CHAMBER NEWS

 

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 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 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.

 

Get Your Experience Independence Merchandise

Celebrate your spirit of Independence with shirts, cups, gifts, and more! You'll be supporting the hometown brand you love. Buy online or in-store at the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce.

 
 
 
We know how to do the 'ber months! As the leaves change, Independence County bursts to life with an explosion of color and excitement. A cool breeze beckons visitors outdoors, inviting them to wander through our charming streets adorned with pumpkins and scarecrows.
 
In Q4 of 2023, Independence County welcomed over 400k visitors, with 45% of them coming from out of state—eager to experience our fall and winter festivities.
 
This year, we want to spotlight your events! Submit your event info to be included in our fall and winter advertising campaigns. Let’s give visitors a reason to stay longer, explore more, and create lasting memories as they Experience Independence. 
 
We look forward to sharing your events!
 
 

Member Events

 

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

 
 
 

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 will present a special community screening of the critically acclaimed documentary “The 'Vous” at the historic Melba Theatre in downtown Batesville on Monday, Sept. 30.

 

Directed by documentary filmmakers Jeff Dailey and Jack Porter Lofton, a Lyon College alumnus, the film offers a captivating exploration of Memphis' world-famous Rendezvous barbecue restaurant. Theater doors open at 5:45 p.m., with an artist talk by Lofton at 6:15 p.m. followed by the film screening at 6:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

 

A winner at the Indie Memphis Film Festival, a staff pick at the Austin Film Festival, and a selection at America’s largest documentary festival, DOC NYC, “The 'Vous” has garnered critical praise. The New York Times described it as “a compelling new documentary,” while The Memphis Flyer hailed it as “a beautiful American story.” Arkansas Democrat-Gazette film critic Philip Martin called it “one of my favorite documentaries to come out over the past couple of years.”

 

“We are thrilled to welcome Jack back to Batesville to share his incredible work with our community,” said Lyon College Executive Director of Alumni Engagement Cindy Barber. “Jack’s journey from Lyon College student to accomplished filmmaker is an inspiration to all of us. This screening is a wonderful opportunity for our campus community, alumni, friends and neighbors to come together and celebrate his success.”

 

Lofton, who graduated from Lyon College in 2004 with a dual degree in Political Science and Theater, has made significant strides in both law and film. After pursuing a law degree and a Master of Public Service from the Clinton School of Public Service, he began to develop film projects alongside his legal practice. He is currently an attorney with Zenith Law Group, focusing on criminal defense, civil forfeiture and immigration removal proceedings.

 

Lofton's film credits include producing the HBO documentary “All About Ann” and contributing to the Johnny Cash biopic “Walk the Line.” In addition to “The 'Vous,” Lofton is currently producing “Kings of Tort,” a film about trial attorneys.

 

Patrons are encouraged to support the Melba Theatre by purchasing items from the concession stand during the event.

 

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.

 
 
 

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.

 

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.

 
 

MEMBER NEWS

 

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.

 

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

 
Be a Patron and Make a Difference at ScotsFest 2024
 

Are you ready to make a difference? Join us at ScotsFest 2024 from Oct. 18-20 at Lyon College! As a patron, your contribution supports student scholarships, covers travel expenses for our talented Lyon College Pipe Band, helps maintain our equipment, and ensures that general admission to the festival remains FREE of charge!

 

From scholarships to bagpipes, you can help make ScotsFest unforgettable! Patron packages are available at various levels—there's a way for everyone to get involved! 

 

Sign up now with the QR code below or visit  arscottishfest.com.

Questions? Contact Pamela Palermo at 870.307.7362 or pamela.palermo@lyon.edu.

 

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)
 

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.

 
Office space for rent @ 249 Eagle Mountain Blvd. Great location with plenty of parking. 900 sq ft in good shape. 3 offices with coffee bar and storage. Call Al Crouch 870-613-6500.
 

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.

 
 
 
 
 

HEALTH & WELLNESS

 
 

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.

 

EDUCATION

 

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.

 

 ©2024, Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.

 

Our mailing address is:
409 Vine Street, Batesville, Arkansas 72501

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