Eye On Independence www.eyeonmag.com
Jim S. Gowen, Sr. Out with the Old, In with the New Reasons to Breastfeed and Change Negative Stigmas A Publication of Meadowland Media, Inc.
January 2015
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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
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In This Issue 6/ Editor’s Note And So We Cycle
8/ The Myopic Life
A New Year, a New Approach
11/ Your Health
Name That Virus
8
18
11
21
12
26
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12/ Cover Story
Reasons to Breastfeed and Change Negative Stigmas
14/ Feature
Jim Gowen, Sr., Our Community Banker
18/ I Do
Finch - Clark Wedding
20/ Smith’s Verdict ***1/2 Shattered Glass
21/ Notes from the Clearing Refinement
24/ Things To Do 26/ Faces 32/ Batesville Area Arts Council 33/ Downtown Guide 36/ Experiencing God in the Everyday Out with the Old, In with the New
755 St. Louis Street Batesville, AR 870-793-2645
793-3303 793-3303 755St. St. Louis Louis Street Street Batesville Batesville 755
Cover Photography by Robert O. Seat 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.
Congratulations Jim Gowen, Sr. on being named COMMUNITY BANKER YEAR
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.
2014
Jim S. Gowen, Sr. Chairman
www.mandpbank.com A community bank since 1946.
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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
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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 Š 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.
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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
And So We Cycle Joseph Thomas
Happy New Year Everyone! We hope your holiday season was amazing and complete. For this January Issue of Eye On Independence, I am honored to bring you our Kimberlee and Joseph Thomas Cover on the Bishops. Jesica Bishop is a breastfeeding mother trying to raise awareness and defeat the stigma that feeding her son, Ryan, in public is a bad thing. Tara Salinas brings us our Feature on Merchants & Planters Bank Chairman, Jim S. Gowen Sr. and his recent recognition as Community Banker of the Year. Kristi Price talks about her unique New Year’s resolution, Chad Grigsby analyses the lessons of the Prodigal Son and Kimberlee brings us the Finch - Clark wedding. Alisa R. Lancaster plays Name That Virus, Pam Baxter dropped us more Sulphur Rock Magnet New for our Faces, there are Things To Do and much more! We are excited to see you all in this new year of open possibilities and endless opportunities to think better, to do better and to be better than we were yesterday. We send our thoughts and well wishes to the Carpenter Family after the Josie’s fire. N
Footnote. Dr. Smith now sees patients in Newport and Batesville. Same- and next-day appointments are often available. To schedule your appointment in Newport or Batesville, call 870-523-9100.
Jason T. Smith, DPM Board-Certified Podiatrist
1117 McLain St. Suite 500 Newport 3443 Harrison St. Batesville
Member of the Medical Staff at Harris Hospital
6 Have a happy New 75912_HARR_Smith_2_34x4_83c.indd 1 Year
from3/19/14 our family to yours! 12:14 PM
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January 2015 7
The Myopic Life
A New Year, a New Approach Kristi Price
I have a very boring New Year’s Resolution. Really, it’s going to put you to sleep. In 2015, I resolve to...be a better record- keeper. My resolution is nothing fancy. It’s a snooze fest of data. In this year, I want to be more systematized at retaining and recalling data. I want to learn how to use all this technology around me instead of just putting everything into a big pile and stuffing it into a closet (my current data-collection method). There’s nothing at all sexy or dazzling about being able to accurately recall when my husband installed the air filters, or when I replaced the tires on my vehicle, or how many times I sprayed the house for spiders last year. In our quick-paced, forward-looking lives, why would any of this matter? I mean, I can tell I need new filters when they are covered in gray fur; my car keeps up with my tires; and gosh - you spray for spiders when you encounter one barefooted in the shower one day, right? But this is reactive living. And fine, it will work, but if I really want to take control of my finances, if I really want to make a plan for the future, if I REALLY want to avoid spiders while I’m bathing, it is essential that I keep up with the past. I am an impressionistic person. Rather than
8
Have a happy New Year from our family to yours!
documenting the day and time of my children’s milestones, I spilled gallons of ink over the nature of our lives together, their budding awareness, our growing maternal bond, their changing personalities, etc. I can’t tell you when they lost their teeth or had a growth spurt, but I can read my essay on what it felt like the first day I took one to school. So I’ve never really had a problem with my personal approach to history. However, my data is not quantifiable. My data cannot be fed into an algorithm and used to make any kind of projections. My data is intensely personal. It is not useful for predicting the future, which leads to making better decisions before something breaks or goes awry. I think this is why I’ve always had a love for historians, sociologists, and statisticians, all keepers of the data. Their jobs seem dry, but working together, they provide rational and foundational support for models, predictions, and preemptive decision-making. I worry that we all live so spontaneously and off-the-cuff that such rich data is being lost. So that’s it. In my personal life and at my job, I want to improve my record-keeping. For what gain, I don’t know yet. I’ll tell you next year. Happy New Year, and may your resolutions be more entertaining than mine! N
The 64th National Square Dance Convention® Submitted The General Chairman strongly suggests that dancers buy Bus Passes. We are planning for four bus routes to the hotels indicated on our Registration Long Form as well as other contracted hotels on those routes. We also have one to the Eastern States Exposition (Big E) Fairgrounds for those camping. Dancers housed outside the contracted area may wish to park at the Big E and ride the bus to the MassMutual Center, Sheraton or Marriott Hotels. The Bus Pass will cost $50 per rider, but will relieve the stress of finding a parking space especially on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of Convention when Springfield workers are regularly at work and filling the parking lots. You will get one free ride in to Springfield to register at the MMC. You will be given your coded name badge. To ride the bus anywhere else on the bus route, the dancer must purchase and wear the coded BUS badge for riding privilege. Daily automobile parking is free at the Big E with the purchase of the Bus Pass. Any guests who stay in the Sheraton or Marriott Hotels will have in and out parking privileges; $15 guest overnight in the Marriott, $13 guest overnight in the Sheraton. The Parking Garage next to the MassMutual Center has 600 spaces with in and out privilege for $8.00 per day until filled. The Marriott offers no in and out for public parking at $8.00 per day. The 64th is still discussing the parking issue with the City of Springfield Parking Authority. Lenny and Connie Houle This Month’s Updates. If you do not presently subscribe to the NEC publication National Squares E-Magazine We would highly recommend taking the time now to sign up. It is free and comes by email. It has a lot of in depth information about the 64th NSDC®. We have reprinted
some of the information below. You may sign up to receive the magazine to your inbox by using the following link: Sign up for your own subscription, Email Signup or http://www.sodbustermail.com/12all/ indexphp?action=form&id=1002. Ceremonies Coordinator for the 64th National Square Dance Convention® Dick and Shirley White, Ceremonies Coordinator for the 64th National Square Dance Convention® in Springfield, MA invite you to experience New England June 24 – 27, 2015. Have you registered for this fantastic event? If not, take the time right now to fill out your registration form and start planning for your New England vacation. We are looking for you to join us at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, MA. TWO EVENTS AT THE 64th CONVENTION YOU DO NOT WANT TO MISS OPENING CEREMONY Wednesday, June 24, 2015 5:00 – 5:30 PM In the Arena of the MassMutual Center The California Heritage Dancers will entertain you with the theme “History of Square Dancing”. You don’t want to miss the Ribbon Cutting, which will be the beginning of three fun filled days. The event will end at 5:30 giving you plenty of time to enjoy the luscious turkey dinner and the Neil Diamond Tribute by Kenny LaBelle show. CLOSING CEREMONY Saturday, June 27, 2015 In the Arena of the MassMutual Center Line up for Parade of States 5:00 PM. Square Dance Convention.continues on page 10 January 2015 9
Carlee’s Hallmark 870-793-8086 / 682 Harrison Street - Batesville
Square Dance Convention continues on page 9
All dancers are welcome to participate, with your state or country. The Parade of States will march into the Arena as part of the Closing Ceremony. Enjoy the Invitational Skit presented by the 65th National Square Dance Convention®. Witness the Passing of the Torch to Des Moines, Iowa. See who will be awarded the 68th National Square Dance Convention®. Watch for more details in your Program Booklet and daily schedules. Keynote Speakers for the 64th National Square Dance Convention® While most dancers know him for his high energy or singing voice or dedication to entertainment, his true passion is teaching. Paul Cote has written articles that were featured in American Square Dance Magazine. He has also started to teach callers. In late 2011, Paul began producing square dance music on his own square dance label...EGO Recordings. Ted Lizotte lives in New Hampshire and has been 10
Have a happy New Year from our family to yours!
calling square dances for over 25 years and is currently the Club Caller for Tech Squares of M.I.T. in Cambridge, MA. He also runs his own Advanced Workshops on Monday Nights in Manchester, NH. Paul and Ted began their calling careers together in New England as the “duo”, calling as a team at New England conventions with dynamic personalities and flair. Let’s see where their New England start has taken this popular pair! You can find much more information on the above topics in this month’s issue of the E-Magazine. Please subscribe or at least read it online. N
Your Health
Name That Virus Alisa R. Lancaster
FLU ENTEROVIRUS D68 EBOLA Fever 102 to 106 degrees May or may not have a fever Fever >101.5 degrees Chills Severe respiratory problem Heavy sweating Sore throat Sneezing Diarrhea Fatigue Coughing Vomiting Headache Runny nose Stomach pain Body aches Body aches Severe headache Unusual bruising or bleeding FLU - Most people are able to spread the flu from 1 day before showing symptoms to 5 to 7 days after symptoms begin. Spread by coughing, sneezing, and/or
touching objects with the virus on it. Most people who get sick get better without seeing a doctor or taking medicine. Best defense against the virus is good hand washing with soap and water, alcohol based hand sanitizer, AND an annual flu shot. ENTEROVIRUS D68 – It usually takes 3-6 days from the time a person is exposed to the virus until symptoms develop. Infants, children, and teenagers are the most likely to be infected. Spread by coughing, sneezing, and/ or touching objects with the virus on it. The contagious period is typically 1 to 3 weeks. Best defense against the virus is good hand washing with soap and water or alcohol based hand sanitizer. EBOLA - Symptoms may appear anywhere from 2 to 21 days after exposure to Ebola, but the average is 8 to 10 days. Recovery depends on good supportive clinical care and the patient’s immune response. People who recover from Ebola infection develop antibodies that last for at least 10 years. Best defense against the virus is good hand washing with soap and water. Alcohol based hand sanitizers are ineffective against the virus. N
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January 2015 11
Eye On Cover Story Reasons to Breastfeed and Change Negative Stigmas Joseph Thomas
At the Old Town Mall on Main Street in Batesville, there is a sign that you won’t find anywhere else in town; it tells of a breastfeeding stall located inside for mothers. You will also find Jesica Bishop, a local young mother of six month old Ryan and big fan of the acceptance of breastfeeding in her place of employment. She knows of the stigma some have against breastfeeding in public. She says about half of the people who have noticed her breastfeeding in public treat her as if it is a crude display. Her point is that you can pump, but there are times where the baby eats more than has been pumped and supply and demand for breastfeeding isn’t the same as buying enough formula. Bishop knows the health benefits of a mother’s milk and refuses to deny Ryan that gift. Before Ryan was born, Bishop met with Ambra M. Huff, a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor at the Independence County Health Office located at 120 Weaver Avenue off of East Harrison Street in Batesville. Bishop knew she wanted to try to breastfeeding and her husband, Dustin, is a supporter of the practice and its benefits, so she wasn’t a hard sell. That is Huff’s job, to meet with young women and explain the multitude of reasons why breastfeeding is the right choice. Both Huff and Bishop are quick to admit that this is a choice that each mother has to make for herself and her child, but reason that breastfeeding enriches a child’s immune system and prevents many cancers and many other diseases. It’s a fact that in the first feeding when the mother releases Colostrum to the baby, the baby is helped to pass the meconium or tar like substance that parents see in the first several diaper changes. Bishop says, “Learning to breastfeed is like learning to ride a bike, it may seem hard at first, but once you learn, it’s easy. Breastfed babies have better brain development, are healthier and safer. As my husband says, ‘A healthy, happy baby makes every family member proud.’ There are so many reason to breastfeed, but my favorite is that I’m giving my son a gift that will last forever.”
Jessie Covington / Say Cheese Photography 12
Have a happy New Year from our family to yours!
Bishop says, “I read on a support website where a woman had pumped over a hundred ounces ahead for her child’s daycare and kept it in a freezer at work in case the daycare ran out it could be quickly delivered. The woman arrived at work one morning to find all of the pumped breast milk thawed out on the counter, ruined. She was obviously furious and wasn’t able to return to work the next morning because her baby needed to eat. Her boss called and asked why she wasn’t at work. She explained that with her supply of breast milk gone, she had to feed her baby herself throughout the day. Her boss told her she just needed to switch to formula. I was so mad when I read this! This is the kind of mind set we have to change.” Bishop believes that breastfeeding is a hard enough decision to make and an often difficult commitment to keep (although well worth it), but mothers don’t need employers telling them how to raise their children or neighbors judging them as sinful or unfit simply for feeding their babies in the healthiest way possible. In this age of epidemics and plentiful ailments and diseases, can we not allow mothers the option to inconspicuously feed their babies. “I always ask a businesses owner if they are okay with me breastfeeding, just in case and about half the time they ask if I wouldn’t find a better place,” explains Bishop. “I always do when they ask, but it means I have to feed Ryan in the car or the bathroom. With my breastfeeding blanket, you can’t even tell, but it just makes some uneasy.” Bishop adds that she doesn’t want to ruin anyone else’s outing, but wonders why hers must be altered. Her husband, Dustin, doesn’t like her to have to leave the table when they are out at a local restaurant. This is a decision that should be talked about and shared says Bishop, “Dustin wanted me to breastfeed, but it takes away from his chance to feed Ryan and he misses out on more of that bonding. He knows how important it is and so he supports me wholeheartedly.” Jesica and Dustin Bishop live in Pfeiffer. “Our little Pfeiffer Community is wonderful in so many ways. Even though our closet neighbor is a 1/2 mile away through the woods. We live on a road with maybe 17 houses and we all take care of each other. No matter what time of day or what the issue may be. Someone is only a call away. Dustin owns and operates Bishop Lawn Service which can be reached at 870-307-9831. Ambra M. Huff can be reached at 870-793-8848 or emailed at ambra.huff@arkansas.gov and the WIC Breastfeeding Helpline is 1-800-445-6175. If you are breastfeeding and are worried that your baby may not be eating enough, the health office allows you to come in a weigh your baby anytime they are open. Come in and see Ambra, she will give you any information you need. And for those mothers to be out there wondering why you should breastfeed:
it
1. The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends
2. Breastfeeding promotes bonding between mother and baby 3. Breastfeeding satisfies baby’s emotional needs 4. Breast milk provides perfect infant nutrition 5. Not breastfeeding increases mother’s risk of breast cancer 6. Formula feeding increases baby girls’ risk of developing breast cancer in later life 7. Formula Feeding is associated with lower I.Q. 8. Breast milk is always ready and comes in a nicer package than formula does 9. Breast milk helps pass meconium. Babies are born with a sticky tar-like substance called meconium in their intestines. Colostrum, or early milk, is uniquely designed to help move this substance through the infant’s body. 10. Breast milk contains immunities to diseases and aids in the development of baby’s immune system. 11. Breast milk is more digestible than formula 12. Suckling helps shrink mother’s uterus after childbirth. 13. Suckling helps prevent post-partum hemorrhage 14. Nursing helps mom lose weight after baby is born 15. Pre-term milk is specially designed for premature infants 16. The World Health Organization and UNICEF recommend it 17. Breastfeeding protects against Crohn’s disease (intestinal disorder) 18. Formula feeding increases risk of baby developing type I (juvenile, insulin-dependent) diabetes. 19. Breastfeeding decreases insulin requirements for breastfeeding mothers 20. Breastfeeding stabilizes progress of maternal endometriosis 21. Not breastfeeding increases mother’s risk of developing ovarian cancer 22. Not breastfeeding increases mother’s risk of
developing endometrial cancer 23. Formula feeding increases chances of baby developing allergies 24. Breast milk lowers risk of baby developing asthma 25. Formula feeding increases baby’s risk of otitis media (ear infections) 26. Formula feeding may increase risk of sudden infant death syndrome (S.I.D.S.) 27. Breastfeeding protects baby against diarrheal infections 28. Breastfeeding protects baby against bacterial meningitis 29. Breastfeeding protects baby against respiratory infections 30. Formula fed babies have a higher risk of developing certain childhood lymphomas 31. Breastfeeding decreases chances of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis 32. Breastfeeding decreases child’s chances of contracting Hodgkin’s disease 33. Breastfeeding protects baby against vision defects 34. Breastfeeding decreases chances of maternal osteoporosis in later life 35. Breast milk is an intestinal soother (meaning less colic) 36. Cows milk is an intestinal irritant (meaning more colic) 37. Formula-fed babies are more at risk for obesity in later life 38. Breastfed babies have less chance of cardiopulmonary distress while feeding 39. Breastfed babies have less chance of developing ulcerative colitis 40. Breast milk protects against hemophilus b. virus 41. Breastfed babies require shorter pre and postsurgical fasting 42. Breastfeeding results in less sick days for parents 43. Breastfeeding enhances vaccine effectiveness Reasons to breastfeed continued on page 29
January 2015 13
Eye On Feature Jim Gowen, Sr., Our Community Banker
Tara Salinas
Jim S. Gowen, Sr. first mentions his gratitude towards his family when he was asked about his most recent recognition as Community Banker of the Year. The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) recently announced Gowen as the Central Regional Winner. Gowen is chairman at Merchants & Planters Bank in Newport, Ark. “The most humbling part is that all of my colleagues at Merchants & Planters nominated me for this honor and I was completely unaware until the announcement was made,” said Gowen.
Just to tell you a little about him and why he is so deserving of such accolades, when Jim S. Gowen, Sr. moved to Newport, AR in 1983 and took on the role as President and Senior Lending Officer of Merchants & Planters Bank in Newport, AR, the bank consisted of two branches with total assets of $46.9 million. The staff was small, procedures were manual and competition was stiff, but the reserved, quiet man from Clinton, AR had a plan that would soon expand the sleepy little bank into five counties with 11 locations and assets exceeding $250 million. That’s the thing about Jim. Once he gets his mind set, a plan forms and then becomes a very calculated reality. After growing banking locations, he researched other products and services as a means of development. In 1998 Merchants & Planters became one of the first financial institutions in the St. Louis Federal Reserve District to file for a holding company designation. With the recent passage of the GLB Act, options were limitless. Many banks dabbled in any and everything that they could, but Gowen smartly chose to expand into the insurance and investments arena, a natural fit for the bank and the customers they served. There were no toes stepped on in his climb to the top. That’s not how Gowen does things and would never let his determination interfere with his compassion. Every person hired into the organization soon learns the company philosophy of being independent, community bankers that promote economic growth and stability in their town. This has earned Merchants & Planters a reputation as one of the strongest community banks in Northeastern Arkansas, something that Gowen is proud of and has worked diligently on a local, regional and national level to maintain. I won’t get into a cliché rags to riches story, just know that one is there and it’s part of what shaped Jim into the driven, educated, successful and humble leader that he is today. He has the heart of a pioneer which has not only propelled M&P Community Bancshares to success, it also led him to finish up his nationwide tour of all fifty states this year at the age of seventy-one. He recognizes the importance of seeing what’s out there, isn’t one to back down from new experiences and knows 14
Have a happy New Year from our family to yours!
that honesty and hard work can lead to wonderful progress. Jim has an expansive list of community and professional volunteer involvements. His passion for community banking is recognized by his years of service to ICBA. He’s been involved in numerous committees and boards, including the Education Committee, Chairman of ICBA Securities and holding the position as State Representative. He has also been on the Arkansas Community Bankers Board for 15 years and has held just about every office, including President. By being heavily involved in both ACB and ICBA, he opened up the lines of communication and lobbied independent banking on a state and national level. Education is perhaps Gowen’s main passion and it appears this is where the largest percentage of his volunteer hours are spent. He’s a strong supporter and long-time board member of the Barret School of Banking. He has been Chairman of the Board of Regents and is currently Regents Emeriti. During his time on the executive committee the school has soared in popularity and ranking. This is largely due to Gowen and the executive board aggressively pursuing and receiving an $8 million grant. The Paul Barret, Jr. trust awarded this grant based on the board’s suggestions of creating a speaker series, using the money to subsidize tuition and promising to pay their instructors’ salaries equal to or greater than other banking schools. Today the Barret School is one of the most well-endowed banking schools in the nation, and you can be sure that each graduating class boasts an alumni from Merchants and Planters Bank. Jim spends a great deal of time and money to promote education in the community as well. He has been on school boards, involved in numerous projects that encourage financial literacy and helps award several local scholarships. But one of the most telling endeavors in Gowen’s quest for expanding educational opportunities is his role on the advisory committee of the Northeast Arkansas Higher Education Charitable Foundation. He’s been with the foundation since inception and, with his vision, the group has been instrumental in turning the local vocational college into a two year, accredited college. The foundation added a commercial truck driving program to the curriculum and provides scholarships to many of the students. This has not only boosted enrollment at the college, but it’s provided jobs and economic growth for the community. In 2002 Gowen joined Newport Economic Development Commission and became a founding member of DRIVE, (Downtown Revitalization and Improvement Volunteer Effort) a small group of leaders determined to revamp the slowly deteriorating
downtown section of Newport. He helped create a master plan for the renovation and has worked to secure funds to implement it. New sidewalks and street lighting have recently been installed and future plans include tearing down old buildings, refurbishing the bricks and building an amphitheater which will host community concerts and events. He has also personally invested in the downtown area by purchasing a section of the town, renovating several buildings to rent and one that he and his wife, Nita, call home. Visitors to the area are impressed at the improvements and residents are excited about the direction DRIVE has taken their downtown. Jim and Nita also serve on the Jackson County Commission and Economic Development Fund, which offers supplemental loans to small businesses. They also worked to get a $1 million Economic Development Administration Grant, with matching state funds to build an industrial road and rail spur for Arkansas Steel and Southwest Steel, two of the community’s leading manufacturers. This development helped each to expand their operations and increase employment opportunities. The industries are also very charitable contributors to the community, so this was a win for the entire town. There’s no way to cover them all, but a few other groups Gowen has been involved with are: the Shazam Network board, Rotary Club International and the Newport/Jackson County Industrial Bond Board. The hours he spends giving back to the organizations
Harris
he values far outweighs the hours he’s spent relaxing on a cruise ship or playing with his grandson. He proudly and willingly volunteers and strongly encourages the staff to do the same and shows us through his example that it’s an extension of our job, noting that the stronger our hands are in the community, the stronger our foothold will be. His leadership style is so humanly simple – be good to others and they will be good to you. Jim Gowen genuinely wants to see his employees succeed and invests a great deal of interest into every person hired. In 1987, he saw the need for a retirement program for his bank family and implemented an Employee Stock Ownership Plan. Today, the company is over 32% employee-owned, a stat that many community banks envy. Each year at our annual Christmas party he addresses the entire organization. Mostly he thanks everyone for another year of service, talks about our successes and perhaps hits on a few ‘learning experiences’ (not failures) but EVERY year he ends by telling us how proud he is to have us as his banking family. This is not a term he casually throws out, he means it. His bank family knows they can talk to him and he will always listen to their perspective, even if he knows he does not and probably will not agree with it. In his words, ‘sometimes, people just need to be heard’. Since we are a smaller bank, we’re often asked when we are going to sell out and let the big banks take over. One employee’s answer resonates with me as the most honest and efficient summary of Mr. Gowen’s leadership philosophy, “As long as Jim Gowen, Sr. is around, we’ll never sell. You cut him and he bleeds independent banker.” Banking is in his blood and he’s continued the lineage with his son, Jim Gowen, Jr., current President and CEO at Merchants and Planters. Through Jim Sr’s leadership, Jim Jr is set to carry on the community banker’s legacy of commitment to your community by investing in the people you serve, the people you lead, and the people you love.
Hospital
Bingo in Newport January 6 10 am Lunch N Learn in the “Hidden Gem” January Noon Bingo in Bald Knob January 16 Noon Bingo in Tuckerman January 19 Noon Movie Day on January 22 2:00 pm Supper Club at Hungry Man January 27 from 4:30 – 7:00
N January 2015 15
“It’s truly an honor to recognize Jim Gowen as the central regional winner for ICBA’s first Community Banker of the Year award. His decades of experience in community banking and dedication to the industry show firsthand how exceptional community bankers can truly elevate this great profession and make a real difference in the lives of local citizens,” said ICBA President and CEO Camden R. Fine. “Jim’s dedication to Merchants & Planters Bank, his local community and the financial industry is to be commended.” Regional winners were featured in the December issue of ICBA Independent Banker®, the association’s award-winning monthly publication and the numberone source of community banking news for ICBA members. Gowen will also be recognized at the 2015 ICBA Community Banking LIVE national convention in Orlando, Fla. “It’s a privilege to be recognized by the Independent Community Bankers of America as a regional winner for the 2014 Community Banker of the Year award,” said Gowen. “I am fortunate to work alongside a dedicated team of fellow community bankers at Merchants & Planters Bank and am lucky to serve this great community.” ICBA sought nominations from passionate, innovative and dedicated community bankers in September and received more than 400 nominations. This is the first year the association held this contest, which was sponsored by D+H, and raised national recognition exclusively for the nation’s community bankers. Merchants and Planters Bank invited the public to attend an awards ceremony that was held at their main office in downtown Newport on Wednesday, December 10. N
Everyone’s Looking!
Independence County Recycle Center
We Recycle:
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870 793 8892 110 Environmental Drive Batesville, AR Call to receive your FREE RECYCLING BIN today! 16
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’
Cafe - Casseroles - Catering
en ds to ca tc h up wi th fri Th e pe rfe ct pla ce
in the pages of EYE ON JACKSON and EYE ON INDEPENDENCE!
email kthomas@eyeonmag .com or call Kimberlee at (870) 503-1150
Reserve our Event Room for your next reunion, office luncheon, or Bunko Night! Natalie’s Catering is the perfect solution for your next gathering! Dinner? Grab something yummy from our selection of take and bake items. As always come enjoy Daily Lunch Specials / Delightful Desserts!
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January 2015 17
I Do
Finch - Clark Wedding Kimberlee Thomas
Matthew’s Photography
Amy Ellen Finch and Shannon Wayne Clark were introduced by a mutual friend in February of 2014. The two immediately hit it off and hardly spent a day apart. Amy had a job interview in Hot Springs in August; Shannon joined her on the trip. “One of my favorite places in Hot Springs is a restaurant called Rolando’s. So I took Shannon there after the interview was over. I shared with him how I had always loved it there. I was disappointed that due to the rain we couldn’t sit in the scenic outdoor area. It was still a wonderful evening.” One month later the couple would return to Hot Springs, this time to house hunt. Shannon insisted that they return to Rolando’s and sit outside since they hadn’t been able to the previous time. What Amy did not know was that Shannon had already been to the restaurant earlier in the day. He discussed his plan with the staff and left the carefully chosen ring in their trust. Upon their arrival that evening, the host sat them front and center of the band. A while into the evening the band began to play, “Something in the Way She Moves” by James Taylor. Amy recalls, “When I heard the band start to play our song I looked up and he was on one knee. He proposed, I said ‘yes’. We danced. The band announced our engagement and the entire place erupted in applause. It was perfect.” The couple was untied in holy matrimony at sunset on October 25, 2014. The Finch family farm in Pfeiffer was the backdrop for their special day. The bride’s brother, Greg Finch, flew in from Oregon on standby to officiate the wedding. Amy recalls, “He did not get a seat on a flight until midnight the prior evening, which left us wondering if he would make it all!” Bev Finch, mother of the bride, helped in planning the wedding. “She is a wonderful wedding planner! Who knew? She and my dad, Phillip, worked tirelessly the month before to clean the old rustic barn for our special day.” The couple’s two dachshunds were escorted down the
aisle by Amy’s mother and grandmother. Meagan Akins served as Amy’s matron of honor. Scout Finch, sister of the bride, along with longtime friends Brooke Rose, Leslie Reed and Sara Whitaker served as bridesmaids. Everett Mize, Shannon’s grandfather, stood as his best man. His brother, Shawn Clark, along with longtime friends John Parks, Edmund Hetrick and Josh Fulcher served as groomsmen. Audrey Rose and Nora Whitaker were flower girls. Shannon’s nephews, Logan and Caden Goff were ring bearers. The guest book was attended by Shannon’s sister, Kari Goff, and cousin, Chauncey Green. Andrea Baker, Katie Vinson, and Cindy Butler served cake and punch. Scout Finch and John Parks provided live entertainment after the ceremony. The guests were treated to a taco and tamale bar, all of which was prepared by the Finch women. “My mom made the beautiful wedding cake. It contained layers of white, strawberry and carrot cake. Meagan Akins made the groom’s chocolate cake with our initials decorating the top. The evening was full of dancing and laughter. There are so many wonderful memories I will cherish.” Amy and Shannon wish to express their deep appreciation to those that came from near and far to celebrate their special day with them. The couple plan to go skiing at Breckenridge for their honeymoon. Amy graduated from Batesville High School then went on to receive her bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. She is now a therapy coordinator at Glenwood Health and Rehab. Shannon graduated from high school at Sulphur Rock and then earned his degree in education from Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. He is currently self-employed. The couple resides in the Hot Springs area and looks forward to horse-racing season and time spent outdoors in the Ouachita Mountains. N
Smith’s Verdict ***1/2
Shattered Glass
Reviewed by Tanner Smith How far does ambition go in the workplace? Or, in the case of “Shattered Glass,” how far does ambition go in journalism? “Shattered Glass” is a film based on true events in the late-‘90s, about a young writer, named Stephen Glass, who strived to get so far in the reporting business that he actually fabricated more than two dozen stories for the New Republic just so he could get ahead. He didn’t just bend the rules; he flat-out made up the facts as he went along and attempted to cover his tracks with elaborate stories and hoaxes. Why did he do it? Maybe he thought he would impress his fellow staff writers if he could write the most riveting stories, so he created stories about a drunken Young Republicans hotel-gathering and a computer hacker’s convention featuring a young hacker who sold computer companies his knowledge to get rid of other hackers, in exchange for anything he wanted. You could say these stories are too good to be true, and that’s probably what Stephen’s co-workers think. But Stephen has notes for fact-checkers to verify, they love Stephen’s enthusiasm as he talks about his stories, and more importantly, they love him. Even when his wispy, whiny personality seems to annoy people, all he has to do is ask the question, “Are you mad at me?” They can’t stay mad at him. That’s the way writer-director Billy Ray sees it in “Shattered Glass,” which stars Hayden Christensen as Stephen Glass. Christensen portrays Glass effectively, as a naïve kid who desperately wants to be liked by his peers and co-workers and will even flat-out lie to everybody to gain sympathy, even when he is caught by his editor, Chuck Lane (Peter Sarsgaard in an excellent performance), by accident. When is Stephen Glass telling the truth in this film? It’s hard to tell, because he’s a convincing liar. He always plays an innocent. Is he an innocent? There are times near the end, when he creates a sob-story when he knows he’s about to be fired from the New Republic, that it’s so unsettling to watch him like this. But it’s all so fascinating, and Hayden Christensen turns in a solid performance. One thing we don’t see in this film is how good Glass is as a journalist. You have to wonder from watching this film if he ever wrote a story he didn’t make up himself. If so, why is that? Is it because he kept thinking he could get away with it? That he could continue to fool people? Is he just addicted to lying? What we do know is that when Glass is ultimately caught, he doesn’t see it as a big deal by that point. This really did happen. Stephen Glass did in fact create these stories. The New Republic published fiction and didn’t even know about it until Internet journalist Adam Penenberg (played by Steve Zahn) checked the facts himself, brought the attention TNR editor Chuck 20
Have a happy New Year from our family to yours!
Lane, and exposed the article, causing Lane to fire Glass. It’s almost hard to believe, but sometimes the most impressive stories are the ones that are true. Maybe if Glass looked around some more, he wouldn’t have had to imagine his articles. “Shattered Glass” is a terrific film that shows the pressures of journalism as well as the questions of limited ambition in such a workplace (Glass’ opening narration about his job is one of the most truthful speeches I’ve heard, especially now that I’ve worked at the University of Central Arkansas newspaper, the Echo, for two semesters now). It’s also very well-acted. I’ve said how good Hayden Christensen is as the title character, but I can’t forget Peter Sarsgaard as Chuck Lane, who’s really the hero of the story. In the beginning of the film, he already has enough to worry about—he’s not popular among his co-workers, and is even less so when he replaces the original editor Michael Kelly, whom everyone loved. He’s not very charismatic, is constantly under pressure with deadlines and all that fun stuff with journalism, and now he has to deal with this “kid” (because, really, that’s what the others see Glass as: a kid), and hope that he’s wrong about his suspicions because he knows that if he fires him, no one will want to listen to his reasons why. Sarsgaard is great here; he does an excellent job at balancing out his ethics and wants. He, along with many other aspects (the script, the execution, the rest of the actors) make “Shattered Glass” definitely worth looking into. N
Southside 3rd Grade Football Team – 2nd Runner up in State Tournament Kimberlee Thomas Southside 3rd grade football coach Tyson Franks speaks very highly of his team and their tenacity. “The first few practices we knew we had a good group of boys. They were eager to learn all they could about the game. Several of the boys that started out behind; ended up being some of our key players. It seemed like each week someone new would step up, especially during games.” The team finished out their regular season 7-1. Franks shares, “At the end of the season none of the players, coaches or parents wanted to stop playing football! So we entered the State Tournament in Little Rock.” The 4A school found themselves playing against 7A handpicked all-star teams. Their determination was not swayed; they dug in and gave it all they had. Twelve teams entered the tournament and after the first day there were only four left. The Southerner team lost out in the semi-finals to Texarkana giving them a third over-all finish. “We were on our way home when I got the call. Texarkana had been disqualified. That put our boys in the State Runner-up position. We were all so excited,” recalls Franks. The team and coaches are already counting down the days for next season. “Our boys worked hard at every practice. They gave 100% every time they stepped out on the field. Coaches Josh Foster, Trey Trucks, Nathan Simmons and I could not be more proud. We are thankful for their parents who put their trust in us to teach and lead their children.” N
HAPPY NEW YEAR! we would love to help you with your travel plans in 2015!
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Back row: Isaac Wallis, Peyton Foster, Tyson Trucks, Jamie Garcia, Tyler Carter, Savien Hall, Breydon Wilson, Kamren Taylor, Conner Taylor. Middle Row: Tate Hedden, Jax Colvin, Mason DuBose, Carson DuBose, Creyton Edwards, Breydon Sanders. Bottom Row: Camden Hutchison, Coleman Bozeman, Hollis Finley, Jackson Gillette, Briar Luellen, Welson Downs, Austin Wagoner, Colby Harris, Tanner Elumbaugh, Kayden Wood.
Notes from the Clearing
Refinement
Joseph Thomas Might I begin again with an understanding that is fresh with young hands and old skill. May I live better than yesterday with more excitement and zest as ever I felt. Could I refine my vigor and metal to a fine point that punctures and cuts through the weakness
I’ve slowly undressed from and drop it upon the path behind. Should I find my meadow farther than my reach allows, I will that my mind forgives my body for letting down my defenses too soon and missing the mark that I’ve traveled for so long to lay upon. N January 2015 21
Second Grade student, Robey Landreth, was the overall spelling Bee Winner for grades K-2 at Sulphur Rock Stem Magnet.
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Fifth grade student, Victoria Vance, was the overall Spelling Bee winner for grades 3-6 at Sulphur Rock Stem Magnet.
Have a happy New Year from our family to yours!
K-2 grade Sulphur Rock Stem Magnet Spelling Bee winners by class (Front row left)-Kindergarten 1st place winner, Bryce Blackmore, and 2nd place winner, Dailee Cladwell. (Back Row left)- First grade, 2nd place winner, Maggie Price, 1st place winner, Sawyer Rudisill; Second grade, 2nd place winner, Zayne Hall and 1st place winner and overall K-2 winner, Robey Landreth.
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January 2015 23
Things To Do Cake Decorating, February 9 Julie Gosser, owner of Julie’s Piece of Cake, will teach the fundamentals of basic cake decorating on February 23 and March 16 from 6 to 8 p.m. Using buttercream icing, you will learn to ice and smooth cakes and ice and fill cupcakes. You will drop flowers, make stars, rosettes, shell and bead border, a shaggy mum, regular roses, ribbon roses, leaves, piping, writing and more. Deadline to register: February 9. Class is $40 plus Supply fee of $80 payable to instructor on first night of class. Mondays, UACCB Fine Arts Building, Room 603. To register, email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu or call 870-612-2082. Eat to Live: Recapturing Your Health with Food, February 26 With more education and sophistication, we have become, as a population, much less healthy. How has that happened? The deck is stacked against us with a broken food industry that encourages all the wrong habits and bombards us with misleading and inaccurate advertising. Instead of sustaining our good health, the way we eat has sadly contributed to chronic illness and our declining health. We all think we know what we should be eating but do we really know, and do we do it? You will leave this class with workable solutions for better eating habits to take back control of your and your family’s health. The time to do it is now! February 26, 6 to 8 p.m. for a class fee of $15. Daniela Liscio, instructor. UACCB Main Campus Building, Room 240. To register, email katrina.stevens@ uaccb.edu or call 870-612-2082.
All Over Independence
14th Annual Ozark Foothills FilmFest The 2015 Ozark Foothills FilmFest takes place April 3-4 and April 10-11. A vibrant celebration of the cinema arts, offering recent non-commercial narrative and documentary films, restored classics, foreign language films, and animation. A rare opportunity to view a restored silent American classic film WITH LIVE MUSIC ACCOMPANIMENT! Contact Judy Pest at 870-2511189 or email ozarkfilm@wildblue.net or log onto www. ozarkfoothillsfilmfest.org for more information. BAAC’s Annual Summer Celebration Fundraiser for the Arts! Support the arts in our community by attending this fun event filled with drinks, food, live music, and silent auction. Friday, June 5 from 6 p.m. through 11 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on Main Street. Contact Paige Dirksen at 870-793-3382 or email her at baac@suddenlinkmail.com and log onto www. batesvilleareaartscouncil.org for more information. 11th Annual T Tauri Movie Camp An artist residency program offering video production workshops for kids and teens age 8-18. Workshops range in length from two to four days. 2015 offerings include Script to Screen Narrative Filmmaking, Stop Motion Animation, Music Video and Depicting Zombies. Starts Monday, July 13, at 9 a.m. and runs through Saturday, July 25. Contact Judy Pest at 870-2511189 or email ozarkfilm@wildblue.net or log onto www. ozarkfoothillsfilmfest.org for more information. 72nd Annual White River Water Carnival Saturday, August 29 and more information to come. 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, January 2 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. N
Upcoming Events for 2015 CASA’s Coffee and Info CASA is having a coffee and information-sharing event at the Mark Martin Racing Museum in Batesville on January 24 from 11 – 2 p.m.
Photo by Stacy Pretty
Baby Kennadi blowing kisses.
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Have a happy New Year from our family to yours!
Wood Family of Dealerships raises money for United Way Project Pink Ariel Smith The Stanley Wood Chevrolet and Scott Wood Chrysler dealerships raised more than $3,000 from the community through its “Drive Breast Cancer Outta’ Here” promotion during the month of October. All proceeds from the event will benefit the United Way’s “Project Pink” campaign, which supports local people afflicted with the disease, breast cancer survivors, family members who have lost loved ones, and others affected by breast cancer in the community. This year, along with donations for each car sold during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the dealerships created a unique event – “Drive Breast Cancer Outta’ Here.” Donors purchased custom T-shirts, received car decals, and had the opportunity to stamp their handprint in pink paint on a Buick LaSabre which was named the “Pinked Out Vehicle.” The “Pinked Out Vehicle” was displayed at Southside High School’s breast cancer awareness game and at Lyon
College’s homecoming scrimmage. An appearance at Batesville High School’s breast cancer awareness game had to be cancelled due to heavy thunderstorms. Bids were taken on the “Pinked Out Vehicle” and the car was sold to the highest bidder. All the proceeds from the sale of the car were donated with our donation for cars sold. Last year, the dealerships raised more than $2,500 by making donations for each car that was sold during October. “We are very pleased with the community’s participation and look for even greater awareness and support as we continue the fight against breast cancer in the future,” Scott Wood stated. “We are proud to partner with United Way in this cause as we all work to make a difference in our community.” N
The Members of United Way board and staff did not let rain stop them from lending a hand to “Drive Breast Cancer Outta’ Here”. (Left to Right Steve Ringwald, Sue Karg, Cassandra Skelton, Marty Lehman, and Deanna Green)
Employees from Stanley Wood Chevrolet and Scott Wood Chrysler wore custom T-shirts every Friday for the month of October to spread awareness for breast cancer.
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Providing Insurance and Financial Services 2860 Harrison Street, Batesville 870-793-5422 Office / 870-793-3039 Fax
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January 2015 25
Faces The 2014 Batesville Christmas Parade, “Cowboy Christmas,” was a festive event with fun for all. Much thanks to the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Kiwanis Club of Batesville for putting this together every year and to the City of Batesville for lighting the City so beautifully. We wish the Kiwanis Club of Batesville much luck in future parades as they take the reigns to this special holiday event.
The Go Green Membership Luncheon held December 4 helping to bring environmental efforts to Independence County and Eye On likes that!
The winners of the Batesville Christmas parade, “Cowboy Christmas,” have been announced. Winners of the business category include Batesville Eye Care (first place) and Liberty Tax Service (second place). Winners of the non-profit/civic category include Cub Scout Pack #220 (first place), Desha First Baptist Church (second place) and Emmanuel Baptist Church (third place). The BACC has organized the Christmas parade for several years with the aid of the Kiwanis Club of Batesville. Beginning in 2015, the Kiwanis will assume full responsibility of the parade. BACC President/CEO Crystal Johnson said of the change: “The Chamber has enjoyed organizing the parade for so many years. We are happy to pass this holiday tradition along to another very worthy and capable organization. We are excited that the Kiwanis can now use the Christmas parade to fulfill its mission of serving the children of our community.” “Cowboy Christmas” was sponsored by FutureFuel, Henard Utility Products, Cup’d Up Outdoors, Thompson’s Jewelry Store, Kallsnick Inc., Hiland Dairy, Marshall Dry Goods, Eye on Independence, The Home Depot, Sherwood Urgent Care, WRD Entertainment, and Flowers Baking Company. Each float was scored according to the theme of the parade, placement and use of lights, creativity, originality, animation and special effects, and costuming. Judges’ decisions are impartial and final. N
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Have a happy New Year from our family to yours!
Southside High School Media Center ribbon cutting. It was furnished by First Community Bank. White River Medical Center recently held its annual Christmas Event: Cookies, Cocoa, and Christmas Songs. The event was headlined by former American Idol contestant, Lauren Gray, of Hardy. She was joined by guest, AK Barnes of Cherokee Village. Performers also included local talents Alicia Williams, Connie and Doc Spurlin, and Steve Moody. Close to $400 was raised for Ribbons of Hope from donations and entry fees for a raffle. Ribbons of Hope is a fund that assists cancer patients receiving treatment at WRMC. Pictured left to right are Williams, Gray, Barnes, Doc Spurlin, Moody, and, in the front, Connie Spurlin. The performances can be seen on White River Health System’s YouTube channel.
White River Health System Foundation’s Inaugural Casino Night Annie Solis
White River Health System (WRHS) Foundation recently raised more than $25,000 at the Inaugural Casino Night event. With a theme that embraced the roaring 20’s time period, the event hosted over 140 guests, many of whom were dressed as 20’s themed characters. The event, held in the White River Medical Center Women’s Center, featured a fun-filled night of gaming and poker; the classy jazz sounds of Alicia Williams; scrumptious appetizers prepared by White River Medical Center’s Executive Chef, Blake Wilbanks and his culinary team; a wine pull; and a silent auction with a large array of items from jewelry, to sports memorabilia, to hunting trips. “The entire night was not only a success in raising money to improve our facilities, but also in creating an event that provided an evening of fun and excitement for our guests,” said Amanda Roberts, Director of the WRHS Foundation. The night was full of big winners. The First Place Gaming Winner, with a prize of a trip for two to Las Vegas complete with luggage and gift cards for spending, was Mandi Curtwright. Second Place Gaming Winner, Julie Gregg, received a patio set complete with fire pit and margarita machine. Third Place Gaming Winner, Maggie Beshears, took home a wine cooler and wine dispenser. Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament winner was John Harris, who won a $250 Cup’d Up Calls gift certificate and a knife crafted by Austin Weaponry. “I’m proud of the hard work put forth by the Foundation team and planning committee to make this event exciting and beneficial to the future needs and projects of WRHS,” says Gary Bebow, WRHS CEO.
“I would also like to say a special ‘Thank You’ to the sponsors and all who attended for making this event a success.” Presenting sponsors included Citizens Bank, White River Insurance and White River Financial, First Community Bank, Wann Office Supply, Cardinal Health and the Wood Family Dealerships. Due to the overwhelming positive feedback, the WRHS Foundation plans to make this an annual event. The White River Health System Foundation supports the healthcare mission of White River Health System through charitable giving, grant writing and fundraising events. Gifts to the foundation are used for the development of new clinical services, scholarships for health professionals and capital building projects. For information on how your charitable dollars can make a difference, please contact Amanda at (870) 2621927 or via email at aroberts2@wrmc.com. N
Amy Martens, Cliff Brown and Deana Wyatt enjoying Casino Night. January 2015 27
Santa Claus(assistant superintendent, Harvey Howard) and Elf Helper(curriculum coordinator, Pam Brooks) visit and pass out candy to all the students at Sulphur Rock Magnet the last day of classes before the break to wish them a Merry Christmas and a safe Holiday.
3-6 grade Sulphur Rock Stem Magnet Spelling Bee Winners by class (front row left) - 3rd grade, 1st place winner, Kade Barber, 2nd place winner, Emily Price; 4th grade, 2nd place winner, Madison Thompson, and 1st place winner, Ethan Price. (back row left) - 6th grade, 1st place winner, Kaylee Clark, 2nd place winner, Stephannie Laslo; 5th grade, 1st place winner, Victoria Vance, and 2nd place winner, Breanna Rea. Kaylee Clark and Victoria Vance will represent Sulphur Rock Stem Magnet at the Countywide Spelling Bee.
ENDORSE HERE
Sulphur Rock After School 4-H members Amie Ramsey(left) and Jonathan Reasons work on their catapult to test it for chunking marshmallows during a regular meeting.
The Sulphur Rock 4-H After School Program made a float to ride in the Christmas Parade
Sulphur Rock 4-H After School students recently won ribbons for their B-Day activities at the Fairground. (from left) Emma Ramsey, McKenzie Vestal, Daniel Latus, Amie Ramsey, and Sawyer Rudisill. 28
Have a happy New Year from our family to yours!
Reasons to breastfeed continued from page 13
44. Breastfed babies have less chance of developing necrotizing enterocolitis 45. Breastfeeding is a natural contraceptive 46. Breastfeeding is easier than using formula 47. Breast milk is free 48. Formula is expensive 49. Formula costs the government (and taxpayers) millions of dollars 50. Breast milk is always the right temperature 51. Breast milk always has the right proportions of fat, carbohydrates and protein 52. Breast milk acts like a natural tranquilizer for baby 53. Breastfeeding acts like a natural tranquilizer for mom 54. Breast milk tastes better than formula 55. Breastfed babies are healthier over-all 56. Breastfed babies are less likely to die before their third birthday 57. Breastfed babies require fewer doctor visits 58. Breastfeeding mothers spend less time and money on doctor visits 59. Fewer waste packaging products 60. No bottles to tote 61. Less cow induced global greenhouse gasses 62. No need to refrigerate 63. Cows milk is designed for baby cows 64. Human milk is designed for baby humans 65. Natural pain relief for baby 66. Perfect food for sick baby 67. More sleep for mom (believe it or not!) 68. More sleep for baby (again, believe it or not!) 69. More sleep for dad, no bottles to deal with less burping needed 70. Less equipment to maintain and store 71. Less equipment to buy 72. Breast milk has never been recalled 73. Fresh breast milk is never contaminated with bacteria. In fact, it has antibacterial properties 74. No need to worry about which brand is better 75. No need to worry about adding contaminated water 76. Breastfeeding helps reduce cruelty to farm animals 77. Facilitates proper dental and jaw development 78. Breastfed babies get fewer cavities 79. Less money spent on corrective orthodontia 80. Better speech development 81. Less chance of baby getting eczema 82. Reduces inguinal hernias and multiple sclerosis later in life 83. Less gastrointestinal reflux (Spit-up) 84. Optimizes hand eye coordination and minimizes urinary tract infections 85. Breast milk contains no genetically engineered materials 86. Contains no synthetic growth hormones 87. Lack of breastfeeding associated with multiple sclerosis
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88. Less chance of inguinal hernia 89. Better cognitive development 90. Better social development 91. Decreased risk of baby developing urinary tract infections 92. Suckling optimizes hand-to-eye coordination 93. Protects mothers against anemia since breastfeeding mothers do not begin to menstruate for a year or longer 94. Less money spent on menstrual supplies 95. Teens who were breast fed as infants have lower blood pressure than those who weren’t 96. No risk of running out during an emergency situation 97. Breast milk is a good natural antibiotic for wounds 98. Naturally adjusts to the baby’s changing nutritional needs 99. Much nicer diaper changes and helps mom regain her pre-pregnancy body shape 100. Decreases family stress as healthy babies are less fussy than sick ones 101. Completes the cycle of childbearing N (Adapted from “101 Reasons to Breastfeed Your Child” by Leslie Burby in ProMOM)
Jessie Covington of Say Cheese Photography took the above pictures. January 2015 29
5803 West Main Newport, AR 72112 • Michael Brand: 870.897.7790 • Joe DuPree: 870.512.8417 • Fax: 870.495.3094 • michael@brandcre1.com • joe@brandcre1.com Our Real Estate Team is always willing to help a property owner in finding the answers to any number of questions or working within a special set of individual sales situations. This is all part of their quest for better customer service and attention to detail for their real estate clients. One example of this sales expertise was used by some local landowners who had a farm in another part of the state which they wanted to sell. This seller needed to find a buyer who would purchase the property under a special set of conditions. Joe was able to work with another brokerage and their buyer to achieve the sale of the farm subject to the seller’s unique needs. This was accomplished by using a tool called an installment sale. This sales method worked to achieve the goals of both sides. An installment sale is a set of property where you receive at least one payment after the tax year of the sale. Or, in this instance, the buyer is paying the seller payments over the course of ten years
with interest on the unpaid balance of the purchase. It allowed the seller to spread out the capital gains taxes over time instead of the taxes being due immediately on the sale of the property, receive interest income, and the buyer was able to purchase the property with owner financing. We have had great success in 2014, in agriculture land and commercial property sales completing transactions for our customers with companies including Sonic, O’Reilly Auto, along with Institutional Agriculture Acquisition Companies. Michael and Joe look forward to helping any real estate customer with a variety of sales services. They can provide property management, act as a buyer’s agent to locate exactly what is needed, and perform all other functions related to the property sale or purchase. Please feel free to visit our website or give us a call as we would be happy to speak to you regarding your next real estate transaction.
Property Catalogue Commercial Buildings Dollar General Newark, AR Dollar General Ward, AR Cross Drive Apts Newport, AR Race Street Apts Searcy, AR
Farmland 312 acres Independence Co. 273 acres Jackson Co. 97 acres Jackson Co.
$ 330,000 $ 505,000 $ 980,000 $1,950,000
Commercial Lots 1.1 ac Newport joins New O’Reilly Auto 3.5 ac Newport joins New Wal-Mart 85 x 305 1006 Hwy 367, Newport ½ acre Hwy 367 Newport ½ acre Red Wolf Blvd., Jonesboro 3.5 acre S. Caraway Road, Jonesboro 150 x 379 lot Harrison St., Batesville
2014 Sold Properties $1,400,000 100 acres Jackson Co. $ 825,000 194 acres Craighead Co. $ 350,000 200 x 600 lot Newport 46 acres Jackson Co. 210 acres Johnson Co. 1.88 acre lot Newport 1500 acres Jackson Co.
$125,000 $225,000 $200,000 $ 85,000 $325,000 $838,000 $350,000 $ 135,000 $ 575,000 $ 450,000 $ 156,000 $ 750,000 $ 325,000 $7,623,000
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Have a happy New Year from our family to yours!
Tree-Planting Legacy from the Wood Family of Dealerships Ariel Smith
The Wood Family of Dealerships is leaving their legacy and marking 75 years of service to North Central Arkansas by planting trees to beautify the landscape and benefit the environment. The second week of December will be one to remember for the Wood Family and the Batesville Community as a total of 75 trees were planted at schools in Southside and Batesville, and at Batesville’s newest softball and baseball fields at the North Complex. “The seventy-five trees will serve as a living legacy, one for each year we have been serving this community and trade area. We are very proud to partner in this way with Batesville and Southside schools as well as the City of Batesville,” said Scott Wood general manager of the Wood Family of Dealerships. Members of the Southside and Batesville FFA Hilton, Southside’s Agriculture Instructor, and (Future Farmers of America) programs helped by digging Chase students begin digging holes for the new trees being placed holes and planting the trees. Each school received 15 at the Middle School. trees to plant and the remainder were planted at the North Complex. These trees will provide some shade but also much-needed oxygen; for example, an average size tree creates sufficient oxygen in one year to provide oxygen for a family of four. Schools will benefit from a greener environment and the FFA programs will also be responsible for the after-care of the planted trees. The City’s North Complex will be enhanced by this addition with the maintenance crews taking a leadership role by caring for the trees. Red Maples were chosen by the Wood Family Dealerships for their beauty and longevity. Part of the tree is red in every season, making the Red Maple the perfect tree to enhance the landscape at all three locations with red blooms in spring, red tinged leaves with red stems through summer, and glorious red, orange foliage in autumn. The Maples will reach a height of 40 to 60 feet with a 40 foot canopy making a Batesville’s FFA plants trees in front of newest building. huge statement wherever they are planted. Rick Elumbaugh, Mayor of Batesville, stated, “I cannot think of better way to mark the 75th anniversary for the Wood Family of Dealerships than donating and planting trees. Having them give back to the community is great and now the trees will be here for generations to see. Southside and Batesville FFA programs showed a common goal and it is good to see both organizations bring their students to give back to their community.” Chase Hilton, Southside’s Agriculture instructor, was thankful by saying, “Southside FFA was excited to receive the trees to plant on the campus of the middle school and enjoyed partnering with Batesville FFA to plant the remaining trees at the North Complex.” Zach Harber, Batesville’s Agriculture instructor, expresses his gratitude by saying, “It is a pleasure that Batesville FFA was given the opportunity to serve our community through planting trees. Projects such as this fulfill the FFA motto, ‘Learning to do, doing to learn, earning to Southside’s FFA, along with principal Roger Reid, are all live, living to serve’. Thank you to Scott Wood!” N smiles after. receiving trees to plant. January 2015 31
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Have a happy New Year from our family to yours!
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January 2015 33
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Elizabeth's also offers a spectacular Catering Menu for any occasion
First Community Bank introduces innovative safe deposit box insurance First Community Bank, headquartered in Batesville, Arkansas, announced today that it will begin offering customers the opportunity to insure property placed in the bank’s safe deposit boxes. Until now, this type of insurance was not available to protect box contents against catastrophes. This optional coverage does not require disclosing the contents of the box. The insurance covers virtually all manmade and natural disasters and protects all property stored in the box, including previously uninsurable items such as gold and gemstones. This unique insurance also provides $3,000 of benefits to help replace important papers, such as titles, deeds, wills and trusts, and even cherished photos. “If our customers are insuring family heirlooms, valuables or collectibles stored in their homes, they can now place those items in our safe deposit boxes and have protection for a fraction of the cost,” said Tammy Poole, retail banking specialist at First Community Bank. “This innovative insurance feature now allows 34
Have a happy New Year from our family to yours!
our customers to have a safe haven, where their most valued possessions have protection and are insured.” The insurance is offered through Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage LLC. This patented product provides the most comprehensive, convenient insurance solution for box holders at an affordable rate with no deductible. Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage LLC is the leader in protecting and insuring valuable property stored in a safe deposit box. First Community Bank operates 17 full-service branches in Arkansas and southern Missouri and a mortgage origination office in Craighead County, Ark. A second full-service branch in Craighead County is scheduled to open in 2015. For more information about leasing an insured safe deposit box – including a complete list of coverage and exclusions – please visit any First Community Bank location or call the bank toll free at 888-780-8391 and request to speak with a New Accounts Representative. N
200 S. Central Ave., Batesville www.HeDeliversBatesville.com
(870) 613-5305 January 2015 35
Experiencing God in the Everyday Out with the Old, In with the New Pastor Chad Grigsby
Most people think there are only two kinds of people in this world: good people and bad people. And it’s natural to think this way. But Jesus tells us a story that reveals a third kind of person. In Luke 15 Jesus tells the Parable of the Prodigal Son. But the interesting thing is, there are actually two sons in the story. And the older brother is just as lost as the younger brother. The younger brother goes to his father and asks for his inheritance. Which is the basic equivalent of saying, “Dad, I wish you were dead,” because sons only received their inheritance after their father had died. He doesn’t love his father but only loves the stuff his father can give him. His father gives him his share of the inheritance and he goes away, spending it as fast as he received it. For a while he is the life of the party. It’s the modern day version of going off to college. He has a great time and holds back no pleasure from himself. But eventually the money runs out and the good times go with it. At one point he gets so desperate that he has to eat pig’s food in order to survive. He eventually goes back to his Father, realizing that even the servants in his father’s house have better provisions than he does. His father receives him with joy, proving that the father is really more prodigal (reckless) than the son ever was. What he should have said is, “How dare you show your face here again.” But instead, he welcomes him with a robe, a ring, and a party. This is the love of the Father for bad people. But like we said earlier, there is another son in this story. The older son has been with the father the whole time. And he comes in from the fields to this celebration. He is surprised. He didn’t know there was a party planned for this evening. He learns of his brother’s return and of his father’s reckless grace and he’s indignant. He tells his father, “Why are you celebrating him? Don’t you know what he has done?” But the older brother is not so much concerned for the family name as he is jealous that he didn’t have a party thrown for him. He says, “I’ve been with you this whole time! And never once have you even given me and my friends a goat to celebrate with. And now, this son of yours comes home after wasting your life’s savings and you have killed the fattened calf for him!” But notice the older son is just as lost as the younger. He doesn’t love the father either. He just wants the father for his stuff too. But he is more subtle about it. He is outwardly conforming but inwardly he is just as lost as his younger brother. All of us have fallen short of who we should be. All of us have seen God as someone to be used rather than someone to be loved. And people who think they are good are really just perceived good people. They think that their outward conformity is the same as inward transformation but Jesus exposes that notion here as false. Jesus shows us that there are three types of
people in the world: bad people (unrighteous), perceived good people (self-righteous), and new people (declared righteous). Only people who have been declared righteous through the reckless grace of the father are made new. Only Jesus can make us new. Only he can take us from unrighteous to new (younger brothers). Only he can take us from self-righteous to new (older brothers). We can get better on our own but we will never be made new on our own. And if we are honest this New Year’s, we know that we don’t need better, we need to be made new. So, which brother are you in the story? Whichever one you are, realize that the prodigal grace of the Father can make you new this New Year. N
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Chamber Plans Human Resources Training Danell Hetrick
First Community Bank and the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce will host a human resource training focusing on recruiting, retaining and leading quality employees on January 22, 2015. This full-day training will be held in the George Rider Room of First Community Bank from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Registration fees are $150 for chamber members and $200 for non-members. Allison Phelps, BACC Director of Programs and Events, says, “This training is a continuation of the Basic Supervisor Training that we held this September. Part one focused on the legal aspects of managing employees, and part two will focus on the behavioral aspects behind hiring, retaining and leading quality employees and maximizing your return on investment for any given employee.” This day-long training will feature three 2-hour sessions: • 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. – Jonathan Bergman “Recruiting Quality Employees” What is the value of hiring right the first time? We will not only cover how to recruit employees, but more importantly, how to recruit the right employees. This session will explore personality profiles, recruitment techniques, and the interview process. • 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. – Joe Gay “Retaining Quality Employees” What are the secrets to keeping great employees? Is it pay? Work environment? Leadership? We will explore how to build a business environment that retains the best of the best. • 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. – Break for lunch • 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. – Tom Massey “Leading Quality Employees” This session will cover what characteristics that real leaders possess. Let’s start leading our employees rather than managing them. POWDER COATING To register for this training, please contact Allison Phelps at (870) 793-2378Resurface or Allison.phelps@mybatesville.org. N / Refinish / Restore
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American Floor Care--------------------- 33 Anytime Fitness-------------------------- 23 Autry’s------------------------------------ 35 Back In Time Antiques------------------- 33 Bad Boy Mowers------------------------- 11 Batesville Poultry Equipment, Inc.------ 23 Batesville Spine & Health Solutions----- 38 Batesville Title Services----------------- 33 Brand Commercial Realty--------------- 30 Carlee’s Crown Shop--------------------- 10 Citizens Bank----------------------------- 7 Coldwell Banker Choice Realty---------- 13 Downtown Guide------------------------- 33 DQ Grill & Chill--------------------------- 4 Eagle Pest ------------------------------- 5 Elizabeth’s Restaurant & Catering------- 34 Etta’s Attic-------------------------------- 33 First Community Bank------------------- 2 Flowers Baking Company --------------- 3 Fox Creek BBQ--------------------------- 33 Harris Hospital Podiatry----------------- 6 He Delivers------------------------------- 35 Independence County Recycling Center-16 Janet Smart Farmers Insurance Agency-23 Jonathan’s Fine Jewelry----------------- 3 Kallsnick, Inc.---------------------------- 3 Kent’s Firestone-------------------------- 38 Living Spaces---------------------------- 20 Merchants and Planters Bank----------- 5 Mexican Mamas-------------------------- 23 NADT Dance Academy------------------- 8 Natalies Restaurant and Catering------- 17 Newark Furniture, Flowers and More--- 23 Ozark Foothills FilmFest----------------- 34 Purdy’s Flowers and Gifts---------------- 22 Renee Taylor Travel Company----------- 21 Robert O. Seat Photography------------ 17 Robert’s Photography Workshops------- 6 Serenity Massage------------------------ 23 Southern Bank--------------------------- 28 Southern Tire Mart----------------------- 19 State Farm Agent, Carter Ford---------- 25 Studio Salon----------------------------- 33 The Batesville Chamber of Commerce-- 22 The Property Shoppe-------------------- 9 Thompson’s Jewelry--------------------- 23 Thompson’s Jewelry--------------------- 33 Thompson’s Jewelry--------------------- 35 UACCB------------------------------------ 7 U. S. Pizza-------------------------------- 37 Virtue Boutique-------------------------- 8 Welcome To Independence-------------- 23 White River Health System-------------- 37 Wildewood Independent Living---------- 10
January 2015 39
Wishes you and yours
Eye On Independence