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Beyond Exceptional Philanthropy in Rural America 2 Take Steps- Thousands of Steps- To Trample Crohn’s A Publication of Meadowland Media, Inc.

August 2013

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In This Issue 6/Editor’s Note

August Upon Us

7/We’re Still Out Here

Philanthropy in Rural America?

8/Notes from the Clearing Assassin

10/Travel On

The Perfect Summer Vacation

7

16

8

18

12

23

14

36

12/Cover Story

Beyond Exceptional

14/Feature

2 take steps – thousands of steps – to trample Crohn’s

16/Tales Of a Transplanted Fashionista Moving Stuff...

18/I Do

Coe and Wilkins Wedding

20/Smith’s Verdict **** The Dark Knight

23/Experiencing God in the Everyday Laundry Day and Easter

24/Things To Do 26/Faces 33/Batesville Area Arts Council 34/ The Downtown Guide 36/The Myopic Life Finishing Well

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August 2013

dence

Beyond Exceptional Philanthropy in Rural

America

2 Take Steps- Thousands

of Steps- To Trample Crohn ’s

A Publication of Mead

owland Media, Inc.

Summer is Here! Cool down with your favorite chilled Salad from Natalie’s Deli Cooler!

Cover Photography by Robert O. Seat Cover Design by Joseph Thomas

Meet Your Writers...

Vanessa Adams is a Jonesboro, Arkansas native and became the Independence County Librarian in July 2011. She holds Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees in English from Arkansas State University. She also holds a Master of Arts degree in Library Science from the University of Missouri.

793-3303 755 St. Louis Street Batesville

Leigh Keller is a high school Spanish teacher and Colorguard instructor at Batesville High School.

She is the director of the BHS Glass Slipper Project. Leigh lives in Batesville with her son, Cole, and a pack of dogs.

THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED BY: MeadowLand Media, Inc. P. O. Box 196, Grubbs, AR 72431 870.503.1150 kthomas@eyeonmag.com PUBLISHER: Kimberlee Thomas Associate EDITOR: Bob Pest

Alisa R. Lancaster is an Advanced Practice Nurse for the U of A Medical Sciences North Central. She has been in healthcare since 1983, the last 18 years with the UAMS system. Alisa and husband, Scott, have four children, two grandchildren, and two spoiled puppies. Alisa’s mission is to improve the health and wellness of others through education and practice. She welcomes feedback or comments at AlisaAPRN@gmail.com or 870.698.1023

MANAGING EDITOR: Joseph Thomas ADVERTISING: Kimberlee Thomas Creative Director : Joseph Thomas AD DESIGN Department: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas PROOFING Department: Joseph Thomas Kimberlee Thomas

Eye On Independence is a publication of MeadowLand Media, Incorporated. Editorial, advertising and general business information can be obtained by calling (870) 503-1150 or emailing Kimberlee Thomas at kthomas@eyeonmag.com.

Mailing address: P. O. Box 196, Grubbs, AR 72431.

Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements, unless otherwise noted, do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher or the staff. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information presented in this issue is accurate and neither MeadowLand Media or it any of its staff is responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Copyright © 2010 MeadowLand Media, Incorporated. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without the permission in writing from the Publisher.

All pictorial material reproduced in this book has been accepted on the condition that it is reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer concerned. As such, MeadowLand Media, Incorporated, is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof.

For advertising, distribution, or editorial contribution, contact Kimberlee Thomas, 870.503.1150, kthomas@eyeonmag.com.

Visit us @

Bob Pest is the president and Co-founder of Ozark Foothills FilmFest and the T Tauri Film Festival and Movie Camp. He works as a community development consultant for First Community Bank, teaches film classes at UACCB, and currently serves as vice-president of the Ozark Gateway Tourist Council.

Staff PHOTOGRAPHERS: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas Robert O. Seat

Kristi Price spent all her life as a transplant, having grown up military. The Ozarks have always been in her blood though, and she’s proud to call Batesville her home after many years on the move. Kristi holds a BA in English and blogs about family and other mishaps at www. themyopiclife.wordpress.com. She is married to Erin and mother to Ethan, Emily, and Maggie.

Guest Writer

Tanner Smith is a native of Manila, Arkansas. He has written movie reviews for the T Tauri Galaxy (www.ttauri.org/galaxy) for several years and is a five year veteran of the T Tauri Movie Camp.

He has made a number of films, ranging from horror to documentary, and has won awards in filmmaking and screenwriting.

PRINTING COMPANY: Rockwell Publishing

www.eyeonmag.com

Chad Grigsby is a 32 year old native of Tennessee but now calls Arkansas home. He is the Pastor for Teaching & Shepherding at the Compass Church. He holds a Masters of Divinity from Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary. He is married to Jessica and they have one son, Ezra.

Eye On Independence received the 2012 Innovative Project award, which is presented to an agency or organization for outstanding, innovative, continuous or effective coverage of literacy issues, resulting in positive change or improvement.

Editor’s Note

August Upon Us Joseph Thomas

Our family has been running, learning to use healthy foods as medicine, and trying to get more done around the house, alas we are still learning to be healthy. It has been quite warm for the running and house work, so just stay safe in whatever you’re doing because we have some hot days yet to come.

Our pages have much to offer up, yet again, for your Photo by Robert O. Seat reading pleasure. Bob Pest is back with his focus on Rural America with a look at Philanthropy. Renee Taylor gives tips on the perfect Summer Vacation. Kimberlee brings us another picturesque wedding and our cover story on the Exceptional Abilities Pageant. Suzy Oakley tells us about her and Brooke Carter’s steps to eradicate Crohn’s and Colitis.

Kristi Price describes her happiness at watching her son, Ethan, cross the finish line in the OFLP 2nd Annual Kid’s Triathlon sponsored by Bad Boy Mowers. Tanner Smith reviews The Dark Knight and Leigh Keller discusses moving and the fun that entails. We also have many local faces, classes and upcoming events, so read on and enjoy! N

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1361 White Drive, Batesville, AR 72501 Call 870-698-1650 to Schedule Your FREE Consultation 6

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We’re Still Out Here

Philanthropy in Rural America?

Bob Pest

Philanthropy etymologically means “pretty” in the sense of caring for, nourishing, developing, and enhancing “what it is to be human” on both the benefactors’ (by identifying and exercising their values in giving and volunteering) and beneficiaries’ (by benefitting) parts.

America is a known for its generosity. Philanthropy as we know it began at the turn of the 19th century with Henry Ford, one of the giants of industry, who began his generosity with the Henry Ford Hospital.

Ford continued to support a number of projects until he created the Ford Foundation in 1936; it remains one of the largest foundations in the world. Ford also contributed heavily to colleges, universities, libraries, and museums.

Other successful industry leaders, such as Andrew Carnegie, began by supporting education. Carnegie Technical Institute in Pittsburgh was launched in 1900; in 1967 the Mellon Institute of Industrial Research combined with Carnegie Tech to create Carnegie-Mellon University. The Andrew Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy was inaugurated on December 10, 2001, by more than twenty of the institutions Carnegie had supported. Batesville also benefitted from a philanthropic gift. The college began in 1872 as Arkansas College and became Lyon College in 1994 thanks in part to a gift from college board member Frank Lyon.

Philanthropists have made an enormous difference in the cities, communities, and organizations they choose to support. In most cases support goes to the communities where they live, the colleges they attended, and projects that are compatible with the donor’s vision.

American’s also contribute to causes that reach beyond their own communities. Millions of dollars were donated from all fifty states to care for the people injured by the Boston Bombers. Americans also send millions to foreign countries struck by floods, tsunamis, tornadoes, and other natural disasters.

The gesture is important and supporting struggling nations is critical, but not to the extent that our own citizens suffer.

Unfortunately, the movement of national foundations away from rural development and the concentration of assets in urban areas has led to overwhelming challenges for rural communities. From 2004 and 2008, philanthropic support for rural areas declined from $92.7 million to $89.5 at a time when total foundation giving increased by 43.4 percent.

Foundations are, of course, more likely to be located in cities, and traditional fundraisers, such as galas and auctions, cater to an urban crowd. It is important to recognize that the same issues addressed in more heavily populated areas also impact rural communities

- and the need for fundraising in these areas is crucial.

Rural communities try to support their schools, libraries, senior citizens, and non-profit organizations with a variety of “fund-raising” activities, from car washes and bake sales to candy machines.

Batesville is a relatively stable community of about 10,000. Local banks, corporations, colleges, civic groups, small businesses, and generous individuals contribute to local organizations and activities to the extent they can afford. But even with the community’s generosity, local non-profits such as the dynamic Ozark Foothills Literacy Project; the Batesville Area Arts Council and Gallery, the only gallery within miles; and Ozark Foothills FilmFest, known as the best small town film festival in America, devote a great deal of time and effort to keeping their doors open and filling the cultural and educational needs of the community. All three organizations rely to a significant extent to the money that they can make from annual fund-raisers—which take time away from the organization’s mission. They also devote hours and hours on writing grants to federal, state, regional, and local organizations. The non-profits survive on one or two employees who make much less than they would in most other jobs. The Arts Council and the FilmFest contribute to the local tourism economy and the quality of life; the Literacy Council teaches Arkansas adults and Hispanic citizens who have settled here.

The community needs all three.

Rural America needs to demonstrate its relevance in such a way that foundations will appreciate both its needs and its importance. Philanthropists need to remember that we live in the “United States” and to consider distributing their wealth accordingly.

Rural Americans work hard for what they have, they share with their neighbors, they contribute to their churches, they serve in the military when called up, and they raise their children to be good citizens. They have earned the support philanthropists can provide.

Philanthropists in turn benefit by identifying and exercising their own values in helping their fellow Americans. Our rural communities need their support.

N

August 2013 7

Sizzling Summer Classes At Arkansas Craft School Now that the kids are going back to school, perhaps you have the time to indulge in a class at the Arkansas Craft School, in Mountain View, Arkansas.

There are still openings in the following classes scheduled for August: “Rigid Heddle Weaving” with Felicitas Sloves (August 5 – 9), “Beginning Bowl Turning” with Gene Sparling (August 16 – 18), “Mohair Saddle Cinches” with Pop Wagner (August 23 – 25), and “Carving Spirit Faces”with Denny Maynard (August 23 – 25). Many classes will be offered in September as well as Community craft classes will be starting again in mid-October. Dates and class offerings will be announced soon! Information submitted by www.arkansascraftschool.org N

8

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Notes from the Clearing

Assassin

Joseph Thomas The glean of the steady sword splits the shadows and it is there I wait balanced upon a thought ready to strike before my movements can be seen. Sinew and muscle already in motion to twist pivoting the blade into action. With only a cry of broken air and the enemy of this state was assimilated with the confidence of my stare long before my steel persuader made its mission known. For knowing is the footing of belief and I believe in my own presence of mind and therefore, I am the weapon with which I act. N

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Travel On

The Perfect Summer Vacation Renee Taylor

Working in the travel industry, I see trends all the time. Much like fashion, travel trends are ever changing. A destination once popular will be replaced with something more vibrant and exciting. Years later it will be the top of the trend again. With travel, our economy and world security factors in to the “trend setting” as well. For the last several years, with the fall of our nation’s economy, the woes of terrorism worldwide, along with the mishaps of cruise ships of late, I have seen travel trends change to closer to home destinations as well as the “family drive vacations” that were once popular when I was growing up in the 60’s and 70’s. With back to school just around the corner, many families are scrambling to get that last minute vacation planned. To help those of you who are still debating on the perfect summer vacation, here are some tips: 1. Thankfully, the gulf coast of Florida is back (just like the BP oil spill advertisements tell us!). This summer especially, I have been inundated with calls for assistance in planning a gulf coast vacation. The beaches of Destin, Florida are truly some of the prettiest beaches that I have seen…and believe me, I have seen hundreds of beaches. That combined with the fresh seafood and the fact that you can get there by car in 8 to 10 hours, 10

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keeps the Gulf Coast as one of my favorites of family options.

2. Historical travel has been very popular of late – Washington D.C. remains on the top of the historical travel list. Most of the museums and monuments have free admission, so the majority of your expense will be for the hotel and food. I always suggest to my clients to purchase a 24 to 48 hour hop on/off double decker bus pass. This is a great way to see all of the sights of the city with a narrator. The bus stops at every popular museum, monument, shopping area, etc. and you can get off at any stopping point and then hop back on when you are ready to continue on to another area.

Once you have the layout of the city down, you can then resort to walking or public transportation such as taxi or subway. Other historical cities that offer the Hop on/ off bus service are: Boston, Savanna and New York.

3. California is a destination that is growing in popularity. We have planned trips for clients visiting Northern California to include Napa Valley, San Francisco and also the Redwood Forest. Others have rented a car in San Francisco and driven along the coast to LA. A popular stop along the way is the quaint and eclectic coastal town of Monterey. Monterey was once the sardine capital of the Western Hemisphere. Today, an array of boutiques, “this & that” shops, and theme restaurants reside in the converted sardine factories along the bay. Away from that, Monterey is a serene seaside community with magnificent vistas, stately Victorians, and a number of quality lodgings and

restaurants. Once in the LA area there is a plethora of things to do including the typical “Hollywood tours”, the beaches of Santa Barbara, and one must not forget that the original of the Disney theme parks, Disneyland, is located just outside of LA in Anaheim.

4. For those that want to stay closer to home, don’t rule out the lakes, parks and rivers in Arkansas. The lodge at Mt. Magazine state park amazes its visitors that we have something so beautiful and luxurious right in our own back yard! Branson, Missouri also is a destination that shouldn’t be discounted. This summer, my own family was just too busy with hectic schedules to get together for our typical vacation to the beach.

Finally, after several failed attempts to get everyone to pin down a date, I gave up and booked a last minute condo for 6 nights in Branson. I found that 6 nights really wasn’t enough! One “jewel” that I discovered was the Butterfly Palace. It was a botanical garden/ rain forest that is filled with hundreds of colorful exotic butterflies. The butterflies will literally fly right in front of you landing on the plants or even your shoulder! It was such a wonderful experience to see my 2 year old granddaughter amazed at these beautiful creatures!

Wherever your travels lead you, just be sure to spend time with your loved ones, hold the hand of your children or grandchildren, relax and enjoy the fact that we have a beautiful world to discover. As I say in my business, create “great memories one destination at a time”!

N August 2013 11

Eye On Cover Story Beyond Exceptional Kimberlee Thomas

When you look up the word, exceptional, you will find several definitions: uncommon, extraordinary, superior, and gifted. Then there is the following definition: physically or mentally handicapped to an extent that special schooling is required.

There are many people who live their lives untouched by the “exceptional.” If you asked them they would tell you without a doubt that their lives are happy and full, that there is nothing missing. You would note honest happiness on their face because if you’ve never had someone “exceptional” in your life you don’t know to miss them. Now, ask people who live with the “exceptional” every day about their life and watch their eyes, their faces. There is something there, something that glows and resonates from within them, something that they themselves may not even be aware of. It is the pure beauty of being touched by the “exceptional.” And while their life may be full of daily struggles and strife, heartache, and grief it is also full of the purest love anyone can ever know. And it is that love that shines and carries them through.

I have had the honor of being touched by the “exceptional” more than once in my lifetime. I have watched a dear friend of mine with her nephew, who is forty-four and has Downs Syndrome, as she entertains his need for crayons and markers during holiday gatherings. I’ve watched her as she includes him in all the activities of the day from crafts and dinner to game time, making sure he gets his turn. I even had the pleasure of being his dancing partner at his cousin’s wedding reception, as well as being the object of his serenades throughout the evening. Ten year old Kennadi Pretty has allowed me the privilege of having my nose honked on more than one occasion, as well as being put through the paces of the face game. Then there is my precious niece, Courtney, who is almost twenty four, she was born with Downs Syndrome. She is a very amazing young lady. Her mother is one of the strongest people I know. Her life as a mother is not what we imagined as children, and it is very different from my own. It is as “exceptional” as her beautiful daughter. Her life revolves around Courtney three hundred sixty-five days a year, twenty four hours a day. It has been this way for the past twenty three years and will continue on this way for as long as Courtney needs her mother. As parents we could all say that, but as the parents of an “exceptional” child it is the honest truth.

The needs of the “exceptional” child vary depending on their diagnoses. There may be countless doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy. Special equipment may be needed such as; wheelchairs, ramps, walkers, ventilators, lifting harnesses, and the list goes on and 12

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on. What many don’t realize is that the needs of the parents are as vast as those of their children; Education, support, understanding, and compassion are just a very few. There is also the need to feel “normal”, the need to participate in the everyday. That is where people like Stacy Pretty make a difference, by providing these parents and their precious children the opportunity to participate in activities that for so long has not been a part of their everyday.

Pretty was instrumental in bringing the N.E. Arkansas Angels Pageant to Batesville last year.

The pageant was a huge success with seventy-six participants. So, when word began to circulate that the Angels Pageant organization was considering cutting back the number of pageants they held in Arkansas each year and that this area might be dropped from their docket Pretty set about organizing a new pageant program. She has already put the wheels in motion and filed for non-profit status for the new pageant organization that is known as the Exceptional Abilities Pageant. She has also been very busy visiting with local businesses seeking sponsorship for the new pageant.

“Sometimes people are a little turned off when I tell them I am working on a pageant, I guess because there seems to be so many these days, but when I show them the photos of our participants and explain why our pageant is so important they jump right in,” stated Pretty. The support from the business community has been outstanding. Pretty has secured many fun items from local businesses for the goodie bags each participant will take home. She also wrangled Stetson cowboy hats for each participant direct from Stetson in Houston. Pretty stated, “It’s like planning a wedding.

There are so many small details you have to think about.

But when you see that very first smile it makes all the hard work worth it.” Pretty was quick to acknowledge all the help she gets from her mother and the many other volunteers that help make a pageant such as this possible. The list of corporate and private sponsorships is itself very impressive and one more thing that Pretty is very grateful for.

Something else “exceptional” about this pageant is that while it is locally born its participants hail from all over the United States with three attending from Florida and three from Missouri. Participants will be treated to free hair styling and light make-up along with manicures if they wish. A varied selection of pageant dresses will be made available for those participants that want or need them for the day. They will also receive a free 8 x 10 photo to remember the day by. “The main goal of the pageant is to make some lasting memories for differently abled individuals and their families for many years to come,” shared Pretty.

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The theme for this year’s Exceptional Abilities Pageant is Cowboys and Cuties. Once again, State Representative, James McLean will emcee this year’s event. Seventy one participants ranging in age from infant to Senior Citizen will be parading on and off the western themed stage at Independence Hall located at the University of Arkansas Community College. Morley Family Magic will be on hand to entertain and delight those in attendance. Come and join the fun and excitement Saturday, August 31st at 2:00 p.m. Pretty states, “It is the most heartwarming experience you will ever witness. You will laugh. You will cry. You will be inspired!” Admission is free.

To find out more about the Exceptional Abilities Pageant log on to www.eapageant.com and friend them on Facebook.

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Eye On Feature 2 take steps – thousands of steps – to trample Crohn’s Submitted

Two Batesville women are training and raising funds for a half-marathon in Nashville this fall to benefit the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America.

Suzy Oakley, 50, ran her first half-marathon last year with Team Challenge, CCFA’s endurance training and fundraising program. Having one race under her belt has allowed her to serve as a mentor with the program this year, and she’s training alongside Brooke Carter, 31, a wife and the mom of three young daughters.

Since Oakley’s half-marathon last year, in which she ranked No. 5 in fundraising for the National Team, she and her husband, Bruce, have been working to recruit an Arkansas team, which Bruce would like to coach.

Suzy’s husband has battled Crohn’s disease since their first year of marriage. Her cousin Spencer, 15, was diagnosed with Crohn’s at age 10, so Suzy is aware of how the disease affects not only adults but children: “Bruce was 39 when he was diagnosed, and that’s bad enough, but Spencer has been teased at school because of the effects of some of the drugs he’s had to take, and he has endured surgery, special diets, multiple physical ailments and things he probably

doesn’t like to talk about in public.

The disease can take a devastating toll on patients and their families – physically, emotionally, mentally, socially and financially – in so many ways.” Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), afflict 1.5 million Americans.

Suzy’s stated mission is to “kick the crap out of Crohn’s disease,” and she’s doing everything she can to help find a cure, to raise awareness and to offer support to those who deal with IBD, especially those newly diagnosed. She and Bruce helped launch CCFA’s Arkansas chapter in 2010, and they volunteer at two Arkansas walks each year – in Little Rock in the spring and northwest Arkansas in the fall. Their trip to Nashville last September was the first time they took their cause outside Arkansas.

The couple met Carter in early 2012 through the Women Run Arkansas run/walk clinic in Batesville, and Bruce has been an informal coach to her and some of the other clinic participants in the clinic’s off-season. When Carter set a goal to run her first halfmarathon this year, she decided to use it as an opportunity to help others, including Coach Bruce.

Oakley joked, “It probably didn’t hurt that Bruce and I had been preaching Team Challenge at our races and many of our group runs when Carter was making up her mind about CCFA’s program.”

The couple even took recruiting materials to the GO! Mile in North Little Rock in June – and Oakley wore her Team Challenge training shirt in the race.

“We don’t want to drive all our running friends nuts, but we also don’t want to miss any opportunity to recruit and spread awareness about the program,” Suzy said. “My ultimate goal is to wipe Crohn’s and colitis off the face of the earth – Suzy and Bruce Oakley talked up Team preferably while my husband is still Challenge at the GO! Mile in North Little Rock on June 15.

alive to experience it. And I have enough of a crusader’s spirit to do everything in my power to make it happen.”

For more information on Team Challenge, contact Suzy Oakley at (501) 425-5878 or stoakley@swbell. net or visit www.ccfa.org Suzy has links to her and Carter’s fundraising pages at her blog, Suzy & Spice: www.suzyandspice.com/ donate.

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Running doesn’t have to be all work and no play. Brooke Carter gets ready for the Color Me Rad 5K in Little Rock on June 15.

Her family: husband Matt and daughters Jovi, 8; Stevi, 4; and Hollis, 9 months, were on hand to cheer her on!

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August 2013 15

Tales Of a Transplanted Fashionista Moving Stuff...

Leigh Keller

I despise moving. Even with careful planning I can never seem to move without it sleeting or being boiling hot outside. If you’ve ever seen those poor people driving down the road in a pick-up truck with all their worldly possessions sticking out of it haphazardly, with two dogs balanced on top of the load chances are you’ve probably seen me moving. Between Cole and I, we have a terrible amount of stuff to move. From clothes, bags, shoes and jewelry to dump trucks, tractors, and train sets. The latter items would be Cole’s not mine. This is why I dread moving the most, all the stuff!

Luckily for me I have a great bank. Go Liberty Bank!

Go Kyle and Adam! They made the actual buying of our new home fairly painless. In fact, I kind of felt like my bank was as genuinely excited about our new little home as we were, and that is a great feeling. I must say I appreciate how the cute tellers dole out the suckers to Cole each time we are there.

So it comes time to close and move, and we are ready to go. Lots of my dear friends showed up to help us get all of our stuff, too much stuff for our new house, packed up and moved. Did I mention how all this is happening in the heat and sometimes sticky summer Arkansas weather? My dad has an old pick-up that doesn’t have air conditioning, but is for some reason just so fun to drive that he kept it. It came in very handy moving all our stuff. We only had a couple of casualties while using it. If you are my very good friend; as in you’ve seen me in my pajamas, or with my crazy cockatiel morning hair, or both, then rest assured you get to drive the truck too.

Two such very good friends, Tony and Jeanne Roepcke, showed up to help me move my bed and mattresses, which we tied down onto the trailer being pulled behind the pick-up truck. As we drove down the road the mattresses promptly came untied! Luckily, we were able to get them up, reattached and get back on

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our way. Tony was driving the truck, so technically it was his fault. I’m certain there is no way Jeanne and I could have been at fault since we were following along behind.

Much to my father’s amazement I made the life decision to host a “shop my closet” sale very soon after moving all of our stuff. He asked me, “Why exactly did we move all of that stuff if you are just going to sell it?”

I love clothes, and have basically worn the same size for half of my life. I have amassed, and I mean literally amassed, a giant collection of shoes, bags, clothing and accessories. But, I am tired of moving the things I don’t use and don’t wear.

This turned out to be an amazing concept! I have so many teacher friends, and other professionals, who love clothes and shoes like I do, and love a great bargain.

Instead of moving in my guest room furniture, I set up my guest bedroom like a little boutique. I bought some cute snacks, added some Stella & Dot jewelry to the sale and set up shop in my house for a Saturday evening shopping party.

I ended up selling almost everything, either in person that night, or through friends and family texting or messaging me that they wanted me to ship their purchases. If you are looking for a fun way to get rid of some stuff, and help your friends find some bargains, this worked really well for me. I can see doing it again in the future. If you like what I’m wearing, just hang on, you might be able to buy it in a few months, because I am giving up my clothes hoarding ways. Wait; look at that fabulous bag over there...

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August 2013 17

I Do

Coe and Wilkins Wedding Kimberlee Thomas

Sarah Elizabeth Coe and Casey Shannon Wilkins met while working at Colton’s Steakhouse a little over ten years ago. Sarah explained, “When I first met Casey he was super quite, but once I got to know him and talk to him I realized he was just the funniest person.” The couple began to date and it wasn’t very long before Sarah knew that Casey was the man of her dreams. “He is very loving, caring, and just an all-around fun person to be with. He always knows how to make me laugh and bring a smile to my face,” shared Sarah.

Over the next eight and a half years the couple got to know each other very well. They shared the ups and downs of everyday life. They had a chance to experience each others’ families. They spent time getting to know each others’ friends and built mutual friendships as well. The couple also enjoyed spending time together outdoors hiking, kayaking, swimming, boating, if it is outdoors they pretty much enjoy it.

In early February of 2012 Casey very nervously approached Sarah’s dad to ask for his daughter’s hand in marriage. Sarah stated, “He was so nervous he made my mom leave the room so he could talk to my dad alone.” After watching his precious daughter and Casey over the past eight years Randall Coe had no reservations about giving the couple his blessing. A week later the couple had gathered at Casey’s parents, Bud and Sharon Wilkins, for what had become a “normal” Friday night dinner according to Sarah. After the family had finished dinner Casey approached Sarah and knelt down beside her chair and began to speak to her. Sarah recalls being a bit confused, “What are you doing, get up!” She then realized just what Casey was up to and replied, “It’s about time babe, yes!” Everyone was delighted. “I could tell something was up that night by the way everyone was acting but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it,” Sarah laughs.

A little over a year later on May 18, 2013 Sarah and Casey were wed. The double ring ceremony was held at the University of Arkansas Experiment Station in Bethesda. Sarah’s childhood friend, Reverend Paul Moody, presided over the ceremony. Sarah was given in marriage by her parents, Randall and Roxanne Coe. “It was absolutely breathtaking. It was everything I had imagined and more,” recalls Sarah.

The theme for the wedding was Elegant Vintage. Sarah’s mother credits wedding directors Connie Coleman and Jennifer Sinele along with wedding decorator Tresia Elms for making the day, “stunningly breathtaking and worry free.” The rolling green lawn and views of the surrounding hills provided the backdrop for the wedding vows. Framing the wedding party were Antique urns sitting atop distressed columns.

Each urn held coral gladiolas and snapdragons centered with white hydrangea, coral roses, seeded eucalyptus, white peonies and variegated ivy. Mason jars filled with white hydrangea and pink astilbe and tied with burlap ribbon served as aisle markers. A large white distressed frame held a chalkboard which the program was written on for guest to view as they entered the ceremony.

The couple’s wedding party included family and friends. Amy Coe Breshears, sister of the bride, served as matron of honor. Jessica Coe Goff, sister of the bride, served as maid of honor. Emily Machen, niece of the groom, served as junior bridesmaid. Macie Goff, niece of the bride, served as flower girl. Dean Machen, brother in-law of the groom, served as best man. Jason Coker and Ryan Nast, friends of the bride and groom, served as groomsmen. Kegan Machen, nephew of the groom, served as junior groomsman. Wyatt Goff, nephew of the bride, served as ring bearer. Ushers included; Tyler Breshears, brother in-law of the bride, and Russell Leggett, friend of the bride and groom. Jane Williamson, friend of the bride’s family attended the guest book.

Antique doors were placed at the entrance of the reception hall and the tables were draped with floor length cloths decorated with burlap and lace table runners. Each table was adorned with a white antique candle stand topped with white candles wrapped in burlap and lace and accented with brooches. The Bride’s chosen flowers were used throughout the venue. The cake table was draped with an antique ivory rosette floor length cloth topped with a cupcake tier filled with cupcakes wrapped in turquoise wrappers and topped with a special Bride and Groom cupcake. Casey’s mother and grandmother contributed to the table by making his favorite chocolate chip cookies, sugar cookies, and brownies for the guest to enjoy. Gary Sudol and Josh Newman DJ’d the reception festivities. Camee Stevenson of Raye of Sunshine Photography captured the day in photographs for the family to enjoy for A Raye of Sunshine Photography by Camee Stevenson

generations to come. Sarah’s mother was blessed to be witness to a very special moment as Casey saw Sarah for the first time on their wedding day, “they had decided to do the “first look” before the wedding so that the majority of the pictures could be taken prior to the ceremony. I just happened to step outside and saw Sarah tap Casey on the shoulder. I will never forget the look on his face when he saw her, there was such great love in his expression. That is what every mother wants to see for her daughter, of course I cried.”

The couple honeymooned in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

They currently reside in Bryant. Sarah is employed by Mobilex as their southwest ultrasound supervisor and Casey is employed by Entergy.

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Smith’s Verdict ****

The Dark Knight

Reviewed by Tanner Smith If I thought Christopher Nolan’s “Batman Begins” was one of the darkest (and very best) superhero films I ever saw, then I hadn’t seen anything yet. “The Dark Knight” is the follow-up to the film that represented Nolan’s new look at the dark, harsh “Batman” universe, and to get it right out of the way, this is not just one of the best sequels I’ve ever seen; it’s also the best superhero film I’ve ever seen. I don’t even want to necessarily call it a “superhero film.” For a film about Batman, this film is unbelievably tough, powerful, adult, moody…and oddly enough, that all works in the film’s favor. Aside from being extraordinarily well-crafted in story and execution, the tone and staging of “The Dark Knight” reminded me of a Caped Crusader version of “The Godfather,” in terms of uncompromising actions and consequences. I mean it—it’s that great.

“The Dark Knight” is a film about power, chaos, hope, deceit, selfishness, actions, and consequences.

It’s a deeper film than one might have expected from a film such as this—not that the original Tim Burton film or Nolan’s “Batman Begins” weren’t dark; it’s just that apparently, they weren’t this dark. It’s the kind of film that provokes thought and leaves you stunned by everything it had to offer. It seems as if Nolan figured that the origins of Batman were already spelled out in the other film, and now it was time to go all out and give him a story that builds upon solid themes and concepts that were implied before.

Batman is a symbol of Gotham City and people’s great hope whenever trouble is near. Although, there are debates about whether or not Batman is a hero or a menace, and it doesn’t help that his presence influences “copycat Batmen” who wear similar costumes, but carry rifles and sport hockey pads. Crime bosses are on edge because of him, which serves as a good purpose for the city’s new D.A., Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart), to take them on. Dent is the White Knight to Batman’s Dark Knight—he doesn’t have to wear a mask and knows how to push someone’s limits and handle himself as well. He’s an ideal hero for Gotham City. Thanks to a meeting together brought upon by incorruptible police lieutenant Jim Gordon (Gary Oldman), Dent and Batman know they’re on the same page in a crusade to stop crime, so they do their parts in order to continue.

But a new threat has made himself known in Gotham. Enter the Joker (the late Heath Ledger in his final film role); a sadistic psychopath with as much taste for theatrics as Batman, only he dresses like a clown and keeps a flamboyant personality that also reads sadism and madness. His mission as the new mob enforcer is to spread anarchy and chaos throughout the city. Knowing Batman stands in his way, he demands that he remove his mask and turn himself in, or else many people will die at his hands.

Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale), Batman’s human 20

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alter-ego, is more arrogant than before, but that’s just a cover for everyone around him. The only people he confides in are his butler, Alfred (Michael Caine), and Assistant D.A. Rachel Dawes (Maggie Gyllenhaal, replacing Katie Holmes). Through them, he acknowledges that things are getting even more out of control now that he has all of these duties to handle, and especially now that he must reveal himself as Batman or people will be killed by the Joker. And the Joker does keep good on his word, making things even more complicated and painful.

This is not a superhero film in which despite everything being thrown at the hero, everything turns out right in the end. Mostly, everything just goes wrong, and even more so as the situation continues. Batman may be a heroic figure, but he’s not perfect. He has his flaws and he can’t save everybody, which is especially true in the cases of some important characters. No one is safe in this movie; there’s danger all throughout and consequences for every action, whether they be your own or not. This is what differentiates “The Dark Knight” from pretty much every other Batman film, in that it’s bleaker with hardly any compromises in how situations occur. It’s grim and unpredictable.

Batman is more intimidating than ever and his presence says a lot about what he represents and what he’ll go through to fight for it. He doesn’t take any bull from anyone, even from the city’s most psychotic villains. I won’t say anything about the growling voice that everyone seems to make fun of, because really, it does work at delivering words of menace when they’re needed.

(At this point, I’d like to issue a SPOILER ALERT!) Anyone who knows the name “Harvey Dent” before seeing this movie already knows that Dent becomes the villainous Two-Face. This becomes an important transition midway through the film, as Dent does become Two-Face as the result of an incident that (SPOILER ALERT!) takes the life of Rachel, because Batman could only save one of them. With half of his face horribly burnt, Dent’s personality changes as well.

He’s out for vengeance against those who betrayed him, and goes through many lengths to do it. And this man was supposed to be Gotham’s new hero. This is all very powerful stuff, as he transforms into the very hateful criminals he was trying to protect Gotham from; but due to deceit and false hopes for the city, he only becomes no different than the rest of them. It’s a tragic portrait, and it’s also even more thought-provoking when you realize that this is who Batman could have become if Bruce Wayne were corruptible.

(END OF SPOILER ALERT!) “The Dark Knight” gave movie audiences a new, truly-intimidating villain in the Joker. This villainous character has already made himself known in so many Batman tales that it seemed inevitable that he would show up to battle Batman. But this representation of the We are word of mouth for your EYES!

Joker, portrayed by Heath Ledger, is just excellent.

Ledger may not have been people’s first choice to play the role, but you never see Ledger in this performance—you only see the Joker. The Joker is not only darkly funny, but he’s also menacing and very scary. He may look like a clown, but there is no humor with him whatsoever. This guy is vicious and twisted, and worst of all, intelligent and enjoying every minute of what he does.

The scariest scene in the movie is seen through home-video footage of the Joker as he tortures and interrogates one of the Batman impersonators—the realism of the footage and the sickness of the Joker will make any audience member silent minutes after this scene is over. But what about the action? While “Batman Begins” was a bit annoying in its camerashaking, “The Dark Knight” delivers its action with swift camera movements so that everything is seen and admired. The action itself is exhilarating and some of the best I’ve ever seen in a film. The best action scene comes midway through the film—it’s a car chase through the streets of Gotham, and the situation is made even more intense in that it’s also a race against time for Batman to save somebody.

The editing isn’t as quick as most action films like to do; it just shows the action head-on and puts the viewer right in the middle of it. Oh, and there are also new, improved Batman-gadgetry, invented by Q-like Lucius Fox (Morgan Freeman). This includes a type of sonar-invention that allows Batman to keep track of everyone in the city via their own technologies. Even Fox can’t help but think that this is wrong on so many levels.

Christopher Nolan has crafted a masterpiece with “The Dark Knight.” It’s strange how a film about a man dressed as a bat can have the same amount of gravity as a crime thriller such as “The Departed.” But with a clear vision of concepts and ethics, a series of masterful action sequences, an even-more-complex hero, quite possibly the most memorable movie villain in a long time, and even more elements that I don’t even think I mentioned in this review, “The Dark Knight” is the best superhero film I’ve ever seen.

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Ennis Realty Since 1969

“We Sell Batesville and Independence County Every Day”

Karen Gardner / Lesa Dame / Jason Gillihan Gary L. Ennis / Mike Ennis

446 Harrison Street - Batesville, AR 72501 870-793-6891 email: ennisrealty@suddenlinkmail.com

870.307.0331

2550 Harrison August 2013 21

To get started, visit TheCitizensBank.net, call us at 870.698.6286, or drop by any Citizens Bank walk-in location.

Experiencing God in the Everyday Laundry Day and Easter Pastor Chad Grigsby

Nothing is more mundane to me than laundry. Laundry in our house is usually not a one day affair. It would be better described as laundry days. Don’t get me wrong, doing laundry is not hard. It is just hard to do it all in one day, especially with the disappearance of random socks. Seriously, where do they go? On day one I usually make it through the washing and drying but the clothes don’t make it out of the basket or off the couch.

Why are couches such great places for laundry to collect? Folding takes another day, while putting the clothes in their proper place is yet one more day. By the end of the laundrypalooza it’s time to do laundry again. Ugh! Will it never end?

Most of us live in the mundane world of laundry. Our days are not filled with excitement and wonder day in and day out. We love our lives, but they are filled with normal stuff like work, kid’s activities, mowing the lawn, and the never ending cycle of laundry.

Most of us live ordinary lives and do ordinary things in ordinary ways. And what’s wrong with that? Nothing! In fact, I would say we

need more ordinary in our lives.

Let us take a look at Moses in the Bible; he did not go about parting the Red Sea every day of his life, he only performed this extraordinary event once. Most of his life was spent wandering around in the desert with a group of complaining church people. This doesn’t sound so glamorous; in fact it makes ordinary laundry sound luxurious!

As followers of Jesus we celebrate Easter once a year which by some could be considered ordinary. But for the believer, every day is Easter. We live in the light of the resurrection of the Son of God year round, this is extraordinary.

So the next time we are tempted to see our lives as mundane, remember that every day is Easter and this day’s ordinary events could just hold the extraordinary.

The key is seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary. N

Things To Do Reverend “Smokie Norful” Rev. “Smokie Norful” will be appearing at UACCB Friday, August 2nd from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, you can contact Slayton Thomas at 870692-0793 or at slaytondrum@msn.com.

5th Annual White River’s Got Talent Tryouts Thursday, August 29th and Tuesday, September 3rd from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at UACCB in Independence Hall there will be tryouts for the 5th Annual White River’s Got Talent. Participants will be limited to the first 30 acts each night.

Exceptional Abilities Pageant This Special Needs Pageant is a wonderful event for the participants, their families, and all involved.

Join us Saturday August 31st at 2:00 p.m. at UACCB’s Independence Hall. To sponsor or volunteer, please visit www.eapageant.com.

All Over Independence Just Chillin Business After Hours Just Chillin will hold a Business After Hours Thursday, August 8th from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

INDEPENDENCE COUNTY LIBRARY 368 East Main Street Batesville, Arkansas 72501 (870) 793-8814 www.indcolib.com Hours of Operation: Sun. 1:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Mon. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Tues. - Sat. 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Chamber writes grant on behalf of School District Danell Hetrick The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce has successfully written a grant on behalf of the Batesville School District. The grant was written as part of the chamber’s grant writing contract with the City of Batesville. The district will receive grant funding in the amount of $44,000 for sidewalk infrastructure from the Arkansas Safe Routes to School Program. The Batesville School District will use the funding for sidewalk reconstruction and to add to the existing sidewalk and crosswalk inventory surrounding Central Magnet Elementary School.

The Arkansas Safe Routes to School program is a 100% federal aid program administered by the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department. The program provides funding for projects and programs that benefit school children in grades k-8.

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Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce announces “Prettiest Places” contest Danell Hetrick

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce is calling for photo submissions of the prettiest places throughout the Batesville area. The Batesville area includes a large region, which spans from Newport to Mountain View and Ash Flat to Bald Knob. Photo submissions are limited to scenic and historic places, and must include a brief description and location information regarding the photographed place.

The Batesville Area Chamber will accept the top 100 submissions through August 31, 2013. Once submissions are made, the photographs will be posted to Facebook for a viewers’ vote. Voters will be asked to choose the top ten prettiest places. The photograph to receive the most votes will be given special recognition on the tourism page of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce website and don the title “Batesville Area Prettiest Place of 2013.”

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Please submit digital photos in a JPEG or PDF format to danell.hetrick@mybatesville.org. Physical photos will be accepted, but will not be returned and may be subject to another shoot for posting purposes.

Please send physical photos to: Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce/Attn: Danell Hetrick/409 Vine St./Batesville, AR 72501.

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Faces

The Second Annual Kids Triathlon for Literacy was a big win with 80 participants!

Saturday, July 13th was a perfect day at Lyon College for participants and volunteers alike. The event was sponsored by Bad Boy Mowers and money was raised for the Ozark Foothills Literacy Project. Thanks to all the participants, volunteers, parents, and especially to Nicole Stroud, Director of the Ozark Foothills Literacy Project.

It was a great turnout for the Batesville Braces ribbon cutting Monday, July 15th! They are now accepting appointments at 2940 Harrison Street.

See more at www.eyeonmag.com.

The 70th Annual White River Water Carnival Press Conference was held at the Chamber on July 12th.

Ribbon Cutting at The Batesville Landing. Cutting the ribbon is owner is Brandon Holmes.

Join the Medicine Shoppe’s Vitamin Club Bring in a vitamin prescription from your child’s doctor and your child will receive FREE monthly refills!

For children ages 2 to 12

2080 Harrison Street, Batesville 870-793-2161 Eagle Mountain Magnet and Batesville Junior High Archery teams have returned from the NASP World Archery Tournament held in St. Louis, Missouri on May 28 - 30. Three thousand archers from 170 teams competed in elementary, middle school, and high school divisions. The “Top 3” teams and “Top 5” boys and girls in each division were recognized at the awards ceremony held in the Edward Jones Dome. Eagle Mountain Magnet finished third in the elementary division. Gina Batesville Junior High Archery Team Bottom Row (left to right) Destiny Kling, Hayden Mace, Colton Taylor, Alex Neri, Zachary Jamora, Jacob Warner, and Molly Mellor.

Middle Row (left to right) Elizabeth Harris, Leigha Adkins, Natalie Craft, Jackson Hunter, Brock Sturdivant, Katie Allen, Tera Culp, Natalie Patterson, and Tera Stevenson.

Back Row (left to right) Coach Susan Parker, Jesse White, Kyle Rutherford, Shawn Patterson, Jack Looney, Brandon Brokaw, Jordan Nash, Angel Taylor, Hudson Anderson, and Coach Pat Rutherford.

Eagle Mountain Magnet Archery Team Bottom Row (left to right) Zachary Shields, Jaysa Pearce, Kiarah Benton, Gaven Smart, Jack Allen, Mary Dugger, Emilee Gerhardt, Autumn Winkle, and Crystal Marshall.

Middle Row (left to right) Juan Medina, Caleb Anderson, Damian Lora, Nathan Poole, Emma Ezell, Justin Lewallen, Clayton Roberson, and Maison Lewis.

Back Row (left to right) Coach Susan Parker, Jared Stagner, Dailyn Crain, Ashley Lamkin, Hannah McCoy, Coach Mimi Goodman, Gina Mishark, Vanessa Mohlke, Jesse Morton, and Coach Michele Gerhardt.

Mishark placed second in the elementary division.

Tera Culp finished fifth in the middle school division.

Batesville Junior High’s team finished sixth. Eagle Mountain Magnet archers finishing in the “Top Ten” in their grade level are Dailyn Crain (7th), Hannah McCoy (10th), Clayton Roberson (10th), and Justin Lewallen (10th). Hayden Mace from Batesville Junior High finished seventh out of all seventh graders competing at the tournament.

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Brian Tuggle with John 3:16 thanks all of the sponsors for the new multi-purpose building to be built on the grounds at John 3:16 Ministries.

Ben Stone Named UACCB Academic All-Star Kim Whitten The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville announces Ben Stone, of Cave City, as the college’s Academic All-Star for the 2013-14 academic year. Ben will represent UACCB at the Arkansas Association of Two-Year College (AATYC) annual conference in October. He will also receive a $500 scholarship for this honor, as well as opening the door for other possible scholarship opportunities.

Along with an impressive grade point average of 3.9, Ben is very involved in the UACCB campus community. He will serve the student body this year as president of the Student Government Association. He was SGA senator last year and worked closely with the organization, assisting with the management of many of the student activities that were provided on campus. He will also serve as Circle K International vice president during the 2013-14 and he is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society.

According to Brian Berry, Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Services, “Ben’s strengths include his intelligence, work ethic, sense of humor and drive to be successful.” He adds that Ben is a diligent leader on campus.

“He is always willing to volunteer and is enthusiastic about service to his fellow students and community. His work includes involvement with CKI fundraising for the Eliminate project to end neonatal tetanus.”

Stone will begin his sophomore year at UACCB this Fall and plans to graduate in May of 2014 and transfer to either the University of Arkansas or University of Central Arkansas to complete a master’s degree in journalism. His goal is to work in international journalism. When describing his long range plans, he uses a quote from Woody Allen, “If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans.” N Ben Stone

The NADT Dancers performed at Celebrate America in Riverside Park. Citizens Bank sponsored this free event for the 16th consecutive year. Shown above are Jodah Gibson, Jamie Pickett, Makenzie McDonald, Olivia Tuggle.

Above are Jodah Gibson, Jamie Pickett, Olivia Tuggle, Nick Nail, Makenzie McDonald.

Above are Jadyn Stewart, Beth McBride, Erin Rider, Alex McNabb.

Above are Erin Rider (off camera to the left), Frt. Row: Jadyn Stewart, Jodah Gibson, Makenzie McDonald, Olivia Tuggle, Jamie Pickett. Back Row: Beth McBride, Alex McNabb, Nick Nail, and Cindy Hubberd, NADT President.

UACCB Announces Vice Chancellor for Academics Kim Whitten Ms. Deborah Frazier, Chancellor for University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville, has announced that a Vice Chancellor for Academics has been hired to lead the academic division. Dr. Brian Shonk joined the UACCB leadership team in June.

A native of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida, Dr. Shonk served as Dean of Career and Technical Education at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville, FL. His passion for education came from teaching criminal justice courses as an adjunct instructor while serving as a law enforcement officer full time for over 10 years with the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. His educational background includes two associate degrees from NWFSC, a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Troy University, and Master of Public Administration and Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of West Florida.

His strong desire to create a variety of learning opportunities can be seen in his leadership role at Northwest Florida State College where he was responsible for over 60 academic programs. He stated in his interview that he has a “true passion for helping others succeed in their educational endeavors in an effort to improve their lives.”

“I am excited to be included in the UACCB team and I look forward to being

a part in guiding the school to future successes,” Dr. Shonk states. “I know from personal experience that attending and graduating from a community college is life changing for students, and I understand the positive impact community colleges have on the economic viability of the communities they serve. It is my goal to learn and build upon the strengths of UACCB; to familiarize myself with the students served by our college; and to engage local community and business leaders to better understand and meet their needs with graduates ready to be placed in the work force” “Dr. Shonk has already proven himself an asset to UACCB,” says Chancellor Frazier. “To illustrate his desire to create a learning environment for North Central Arkansas students, he started developing a federal grant application shortly after accepting his position. In an effort to establish a working relationship with UACCB personnel, he communicated his past grant experiences with the division chairs well before he was actually on the UACCB campus.”

Frazier adds, “Within the short time frame Dr. Shonk has been on campus, he has already demonstrated a work ethic based on integrity and honesty with a desire to make decisions that are student centered and community focused.”

Dr. Shonk and his wife Cathy, and their three children, Ross (13), Chase (11), and Catie (10), are looking forward Brian Shonk to becoming a part of the Batesville area community.

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Two WRMC Employees Elected to Quality Advisory Board Annie Solis

Holly Robbins

Jody Smotherman

Two staff members of White River Medical Center (WRMC) have been elected to a six-member Arkansas quality advisory board. Members of 45 Arkansas hospitals voted to elect Jody Smotherman and Holly Robbins to serve on the Inpatient Quality Initiative (IQI) advisory board. Smotherman will serve a threeyear term as quality improvement director, while Robbins’ term as abstractor is two years.

Smotherman is the Director of Quality, Case Management, and Clinical Document Improvement at WRMC and Holly Robbins is the CMS Coordinator at WRMC. The Arkansas IQI is a program developed by the Arkansas Hospital Association, Arkansas Medicaid, and Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care (AFMC). The program rewards hospitals that improve the quality of care according to the Arkansas Medicaid Program’s clinical priorities including Care Coordination at discharge, obstetrics and tobacco cessation. Since 2007, Arkansas Medicaid has awarded a total of $16.7 million to hospitals that have participated in the program and successfully improved care. As members of this board, Smotherman and Robbins will assist in developing new measures and making recommendations for Arkansas IQI quality programs.

The program has earned national attention for its innovative involvement with the health care community and reflects a growing movement toward rewarding hospitals for commitment to quality and providing evidence-based care to their patients.

WRMC is the only hospital in the state with two active members serving on the board consecutively. N

First Community Bank along with the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce and White River Medical Center held a Business After Hours at WRMC’s Meditation Garden on the 2nd floor of the newly constructed East Tower. There was a dedication and unveiling of a sculpture by John Ellis.

The sculpture is in honor of the dedicated service of Boris Dover and Dianne Lamberth to the White River Health System Board of Directors and our community. Above, Dale Cole, First Community Bank CEO, thanks Dianne Lamberth and Boris Dover for their years of volunteer service to White River Medical Center and to the community. Below, Crystal Johnson, Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce President & CEO, thanks First Community Bank and White River Medical Center for their substantial community involvement. To the right, Boris Dover and Dianne Lamberth are pictured in front of the sculpture.

Eye On Above, Gary Bebow, White River Health Systems CEO, welcomes the crowd. To the right, Chamber Ambassadors Richard Hawkins, Modern Woodmen of America Agent, and Robi Plumlee, The Hair Shoppe Owner.

Van Zandt Joins Batesville Neurology

Independence

Annie Solis treatment of nervous system disorders, including diseases Gary L. Bebow, Administrator/CEO of White River of the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. Dr. Van Medical Center (WRMC), is pleased to welcome Dr. Janelle Zandt is accepting patients by referral for the treatment Van Zandt, Neurologist, to the WRMC Medical Staff and of neurological conditions, including stroke, migraine Batesville Neurology Clinic. headaches, seizure disorders, multiple sclerosis, and other Dr. Van Zandt received her medical degree from neuromuscular disorders. She will assume responsibility for Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee. She all patients previously seen at the clinic by other providers completed her Internship and Neurology without a referral. Any patient with questions about referral requirements Residency at Texas Tech University may call the clinic for assistance. In Health Science Center in Lubbock, addition to her clinic practice, Dr. Van Texas. She is a member of the American Zandt is available for consultations in Academy of Neurology and the Arkansas the hospital.

Medical Society. Dr. Van Zandt has “I look forward to providing practiced Neurology in Little Rock for neurological care to the patients of this nearly 20 years.

“Dr. Van Zandt’s knowledge and region,” said Dr. Van Zandt. “Allowing expertise regarding neurological conditions patients to get the care they need close allow Batesville Neurology to continue to home is important.” providing the quality care our patients Batesville Neurology is located at expect,” said Bebow. “We are glad to have 1699 Harrison Street, Suite D. Dr. Van her here.”

Zandt can be reached by calling (870) Neurologists provide diagnosis and Dr. Janelle Van Zandt 307-0488.

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UACCB Announces Outstanding Alumni, Jalisa Milligan

Kim Whitten The University of Arkansas Community College at elementary education.

Batesville announces Jalisa Milligan, of Cave City, as the Although Jalisa says she is very proud of her degrees, college's 2013 Outstanding Alumni. Jalisa will represent her biggest professional accomplishment was becoming UACCB during the Arkansas Association of Two-Year Nationally Board Certified in 2009. Not only did Jalisa College (AATYC) annual conference in October. pass her boards on the first try, she did so in one year.

After working at White Rodgers in Batesville for “Education is one of the few things that can never be 13 years, Jalisa took an opportunity to pursue her taken away,” Jalisa states. “I am a first generation college education full time when the company offered severance graduate and I am very proud of my accomplishments. packages to some of their employees in 2000. Jalisa However, I could not have done so had I not received enrolled fulltime at UACCB with assistance from Ms. my educational foundation at UACCB.” Her advice to Judy Lassiter and a non-traditional grant that she was others who have similar goals is “work hard and take awarded. Her goal at that point was to every opportunity to utilize the many obtain an associate degree in accounting. resources that are available. I never gave However, after completing her first up on my dream once I set my mind to it semester and doing well in her academics, and anyone else can do the same thing.”

Jalisa made the decision to fulfill her Jalisa is in her 10th year of teaching lifelong dream of becoming a teacher. third grade at Cave City and says she One of Jalisa’s instructors at that truly feels her purpose is to inspire and time was Ms. Debbie Frazier (now teach children. Jalisa’s husband Rick Chancellor), and she provided additional works for the Highway Department. encouragement and guidance that Jalisa She also has two sons: Brandon who needed to move ahead. After graduating recently completed his master’s degree with her associate’s degree, Jalisa in accounting and is working at a firm in transferred to Arkansas State University Little Rock; and Taylor who graduated on a scholarship where she graduated this past May from Cave City High School magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree and is in an electrician apprenticeship in early childhood education in December program in Conway. Along with travel, of 2003. After teaching two years at Cave Jalisa is interested in continuing to City elementary, Jalisa went back to Jalisa Milligan pursue future educational opportunities.

ASU and completed a master’s degree in N

Swift Joins White River Medical Center

Annie Solis Gary L. Bebow, Administrator/CEO of White River Memphis. She is a member of the American Academy of Medical Center (WRMC), is pleased to welcome Dr. Pediatrics and the American College of Physicians.

“Dr. Swift’s diverse area of Shannon Swift, Internal Medicineexpertise makes her a welcome Pediatrics, to the WRMC Medical addition to our community,” said Staff. Dr. Shannon Swift will be Bebow. “We look forward to working in private practice at White River with her at WRMC.” Diagnostic Clinic.

"I was first introduced to this With a dual specialty in Internal beautiful community over four years Medicine and Pediatrics, Dr. Swift has ago, and have looked forward to the opportunity to work with patients settling down here. It's great to be of all ages. Her scope of practice will back in Arkansas! I am eager and include primary care for adults with ready to start providing adult and complex chronic medical conditions pediatric medical care to this area,” such as diabetes and many others. Dr. said Swift.

Swift’s pediatric practice will focus Dr. Swift is accepting new patients on children of all ages with a special for Internal Medicine and Pediatric interest in pre-teens and adolescents. patients. She accepts Medicare and Dr. Swift received her medical degree from the University of Medicaid Assignment, as well as most Arkansas for Medical Sciences commercial insurance. Her office is (UAMS) in Little Rock. She completed located at 3443 Harrison Street. Call a Residency in Internal Medicine(870) 698-1635 for an appointment.

Pediatrics at the University of Dr. Shannon Swift N Tennessee Health Science Center in

Batesville Area Arts Council Gallery at 246 E. Main Street, Batesville, AR 72501 Tuesday - Friday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.batesvilleareaartscouncil.org (870) 793-3382 August 2013   33

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City Engineer Announces Run for Batesville School Board Submitted

Damon Shea Johnson, Batesville City Engineer announced recently that he intends to run for Batesville School Board in the upcoming 2013 election. "Education is the foundation of success and I am committed to making a positive impact for our students that will help them be successful in life" Johnson said.

Johnson grew up in Batesville and graduated from Batesville High School class of 1993. He pursued his education at the University of Arkansas and earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in 1999. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Arkansas.

Johnson began his professional career in Fayetteville as a project engineer for Mobley Contractors immediately upon graduation and transferred with the company to Batesville in 2003.

In 2007, Johnson accepted the job as City Engineer

with the City of Batesville. "It is very gratifying to work to improve my home town by finding ways to enhance city services to meet the needs of our citizens. Working with the school system as a board member will be another opportunity to make things better right here at home." Johnson said.

Johnson lives in downtown Batesville with his wife Crystal England Johnson, President/CEO of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, and their daughter Hattie, a first grade student at Central Elementary School. The Batesville School Board election will take place Tuesday, September 17, 2013. Deadline to register to vote in the school board election is August 19, 2013.

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August 2013 35

The Myopic Life Finishing Well

Kristi Price I stood at the finish line, anxiously watching for a boy in a black shirt and red cap. That would be my son rounding the bend of the final leg of his first triathlon. I saw him. Hands high, I rushed the line, whooping and cheering him on to the end.

His uplifted face was one gigantic grin as he sailed into the finish tent, grabbed his Gatorade, and chugged.

“How’d I do?” he panted.

I said “You finished!” Of course, he wanted his stats, his ranking, all the data that would signify the value of his finish. But no sheet stapled to a board could capture the heart that had gone into preparing for this event.

Ethan is almost nine, and up until a month before the Bad Boy-sponsored triathlon (a swim/ ride/run event) to benefit the Ozark Foothills Literacy Council, he couldn’t even look at a bike without panicking, much less ride one. He insisted I register him for the race, though, and took that as the motivator he needed to get bike/swim ready. Running, he does well. But oh, the biking was hard. He finished, though! His ranking that day meant nothing to me as I thought of what he’d overcome to get there.

We have a tendency to evaluate our finishes

ClassiC

in graphable terms. We look at return-oninvestment, profit margins, attendance, money raised, social media “likes,” and so on. Those of us who plan and execute events for a living care very much about the value of the finish. It is to our detriment if we don’t. I have held several jobs during my career (that I loosely define as public relations) that have all involved major event planning. We are fools if we don’t clearly identify the goal of the event. When managing a budget, promoting to the public, asking for donations, and making a lasting impression, it is imperative that we clearly understand our goal. We do want a valuable finish.

But sometimes, we can be so numbersoriented that we miss the spirit of the finish.

Maybe it won’t be our most lucrative event, or the one that pulls in so much new business, but the intangibles sometimes hold greater worth than the quantifiable data. Alongside the reports and calculations, we should be looking for the stories.

If, after the event, we find ourselves sharing stories about the people, their names, their hardships, their triumphs, their hearts… then the finish was probably more than valuable. It was invaluable.

Let us be so invested that we’re looking past the data and asking ourselves, Was a life changed?

Because at the end of the day, that’s the only finish worth running for.

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Kallsnick, Inc. A Coleman Dairy Distributor 423 Lawrence Street, Batesville, AR (870) 793-3924

Serving Batesville and the surrounding area for over 48 years Dairy Products, Deli Meat, Frozen Foods, Fresh Produce Paper Products, Concession Items . . .and More Walk-Ins Always Welcome Open Mon.-Fri. 8-5 and Sat. 8- 1

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Arkansas Eyecare Vision Source---------- 40 Arkansas Hospice-------------------------15 Autry’s-------------------------------------- 40 Bad Boy Mowers--------------------------- 36 Batesville Printing-------------------------- 8 Carlee’s Crown Shop----------------------- 3 Citizens Bank------------------------------- 23 Coldwell Banker Choice Realty------------ 16 CustomEyes Vision Care, Inc.------------- 9 Dairy Queen-------------------------------- 5 Downtown Guide--------------------------- 34 Ennis Realty-------------------------------- 21 First Community Bank--------------------- 2 Heels and Helmets------------------------- 21 Independence County Recycling Center-- 6 Jonathan’s Fine Jewelry------------------- 11 Just Chillin’--------------------------------- 15 Kallsnick, Inc.------------------------------ 39 KBAP 88.1 FM------------------------------ 39 Kent’s Firestone---------------------------- 37 Liberty Bank-------------------------------- 27 Living Spaces------------------------------ 21 Mark Martin Kia---------------------------- 38 Merchants and Planters Bank------------- 39 NADT Dance Academy--------------------- 15 Natalies Restaurant and Catering--------- 13 Reeves Propane---------------------------- 17 Renee Taylor Travel Company------------- 10 Robert O. Seat Photography-------------- 17 Something Extra--------------------------- 13 Southern Bank----------------------------- 10 Southern Tire Mart------------------------- 40 The Batesville Chamber of Commerce---- 8 The Bull 105.7----------------------------- 22 The Medicine Shoppe---------------------- 28 The Property Shoppe---------------------- 3 Thompson’s Jewelry----------------------- 37 Weddings by Connie and Jennifer--------- 19 Welcome To Independence---------------- 25 White River Chiropractic------------------- 6 White River Health System---------------- 4 Wood-Lawn Nursing Home---------------- 3

The Best of Modern Praise and Worship Independence Counties very own local, contemporary worship station

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August 2013 39

Autry’s White River Furniture

The “We Love Customers” Store!