John Herman Hickman Foundation and First Community Bank.

The Batesville Area Arts Council (BAAC) hosted its annual Summer Celebration fundraiser on Saturday, June 28, at The Loft on Main Street, generously presented by First Community Bank. This year’s theme, Bringing BAAC Prom, turned back the clock for a night of nostalgic fun and community spirit — and raised over $12,000 to support local arts programming.

“Bringing BAAC Prom was an unforgettable night for BAAC,” said Abby Perrine, President of the BAAC Board of Directors. “The community showed an incredible amount of support for our organization — and had a blast while doing so!”

Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner catered by The Station and danced the night away with live music by Luke Middleton and Trevor Graddy. DJ Colyn Bowman kept the energy high and the dance floor full. A silent auction featured original artwork from local artists and unique experience packages donated by downtown Batesville businesses.

One of the evening’s highlights was the crowning of this year’s Prom Royalty: Edmond Hetrick and Trevor Graddy. Attendees nominated themselves or friends for Prom King or Queen and voted by donating to BAAC, raising over $1,000 through this fun and impactful campaign.

During the event, Executive Director Carly Dahl and Board President Abby Perrine also announced the 2025 BAAC Board Member of the Year — Victoria Hutcheson. “Victoria has been a dependable and enthusiastic board member,” said Dahl. “She’s led workshops at our new Work/Shop on Main, represented BAAC at a Mayor’s meeting, and is a constant presence at gallery receptions and events.”

BAAC extends heartfelt thanks to its Summer Celebration sponsors for their generous support, including: First Community Bank, Bad Boy Mowers, Citizens Bank, Lyon College, Precise, Spartan Mowers & ATVs, Merchants & Planters Bank, and Batesville Printing.

Together, the community continues to make a lasting impact on the arts in Batesville.

The CFO Network, an accounting firm based in North Little Rock, has announced the launch of a program providing free financial guidance to nonprofits across Arkansas.

We believe that when nonprofits succeed, communities thrive. The CFO Network recently created The Impact Hour, a new pro-bono program designed to bring financial clarity and strategic guidance to nonprofits.

During one of their Impact Hour sessions, nonprofit organizations can discuss the following information with a member of the CFO Network's team:

• Creating realistic budgets
• Managing cash flow effectively
• Simplifying financial reporting for stakeholders
• Identifying cost-saving opportunities

The City of Batesville has been awarded a $250,000 matching grant from the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism to enhance outdoor recreation in our community! 🌳🏞️

This funding will help construct a new inclusive play area at Riverside Park and install a new swing set at Westside Park, creating more opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors together.

This is part of $3.85 million in FY2025 Outdoor Recreation Grants awarded across Arkansas, supporting projects that enrich communities and strengthen local economies.

📸 Pictured: Mayor Rick Elumbaugh alongside Director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation Katherine Andrews, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, and Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism Shea Lewis.

We’re excited to see these improvements come to life! Stay tuned for updates. 🙌

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.

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 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.