Eye On Magazine August 2023

Brothers

Editor’s Note

August Upon Us

Joey Thomas

Grandbabies swimming, birthday cake, and humidity has filled our days lately. We hope Your’s have been pleasant with as much joy as there was work. We also hope You’ll tag along for our August issue in the pages beyond to see Your neighbors, community leaders, and perhaps some faces that now represent our area from afar in their successes around the world!

We are honored and proud to have the Reaves Brothers grace our cover! Their success speaks to their parent’s commitment, their community’s support, and their own drive to make things happen.

Thank You for picking us up for thirteen years and keeping us relevant in community news! You are our favorite! Shhhh, don’t tell the others. N

Eye On

Studio Salon

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Eye On Magazine 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 eyeonkimberlee@gmail.com. Mailing address: 504 Guffey Street / Newport, AR 72112. 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 or eyeonkimberlee@gmail.com.

Eye On Independence received the 2012 Innovative Project award for outstanding, innovative, continuous or effective coverage of literacy issues, resulting in positive change or improvement.

The Ozark Gateway Tourist Council awarded Eye On Independence the 2014 Wilson Powell Media Support Award for its dedication to tourism in the Gateway Region and Arkansas.

Cover Photo by Submitted

Cover Design by Joey Thomas

ADVANCING STUDENTS, COMMUNITIES, AND INDUSTRIES IN ARKANSAS AND BEYOND.

Cherri Design

Home Security Lighting

Sadly, I think we can all agree that the crime rate around our country has sky-rocketed, especially in the past two years. While we cannot completely prevent a criminal act around or in our homes, we can hopefully deter it, in order to protect ourselves and our family, with security lighting.

At night, exterior lighting creates an atmosphere of beauty for our homes, but it can also be beneficial in lighting dark spaces that might be an area for criminal activity. Visibility is increased around your home and yard, thereby deterring activity at night. Security lighting also helps make your neighborhood community safer, lending additional light to the neighborhood space. If you choose to install security lighting, also consider the aesthetics,

making it as pleasing as possible to the eye, but ultimately focusing on your security aspect needs. There are many types of outdoor lighting, and all of these can help light your space. Solar lights are always a good option, but remember that they do not stay lit all night. Nowadays, solar lighting also comes in a wide variety of sizes, from single stake to rope lighting. Directional lighting is a great option, as it can be pointed where you need it the most, lighting even a very obscure area. It is usually staked in the ground, so it points upward on your home or building. Also, open bottom lighting has a bulb that points downward, so these are ideal for mounting on your home, garage or a free-standing building. Another type is the cobra head and is longer in shape. Some quick research will show more options that are available for your home security needs. But any lighting that you add will reveal outdoor activity, hopefully deterring any suspicious activity in your area.

Security yard lights mounted on electric poles can be installed by your

electric company and are generally offered at an affordable rate. This amount is added to your regular monthly electric bill. This option is a convenient, easy way to provide outdoor lighting, and your electric company will usually install, maintain and repair their yard lights. Entergy even provides free bulb replacement at no extra cost to their customers. LED energy efficient bulbs are generally used, thereby reducing environmental footprint.

If budget does not currently allow for adding security lighting, use what you have available. Leave porch lights or garage lights on at night to deter outdoor activity. Purchase some inexpensive solar lights as well, as even just a few make a difference. I personally have solar rope light wrapped around the poles of my covered patio, and it is amazing how much light these provide for several hours a night.

Remember that lighting can serve a two-fold purpose for your home or business. Lighting not only provides aesthetics, but it can also help deter any activity around your space that is unwanted. N

Cherri Rodgers has a B.S. In Interior Design from UCA. She is active in several local ministries & community projects. Most of all, she values time with her family and grandson. Cherri's Interior Design is available for both residential & commercial design or decorating needs.

Things To Do

Batesville

SMITHSONIAN MUSEUM’S MUSEUM ON MAIN STREET TRAVELING EXHIBIT “VOICES AND VOTES” MINI CAMP AT OLD INDEPENDENCE REGIONAL MUSEUM! Wednesday, August 2, 2023 (10am - 4pm) Join Cathy Shonk as she guides you through our newest exhibit, “Voices and Votes”, explaining democracy and how it has developed in the United States. We will engage in games, puzzles, and brainstorming sessions all in the name of democracy.

BATESVILLE LEVITT AMP CONCERT SERIES! Thursday, August 3, 2023 (7pm) FREE family-friendly concerts with an eclectic line up full of diversity for the entire community. Kids Zone, outdoor games, vendors, food trucks and more.

NATIONAL COOKIE DAY AT OLD INDEPENDENCE REGIONAL MUSEUM! Friday, August 4, 2023 (9am to 5pm) Come join us at Old Independence Regional Museum for National Cookie Day! Bring in a dozen cookies for judging ($2.00 per entry). Free nibbles. The winner receives a gift certificate from a local bakery! Not in the mood to bake cookies? Come by and decorate a cookie for yourself at no charge!

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAY FOR EDUCATORS PRESENTED BY THE ARKANSAS HUMANITIES COUNCIL AT OLD INDEPENDENCE REGIONAL MUSEUM! Friday, August 4, 2023 (10am - 3pm) Morning session (10 - 12) AHC staff will explore humanities classroom resources, grant opportunities for professional development, classroom projects and field trips, new AHC programs and resources developed for teachers, and the Smithsonian traveling Voices and Votes exhibit locations and resources. Participants receive a Humanities Resources flash drive and door prizes.

#OWENSTRONG BENEFIT DINNER! Friday, August 4, 2023 (4:30 - 7:30pm)Dine in or to-go plates benefiting Owen’s fight with childhood cancer. Bryant’s pharmacy has tickets available for the #owenstrong benefit at Batesville First Assembly of God, 1949 Lyon Street. So if you’re out and about stop by Bryant’s at 2000 Harrison St and purchase your tickets! Ticket prices are as follows. Adults are $12 and children’s are $6. Tickets will get you a sandwich, two sides, and a drink. Help Owen fight his battle with cancer and show him Batesville is #owenstrong.

SEVENTH ANNUAL HOWARD L. HOUSE MEMORIAL GOLF

TOURNAMENT! Presented by First Community Bank, will be held on Aug. 5 and 6 in Batesville at The Course at Eagle Mountain at 10am. Proceeds will benefit the Children’s Advocacy Center of Independence County.

LYON COLLEGE CAMPUS-WIDE YARD SALE! Saturday, August 5, (8am - 1pm)Lyon College is inviting all its faculty, staff, and the entire Batesville community to set up their own personal tent/table at the first ever Lyon College Community Yard Sale! All proceeds from the Lyon stand will support student scholarships; community members/ individuals setting up their own stands keep all of their proceeds. It’s free of charge! Come as a consumer or come and set up your own personal space. Register by emailing Pam Palermo, Director of Institutional Events, at pamela.palermo@lyon.edu or call (870) 307-7362

STUFF THE BUS! Saturday, August 5th at Walmart on Harrison Street in Batesville, Arkansas from 9am to 2 pm. We invite everyone, individuals and businesses alike to join us in this incredible initiative. Together, we can empower young minds and ensure every child has the tools to succeed academically. With school items being covered by grant funding the need for food pantry items to send home each night

Adult Education

in children’s backpacks has risen. These items include fruit and cereal bars, fruit and vegetable cups, pop tarts, pudding, canned pasta, ravioli, applesauce, granola bars, ramen noodles, fruit snacks, cereal, peanut butter, Vienna sausages, beanie weenies, pop top soups instant mac and cheese, and peanut butter crackers among other non-perishable items that children can access and prepare themselves. Join us and let’s demonstrate the power of unity and generosity by helping our students thrive. Together, we can shape a brighter future. Volunteer opportunities are available, contact our office at roxanne.ranaudo@liveunitednca.org

COMMUNITY ADULT CRAFTING DAY! Saturday, August 5, 2023 (10am - Noon) Calling all adults looking for a fun way to learn new things, share your hobby, and meet people! We will be providing paper crafting materials, but you will need to bring your own scissors, glue, tape, and other supplies. Example paper projects are cards, scrapbook pages, journal pages, etc. Please feel free to bring different crafting materials and supplies. Please do not let the lack of knowledge or experience deter you from joining us, as the event is for us to share in this together. Be sure to share this event, invite others, and bring friends with you, to First Baptist Church’s Annex.

PISTOL SKILLS CLASS: FUNDAMENTALS OF USING

A RED DOT! Saturday, August 12, 2023 (9am - Noon) Have you joined the wave of shooters transitioning to using a red dot or considered learning to use one? Red dot optics are no longer just for the competition shooters. In this class, we help you decide the best type of red dot to purchase, how to mount the optic correctly and using your red dot. What is the best distance to sight in your dot, what is height over bore, how to find it when aiming your gun and what does it mean to shoot target-focused? We answer all these questions.

We have rental guns for you to test and see for yourself why so many shooters are making the switch to a red dot. Many concealed carry license holders feel it’s harder to conceal a red dot. We talk about those options and considerations. While our classes stress there’s no gear substitute for the proper shooting fundamentals and techniques to improve your shooting results, a red dot allows many shooters to experience improvements faster over using iron sights.

What separates average shooters from great shooters is their proficiency with the skills taught in our five Pistol fundamentals class series. Our fundamental classes are structured so new shooters can quickly learn the basic skills but designed in a way that seasoned shooters are challenged, allowing them to master the most essential pistol shooting skills. 9am-Noon at $100/person/ Independence Firearms and Training, 305 Circle Dr, Cord, AR 72524. Mike Lies, (870) 614-8452, For more information visit: https://firearmsandtraining.corsizio. com/c/637d016e3f26c639646f188a

30TH ANNUAL COMP CAMS TOPLESS! Aug 18 & 19 at Batesville Motor Speedway, LLC, 5090 Heber Springs Rd, Locust Grove, Arkansas. The Comp Cams Topless 100 is a 100 lap Lucas Oil sanctioned National Dirt Late Model event. Connie Starr, (870) 251-0011

CONCEALED CARRY CLASS! Saturday, August 19

(8:30am - 6pm) Independence Firearms and Training, LLC, 305 Circle Dr., Cord, AR. Mike Lies, (870) 614-8452

Enhanced & Standard Combo Concealed Carry Class, 8:30am6pm at $125/person.

Enhanced Upgrade Concealed Carry Class *you must have a current concealed carry license, 8:30am-6pm at $100/ person.

Standard Concealed Carry Class, 10am-6pm at $100/ person. We offer concealed carry classes monthly. In addition, any individuals, groups, churches, clubs, or families who prefer to have a private concealed carry class can schedule directly with our office upon request.

Registration: https://firearmsandtraining.corsizio. com/c/6491da4edb313609995d3781.

BACK TO SCHOOL BASH BLOCK PARTY! Saturday, August 19, 2023 (11am - 1pm), Ruddell Hill Baptist Church would like to invite the whole community to our free family fun ‘Back to School Bash Block Party’ We will have free back packs and school supplies (while supplies last), free food, a bounce house, free games, door prizes and more. Located at 805 Bethesda Rd. Batesville, AR. 72501. Bring your family and friends.

PUBLIC NUTCRACKER AUDITIONS! Aug 19, 3:304:30pm, Open Auditions for NADT’s 19th Annual Nutcracker. Ages 5-adult. No dance experience needed, nor do you have to be affiliated with NADT Dance Academy, 157 W Main in Batesville. cindy@nadt.info.

TABLETOP GAMING AT THE LIBRARY! August 26

Every fourth Saturday of the month Independence County Library and NEA Gamer’s Guild host a tabletop gaming day from 11 am to 4 pm. A play-to-win game is offered every gaming day. All ages and abilities welcome.

Independence County Library on 267 East Main Street in Batesville.

Mountain View

Arkansas Craft School

https://arkansascraftschool.org/calendar

Newport

www.facebook.com/newportarchamber

Also see newportarcity.org/calendar/

IMAD will have a community meeting on Saturday, August 5, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. located at the IMAD Village Grill inside the Village Mall. For more information call (870) 503-1578.

Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center is having a free Start your Small Business Now workshop on Wednesday, August 16. The workshop is from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and is located at the Newport Area Chamber of Commerce, 201 Hazel Street. One-on-one consulting sessions will be from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. by appointment only. Join ASBTDC for an informative training session with tips and tools on how to start and grow a small business. Pre-registration is required. To register call 870-972-3517.

Here at Lyon College, students don’t just earn a degree. They don’t just have the college experience. They find their why Small class sizes, dedicated staff and faculty, and our mission to nourish the whole person and not just the student is what makes Lyon different. Our liberal arts education creates a fuller, richer understanding of your community and yourself, while also preparing you for your future. Take the first step to finding your why at lyon.edu

First United Methodist Church and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church will host a prayer vigil on Wednesday, August 16, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Both church sanctuaries will be open to anyone who would like to stop by and pray during the day for the upcoming school year. A joint Prayer Service will be at the First United Methodist Church from 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information contact First UMC at (870) 523-6561 or email newportfumc@gmail.com. N

Seniors, Can We Talk?

Caroline Beauchamp is a local insurance agent for M & P Insurance & Investment Services. She offers personalized life and health insurance solutions and is known for her widelypublished informational column, ‘Caroline, Can We Talk?’.

Paul, a friend’s husband, called last week very unhappy – in fact angry. He recently was prescribed Eliquis. When he went to pick up his prescription, he was in shock when he was told the price, even with his Medicare Prescription card. (If you’re taking Eliquis or know someone who is, you know it is expensive.)

Paul said he wanted to change prescription plans – now! When I told him that, unfortunately, he could not change plans now. He can change plans during the Annual Election Period starting October 15 through December 15 and his new plan wouldn’t be effective until January 1.

This was not what he wanted to hear.

Let’s talk about some options Paul has today.

He can contact his Medicare prescription plan and ask for an

“exception”. He has the right to request coverage of a drug that is not on his plan’s formulary list or request coverage of a drug on his plan’s formulary list at a lower cost/lower tier.

If Paul’s doctor thinks Eliquis is the best drug for him and the drug is not on his plans’ formulary, either Paul and/or his doctor can apply for a “formulary exception”. How? Paul and his doctor complete a coverage determination form and send in his prescription plan.

Hopefully an exception would be granted. If an exception is not granted, he may appeal the determination.

I asked Paul what pharmacy he uses. He uses a standard pharmacy. Since he uses a standard pharmacy, he could change to a preferred pharmacy where he would have a lower copay. Since he has a longtime relationship with his current pharmacist, he didn’t want to make a change.

Paul could also keep his current pharmacy for all other prescriptions and just go to a preferred pharmacy to get his Eliquis. (He does not have to use the same pharmacy for all prescriptions.)

He could ask his pharmacist if there are any coupons to help with/ reduce the cost of Eliquis. He could also ask his pharmacist if there are any discount cards that could help with/ reduce the cost.

Paul can go back to the source –his doctor. He can ask his doctor if there are any lower cost drugs that will do the same thing Eliquis does. To make this easier, Paul can take his formulary directory with him. This is the list of drugs that his plan covers. The directory shows the “tier” a drug is on and any “management tools” that are required (quantity limits, prior authorization, or step therapy).

This is what Ruth and I talked about at lunch. Ruth had a similar situation a few years ago. After she spent a little time, asked questions, and reviewed her options she was able to get her prescription filled at a much lower cost than she originally was told.

If you’re having an issue with any of your prescriptions, consider these options I shared with Paul.

Got a question or concern? Call 501-868-6650 and say “Caroline, can we talk?” N

Local Faces

Newport Chamber Ribbon Cutting

Submitted

Todd & Associates CPAs, 303 Second Street in the Professional Building, downtown Newport. With locations in Little Rock, Hot Springs, Stuttgart and now Newport, contact Todd & Associates CPAs for info and advice relating to tax filing, tax returns, bookkeeping, payroll processing, Quickbooks and more. Call the Newport office at 870-523-4900 or visit www. toddcpas.com. Thank you owner Mark Todd and staff for choosing Newport! N

ASU-Newport’s Surgical Technology Program Awarded Continuing Accreditation by CAAHEP

Jake Eddingtion

Arkansas State University-Newport is pleased to announce that its Surgical Technology associate degree program has been awarded continuing accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The decision, made on May 19, 2023, recognizes the program’s exemplary compliance with the rigorous standards set by CAAHEP.

ASU-Newport’s Surgical Technology program, offered at both the main campus in Newport and the approved satellite campus in Marked Tree, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to maintaining excellence in allied health education. This accreditation serves as a testament to the program’s dedication to meeting industry standards and preparing students for successful careers in surgical technology.

The Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA), in collaboration with ASU-Newport, conducts regular comprehensive reviews of the program’s compliance with the standards. Through their diligent work, Dr. Stacie Hay, Dean for Nursing and Health Professions, and Shannon Riley, Director of Surgical Technology, have ensured that the program meets the highest educational standards in the field.

Dr. Typhanie Myers, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs at ASU-Newport, expressed her appreciation for the accreditation and hard work of the faculty and staff involved. She stated, “We are proud to receive continuing accreditation from CAAHEP for our Surgical Technology associate degree program. This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional education

and preparing our students for successful careers in surgical technology. We commend Dr. Stacie Hay and Director Shannon Riley for their outstanding leadership and dedication to providing a high-quality educational experience.”

Accreditation by CAAHEP holds significant importance in the field of surgical technology education, ensuring that programs adhere to the profession-specific standards and guidelines established by CAAHEP, ARC/STSA, the American College of Surgeons, the Association of Surgical Technologists, and the National Surgical Assistant Association. This collaborative effort guarantees that students enrolled in ASU-Newport’s Surgical Technology program receive the best education aligned with industry best practices.

ASU-Newport is honored to receive continuing accreditation from CAAHEP for its Surgical Technology associate degree program. The accreditation serves as a recognition of the hard work, dedication, and continuous improvement efforts of the faculty, staff, and students involved in the program. ASU-Newport remains steadfast in its commitment to providing quality education and producing competent and highly skilled professionals in the field of surgical technology. N

Vital Link 40th Anniversary and EMT Week

Kathy Lanier

Vital Link kicked off National EMS Week with a Gala celebrating 40 years of lifesaving excellence. Originally named Independence County Emergency Medical Service, operations began in August of 1983. Since that time, the company rebranded to Vital Link with the opportunity to become a regional provider. Today, Vital Link is the exclusive provider in Independence, Izard, and Stone Counties. With a team of skilled professionals and a stateof-the-art fleet, Vital Link ensures the safe and efficient transport of patients while maintaining the highest standards of medical care.

“With over 200 in attendance, it was an extraordinary celebration of four decades of dedicated service,” said Vital Link CEO Kathy Lanier. Esteemed guests, partners, employees, and community members gathered to honor our remarkable journey.

In honor of the 40th Anniversary, Vital Link announced the establishment of the Vital Link Scholarship for EMT and Paramedic students enrolled at the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville. Together, the leadership team and Board of Directors have committed to helping address the staffing challenges faced in the ambulance industry. The anchor for this groundbreaking gift was $40,000 from Vital Link. Additionally, a portion of ticket sales and donations from Friday’s event added $5,800, bringing the total gift to the UACCB Foundation to $45,800. Dr. Brian Shonk, Chancellor, Becky Warren, Dean of Health Professions, and Jennifer Davidek, Director of EMS Programs were present to accept the gift. “Vital Link EMS is a valued part of our community and an integral component of our regional healthcare system. Vital Link employees are the heroes there for us in our greatest time of need, providing excellent emergency medical services and a calm presence during our most trying medical emergencies,” said Shonk. “This gift to the UACCB Foundation will help offset student expenses, enabling students to receive the necessary training required to become our future EMS heroes. I thank Vital Link EMS, under the direction of CEO Kathy Lanier, for their commitment to EMS education and the future of our students.”

Kathy Lanier presented awards to Mr. Stacy Wright and Mrs. Myra Looney Wood. Stacy is the Trauma Registrar and Security Manager of White River Health. He began his career as an EMT with Vital Link, later becoming a Paramedic. While he has moved on from EMS, his role at White River keeps him in a position to bridge the relationship between EMS and the hospital. His efforts exemplify the true spirit of collaboration, compassion, and selflessness. Stacy is a true champion and cheerleader of Vital Link, and for that, we were honored to present him with the Community Partner Award. Vital Link COO Kenny Tosh added, “Stacy is a true partner and friend to Vital Link, no matter the issue, he is always ready to help in any way he can.”

Myra Looney Wood’s journey with Vital Link began as a Board Member and seamlessly transitioned to the role

of CEO where she served for 22 years. Myra exemplifies the very essence of leadership, guiding Vital Link through challenges, inspiring innovation, and fostering a culture of excellence. Her leadership style is characterized by inclusivity, collaboration, and genuine care for the wellbeing of every member of our organization. Myra has been a mentor, a confidant, and an inspiring force helping countless individuals reach their full potential. “In recognition of her exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and profound impact on our organization and the lives of all those they have touched, it was my honor to present the Leadership Award to Myra”, said Kathy Lanier.

A video tribute to 40 years was produced by Batesville native, and Regional EMMY award winner Terrell Case. CFO Rachael Sowers said about the video, “There is a lot of depth to the organization and people of Vital Link unknown to many in this community. We knew we had to take the opportunity of our 40th anniversary to share our story, and we knew immediately Terrell was the one to help us do it. Because of Terrell’s connection to the community, his previous documentary work, as well as his current role at Arkansas PBS, he had the right skills to make it happen.”

The evening was topped off by a resounding toast by Sherwin Meharg, director of Emergency Repair of Arkansas, with entertainment by the Speakeasy Rock Band. Table sponsors contributing to the scholarship fund included the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, Center Point Graphics, Citizens Bank, First Community Bank, Ray and Diane Lacroix, Max and Susan McElmurry, Merchants and Planters Bank, Schaaf Financial, UACCB, Quality Home and Flooring, Yoga7, Welch Couch and Company, White River Eye Care, White River Health, White River Now, and a host of friends and family.

Kathy Lanier concluded, “It is our honor to serve the citizens of our service area. Those in attendance got a real look into the heart and soul of our company, seeing the emotions and dedication of EMS professionals. The evening celebrated our remarkable history, the gift of scholarship, and our most important assets, our employees.” N

Sherwin Meharg, ERA Director, Kathy Lanier, Chief Executive Officer, Rachael Sowers, Chief Financial Officer, and Kenny Tosh, Chief Operations Officer.

BACC Groundbreaking & Ribbon Cuttings

Chris Hill

The Independence County Senior Citizens Program provides services to seniors sixty and older, including meal service and delivery, transportation, and social and wellness events. The new senior center, which will be located at 950 Elm Street, will be a modern, expanded facility that will increase the Senior Citizens Program’s ability to provide wellness activities and simultaneous programming to seniors in Independence County.

“This is going to be an exciting addition to our county,” said Independence County Judge Kevin Jeffery. “The folks that are going to benefit from this, had their careers and paid their taxes. They need a healthy place to have activities, a meal, and fellowship. It’s important to remember that demographic, and this will be a big way to accomplish that.”

Among those Judge Jeffery thanked for their support and contributions to the new senior center were Independence County Senior Citizens Program Director Selina Wallis, White River Area Agency on Aging Director

The Massage Oasis

Chris Hill

The Massage Oasis is a massage therapy practice focusing on relaxation and mental health. They offer various services, from Swedish, prenatal, and deep tissue massages to cupping and lymphatic drainage. The Massage Oasis has two mental health therapists on staff and is passionate about mental health and the power of massage to promote emotional and psychological health and healing through the release of stress and energy rebalancing.

Ted Halls, White River Planning and Development, and AEDC, as well as local dignitaries who came out to support the groundbreaking including Batesville and Southside mayors, and State Representative Shad Pearce.

The funding and development of the new senior center has been a group effort. Independence County Quorum Court approved using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act to go towards constructing the new facility. The Arkansas Economic Development Commission also contributed to the project. Batesville School District donated the land for the new facility, and the Batesville Fire Department helped clear the site of existing structures with a controlled burn, saving the project tens of thousands of dollars in demolition costs.

“These things only occur with the cooperation of others. All these things are a matter of teamwork,” said former Independence County Judge Robert Griffin. N

Owner Dawn Ermert dreamed of becoming a massage therapist. "All our friends and family were able to help us come up with a place to start and have supported us the whole time," said husband, Aaron Ermert. "Now, we're here in Batesville. We now have a great building with a great partner."

"Dawn has a very special way of massaging," Ermert explained how Dawn had a dream to focus on the mental health benefits of massage and how to use massage to help people physically and mentally. "We're constantly learning how to bring those two aspects together," Ermert concluded. N

Whippoorwill Charm

Chris Hill

The BACC held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Whippoorwill Charm’s new paint studio.

“We are so happy to open this creative studio,” said Whippoorwill Charm studio owner Kimberly Shetron.

Whippoorwill Charm has experienced significant growth over the last nine years in business. The majority of sales come from their

website, whippoorwillcharm.com

“We have provided hand-painted signs for customers since the beginning, but a few years ago, a customer asked if we could supply un-painted signs for a party,” continued Shetron. “From there, we launched the wholesale side of our business, supplying signs and crafts for other studios to host parties.”

Shetron continued, saying, “We saw the need in our community for space to host family-friendly events. So, we opened a painting studio of our own! We now host various classes, from

terrarium making to canvas painting, for many different types of groups.”

Whippoorwill Charm provides memorable hands-on experiences, from Girls Nights and Team Building exercises to fundraisers, charcuterie classes, and much more. Over spring break, they welcomed over 200 kids to their studio for classes.

“We hope to be your hub for all things creative,” concluded Shetron.

Southside School Construction

Rachel Harville

Southside School District is thrilled to announce that we have officially signed the contract for the construction of brand new additions to the junior high and high school.

The Key Highlights:

State-of-the-art classrooms: The new addition will feature modern, spacious classrooms equipped with cutting-edge technology, fostering innovation and collaborative learning.

Science and Technology Labs: We will have dedicated labs for scientific experiments and hands-on exploration, empowering our students with practical skills and knowledge.

Multipurpose Spaces: The expanded facility will include versatile spaces for extracurricular activities, club meetings, and community events, promoting a vibrant school community.

Fine Arts Suite: The Fine Arts Suite is designed to be a hub for collaboration, fostering a supportive and inspiring environment for our students. It will be a place where creativity knows no bounds and where dreams are transformed into masterpieces.

Athletic Facilities: In addition to the academic enhancements, we will also be upgrading our athletic facilities, providing our students with top-notch spaces for physical education and sports.

In The Field with Randy

To Drain or Not to Drain...

We would like to express our gratitude to the community, parents, and faculty for their unwavering support and commitment to our students’ education. Your belief in our mission has made this expansion project possible, and we can’t wait to witness the positive impact it will have on our students’ Future Stories!

Throughout the construction process, we will keep you informed with regular updates and involvement in this exciting journey. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work towards completing this project in the most efficient manner. This project is the result of the millage passed in 2021, and due to inflation costs and budget reallocations, we are excited to finally get the contract signed and construction started soon. N

As I write this article on July 14th, the 2023 crop continues on the fast track. The work I’m doing now feels more like what I would normally be doing in early August. I’m optimistic about the potential of this crop. But as Dickey Nutt always used to say when he was head basketball coach at ASU, “I can promise you we haven’t done anything yet”. To maintain that potential, we need moderate temperatures along with plenty of sunshine and a few timely rains. With our crop being ahead of schedule, we will be making irrigation termination decisions earlier than normal. Following are recommendations on when you can stop irrigation on corn, rice, and soybeans.

In corn, the development of the starch layer in the kernel should be

monitored to determine when you can terminate irrigation without sacrificing yield. If the starch layer has progressed 50 percent or more down the kernel and you have good moisture, then you should be able to safely terminate irrigation with furrow irrigated corn. With pivot irrigated corn, the starch line needs to be 75 percent or more down the kernel before irrigation is terminated since less water is likely applied during each irrigation. If in doubt, I would err to the safe side and go ahead and irrigate one more time especially if hot and dry conditions are forecast.

With rice, the University of Arkansas has a couple of rules of thumb that can be considered in regard to when you can safely drain fields. One is that the field should be 25-30 days past 50 percent heading, 25 days for long grain varieties and 30 days for medium grain varieties.

The other rule of thumb is based on visual observation of the maturing grains on the panicle. On silt loam soils the panicles should be two-thirds

straw-colored and on clay soils the panicles should be one-third strawcolored prior to draining.

A personal rule of thumb that I have always used is that I want the end grains to be straw colored and I want the base grains to be milky before I begin to consider making a drain recommendation. I always consider predicted weather and soil type when using any of these methods.

With soybeans, research has shown that there needs to be good moisture until about Growth Stage R6.5 in order to obtain maximum yield. This is the point where the beans separate from the white membrane within the pod wall. You should start seeing the beginning of color change at that point.

If producers will utilize these irrigation termination recommendations, they can avoid losing yield after pretty much all inputs have already been spent on the field.

For more information, feel free to contact me through Farmers Supply Association at 870-318-0739 or by e-mail at randychlapecka@gmail.com.

Randy Chlapecka is an agronomist with Farmers Supply Association, retired from the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture - Cooperative Extension Service where he served as a County Extension Agent for over 32 years. He is an avid ASU Red Wolves fan and has announced Newport Greyhound sporting events since 1996. He also enjoys vegetable gardening.

The Reaves Brothers

Austin and Spencer Reaves grew up in the small community of Newark in rural Arkansas playing a variety of sports from a young age. Spencer noted that basketball has been a big part of their family from the very beginning, “We were brought up by D1 basketball playing parents who loved sports in general.” If you are unfamiliar with the term, D1 basketball is the highest level of college basketball in the United States. The term “D1” refers to the Division I level of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Spencer recalls, “We grew up always being in the gym. I’d say it was around the age of 6 that I started playing some team and organized basketball.” Austin admits that basketball was not his first passion, “Baseball was my first love. But when I became burned out on baseball, basketball was the next sport that I fell in love with.” He remembers being around 12 when he started to take the sport, “more serious.”

The duo won two state championships while playing high school ball at Cedar Ridge. When asked about stand out moments, Spencer recalled the win during his junior year, “Austin and I got to play together. Our team was an underdog story against Malik Monk and East Poinsett County. I had a really great game and was named MVP.” It is worthy to note here that Malik is now a shooting guard in the NBA with the Sacramento Kings. Spencer commented that he was very under recruited. He attended North Greenville University and won freshman of the year in his conference before transferring back closer to home. “I was able to play really well my last 3 years at University of Central Missouri. I was then without a job for 8 months, I finally got the opportunity in 3rd division Spain.” Spencer has now worked his way up to the German Basketball League, “one of the top leagues in Europe.”

When I inquired of Austin’s stand out moment he reflected upon a more recent one, “The 31 point triple double was definitely one. Hearing the names that I had joined as rookie Lakers to have a 30 point triple double was great. Then realizing I was the first ever undrafted rookie to have a 30 point triple double was surreal.” Some of you may be asking what a “triple-double” is; this is achieved when a player has double-digit stats, at least 10, in any three of the following major statistical categories: Points, Assists, Rebounds, Steals and Blocks.

On their journey from their childhood courts to the NBA and European Leagues the two have had many pivotal moments. One such moment was shared between the brothers. Austin recalls, “I was going into my senior year at Oklahoma University and wondering what was ahead from me. Spencer and I had a serious

conversation on how far I wanted to take basketball. What all I needed to do to take the next step and how much more I needed to work to make it to the NBA.” Spencer shared a moment of uncertainty with a former coach, “I had a coach named Jimmie Williams that was an assistant for me my one year at North Greenville. I had to tell him I was transferring and not going to be playing for him the next season. He handled it incredibly well and told me he loved me as a person and would support me no matter what. It just showed me that some people cared about me more than basketball games.”

As these two young men continue their journeys in the professional basketball arena one thing they haven’t forgotten is home. They both recently took time from their professional schedules to come home and host a summer basketball camp for local youth. This was their second year for the Reaves Brothers Basketball Camp. Camps were held in July at the Becknell Gymnasium on the campus of Lyon College. Players enrolled from 3rd up to 12th grade attended grade appropriate sessions.

When asked about advice for young players and their parents Spencer offered the following, “I’d just tell them they need to work hard. Players that work hard are usually rewarded in the long run. If they think that showing up to practice only is enough, they are wrong. To the parents, let the kids be kids as well. They don’t need to be in the gym 5 hours per day and traveling to play every single weekend. Let them find their love for basketball or any sport if they want to. You can’t force them or they will end up hating it.” Austin’s words of wisdom, “Work, the cream rises to the top at some point. Don’t ever give up. To the parents I’d say coach them but let them be kids at the same time.”

When looking ahead it is true that no one can see the future but we all have our dreams. Spencer shared, “I hope to have a family with my wife and doing something with basketball. Not sure if that will be coaching, agent work, or skills trainer.” Austin expressed with enthusiasm, “Still in the NBA playing for the greatest organization in all of sports.”

As these two young men are always on the go I had reached out to their father for contact. During our correspondence Brian shared, “I am extremely proud of both boys for achieving their dream of playing basketball professionally. I love the way the community has supported both boys, wherever we go people are always asking about the boys. We are truly blessed.”

As a writer I am always excited to share such wonderful success stories of the youth from our region. It excites me even more when I see those young people giving back to their home communities in such meaningful ways, by encouraging the adults of tomorrow through their kindness, talent and love of home. N

Kimberlee Dannette Thomas is a Chandler, Oklahoma native. She relocated to Jackson County in 1986. She has five children, five grandchildren, is co-owner and creator of Eye On Magazine. She is recognized from her years of co-hosting on many Cable Channel 15 & 6 broadcast with Bud & David Black. She earned her Associates from ASUN in Fine Arts.

Cedar Ridge Skills and Drills Camp with Spencer on July 14.

Reaves Brother’s Basket Ball camp Lyon June 24.

Reaves Brother’s Basket ball camp Lyon.

Reaves Brother’s Basketball Camp Lyon College June 27.

Thyme Enough

Cobb Salad

Nelson and Sandy Barnett met in college. They have been happily married for 59 years and are still having fun cooking and living! Find Sandy’s newly published thriller Dead in the Shadow of Doubt on Amazon.com.

Hello Everyone,

We’re in the full flush of an Arkansas Summer and who’s in a mood to cook? Not I, said the Little Red Hen. So today our recipe is going to be…

Cobb Salad

From Your Own Garden

Your Neighbor’s Garden Or The Farmer’s Market

Cobb Salad is more a work of art, a painting more than a than recipe. In fact, I would be embarrassed to give you a recipe. All you’ll need is a cool early morning, a basket for gathering, and a straw hat. Then begin the gathering: either in your garden or the Farmers Market - Lettuce leaves enough, Summer Tomatoes (cherry or otherwise), Yellow Squash or Zucchini, pretty red Radishes, Cucumbers, fresh Corn Kernels, Green Onions or Red, and Avocados. Plus

a few hard-boiled eggs (in case you’re wondering, I don’t keep eggs or avocados in my garden), and Feta Cheese crumbles. A bit of diced chicken or ham is okay, but Crisp Bacon is a must.

Now, the fun part. Rinse your veggies, and slice or dice into uniform-ish pieces, letting each vegetable choose its shape. Get your Sunday Going to Meeting Platter and began arranging narrow rows of colorful vegetables, Lettuce can be on the bottom or it can be one of the rows! Love the colors, let the colors paint your picture. Dress with a little salt and pepper, lemon juice or red wine vinegar and a few drops of oil. Shake up the oil mixture and drizzle …for a delicious Cobb Salad. N

Welcome to BAD BOY COUNTRY

Book Review

The Lowlands by Jhumpa Lahiri

seem determined to drive her out once the baby comes and raise the child themselves. What life would she have after that as the unwanted widow of a terrorist? Determined to care for her, Subhash marries Gauri and brings her to Boston, where a daughter, Bela, is born, with Subhash listed as father on the birth certificate.

What further twists follow that!

Lahiri also shows us Subhash’s unfailing love of Bela through all the ways she separates herself from him. And she shows his continuing openness to life, to the possibility of falling in love again, even in middle age and early old age.

Some twenty years ago the IndianAmerican writer Jhumpa Lahiri won the Pulitzer Prize for her short-story collection “Interpreter of Maladies.” I enjoyed the stories but didn’t think them Pulitzer-quality. Then ten years ago Lahiri published a great novel, “The Lowlands.” That work is definitely Pulitzer quality, enriching of mind and heart. Let me tell you about it.

The first thing you should know is that it’s a saga, following the life of Subhash Mitra from his boyhood in 1940s Calcutta to the U.S. for his graduate education, and on through his adulthood in the U.S., where he stayed to work as an environmental scientist and where his daughter was born and grew up, ending in the 21st Century when he’s a grandfather.

What a lot of twists and turns Subhash encounters along the road of his life!

The first twist comes when his beloved younger brother Udayan, always the more adventurous sibling, gets involved in a radical communist group while they’re both in college in Calcutta. As close as the brothers are, Subhash wants nothing to do with the movement and leaves India for Boston and further education at MIT while Udayan stays in Calcutta as the radical group begins turning to violence, murder, and terrorist attacks. Udayan’s role adds a historical element to the novel, as his Maoist group called Naxalites really did lead an uprising in the 1960s and still exists.

The second twist comes when Udayan marries, impregnates his young wife named Gauri, and then is captured and executed for his involvement in terrorist acts. What’s to become of the widow and child of Subhash’s beloved brother? He returns to Calcutta and finds that his parents neither like Gauri nor want her in their household. They

One revolves around Gauri. Even after her grief lessens and even with Subhash’s tender care for her, she never comes to love her husband. She cooks their meals and sleeps with him, but she isolates herself from him as much as possible, both emotionally and physically, beginning her own Ph.D. program and staying in her study reading and writing for hours at a time.

Another twist also revolves around Gauri. Just as she is really no wife, she is also no mother. She provides for Bela during the day but interacts with her perfunctorily, Subhash being the loving parent when he’s home from work in the evenings and on weekends. He and Gauri discuss when to tell Bela he’s not her biological father, but he convinces Gauri to delay the revelation, fearing it will ruin Bela’s close relationship with him.

Then comes a major twist. Subhash takes Bela to Calcutta when she’s 10 for a long visit with her grandparents while Gauri stays in Boston, a seemingly normal decision since she was close to neither Subhash’s nor her own family. When they return, however, they find Gauri gone and a note left behind saying she has left them, has found a job in California, and wants and expects no further contact with them. Wow!

Subhash is surprised only a little, knowing the distance Gauri kept from him and their daughter, but Bela is devastated. What happens afterward shows Lahiri’s insight into our human nature, our pain, and our survival skills.

She shows us Bela’s response to abandonment. Bela blames Subhash as a teen, feeling he’d somehow driven her mother away and could get her back if he’d only try. She keeps her distance as a young adult and avoids commitments. But she finally struggles upward, back into family life. Even Subhash’s revelation of her origin does not deter her return to him.

And Lahiri shows us what Gauri’s life amounts to after her rejection of Subhash and Bela, ending with her unannounced appearance at Bela’s door near the end of the novel. What happens there seems a sad but entirely fitting climax to a life lived solely for self.

In life we drive a new road every day. Sometimes we’re on straight highways we think are leading us where we want to go, and sometimes we find ourselves there but other times we find ourselves somewhere else. Sometimes the highway becomes a rutted road in a wilderness, and the car’s water pump goes out. Sometimes we end up at deadends and have to backtrack. And sometimes we wreck our cars. But if we persevere, we end up where we need to be.

Lahiri knows all this, and she shows us how we can endure and prevail. “The Lowlands” is a wonderful read. N

Terrell Tebbetts has taught English at Lyon College for over 50 years.

Unity Health Newport to Host Blood Drive

Unity Health Newport is hosting a blood drive on Tuesday, August 22nd from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Walk-Ins are welcome or you can schedule your appointment Drive will be held in the Community Room at the hospital

Why Donate? Blood donation helps people in need in your community Donors, who donate regularly, keep our nation's blood supply stable. Although many people donate blood after disasters, blood is needed every day of the year.

After months of post-pandemic struggles, our red blood cell supply is drifting into failure. This difficulty has been worsening despite continuing, efforts to correct course Sadly, our region has finally reached a critical breaking point that other parts of the country have been experiencing for several years. Without a powerful response, we are likely to see consequences such as postponed elective surgeries, delayed transfusions, and the dividing of blood bags (and thus care) to stretch stocks Our strained healthcare system will be burdened with more stress and frustration and will perform with less donor efficiency and reliability

You are the answer that can keep a blood safety net under cancer, trauma, surgery, obstetric and other patients. Please join us and donate to help those in need