Eye On Independence November 2014

Eye On Independence www.eyeonmag.com

It’s A Team Effort Leadership Batesville North Arkansas Dance Theatre A Publication of Meadowland Media, Inc.

November 2014

S U E V I G

and We’ll

Change Your Life!

TRY

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Ge EE for FR !* YS 60 DA

In This Issue 6/ Editor’s Note Thanks Again

11/ Your Health

It’s a Team Effort

12/ Cover Story

Leadership Batesville

14/ Feature

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Ten Years of Toe Shoes

17/ The Myopic Life Election Month

18/ I Do

Campbell - Davidson Wedding

20/ Smith’s Verdict ***1/2 Old Yeller

22/ Tales Of a Transplanted Fashionista Blush Boutique and Spa

24/ Things To Do 26/ Faces 32/ Batesville Area Arts Council 33/ Downtown Guide 36/ Experiencing God in the Everyday Perspective

39/ Notes from the Clearing Mus....ic

Cover Photography by Kassie Foree Cover Design by Joseph Thomas

Meet Your Writers...

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.

Leigh Keller is a high school guidance counselor 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.

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 Kristi Price is on staff with Fellowship Bible Church of Batesville as Ministry Coordinator.

She enjoys conversations about community and connection, and she loves small town living.

Kristi is married and mother to three children.

   THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED BY:

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.

MeadowLand Media, Inc. P. O. Box 196, Grubbs, AR 72431 870.503.1150 kthomas@eyeonmag.com PUBLISHER: Kimberlee Thomas Associate EDITOR: Joseph Thomas MANAGING EDITOR: Joseph Thomas ADVERTISING: Kimberlee Thomas Creative Director : Joseph Thomas AD DESIGN Department: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas PROOFING Department: Joseph Thomas Kimberlee Thomas

Eagle Pest

Management, LLC 1775 Porter Street, Batesville

Staff PHOTOGRAPHERS: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas Robert O. Seat PRINTING COMPANY: Rockwell Publishing

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.

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870-307-0582 Toll Free: 877-313-2453 Commercial and Residential Your Termite and Pest Control Services Specialist Serving North Central Arkansas Waymon Long President

wlong1@sbcglobal.net

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 Thanks Again Joseph Thomas

Thanks again for grabbing us up on your way here and there. We love to tag along and follow you home every chance we get and talk about all of the great things going on in your neighborhood.

This month we offer up a cornucopia of goodies, including our cover of the Leadership Kimberlee and Joseph Thomas Batesville Class of 2014, our feature of the North Arkansas Dance Theatre’s “The Nutcracker” and Kristi Price’s look at our local elections. Chad Grigsby speaks of perspectives, Kimberlee Thomas brings us the Campbell - Davidson Wedding, and Tanner Smith reviews the classic, “Old Yeller.” Alisa R. Lancaster writes about a local team effort, Leigh Keller discusses the Blush Boutique and Spa, we have plenty of Things To Do, local Faces, positive community news and I bring you another installment of Notes from the Clearing entitled “Mus... ic.” We hope you enjoy, stay as warm or cool as you like and have a tremendous Thanksgiving! Also, we’d like to thank all of our veterans for their selfless service to our country. N

Footnote.

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Same- and next-day appointments are often available. To schedule your appointment in Newport or Batesville, call 870-523-9100.

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We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

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November 2014  7

2015 Ozark Foothills FilmFest Accepting Submissions Submitted

The 14th Annual Ozark Foothills FilmFest is currently accepting submissions. The festival will take place April 3, 4, 10, and 11, 2015 at several venues in Batesville, Arkansas.

Entries are accepted in two categories: OFFICIAL SELECTIONS. Narrative or documentary films forty-five minutes or longer. Special consideration is given to films of particular relevance to rural audiences based on setting, subject, or point of view. Filmmakers whose work is chosen as an Official Selection will be invited to attend and participate in a post screening discussion. Lodging and a travel stipend are provided for filmmakers traveling more than 50 miles to attend.

SHORT FILM SHOWCASES. Narrative, documentary, animated, or experimental films less than forty-five minutes in length. Showcases are organized by theme or genre. Special consideration is given to filmmakers from Arkansas and neighboring states. A travel stipend is provided for filmmakers with works fifteen minutes or more in length, who are traveling more than 50 miles to attend.

This year, the festival is introducing the “From Around Here� Arkansas Film Award. Cash prizes of $500 will be awarded to a narrative and a documentary film fifteen minutes or more in length, shot in Arkansas by an Arkansas filmmaker.

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Entries should be submitted on DVD and accompanied by a $15 entry fee for Official Selection entries or a $10 fee for Short Film Showcase entries and an entry form. Entry fees are waived for entries by Arkansas filmmakers received on or before November 30, 2014. Additional information and an entry from are available at www.ozarkfoothillsfilmfest.org/2015_ film_entries.html. Material should be mailed to: Ozark Foothills FilmFest, 195 Peel Road, Locust Grove, AR 72550. The entry deadline is December 31, 2014. For additional information, call 870-251-1189 or email ozarkfilm@wildblue.net.

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We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

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A Simple Gift Faith Posey

Since 1993 Samaritan’s Purse has delivered over 100 million shoeboxes to needy children in over 150 countries around the world through their project, Operation Christmas Child. Last year Batesville and Independence County residents filled over 2000 shoeboxes that were sent to grateful children worldwide.

Calvary Baptist Church located at 1775 Lyon Street in Batesville will be the drop off location again this year during the National Collection Week, November 18 – 25.

Filling a shoebox for a child in need is one of the simplest things you can do to change a life. Start with a sturdy shoe box or a plastic container of the same size. Fill your shoebox with toiletry items, school supplies, small toys, socks, and other sundry items you feel a child might need. Place a $7 check made payable to Samaritan’s Purse in an envelope and place it on top of the items in your box, this helps to cover shipping and cost for witness materials and New Testament Bibles that the children will also receive.

Bring your shoebox or boxes to Calvary Baptist Church during the drop off week. There will be volunteers on hand to receive your box. 2000 grateful children received shoeboxes from Batesville last year and there are many

more hoping for a box this Christmas. Grab your shoeboxes and start collecting blessings to send. Quite likely you will find you have been blessed in return by offering this simple gift.

To find out more about Samaritan’s Purse and the Christmas Child Project or to track your box log on to www. samaritanspurse.org. N

November 2014 9

Despite Low Threat, WRMC Prepares for Ebola Annie Solis

The potential for a major Ebola outbreak is striking fear in people across the country. White River Medical Center (WRMC) has not treated any cases of Ebola; in fact, the likelihood of the Ebola virus reaching Batesville is remote, but that isn’t stopping leaders at WRMC from developing plans to prepare the medical staff, employees, and volunteers in case any threats should occur.

Although WRMC’s Infection Prevention department has been collaborating with the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) can be a rough one. The road to good health starts since the outbreak occurred in West Africa earlier this with your family doctor. year, planning and preparedness have increased as the virus has made an appearance in the United States.

A screening process has been developed for all You have a higher risk of developing diabetes if you: patients entering WRMC showing symptoms consistent • Have low HDL cholesterol.

• Are over the age of 30. with the virus, including fever, weakness, headache, • Have high blood pressure.

• Have a family history abdominal pain, or more severe symptoms. The screening of diabetes.

• Have any type of thyroid process includes questions about travel history and or other glandular problem.

• Are overweight. possible contact with patients who have Ebola.

• Do not exercise regularly.

“We realize that while the chances are low, the potential for having a patient with the virus seek our For help finding a family doctor in your area, call (870) 262-6149 for your FREE Physician Directory, or visit our online directory at facility for care is still a possibility,” said Gary Bebow, www.WhiteRiverHealthSystem.com.

CEO of White River Health System (WRHS). “We are being proactive. Our goal, should we encounter a patient with the virus, is to limit exposure so we can keep our patients, families, visitors, and employees safe.”

White River Health System is an Equal Opportunity Provider & Employer An isolated care location has been specially designed and constructed inside WRMC to safely accommodate a hazardous situation. Additionally a core team, a volunteer group of WRMC employees, consists of twelve nurses and two respiratory therapists. The core team of care professionals has received specific training regarding the virus, transmission, patient care measures, and caregiver safety. Should a patient with the virus enter WRMC, members of the core team will be the only individuals providing care to the patient until he or she can be transferred by the CDC to a hospital specializing in this care. The core team is required to wear specialized personal protective equipment and have recently undergone training in using the equipment appropriately to prevent the spread of the virus. Additionally, the team and all in contact with any infected patient will be quarantined as directed by the CDC. Procedures have also been developed to educate all clinical personnel of the protocol that is to be used, as well as inform of the sensitivity of the situation.

“The people of this area should be comforted in knowing that we are taking this very seriously,” said Tammy Gavin, Administrator/ Chief Operating Officer of WRMC. “While we hope we never have to put our practice to use, we feel very prepared should a case present itself.”

Leaders at WRMC are collaborating with leaders and physicians Members of the core team of care professionals at Stone County Medical Center in Mountain View, and the WRMC receive hands-on training during a recent drill Medical Complex Satellite ER in Cherokee Village to develop held at WRMC. A major part of the the drill focused on putting on, removing, and disposing of protocol that ensures the safest possible transfer of an infected personal protective equipment safely. The drill is patient to WRMC. one of the many actions taken by WRMC to ensure If you have questions or concerns about WRHS’ preparedness to its preparedness if a patient should come to the hospital with symptoms consistent with the Ebola appropriately contain a possible exposure, please reach out through Virus. the Contact Us feature at whiteriverhealthsystem.com.

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THE DIABETIC HIGHWAY

WhiteRiverHealthSystem.com

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We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

Your Health

It’s a Team Effort Alisa R. Lancaster When Jermey Qualls was promoted to Chief Deputy of the Independence County Sheriff’s Department (ICSD), he knew that he would be leading one of the finest, most professional Sheriff’s Departments in the state. He also knew that he wanted the residents of Independence County, whether they lived in a city, a town, or the county itself, to get to know their Sheriff’s Department better.

According to Chief Qualls, he felt it was important to enhance the community’s knowledge of, involvement in, and support of the Independence County Sheriff’s Department. In order to accomplish that objective, he formed the ICSD Community Relations Team (CRT).

As it’s Facebook page states, “The purpose & mission of the ICSD Community Relations Team is to improve public awareness of the various operations of the Sheriff’s Department (SWAT team, dive team, canine unit, reserve officer group, domestic violence/sex crimes unit, patrol division, criminal investigation division, mounted patrol, and other specialized areas), promote the safety of our residents through various educational programs & events, solicit public involvement and support for the department through increased positive interaction between the public and the department, and to assist in providing the officers the resources needed to most effectively serve and protect our residents.”

Chief Qualls reached out to two of his friends and their

wive’s, who are active in the community, for assistance in getting the CRT started. Batesville Chamber Chairman of the Board and Bad Boy Mowers General Counsel Scott Lancaster and his wife Alisa, an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with UAMS North Central, and Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member and Reichardt Insurance Agency owner, Randy Reichardt and his wife, Michelle, a licensed insurance agent. Both, Lancaster and Reichardt, are also commissioned deputies. Chief Qualls said, “The Lancasters and the Reichardts continually demonstrate their commitment to making our community a better place to live, and I was confident that they could help me better connect the residents of our county with the Sheriff’s Department that serves them.” Chief Qualls wife, Ivy who works for White River Medical Center as an insurance biller in patient accounts, shares Qualls dedication to making a difference in the county and is also a member of the team. “We guys can talk about it,” Qualls stated, “but it is our wives who will see that we get it done.” In describing her husband Ivy said, “Jermey is truly dedicated to making the Sheriff’s Department the best that it can be, both for the officers who work there and for the community they serve.”

One of the things that the CRT will be doing to carry out its mission will be to hold events for members of the community. The first event, a ladies safety awareness and basic self-defense class recently held at UACCB, was a huge success. Approximately 170 women attended the event Team effort continues on page 31

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November 2014 11

Eye On Cover Story Leadership Batesville Joseph Thomas

Kimberlee and I have been fortunate to work in Independence County along side many wonderful people from the area. It affords us an outside look at the work being done here and the growth that is being fought for by those progressive minds and seemingly tireless bodies that make up the county leaders (officially and unofficially): Independence County Quorum Court, Batesville City Council, Senator David Wyatt, State Representative James McLean, Mayor Rick Elumbaugh, Main Street Batesville, the Ozark Foothills Film Fest, the Batesville Area Arts Council, the Master Gardener’s, the Historical Society, the Independence County Humane Society, Habitat For Humanity, the HellFighters, John 3:16, both Lyon College and UACCB and so many others that we haven’t had a chance to get to yet. There are so many people doing good and setting about to bring forth change in the area and we are pleased to be able to boast about the hard work they are doing. The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce is another great force for local entertainment, economic growth and progressive change for the area.

President and CEO since 2009, Crystal Johnson, has grown and matured into this position so beautifully.

It has been a pleasure to watch her gain an understanding of city protocols and a confidence that speaks of experience and hard work. Her job responsibilities include providing strategic leadership and vision for the chamber as well as overseeing all operations. She is a certified professional community and economic developer and recently earned a Master’s Degree in Community and Economic Development from the University of Central Arkansas. Crystal is married to Damon Johnson, City of Batesville Engineer. They have one child, Hattie Claire Johnson, who is a 2nd grade student at Sulphur Rock Elementary School. Johnson made the Arkansas Business’ “40 Under 40” list of 2013, has grown the chamber’s membership, balanced its budget, helped with the successful community center and sports fields tax campaign, as well as, the new resident mentor program. She recognizes Senior VP of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce, Susie Marks and VP and COO 12

of the Jonesboro Chamber of Commerce, Carrie White with helping her get on her feet in her chamber position.

Johnson sat down with Kimberlee and I to talk about the Batesville leadership class reinstated by the chamber, called Leadership Batesville.

Johnson told us that a discussion with local President and CEO of Citizens Bank, Phillip Baldwin, led to her renewed interest in Leadership Batesville.

Starting a leadership class was a topic that Johnson admits came up in her many talks with Marks and White, but the chamber needed some growth and stability before launching such an effort. 2014 was the year and Baldwin encouraged her to make it possible. Citizens Bank, Future Fuel, First Community Bank, White River Medical Center, Entergy, and the City of Batesville is sponsoring the Leadership venture.

Leadership Batesville is an Independence County wide, year long, highly competitive, leadership class for forward moving business people interested in the city’s inner workings and well being. Johnson looked at leadership programs from Atlanta, Fayetteville, Jonesboro, among others and pulled the best features from each to recreate Leadership Batesville. “It has been an undertaking, with everything else we started this year, but it has been a fun one,” says Johnson. “We took an overnight retreat and interacted in many team building exercises and it all worked perfectly; we all bonded so quickly.” The chamber brought in Arkansas Leadership Academy to facilitate the sessions and they work-shopped: building communities, effective leadership, changing communities, core beliefs, how to create mission and vision statements, effective planning and so much more.

There is an application process to join the Leadership Batesville Class and the top fifteen will be chosen every year to complete the program earning experience and contacts to make even more out of their chosen career paths. Besides the overnight retreat, the class then experienced an introduction to state government, state chamber tour and hosted a local legislative reception, which was a ten county regional economic development effort. “Court of Appeals Judge, Bill Walmsley, took two hours of his time to show us around his chambers, explained the Court of Appeals process and it was really eye opening for all of us,” added Johnson. “It was really awe inspiring to see this great person we all know from around town in such an important position in Little Rock.” The class also took a look into local government with the Batesville City Council and local industrial tours. Johnson says they took sessions on board management with the Southside School Board along with school, hospital and industry tours. “We spent two hours at Bad Boy watching their wielding and

We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

manufacturing processes and it was amazing. It is nice to see and understand the local industry so we become better cheerleaders that can talk the talk and walk the walk. Being a part of this class is among my top five moments with the chamber thus far.”

You can see the challenge in Johnson’s eyes and hear the excitement in her voice of just what this class has meant to her. “This class decided to oversee the 2014 White River Water Carnival. I know how big of an undertaking that event is and asked if they were sure about starting so big. They reconsidered and handled the details of the Whiter River Drag Boat Races within the 2014 White River Water Carnival, which was huge.

They are all very capable people and could have handled the entire event, but I knew we didn’t have the time it would take to manage all of it as a class project,” explains Johnson. It is easy to get caught up in her enthusiasm.

This Leadership Batesville Class of 2014 will gather for a graduation ceremony at the Chamber Annual Awards Ceremony January 27 at Lyon College to be recognized and to celebrate their completion of the course. Johnson invites anyone interested in applying for the 2015 Leadership Batesville Class to apply online after November 1st at www.mybatesville.org. N

Judge Bill Walmsley giving the Leadership Batesville class a tour of the Court of Appeals.

Belinda Sullivan Akin, Retreat Facilitator.

2014 Drag Boat Race Trophys.

The Leadership Batesville Class of 2014.

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November 2014 13

Eye On Feature Ten Years of Toe Shoes Submitted

“Why not?” That’s the question the North Arkansas Dance Theatre Board asked themselves in 2005 when they began the discussion on why they were not considering a performance of The Nutcracker. For many, The Nutcracker is an annual tradition.

Traveling to Memphis or Little Rock to see a performance with ticket prices up to $70 was not unusual. The mission statement of the North Arkansas Dance Theatre is to “provide Arkansas communities and schools with a rich cultural experience through the fine art of classical ballet and other dance forms,” so why not present one of the best known ballets of all times: The Nutcracker. At that time, the board was composed of Cindy Hubberd – president and artistic director, Patrick Crommett, Judith Cox, Mona Neaville, Sherry Giovannini, Anne Luster, Lou Ann Hance and Stacy Gunderman. After much debate, a plan was developed, and they were off. The board knew a performance of this size would not be easy, so it was decided to build on the production year-by-year.

The 2005 performance was named “The Nutcracker in a Nutshell” and only included pieces from the second act of the ballet, a musical section provided by Barbara Reeves’ string group and a slide show courtesy of Dr. Dave Thomas.

“Patrick Crommett was a design genius,” added Gunderman. “His vision for the China Teapot and Mother Ginger was like no other

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ever seen on stage.” Crommett worked with Bob and Judith Cox, Marie Butler, and local welder Bob Ellis to design a Mother Ginger frame and skirt that was capable of free movement across the stage while carrying and concealing 6-8 children underneath.

The China Teapot was built, in part, by the Batesville High School Ag Department and includes a slide for the soloists to slide down. The Batesville Area Arts Council and especially, Aileen McCracken painted the Teapot and helped design and construct the remainder of set. Choreography was provided by Hubberd and Crommett. It was decided by the board to bring in visiting artists for the lead role of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Arabian to increase the quality of the production. It truly was a community project.

In the second year, a grant from the Arkansas Department of Heritage allowed for expanding sets and costumes. The Party Scene was added in the second year along with an additional 20 plus cast members, the “Patrick Tree”, the soldier and baby doll, hooped ball gowns and full tuxedoes.

The third year, the Snow Scene was added, more costumes were bought, and the cast continued to grow. The board also decided to move the performance to the weekend before Thanksgiving. “Everyone is so busy during December.” As the performance grew, it became a strain to try and fit it all

We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

in before Christmas. The move to November allows for easier scheduling of UACCB, it allows for more flexibility with the visiting artists, and it lets the NADT family of dancers enjoy December without the extra activity of the performance. It also gives a great start to the Holiday season,” says Hubberd. Elaborately painted backdrops painted by Sissy Cook-Thorne added visual icing to the performance cake in 2009. Over the last nine years, the sets, costumes, choreography, dances, and cast have blossomed into a full, professional production with over 75 performers being in the cast in 2013 ranging from ages 3 to 98. Scenes are added or changed to accommodate the performers that audition and the skill level they possess. No one is turned away.

“Every time we think we have it finished, someone comes up with another idea,” laughs Hubberd. “For instance, this year, we are adding a dancing Nutcracker who comes to life in the 2nd act when Clara removes his huge Nutcracker mask.”

One thing that has not changed is the dedication of the performers, especially the NADT dancers and the family and community support for the production.

Four dancers have been part of all, soon to be 10, performances: Lauren Gunderman, Paige VanDyke, Hannah Paulson-Wells, and Jamie Pickett. Outside artists are still brought in for the leading rolls; however the skill of the NADT dancers guarantees an excellent production. For all the dancers, roles may change from year to year as they age and move to more difficult

roles, but their love for the ballet and the tradition provide inspiration for a high quality show. “The performance also allows us to remember Patrick who passed away in 2006,” says Gunderman. “Many of the dancers in NADT don’t remember Patrick Crommett, but his choreography and his vision will continue to be honored through this performance. Without Cindy, Patrick, Hannah, Judith, Bob, Jean Ann Johnson and the numerous other volunteers who have contributed to this production through the years, there is no way we could produce such an amazing show.”

This year’s performance will be November 21 at 7:00 p.m. and 22 at 2:30 and 7:00 at UACCB’s Independence Hall. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children under 10. So come join us in this momentous time honoring tradition!

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November 2014 15

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We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

The Myopic Life Election Month Kristi Price

November is election month. I don’t remember being interested in government until the 1992 presidential elections. I was 15. That year, incumbent George H.W. Bush ran against Arkansas Governor Bill Clinton and Texan Ross Perot. I’d like to say my interest stemmed from being an Arkansan, but we had only recently moved to the Natural State and I did not yet claim this as my identity. The sad reality is, my civic awareness developed only because we lived in the sticks at the time and got three channels on the television. Election news was the only thing playing!

My children (10, 8, 6) have a much different trajectory.

Because two of their friends’ parents ran in local elections this year, election talk has been all around them. They are participating in playground debates and asking me questions about Republicans and Democrats, senators and representatives, and then the most invasive question of all – who are you voting for, mom? They are interested in a way that goes beyond curiosity. Because the election will impact their friends, they see that it will impact them.

They care. And I realize – there is no better way to teach civics than to connect every governmental decision to the life of a citizen.

It has indeed kept me on my toes. I want to build a framework for responsible citizenship in their minds, one where we weigh each candidate against the needs of the office and our personal values, rather than being straight ticket voters. It requires more work and more research, but I want them to learn early on that the responsibility of the citizenry is not one that should ever be treated lightly.

I also want them to understand that we believe God is sovereign over all, and that governments rise and fall at his hand. There is great import in making brave, solid decisions. We also believe that government is an extension of the people’s best thinking, rather than a tool to define a people’s thinking. In that regard, we must bring our best to it, both as politicians and as voters.

It has re-ignited in me a passion for local and state government that had grown somewhat fatigued in this age of cynicism, inflammatory rhetoric, and partisan journalism. Through the eyes of my children, running for office is hopeful and exciting. Indeed, it is.

Plus, you get a great radio jingle. N

Chamber conducts membership survey Danell Hetrick The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce began conducting a membership survey on Tuesday, October 21. The survey was created to collect membership input regarding current BACC events and programs. The survey results will help determine the chamber’s 2015 program of work. The chamber will give a $50 gift card to two random survey participants on Friday, October 31.

“It is the chamber’s mission to provide advocacy, promotion, and support for chamber members. In order better serve our members, it is important for us to know what the membership wants and expects. This survey will help us determine the membership’s wishes and allow us to provide the best possible return on membership investment,” said Crystal Johnson, Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO. The survey has been emailed to the entire BACC membership, and it is available at www.mybatesville.org, on Facebook, and in the chamber’s weekly newsletter.

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Enjoy a weekend get-away to Heber Springs! Stay in one of our spacious suites. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi. Treat yourself to a free continental breakfast before heading out to see the sights. Take advantage of our 24 hour fitness center.

Our outdoor pool is paired with a newly built recreation area equipped with 2 Broilmaster gas grills. Motorcycle and boat parking with ample hook ups and we are pet friendly.

November 2014 17

I Do

Campbell - Davidson Wedding Kimberlee Thomas

Kambri Noel Campbell and Andrew Mark Davidson are what you might call high school sweethearts.

They attended Batesville Junior High and high school together. They were both members of the youth group at Fellowship Bible Church. Since they did not share many classes together at school the youth group meetings would prove to be the connection that set them on their way as friends. Kambri shared, “I remember having a crush on him as early as seventh grade. He actually remembers me adding my number in his phone when he was a freshman.” The friendship between the two grew and by high school they had become a couple.

In October of 2013 Andrew was living in New Orleans and attending Tulane University. He had traveled home to spend time with Kambri, family and friends for fall break. On the evening of the tenth, Kambri who was a student at the University of Arkansas for Medical Science’s distance classroom in Mountain View at the time, was busy studying for a pharmacology exam she had the next day. “It was during one of my many study breaks that Andrew got down on one knee and popped the question I had been waiting to hear from him for five years. Of course I said yes!” The couple spent the rest of the night calling friends and family, eating Taco Bell, and “sadly studying pharmacology.”

The couple married on March 15, 2014 on the front steps of the Marlsgate Plantation House in Scott, Arkansas surrounded by family and close friends.

Fellowship Bible Church Pastor Brent Swanson presided over the double ring ceremony. Kambri’s father walked her down the aisle as the plantation bell rang. Her sister, Bethany Forsyth, stood at her side as maid of honor.

Andrew’s father, Andy Davidson, stood at his son’s side serving as his best man. The couple feared it might rain as it had been in the forecast the entire day. “Luckily the weather held off until the reception,” Kambri recalled.

The couple has yet to have a honeymoon. Kambri laughs, “cue the sad ‘awes’ and dropped jaws.” They were both in school at the time they were married and couldn’t take time off for a honeymoon. Kambri shared, “Even sadder, since we were married in March and I didn’t finish school until May, we lived apart for those first two months.” She was in Mountain Home and Andrew had to return to New Orleans. The couple spent both their spring breaks visiting each other and enjoying the fact that after five and a half years of dating they were “finally” married.

Kambri and Andrew currently live in a four room “shotgun” house in the Mid-City neighborhood of New Orleans with their dachshund, Lucy. Kambri graduated from UAMS with a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene and works as a temporary hygienist for several dental practices around the city. Andrew is currently working towards his PhD in cell and molecular biology at Tulane University. He is in the middle of his second year and does research in the neuroscience lab. The couple will live in New Orleans until Andrew finishes his degree at which time they both agree they would like to move back to Arkansas. N

Photography by Melisa

SOUTHERNER FOOTBALL

Watch on

Channel 6

Tuesday Nights at 7:00 p.m.

Southerner Football is a production of

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October 2014 19

Smith’s Verdict ***1/2

Old Yeller

Reviewed by Tanner Smith Walt Disney’s “Old Yeller” is not merely a movie about the friendship between a boy and his dog. While that is a basic element in the movie, there’s more to it than that. It’s a movie in which a boy takes charge and becomes a man, even if it means to endure upsetting hardships.

“Old Yeller” takes place shortly after the Civil War, centered around the Coates family on a small Texas farm.

While the man of the house, Jim (Fess Parker), sets off on a cattle drive for the summer in hopes of bringing back money to support the family, his oldest son Travis (Tommy Kirk) is left to take charge, in exchange for a riding horse—“You act a man’s part, and I’ll bring you a man’s horse,” his father promises. (Although he argues what the boy needs worse is a good dog.) Travis helps his mother Katie (Dorothy McGuire) on the farm and looks after his rambunctious little brother Arliss (Kevin Corcoran), who does nothing except play in the outdoors.

A stray “yeller” (yellow) dog causes some trouble on the farm. While Travis takes a disliking towards “Old Yeller,” Katie and Arliss welcome the canine into the family. But soon enough, Yeller proves to be brave and special to have around after protecting Arliss from a bear, and standing up to whatever other animal that becomes a nuisance. Travis grows to become closer to the dog than he would have imagined.

“Old Yeller” is somewhat episodic—it features the setup in which the father tells his oldest son to take responsibility; the central story in which the family gets the dog and learns that he can be very useful and extremely loyal; and the heart wrenching final act in which everything pays off. This is an effective coming-of-age story centered around this young boy who becomes a man by taking responsibility and having to deal with great loss.

It’s no secret that by the time Papa comes home, Old Yeller will have died and Travis will have to learn to move on. He

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gets some encouraging words from his father—it’s a very strong moment when the father tells Travis, “You can’t afford to waste the good part frettin’ about the bad. That makes it all bad.”

The scene in which Old Yeller must die is one of the most heartbreaking dog-deaths I’ve seen in a movie of this sort, if not the most heartbreaking. Travis already had to deal with shooting two animals that were sick with rabies—the family cow and an attacking wolf. But Yeller has been infected by the sickness by fighting off the wolf, and Katie knows that eventually Yeller will become mad and endanger the family. Travis can’t face shooting him, and so he keeps him locked up in a wooden shed to wait about a month. Eventually, he sees the awful truth. The dog that was his best friend is now gone and Travis has to perform the unpleasant task of ending his suffering. The reason this is so tragic is because Travis, now learning to become a man, has to face the ultimate responsibility, and also because we as an audience have grown to love Yeller and appreciate his and Travis’ friendship. How can you not whimper when Travis hesitates to go through with it, before ultimately doing it?

Though, for me, it started in the scene in which Travis looks into the shed and sees a completely different Yeller.

I know it was supposed to happen, but I was almost as shocked and dismayed as Travis was.

But “Old Yeller” isn’t entirely a downer. The scenes featuring the family and the dog are adventurous, goodnatured fun, as Yeller stands up to a stampeding mother cow and aids Travis in marking wild hogs. And there is time for humor, particularly with the occasional visits by two neighbors, Bud Searcy (Jeff York) and his daughter Elizabeth (Beverly Washburn). Searcy is the most unreliable man to ever come across. He’s a lazy bum who does nothing but eat and talk. What’s funny about him is how he says he’s left to take charge of the womenfolk and the “young’ens,” even though he constantly has Elizabeth do everything for him. For example, Katie asks Travis to pick corn for dinner, and Searcy assures her that it’s a

We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

Harris November 4 November 5 November 5 November 11 November 11 November 12 November 12 November 13 November 14 November 17 November 17 November 18 November 19 November 25 November 27

Hospital

7 am Harris Hospital Auxiliary Fundraiser – Uniform 2 U 2 10 am Bingo – Newport Noon - Lunch N Learn – Brand Moody “Available Speech Therapy Services at Harris Hospital” 7 am HH Auxiliary Fundraiser – Jewelry R Us Noon – VFW – Veterans luncheon 8 am HH Auxiliary Fundraiser – Betty’s Jewelry 9 am HH Tickled Pink Boutique Christmas Open House 9 am HH Auxiliary Fundraiser – Dillard’s 9 am HH Auxiliary Fundraiser – Dillard’s Noon Bingo – Tuckerman Senior Center 2 pm Movie Day – HH Community Room 5 pm Senior Circle Thanksgiving potluck Noon Lunch N Learn – Dr. Kishore Gaddam – Newport Pediatric Clinic 9 am HH Auxiliary Fundraiser – Boho FAB Boutique – Ladies & Girls clothing Happy Thanksgiving!

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two-man job. Pause. “Elizabeth, go along with Travis.”

Hilariously lazy.

The cast members deliver first-rate performances (with one exception, but I’ll get to that). Dorothy McGuire is completely convincing and brings warmth to her role as the mother. Fess Parker has a small role, showing up at the beginning and the end, but he makes the most of it and delivers the aforementioned (memorable) speech. Jeff York is a delight, Beverly Washburn is fine as Elizabeth, and Chuck Connors has a nice brief role as a friendly passerby who gives Travis some helpful advice. But the biggest roles go to Tommy Kirk, Kevin Corcoran, and of course Spike the dog. Well first, let’s get the dog out of the way (please don’t read that the wrong way). Specially trained to perform the task of stealing scenes as the title character, Spike is completely charming. Tommy Kirk is perfectly believable as Travis, managing to create the transformation from boy to man flawlessly. But the “one exception” I mentioned earlier is Kevin Corcoran as the kid brother Arliss. I don’t say this because he isn’t convincing as a rowdy, excitable little boy, but because he is incredibly annoying. His constant screaming and yelling of every single one of his lines makes him immediately unlikable. I never really liked this little brat in most of the Disney movies he appeared in since then.

But even with Corcoran’s obnoxious performance, you can’t fault the true gem that “Old Yeller” is. It’s a neat frontier-fun movie as well as a very touching coming-ofage story. It’s sincere, good-natured, and delivers some convincing, emotionally-involving drama. It’s far from simple as some think it is. It’s a well-put-together family film with good acting and memorable scenes.

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November 2014 21

Tales Of a Transplanted Fashionista

Blush Boutique and Spa Leigh Keller

If you asked me what my dream job would look like, it would probably look like a day of socializing and personally styling customers, and making them over in an adjacent salon. Like most women, what attracts me into a Boutique first, are the display windows, how the mannequins are dressed, and then the design of the Boutique. I know that it shouldn’t matter how a store is decorated, but let’s face it, cute light fixtures and a little leopard print go a long way for me, for a happy shopping experience.

I zipped into the Boutique and Salon one Saturday morning, with my trusty assistant (I like to think that my four year old baby boy is getting quite the diverse upbringing, by learning to tolerate a variety of his mommy’s daily activities). I was greeted happily by one of my students, Jodi Gilpatrick, whose aunt, Megan Bridgman, owns the glamorous business.

Blush opened September 18, in the former Salon 44 building. They are a unique Boutique, in that you can get your highlights, eyebrows waxed, eyelash extensions, makeup, a spray tan and a fabulous new outfit, all in the same place (see also; heaven). They offer casual, affordable fashion at every price point.

I have what some therapists would call a jewelry addiction, so I was immediately drawn to the jewelry display, where I selected two gorgeous pieces for under

$20. That is what I call a win win. They plan to begin stocking several plus size items by Christmas, so that they can serve the fashion needs of all of their clientele.

Jodi and Kassidy, cosmetologist at Blush, picked out some of their favorite new fall arrivals for me.

This fabulous fur vest (you cannot go wrong with faux fur, especially when the temperatures turn chilly) is a statement piece for fall at $64.95. Faux fur was around last year, and seems to be here to stay. This neutral top can fit with so many fall and winter pieces, and can easily transition to spring at $23.95. Dark denim is always a flattering fit for everyone at $50.00. You can finish your look with this emerald necklace for $15.95.

You can follow their current sales and new arrivals on their Instagram feed @blushsalonandboutique and on Facebook @Blush Salon and Boutique. N

4 Piece Chicken Strip Basket $

4.99

+ tax

793-3303 755 St. Louis Street Batesville

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We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

Lyon College ranks among Best National Liberal Arts College once again Hannah Keller

Lyon College has repeatedly been ranked among the best liberal arts colleges by various national reports, and this year is no different. U.S. World News & World Report, Washington Monthly, Forbes, and the Princeton Review once again ranked Lyon among the top liberal arts colleges in the nation.

U.S. News & World Report included Lyon among its picks for “2015 Best National Liberal Arts Colleges.”

Schools under consideration are divided into categories.

Once divided by category, U.S. News and World Report gathers data from each college on up to 16 indicators of academic excellence. Each factor is assigned a weight about how much a measure matters according to those compiling the report. Finally, the colleges and universities in each category are ranked against their peers, based on their composite weighted score.

Washington Monthly, which rates schools based on their contribution to the public good in three broad categories: Social Mobility (recruiting and graduating low-income students), Research (producing cutting-edge scholarship and Ph.D.s), and Service (encouraging students to give something back to their country), ranked Lyon No.

58 among 246 liberal arts colleges.

Forbes ranked Lyon among “America’s Top Colleges.”

Forbes ranks 650 college and universities across the U.S. based firmly on the students’ return on investment, or “what students are getting out of college,” according to Forbes.com.

The Princeton Review, which bases its rankings on surveys of 130,000 students attending schools being considered, named Lyon “Best College in the Southeast.”

Students rated everything from their financial aid to on-campus food.

“These surveys evaluate schools on different criteria,” said Lyon President Donald Weatherman. “The fact that we do so strongly in all of them speaks volumes and shows that we’re obviously doing something right.”

Lyon was also named among the 50 Top Campuses Worth Traveling For on Flipkey Blog by Tripadvisor, and the AAA Southern Traveler named Lyon’s Arkansas Scottish Festival a “Southern Travel Treasure.”

“It fortifies our message to prospective students that we are a high-quality institution,” said David Heringer, vice president for administration.

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Accepting New Patients (870) 569-4909

Call to Schedule your FREE Consultation

920 Harrison St., Suite A Batesville, AR

Dr. Dustin Taylor , D.C., CCEP November 2014 23

Things To Do November Classes Business Etiquette and Professionalism. As an employee, it is what makes you stand out from the others and rise to the top. As an employer, the professionalism of your employees makes your business stand out and keeps the customers returning. But what exactly is it? How do you get it? And what happens if you get the interview? This class will cover business etiquette and professionalism from personal presentation to cell phone usage to networking.

Beth Bruce, instructor. Fee: $29. Date: November 3, 5:308:30 p.m. UACCB Main Campus Building, Room 240. To register, contact 870-612-2082 or email katrina.stevens@ uaccb.edu.

Introduction to Grant Writing. Participants will learn the basics of grant writing: Who, What, When, Where and Why. Designed for beginners, this will be an information-packed, interactive professional workshop consisting of practical case studies and group work. Karla Rush, instructor. Fee: $29. Date: November 6, 6:00-9:00 p.m. UACCB Row Johns Building, Room 815. To register, contact 870-612-2082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu.

Basic Outdoor Survival. Dan Nash, a professional mountain guide, will teach Phase 1 of survival training.

Training includes instruction on survival kits, the psychology of survival, shelter, water, fire and preparation for rescue. Classroom and field exercises include fire starting, water filtration and shelter construction. Bring a water bottle or container, a bandana and a steel or magnesium fire striker. Field exercises to be held outdoors, rain or shine. Minors (under 18, up to two minors) may attend the class for $5 each but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years of age. Fee: $32. Date: November 8, 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. UACCB Nursing Allied Health Lecture Hall, Room 902. To register, contact 870612-2082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu.

Intermediate Survival. Dan Nash, a professional mountain guide, will teach Phase 2 of survival training.

Training and field exercises include an overview of the Basic Survival Class followed by instruction in wilderness first-aid, orienteering, collecting wild edibles, the use of snares, dead falls, fish traps and surviving harsh weather environments. Adults (18 and over) need to bring a pocket knife and 3 feet of string. Field exercises to be held outdoors, rain or shine. Fee: $32 (minors $5 each). Date: November 8, 1:00-5:00 p.m. UACCB Nursing Allied Health Lecture Hall, Room 902. To register, contact 870-612-2082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu.

Introduction to Windows 8. Did you recently upgrade to Windows 8? If so, you know the changes between 24

Windows 7 and Windows 8 are significant. This course will help you navigate the newest Windows Operating System (OS). Keyboarding skills are an asset but not a requirement for registration. Crystal Blue, instructor. Fee: $25. Date: November 11, 7:00-9:00 p.m. UACCB Main Campus Building, Room 242. To register, contact 870-612-2082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu.

Extreme Couponing for Advanced Shoppers. Deann Castleberry will take extreme couponing to the next level.

Fee: $15. Date: November 13, 6:00-8:00 p.m. UACCB Main Campus Building, Room 242. To register, contact 870-6122082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu.

Preparing for the Job Hunt. Today’s job market is very tough. When there are 80 applicants for a position, how do you write a resume that gets noticed? And, what happens if you get the interview? This class will cover the basics of writing a clean and professional resume. It will also cover the dos and don’ts of a job interview. If you are facing the employment market for the first time or if you need to brush up your skills, this is the class for you. Space is limited. Pre-registration is required. Beth Bruce, instructor.

FREE! Date: November 13, 5:30-8:30 p.m. UACCB Main Campus Building, Room 242. To register, contact 870-6122082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu.

Men's Basketball: Lyon Scots vs. Blue Mountain College Saturday, November 1 at 6 p.m. on Becknell Gym. Kresge Gallery Exhibition: “Layers” by Kat Wilson Monday, November 3 through Friday, December 12, in the Alphin Building. Opening reception, Thursday, November 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. Kat Wilson’s work explores the marriage of performance art and photography.

Harlequin Theatre Production: No Exit Thursday - Saturday, November 13 - 15 at 7:30 p.m. and November 16 at 2 p.m. in the Holloway Theatre. Dr. Fonzie Geary directs this existentialist French play by Jean-Paul Sartre.

Senior Recital: Rachelle Wade, Soprano

Friday, November 21 at 7:30 p.m. in the Bevens Music Room in Brown Chapel.

Choral Concert The Batesville Choral Society and the Highlander Youth Singers will perform Sunday, November 23 at 4 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church in Batesville. Dr. Michael Oriatti directs festive music of the season.

Student Recital Monday, December 1 at 7:30 p.m. in the Bevens Music Room in Brown Chapel.

We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

All Over Independence Highrock Hop 5/10 Mile Trail Race A 5 and 10 mile trail race over a scenic, wooded, hilly course, including creek crossings. A White River Roadrunner Challenge Series race. Free entry for this race to be held Saturday, November 1 at Highrock Farm, 8 miles north of Batesville. Directions can be found at www.wrroadrunners. org/highrockhop.htm. Call Sam Cooke at 870-307-8922 or email him at sdcooke22@hotmail.com.

Holiday Card Screenprinting Workshop Participants will select from predesigned images to screenprint their own colorful unique cards. Artists will print 10 of their own fun and shareable cards and envelopes. $40 per person on Saturday, November 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lyon College’s Alphin Building in Fulkerson Studio. For more information call Paige Dirkson at 870-793-3380.

Paint Night A painting workshop that pairs instructional art with a casual atmosphere for friends to get together and produce individual works of art on canvas. The BAAC will provide all the supplies needed to create paintings on canvas within the 2-hour workshop, paint and enjoy refreshments. $35 per person Thursday, November 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Citizens Bank Annex. Call Paige Dirkson at 870-793-3380 or email her at baac@ suddenlinkmail.com for more information.

Main Street Farmers Market Meet your farmers, support your local farming families, and find the very freshest and healthiest foods at the Main Street Farmers Market. The Market is a fun way to shop while you catch up with friends, listen to great music, and enrich your children. Be a part of the history of Main Street in Batesville Saturday, November 8, 2014.

Email jeallo16@gmail.com or call 208-869-1445 for more information.

Monthly Fish Fry and Chicken Dinner The Hutchinson Mountain Community Center at 3370 Camp Tahkodah Road will be hosting their monthly Fish Fry and Chicken Dinner on Friday, November 7 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Cost for adults and children 12 and up is only $10.00. Children 11 and under eat FREE. Buffet, drink, and dessert are included. Take-out is available $10.00 for adult and $5.00 for children. For more information you may call 870-251-3458. The center is also available for rental by contacting Lea Barber at 870-612-4718.

Batesville Christmas Parade Join the festivities and watch for Santa Monday, December 1 beginning at 7 p.m. N

Retention rates up for Lyon College Hannah Keller Not only did Lyon College welcome a record-breaking freshman class this fall, but the college also welcomed back more current students than in years past.

According to a report from the Office of the Registrar, Lyon’s overall retention from fall 2013 to fall 2014 was 80.9 percent, up 4.5 percent over the previous year. Among that number, 74.1 percent of freshmen returned to campus, up 4.3 percent from the previous year.

“There’s no silver bullet when it comes to retention,” said Dr. Donald Weatherman, president of Lyon College.

“It requires a variety of things. We’ve worked very hard the past few years developing our Supplemental Instruction program, revamping our Year One program to help students better understand the transition from high school to college, and the hard work of the faculty and staff is finally paying off.”

Currently, there are 253 freshmen enrolled, and the campus serves a total student body population of 710.

One contributing factor to the increase in students is the addition of the football and men’s and women’s wrestling programs that began this fall. Construction on field houses for the new wrestling and football teams is also underway, and the Scots football team has broken in the new practice field and played their first scrimmage, which ended in a tie at Pioneer Stadium. Bad Boy, Inc. has partnered with Lyon Athletics for a three-year sponsorship of the court in James C. Becknell Gymnasium. The newly painted court prominently displays the new athletic logo and the Bad Boy Mowers logo.

To accommodate the additional students on campus, two residence halls are under construction and are projected to be completed next fall. The project includes two three-story units able to accommodate 100 students each that are being constructed on the current parking lot on the east side of campus. In addition to the new facilities, Brown and Barton Apartments have been completely renovated.

While new residence halls are under construction, temporary housing has been secured for students until the new residence halls are completed.

“Kim Hinds-Brush has done a fine job finding housing for everyone. She has rented apartments and houses around Batesville to accommodate our enrollment increase,” said Dr. Bruce Johnston, Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students.

Weatherman added that while welcoming growth and change to the campus, Lyon would not lose sight of its mission to provide an unparalleled education experience.

“Two years ago, the Board of Trustees made a decision that we needed to grow as an institution, but also that we do nothing to jeopardize the caliber of education we offer or the personalized nature of instruction on campus. This year is a sign that we are moving in the right direction both in terms of growth and not abandoning what has become the hallmark of a Lyon education,” Weatherman said. N November 2014 25

Faces Babb’s Upholstery ribbon cutting.

Basic Supervisor Training.

W Heart W Therapeutic Riding Stables ribbon cutting.

Airport Hangar ribbon cutting.

The Independence County Candidate Forum.

WRMC’s Run The Wave 5k was October 18 and with some 70 runners was a fun success. Eye On was on hand to grab some pictures and run the race along with many more local faces above and left.

Photo by Stacy Pretty

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We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

Approve Home Medical Services, Inc.

Angel Tree Program Fundraiser 'Tour of Trees' Submitted

This unique premiere event provides an opportunity for businesses and organizations to showcase their Christmas spirit by entering their Christmas tree in the tour. Trees can be any size and theme. A complete Tour of Trees list will be placed in each participating business or organization so the community can have an opportunity to see all of the trees and vote with a monetary donation for their favorite. Each vote will be entered into a Christmas surprise drawing. Be creative and make sure your tree is easily visible so we can get lots of votes. Entry fee is a $20 donation to the Angel Tree Program per business or organization, regardless of the number of trees they display. Please complete and submit a registration form for the United Way by November 15th and send it to P. O. Box 2639 Batesville 72503; Drop them at First Community Bank at Southside or email information below to unitedwayincty@gmail.com. Call United Way for further information at 870-793-5991.

• Tree Size: Mini/Med (2-4 feet) Large (5 feet or larger) Wreath • Tree Theme (Traditional, Nontraditional such as hobby, sports, favorite color, favorite destination, etc.)

• Name of Business or Organization and a contact • Address and phone # of Business or Organization. N

November 2014 27

Lyon College Breaking Ground Hannah Keller

Lyon College celebrated the progressing construction of two new residence halls with a groundbreaking ceremony Oct. 16. Lyon Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and members of the community attended the ceremony.

Dr. Donald V. Weatherman, Lyon president, thanked Lyon’s many supporters for their contributions to the project, including recognizing Board of Trustee Chairman Perry Wilson, whose family recently donated $1 million to the building project.

“My family is always pleased to be involved with furthering liberal arts education. We’ve been blessed to be involved with Lyon’s vision in this capacity,” Wilson said.

Longtime Board of Trustee member Robert Young said the need for the new dorms bodes well for the college’s future.

“It’s fun to see the need for the new residence halls. It bodes well for the college’s future growth, and I think these buildings will be attractive to prospective students,” Young said.

The project includes two three-story units able to accommodate 100 students each that are being constructed on the current parking lot on the east side of campus.

Witsell Evans Rasco Architects in Little Rock was chosen to construct the new residence halls.

“The WER team is extremely excited to be working with such a great institution,” said WER Chief Operating Officer Eldon Bock. “Lyon College has created a campus

environment that is deeply rooted in community, which helped inspire the housing model that is being developed.

The new residence halls follow the latest trends in student housing. Truly based on a 'house' model that promotes interaction and friendships, the residence halls will also support individual and group learning within the facility.

“An important development for the campus master plan, these two halls will complete the eastern housing quad creating a vibrant and vital living environment for that portion of the campus and the students that reside there.”

Dr. Kurt Grafton, professor of chemistry, said that only a third of the college experience happens in the classroom.

The remainder of students’ experiences occur in the other facilities on campus such as the dorms.

“This is where students will be liberally educated as they live and work with other students from different cultures and backgrounds. This is where students will learn what it means to be a citizen of honor and respect in society,” Grafton said.

Weatherman reiterated that while the campus undergoes physical expansions, the college would not lose sight of its primary mission to provide an outstanding liberal arts education.

“Two years ago, the Board of Trustees made a decision that we needed to grow as an institution, but also that we do nothing to jeopardize the caliber of education we offer or the personalized nature of instruction on campus. This year is a sign that we are moving in the right direction both in terms of growth and not abandoning what has become the hallmark of a Lyon education,” Weatherman said. N

From left: Matt Swaim, Robin Brock, Gina Garrett, Jon Vestal, Don Weatherman, Perry Wilson, Ray LaCroix, Dale Cole, Jimmy Cone, Mayor Rick Elumbaugh, and Robert Young participate in a groundbreaking ceremony for two residence halls under construction at Lyon College in Batesville.

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Model of new residence halls..

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We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

Private Option Helping Arkansas and Hospitals Statewide Annie Solis

The Arkansas Private Option uses federal Medicaid dollars to purchase health insurance for families with income less than 138% of the Federal Poverty level ($31,000 for a family of four). These families, approximately 250,000 Arkansans, were previously unable to obtain affordable insurance or qualify for Medicaid and were, in many cases, uninsured.

Arkansas was the first state to offer the Private Option and as a result, 194,000 residents now have health insurance. In Independence and surrounding Counties, more than 17,000 residents now have health insurance according to statistics released by the Arkansas Department of Human Services.

A simple internet search reveals conflicting opinions and articles on the Private Option, Arkansas’s Medicaid Expansion model. Love it or hate it, the fact that it is helping Arkansans all over the state is a truth that cannot be denied.

Uninsured residents often don’t have money to pay for a visit to a physician office. Many times residents delay care or seek care in the local hospital emergency room. With health insurance coverage, residents are more likely to establish a relationship with a primary care provider for routine care.

“The private option has reduced uncompensated care in hospitals across Arkansas, including White River Medical Center (WRMC), which is important

to our sustainability,” said Gary Bebow, CEO of White River Health System. “Even more importantly, earlier intervention is a key to successful treatment of many chronic conditions, and the expansion of coverage through the private option is providing our most vulnerable residents with access to care. That is really a good thing.”

With cuts to Medicare reimbursements as a result of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Sequestration, Federal Tax Acts of 2010 and 2012, and costs associated with the regulations of the ACA, hospitals face financial challenges. On a positive note, expansion of Medicaid through the Private Option brings some of those funds back to Arkansas hospitals.

“The Board of Directors, Administration, physicians, and employees are focused on providing quality healthcare. Payments from the Arkansas Private Option are just one part of a strategy that includes providing quality healthcare, maximizing operational efficiency, managing manpower, and building volume at our facilities to remain a viable, stable healthcare provider and employer for the communities we serve,” said Bebow.

If you believe you qualify for private option, enroll online at Access.Arkansas.gov or over the phone at Access Arkansas’s Call Center at 1-855-372-1084.

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Sulphur Rock Stem Lab

Submitted Sulphur Rock Magnet Stem Lab teacher, Pam Baxter, had her fifth grade students involved in gathering data for an EPA study. She received a Louisiana Environmental Education Commission(LEEC), District 6 Grant to attend a workshop at the Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge south of Lake Charles, Louisiana to learn how to gather the data for the study.

All the Stem classes at school are participating in the learning activities from the workshop about the Mississippi and the Gulf of Mexico watersheds. They are learning about debri and how it affects the plants and animals in our environment, how long it takes debris to degrade, and how we can do a better job to take care of the environment. The White River is part of the watersheds because its waters flow to the Mississippi River and eventually to the Gulf of Mexico. The fifth grade classes traveled to Jacksonport State Park beach area along the White River to gather data for the EPA District 6 study. Four groups each created a plot, graphed it, and with the GPS marked the corners. They also triangulated the slope of the beach for each plot. Then, each group collected the debris in their plots and categorized it by type, such as paper, plastic, metal, etc. The information the fifth grade gathered will be sent to Louisiana to be included with other studies of the Mississippi River and Gulf of Mexico watersheds.

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Sulphur Rock Magnet student, Breanna Rea (left), writes down data while Alexis Hutchison (middle), and Haven Jones(right) measure and triangulate the slope of the beach against the horizon.

Sulphur Rock 4-H After School Club elected new officers for the 2014-15 school year. The new officers are: Top Row left- Grant McDonald is Recreational Leader, McKenzie Vestal is Song Leader, Daniel Latus is President, and Jamie Branscum is Secretary.

Bottom Row left: Amie Ramsey is Reporter, Sawyer Rudisill is Photographer, and Emma Ramsey is Vice-President.

November 2014 29

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We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

White River Water Carnival Parade winners Danell Hetrick

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of the “Rollin’ on the River,” the 71st Annual White River Water Carnival Parade, float competition. The first place prize goes to First Community Bank. Second place goes to ConAgra, and the third place prize goes to North Arkansas Dance Theater.

“The awards go to the best-decorated floats and are selected based on creativity, relativity to the theme, and overall design. A lot of people had big expectations for

First Community Bank wins first place.

ConAgra places second.

the parade this year, and many were worried that the move from Main Street to Riverside Park would damage the parade’s attendance and outcome. But, we were very impressed with the parade lineup this year, and we are happy to have had such a fantastic turnout,” said Crystal Johnson, BACC President/CEO. The White River Water Carnival Parade was moved this year from its usual location on Main Street to Riverside Park in efforts to increase attendance and to have all Water Carnival events in a central location. N

NADT takes third place.

Team effort continues from page 11

taught by Lt. Mike Mundy and Deputy Brian Luetschwager with special guest Ann Murphree. The CRT plans to hold a follow up course in the near future designed as more of an actual hands on self-defense class. The CRT will also be offering safety courses to local banks, as well as other local businesses, such as those who have shift changes after dark.

Chief Qualls stated, “We’ve got a lot of good, hardworking people in this community and we’ve got a department of

well trained, professional, and dedicated officers who serve this community. I want to continue to bring the Sheriff’s department and the community together so that we can most effectively serve and protect our community.”

Please send your email to ICSDCRT@gmail.com to be notified of upcoming events. Like us on Facebook at www.

Facebook.com/ICSDCRT. N

November 2014 31

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We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.



teampunk

The reimagining and blending of two or more distinct time periods and the fanciful and functional inventions that are produced.

ME MBE RS AND G UE STS

$6.99 Weekday Lunch Specials Monday: Cheeseburger and French Fries, with a drink

Tuesday: Our famous homemade Meat loaf with homemade mashed potatoes and your choice of green beans or corn

Back In Time Antiques

Wednesday: Hand breaded chicken tenders, homemade mashed potatoes and gravy and your choice of green beans or corn

Thursday:

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Live entertainment most weekends!

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Friday:

129 Lawrence Street Batesville, AR

Wild Card, it’s a great meal at a great price but you have to come in to find out!

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American Floor Care Owner

New Stylist -Kelsie Sisk and Laina Shearon Schedule your appoinment today!

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Be a Santa to a Senior Submitted Home Instead Senior Care encourages residents of Independence County to join in bringing Christmas cheer to seniors in our area who may not otherwise enjoy the Christmas season due to lack of finances or family and friends.

The Program is simple, yet effective We are receiving names of seniors who need a gift. These coded names and basic requests have been placed on ornaments displayed by local merchants and the Batesville Chamber of Commerce. Simply take an ornament, shop for the senior, return the gift and ornament to the place where you obtained it. Gifts will be collected and those not wrapped will be prepared at wrapping parties and

distributed. You can also sponsor a tree or a wreath in their business, volunteer for a gift wrapping party, supply money and help with delivery.

Gifts need to be returned to merchants or the Chamber of Commerce by December 8 and will be distributed December 18 23. Questions may be addressed to Jerry Strobel at 870-404-7115, Bradan Pitts at 501-557-8355, or Sharon Sutherland at 501-206-7870. Log onto beasantatoasenior. com to learn more.

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Help us brighten the h seniors of Independenc November 2014 33

Home Instead Senior Care® encourages re

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We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

Weddings Dress Rental Special Events Birthdays

Mon - Thur 10am to 10pm Fri & Sat 10am to 11pm Sunday 11am to 9pm

60 Batesville Blvd.

870-569-4894

Like us on Facebook to see more!

275 College St., Batesville / 870-613-5519

WWW.IMAGINATIONSEVENTS.COM

November 2014  35

Experiencing God in the Everyday Perspective

Pastor Chad Grigsby “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28 ESV) My wife and I have a one and a half year old. He is one of the best things that has ever happened to us. We love him so much. But sometimes, he drives us crazy. His desire for independence is growing with each passing day.

He wants to feed himself now, much to the detriment of our carpet!

With this growing desire for independence is the desire to run free from us. The other day leaving a restaurant we put him down so he could walk to the car while holding our hands. Our plan was to take him to the park for an extended play session. When we got to the car and picked him up, he had a meltdown. He wanted to play in the parking lot. He wanted to run wild on the asphalt. He thought we were depriving him of the joy of running free when what we were really doing is putting him in his car seat so that we could take him to the park, the ultimate place to run free! But he didn’t know that.

All he could see is what we were taking from him at the moment. He just couldn’t imagine that we were taking him to a place of greater joy than a parking lot.

For many of us, this describes our relationship with God perfectly. We experience circumstances that we find so difficult. We think God is doing something that he shouldn’t be doing. We see God taking us somewhere we don’t want to go. We see God depriving us of something we think we deserve. It seems like the greatest injustice in human history from our perspective. Why would God do this? Why would he allow this to happen? How could he?

How can God be in control and this happen? How can God be good and allow this to happen? These are just a few

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questions that we find ourselves asking.

But what may appear to us as being deprivation of joy may, in fact, be God positioning us for greater joy. Just like my son can’t see the joy in store for him, we can’t see what God is doing. But just because we can’t see what God is doing, doesn’t mean he isn’t doing what’s best for us.

We have a limited perspective. We don’t know it all. God sees and knows things that we don’t know. We may never make sense of some of the circumstances of our lives but that doesn’t mean they don’t make sense to God. We are finite; he is infinite. He sees it all; we only see a limited amount. How do we make sense of our circumstances in view of our limited perspective?

Romans 8:28 speaks to this. “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” If we are his, God is working together everything for our good, even the bad things. Tim Keller summarizes this verse in this way, “All our bad things turn out for good, all of our good things can never be lost, and the best is yet to come.”

And with this perspective, we have the grace to endure anything in this life. We are no longer slaves to our interpretation of our circumstances. We no longer have to go up and down with our day-to-day experiences.

We have a hope that even our bad things will turn out for good, our good things cannot be lost, and the best is yet to come. Do you know this hope? Or are we like a toddler kicking and screaming because we have been deprived of the parking lot because we can’t imagine that the park is in our future? N

We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

SXL Model Shown.*

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ENDORSE HERE

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We are THANKFUL for this lovely community and all of the friends we have made and have yet to make.

Notes from the Clearing

Mus....ic

Support Our Advertisers

Joseph Thomas Placing my fingers across the wood, feeling the grain that should, if only I could play the song in my mind and man what a song it would be. The choir of heaping sound like Crystal resonation, building to arc in a looping flight back to sudden silence. Sounds and words that fall upon my palate in an image of you smiling your pleasant thoughts. Dancing lights that swirl from your face to paint a brilliant sunset that fades to Christmas Light and Old Jazz Dancing in the house that we built. It is here that the tune takes a turn into a Baroque Waltz that finds our feet and carries us upon its sweet twisted tonal wind. When it is finished and our wet eyes slowly open to find purchase with our connection, we kiss and when in memory it ends there to loop. N

Kallsnick, Inc. A Hiland 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

Family owned and operated Scott Kallsnick , Vickie Kallsnick Moser, Joan Kallsnick

“Renee Taylor Travel Company is thankful for our Independence County Clients and Wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving”

Wishing You were Here!

American Floor Care--------------------- 33 Anytime Fitness-------------------------- 40 Approve Home Medical Services-------- 27 Autry’s------------------------------------ 34 Back In Time Antiques------------------- 33 Bad Boy Mowers------------------------- 11 Batesville Poultry Equipment, Inc.------ 40 Batesville Spine & Health Solutions----- 23 Batesville Title Services----------------- 33 Caring Hands Hospice------------------- 16 Carlee’s Crown Shop--------------------- 13 Citizens Bank----------------------------- 7 Coldwell Banker Choice Realty---------- 36 CustomEyes Vision Care of Newport---- 30 Downtown Guide------------------------- 33 DQ Grill & Chill--------------------------- 22 Eagle Pest ------------------------------- 5 Elizabeth’s Restaurant & Catering------- 34 Etta’s Attic-------------------------------- 33 First Community Bank------------------- 2 Flowers Baking Co.---------------------- 5 Fox Creek BBQ--------------------------- 33 Harris Hospital Podiatry----------------- 6 Heber Springs Holiday Inn-------------- 17 He Delivers------------------------------- 34 Imaginations----------------------------- 35 Independence County Recycling Center-- 16 Janet Smart Farmers Insurance Agency-- 40 Jonathan’s Fine Jewelry----------------- 9 Kallsnick, Inc.---------------------------- 39 Kent’s Firestone-------------------------- 8 Lackey Moody for State Representative-- 3 Living Spaces---------------------------- 22 Mark Martin Kia-------------------------- 37 Merchants and Planters Bank----------- 21 Mexican Mamas-------------------------- 40 NADT Dance Academy------------------- 4 Natalies Restaurant and Catering------- 6 Newark Furniture, Flowers and More--- 40 Pioneer Football-------------------------- 28 Purdy’s Flowers and Gifts---------------- 16 Renee Taylor Travel Company----------- 39 Robert O. Seat Photography------------ 3 Robert O. Seat Photography Workshop-38 Serenity Massage------------------------ 40 Southern Bank--------------------------- 38 Southern Tire Mart----------------------- 14 Southside Southerner Football---------- 19 Studio Salon----------------------------- 33 The Batesville Chamber of Commerce-- 15 The Property Shoppe-------------------- 7 Thompson’s Jewelry--------------------- 33 Thompson’s Jewelry--------------------- 35 Thompson’s Jewelry--------------------- 40 U. S. Pizza-------------------------------- 35 Welcome To Independence-------------- 40 White River Area Agency on Aging------ 6 White River Health System-------------- 10 Wildewood Independent Living---------- 20

November 2014 39

Welcome to Independence New Hours: Monday - Friday 9am to 6pm Saturday by Appointment CLOSED: Sunday

3050 Harrison St., Batesville

Serenity Massage

870-307-1680 70 Batesville Blvd., Suite E - Batesville Inside Shaggy's Hair Salon & Spa Cash, Check, Major Credit Cards Accepted/ Gift Certiicates Available

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Enchiladas / Burritos / Nachos Rice & Beans / Guacamole / Tortas Tacos / Quesadillas / Fajitas

(870) 698-1085 3000 Jennings Lane - Suite G, Batesville Problem with your Remote Entry Key Fob? Let

on’s mps Tho ir it! a Rep

Thompson’s Jewelry 255 East Main Street Batesville, AR

870-793-7136