Eye On Independence March 2016

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Eye On Independence www.eyeonmag.com

Zika Virus Red Hot Ladies Luncheon Martha, Ronda and Macy A Publication of Meadowland Media, Inc.

March 2016


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In This Issue 6/ Editor’s Note Under Construction

6

7/ Cherri Design Art

9/ DownTown Guide 11/ Tales of a Transplanted Fashionista Keep It Shut

11

12/ Cover Story

Martha, Ronda and Macy

16/ I Do

Cornelison - Kallsnick Wedding

18/ Your Health

There’s a New Virus in Town

12

22/ Smith’s Verdict ***1/2 Ex Machina

23/ The Myopic Life

Don’t Be A Ball Hog

24/ Things To Do

26/ Notes from the Clearing

16

Thanks for the Fish

27/ Seniors, can we talk?

Life Insurance is for Those Left Behind

Eye On Independence is a publication of MeadowLand Media, Incorporated. Editorial, advertising and general business information can be obtained by calling (870) 503-1150 or emailing Kimberlee Thomas at kthomas@eyeonmag.com. Mailing address: P. O. Box 196, Grubbs, AR 72431. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements, unless otherwise noted, do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher or the staff. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information presented in this issue is accurate and neither MeadowLand Media or it any of its staff is responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Copyright © 2010 MeadowLand Media, Incorporated. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without the permission in writing from the Publisher. All pictorial material reproduced in this book has been accepted on the condition that it is reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer concerned. As such, MeadowLand Media, Incorporated, is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof.

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

AD DESIGN Department: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas PROOFING Department: Joseph Thomas Kimberlee Thomas Staff PHOTOGRAPHERS: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas Robert O. Seat PRINTING COMPANY: Corning Publishing Company

Creative Director : Joseph Thomas

For advertising, distribution, or editorial contribution, contact Joseph Thomas, 870.252.0013 or eyeonjoseph@ eyeonmag.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.

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


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Editor’s Note

Under Construction Joseph Thomas

Eye On is undergoing some alterations, please excuse the dust and noise while we strive to clean up our pages and bring you more exclusive content. Content from local authors and more articles only found in our pages. As you will see changes in this March Issue, other and photo by Robert O. Seat all modifications should be in place by our sixth Anniversary month of May. Thank you for sticking with us all this time and we hope you enjoy the improvements. So, here we go; March brings you a new powerful woman, or shall I say women. Macy, her mother Ronda Bryant and grandmother, Martha Lewallen. They visited with Kacey Burge to discuss Angelman Syndrome, Macy’s progress and the upcoming cause for the cure. Leigh Keller explains why sometimes the best policy is to Keep It Shut while Kristi Price exposes a Ball Hog. Tanner Smith reviews Ex Machina, Caroline Beauchamp speaks Life Insurance and Alisa R. Lancaster advises us on the Zika virus. Janelle Shell invites you to an upcoming Red Hot Ladies Luncheon, we have local press releases, Local Faces and Things To Do...so we bid you a terrific day and time to read on. Speaking of construction, there is much afoot on Main Street and it is all good. New businesses popping up before our eyes. If you are one who has stayed away from Main Street in the recent past, give it a look sometime soon. There is a lot going on and it is the place to be on a Farmer’s Market Saturday morning, or an evening’s Winter Gala, Antique Festival, Ozark Foothills FilmFest or even during a Main Street Bike Show. And if none of those are your bag, very soon you will be able to catch a movie, a premium coffee, a baked good and a creamy frozen and unfrozen unique nosh. So, don’t give up on Main Street, it is still becoming and though it will never be the street it once was, it can be the street we all hope it could be and a another new bright spot for Independence. N Perfect Spring Treat!

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Cherri Design Art

Like the jewelry that completes the outfit, wall décor compliments our space and completes the look. Even if minimal, every space needs some type of wall décor. When choosing wall decor for your home, look for pieces that reflect your personality or style. Select pieces that evoke emotion or ‘speak’ to you, but that are also aesthetically pleasing to the eye. When hanging art, most people hang it too high. The center of the piece should be at eye level. One should not need to look up to see the image. Whether hanging a grouping or various pieces around a room, level the middle. Do not hang art with the tops or bottoms at eye level. Also when hanging art over furniture pieces, choose art that is to scale. Select pieces about two-thirds the size of your furniture piece. Art can also be displayed on easels, propped on a shelf or leaned against a wall. Clocks can make a dramatic statement, as well as being functional. Available in all sizes, clocks can be used instead of art. They also come in a variety of shapes and styles to suit your décor, such as a grandfather clock for a formal traditional style. Clocks are constructed in a wide range of materials, such as wood, metal or resin, to accommodate any design. Consider a clock for a finishing touch to your décor or an accent piece for a statement. Be sure to choose an appropriate size, according to the statement you plan to create. Mirrors can be used in almost any room. Mirrors brighten up a room, adding depth and making a space feel larger. Choose a mirror with a unique frame or a pop of color to liven up your space. When placing a mirror, carefully consider what will be reflected in your room. For example, do not hang a mirror where it will reflect your television. Instead hang it where it will reflect an outdoor view or a colorful piece of art. Also, be sure mirrors do not reflect a bathroom or private area. Placing a lamp to the side of a mirror casts a nice warm glow into a room. This works especially well if the room is dimly lit. Let your home reflect who you are by carefully choosing your wall décor. Looking around my home, my love for God, His Word and His creation is displayed in every room. Fill your home with pieces that inspire you. N

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Tales of a Transplanted Fashionista Keep It Shut

I love to talk. I am pretty sure that once my parents got me to speak, I never stopped. One of my favorite childhood pictures is of me, around three years old, sitting in the backyard in a wagon, talking intently to the family dog, who looked very engrossed in what I was saying (I am a dog whisperer, remember). I am also raising a talker, so I do pay for my raising on so many levels. I never really got into trouble in school, with the exception of one weakness. You guessed it, talking. I was the child who would get to know anyone seated around me, I think I have always been trying to build relationships and help people work it out. But, listening is a skill I had to hone after choosing a career in education. One of my favorite things about my job is that I get to talk and to listen every single day (there is hope for you parents with chatty, animated little girls! They can be teachers and guidance counselors when they grow up....or truly anything else they want to be). As strengths are with many people, sometimes it can also be my weakness, though. Our mouths can get us into lots of trouble. I stalked a book online for several months, called “Keep It Shut- What to say, How to say it, and when to say nothing at all”. I finally bought and dug in the first night and that first chapter was so difficult to read, not because the words were too difficult, that message stung. Ouch ouch ouch. The author cut right to the quick, with “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits-Proverbs 18:21”. She went on to talk about a time in her junior high cafeteria where she could see her friend getting more attention from the junior high boys. Her jealousy overtook her, and she said something to make her friend look less attractive to them, and it backfired, costing her the friendship, and alienating her with her classmates. How many times have we all been in similar circumstances and handled them the wrong way? Cole and I live a modest life. We live in less house than we can afford (thank you Dave Ramsey), I drive a car that is not brand new, and we still have plenty. But, do we have friends who have more materially than we do? Absolutely! As a single mama, I cannot yet provide things for him in a way that a two income family could (and he is perfectly fine, no worries). Could I allow jealousy to take over my tongue and say things about my sweet friends I would immediately regret?? Absolutely!! (My answer is that my child will probably be spending many evenings at their homes in junior high and high school, eating their food and living in their basements, it will all work out). The author goes on to say that sometimes you just should not say anything. That is my struggle. I get so used to talking and filling up the space that I have had to train myself to take a breath (say a quick prayer for the words to say) and listen more than I speak. I see this same situation unfold every day on social media. People say the

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www.seeourdocs.com meanest things to strangers, friends and acquaintances. Not everything requires a comment. Disagree with your friend’s political views? Keep scrolling. As parents we know that words can breathe life over your children, and the words you say to them in the morning will set the tone for their entire day. Being mindful of the words coming out of your mouth will only help you, and listening more than you speak opens up a whole new world too. This book is a life changer, but I am still not finished with it, because I have to read a little, then process a little (and apologize a little). N

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.

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Eye On Cover Story Martha, Ronda and Macy

Who is Macy Bryant? “Macy is my heaven sent miracle. She’s magnetic. She defies the odds. She gives me hope in things again.” – Ronda Bryant (mother) Like most typical three year olds, Macy Bryant is energetic and full of life. She loves being active-playing, swimming, riding horses. She enjoys reading with her mom, watching Disney movies and wrestling around with her siblings, older sister Emma and younger brother Miller. She loves being around people and thrives in the spotlight. She is a free spirit in every sense of the word. So what makes this jubilant little girl different from other kids her age? Macy has Angelman syndrome. What is Angelman syndrome? Angelman syndrome (AS) is a severe neurogenetic disorder caused by a deletion of, or mutation on, a section of Chromosome 15. The disorder shares symptoms and characteristics similar to those associated with other disorders like autism, cerebral palsy and Prader-Willi syndrome. Because of this, about half of all cases of AS are originally misdiagnosed. AS is rare and occurs in only 1 in about 15,00020,000 births. In infants 0-24 months, the disorder manifests itself in a lack of cooing, feeding issues, inability to support one’s head or stand up. In young children, it is characterized by a lack of speech, delayed ability to walk accompanied by an unstable gait and balance issues. People with AS can also suffer from life threatening seizures and lack of sleep. A Family Affair Macy’s mother and father, Ronda and Josh, overcame 3 miscarriages before they became pregnant with Macy. Ronda had a fairly typical pregnancy and delivered her baby girl via cesarean section on September 18th, 2012. Macy’s APGAR scores were all within the normal range, but her blood sugar was low, due to undetected gestational diabetes. She also became jaundiced. After a five day stay in the hospital the family came home to find Macy had a severe milk and soy protein allergy that affected her ability to tolerate her formula. Even after finding the right one to suit her, she refused to eat and was eventually put on a nasogastric (NG) feeding tube which consisted of a thin, plastic tube inserted in her nostril, down the esophagus and into the stomach. Still, Macy wasn’t gaining weight and after 2 admittance to Arkansas Children’s hospital and several scope procedures, the doctors had no definitive answers. So, Macy’s family remained persistent which lead the doctors to perform some genetic testing. In February 2013, Macy was diagnosed with AS. At just 5 months old, this was a very young age to receive such a diagnosis and the family immediately rallied around her, making a 3-fold commitment to accept Gods

will in the matter, educate themselves and others and provide Macy with the best life possible. And the family has held strong to their commitment. Macy’s father Josh was even so dedicated that he left his long career in sales to attend nursing school in hopes that he could help his wife more with Macy and offer that help to other families in similar situations as well. Macy receives speech, physical and occupational therapy 3-4 times a week and is keeping up with her Angelman peers, even exceeding the expectations. She’s been doing so well that she’s recently been released from the care of her gastroenterologist and is walking well with the help of a gait trainer and ankle foot orthosis (AFO). She is now in the process of getting a communication device and a sleep-safe bed to aid in her continued progress. Ronda and Josh attribute the success Macy’s been blessed with to an early diagnosis, her amazing therapists, Ronda’s cousin Dr. Melody Moody and the unwavering support of friends, family and the great people at First United Methodist Church in Batesville. Macy’s grandmother, Martha Lewallen, quickly volunteered to help with the daily therapy routine. “I quit my job to care for Macy while her parents work. I am so happy I did that. I take her to her therapy class everyday. I have watched her struggle to accomplish her goals and I think to myself, ‘how did she do that?’ Then I remember the doctor telling Ronda and I that she would never do anything,” she says. “It makes me happy to see her determination. I am proud to say she is my granddaughter. Macy and I have a special bond and I will always love her. As a parent, it makes me proud to see Ronda and Josh strive to see that Macy has every opportunity available. I also feel that Macy has changed with the birth of her little brother, Miller. I see her loving and playing with him. I am so happy that Josh and Ronda allowed Ron and I to play such an important part in Macy and Miller’s lives.” Advancing toward a cure! Although there is currently no cure for Angelman syndrome, there is good news on the horizon thanks to scientific studies and the introduction of some promising new pharmaceuticals. AS has already been cured in the mouse model, and scientist are diligently working on steps to further research, bringing potential cures to clinical trials. Currently, there are 2 ongoing studies: the OV-101 drug trial and gene therapy to restore the functioning of the UBE3A gene in brain neurons. The drug OV-101, which has been derived from a naturally occurring compound in mushrooms, is already FDA approved and has been used in other clinical trials for disorders with similar symptoms to Angelman syndrome. In these studies, they’ve seen profound improvements using sleep, motor and behavioral

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measurements. The other clinical trial in motion deals with gene therapy, in which scientist deliver the UBE3A gene that is missing to the brain in hopes of reversing the symptoms and thus “curing” the disorder. A clinical trial using the antibiotic Minocycline has just completed. Although this wasn’t the cure the AS community was hoping for, many improvements were seen in the children who participated in the study. Those improvements included: increased attention span and motor development, and some decreased seizure activity. Awareness, FUNdraisers and Macy’s Stroll & Roll Macy and her family are very involved with the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics (FAST) and attend their annual Conference and Gala. They also keep up with the Angelman Syndrome Foundation (ASF) and attended their week long family conference. Macy’s family and friends also held strong to their 3-fold commitment by educating

themselves and others about Angelman syndrome. They needed an outreach to raise awareness among the community and raise funds for Angelman syndrome research, and in the spring of 2013, Macy’s Miracle was born. Since its creation, Macy’s Miracle has held several fundraisers to include a large yard sale, t-shirt sales, spring photo sessions, and a bounce house event. The biggest event to date is Macy’s Stroll and Roll that was incepted last year and raised a whopping $5,700 which was donated to FAST. This year the event is set for April 2 at Riverside Park at 10:00 am. It will be a benefit walk for AS, and will end with festivities including bounce houses and local entertainment. Onward & Upward Angelman syndrome might be a chronic disorder right now but raised awareness coupled with medical and scientific advancements, a cure is on the horizon. We invite you to be a part of making AS something of the past. For more information on Angelman

syndrome or how you can help, visit www.angelman.org. For more information on Macy’s continued progress, research updates and local events, visit the Macy’s Miracle page on Facebook or email macysmiracle@gmail.com. And, for additional info and any updates on Macy’s Stroll & Roll 2016, visit www. batevillekiwanis.org. It’s a great time for the community to come together in celebration of the progress that’s been made and in fostering hope for a cure! N

Kacey Clare Burge has a Master’s degree in Professional Writing from Chatham University. She has written for a Southwest Florida lifestyles magazine and because of her outstanding work, she was featured in REAL Magazine as a contributing copy writer and editor. She has worked as a debt content writer for a financial advice website and had a successful freelance career for several years. Kacey spends most of her free time with her husband, daugther and three rescue dogs, enjoying the outdoors and exploring what the state of Arkansas has to offer.

March 2016

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Ms. B's 6th grade class wore yellow to honor the bus drivers at Central Magnet.(from left)Ms. B, A.K.A. Pam Baxter, Claire Gregg, Sarah Shaw, Emily Rendon, and Rhiannah Crouch.

LocalFaces

Cody Scaggs and Anna Williams practice their roles in the upcoming BHS production of Fiddler on the Roof.

Central Magnet 2nd graders went on a trip to thank our local Heroes for all they do in our community. They delivered Valentine cards to Mayor Rick Elumbaugh, Nick Baxter and Red Davis of the water department and post office employees.

Thursday the students wrote thank you notes to their favorite hero and dressed as a Super Hero.

Simply Events ribbon Cutting. Simply Events is located at 1451 Lillie Lane in Pleasant Grove, Arkansas and can be contacted at 870.615.1444. Simply Events AR, LLC is a full-service business that can provide everything for your event needs: tables, chairs, dance floors, etc.! Can't pick up a truckload of chairs? No problem! Simply Events AR provides delivery and pick-up for weddings, birthdays, family reunions and more!

Breck's RV Park and Country Store at 897 Batesville Blvd. celebrated its ribbon cutting on February 19.

Senator Linda Collins-Smith joined Danell Hetrick of the Batesville Chamber at the January Chamber Around the World Expo. 14 Log onto www.eyeonmag.com to read online and send along any information to eyeonjoseph@eyeonmag.com


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I Do

Cornelison - Kallsnick Wedding Kimberlee Thomas

Photography by Natalie Simpson of Divine Studios

Jordan Brooke Cornelison and Kyle Scott Kallsnick first met while attending a football game at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. It was the fall of 2008 and Jordan was a sophomore and sorority sister with Kyle’s twin sister Kaylea at ASU. “I was very active in college and Kyle was busy playing baseball at Lyon College so we really didn’t get to know each other well at that time,” Jordan recalled. Three years came and went full of college, baseball and life. “We were reintroduced when I sang at Kaylea’s wedding in the summer of 2011. Kyle and I started dating later that year. We’ve been together ever since.” Time passed and Jordan accepted a job in Batesville and started looking at houses in the area. The first house that caught her eye sold before she had a chance to make an offer. She found a second house that was in the beginning stages of construction, “I was very lucky because I got to see the floor plan and make suggestions that I would like if I were to buy the house.” Kyle called Jordan a week after she had visited with the contractor to tell her the house had sold to someone else. “I couldn’t believe it. Kyle and I continued to look at lots and other homes but nothing caught my eye.” It seemed to Jordan that the perfect house was just not out there. On March 8, 2015 the couple had gone for a run and Kyle suggested they take a look at the second house just to see how the build was coming along. Jordan remembers thinking that Kyle was a bit nervous as they got to the house. She just assumed it was because they were looking at someone else’s home. One of the modifications Jordan had discussed with the builder when she was looking at the house was to convert a small bedroom adjacent to the master into a walk in closet. She was surprised to discover that not only had the builder made the modification but there on the closet floor spelled out in candles was the question, “Will you marry me?” Kyle had planned this moment out very well. He purchased the house without Jordan knowing and patiently waited for the builder to do his work. “I was so surprised. Not only did I get a beautiful ring but a house as well.” The couple wed on November 14, 2015 at the First Baptist Church in Batesville. The chapel was bathed in candle light as Stacy Reed presided over the double ring ceremony. Jordan and Kyle poured colored sand from separate containers into one to symbolize their inseparable union. Family and friends gathered to witness the marriage and to help celebrate with the happy 16 Log onto www.eyeonmag.com to read online and send along any information to eyeonjoseph@eyeonmag.com


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couple at the reception that followed. Elizabeth’s Restaurant on Main Street was buzzing with happy well-wishers. The couple made their exit through a cascade of sparkler light as they headed to Nassau, Bahamas for their honeymoon. Jordan recalled, “It was the perfect send off and completed a memorable evening.” Jordan graduated in May of 2015 from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock and is employed as a full time pharmacist at Wal-Mart. Kyle graduated from Lyon and joined in the family business at Kallsnick, Inc. The couple has made their home in Batesville. N March 2016

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Your Health

There’s a New Virus in Town Lately, you can’t turn on the news or pick up a newspaper without seeing some reference to the Zika virus. So what is all the hoopla? Being a newly discovered virus (1947, but the first well-documented outbreak was reported in 2007), there are still a lot of unknowns. About 1 in 5 of the people infected with the Zika virus will become ill, or develop Zika. The symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, conjunctivitis (red eyes), muscle pain, and headache. Though the incubation period is unknown, it is thought to be a few days to a week. The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting a few days to a week or more. People rarely die from the Zika virus and usually aren’t sick enough to require hospitalization. The virus usually stays in the blood of an infected individual for a week, though it can be found longer in some people during which time it can possibly be transmitted. Zika virus has been found in semen longer. Currently, there is no vaccine available for prevention, nor medication to specifically treat Zika infections. Prevention is the key and those living in or traveling to places known to harbor these infected mosquitoes need to protect themselves with an insect repellant containing DEET or picaridin (Environmental Protection Agency [EPA] registered insect repellants).

This repellant should be reapplied as per the label instructions. Individuals should wear garments with long sleeves and long pants and apply the repellant to clothing, not on the skin. Garments can be treated with permethrin or purchased already treated. Use mosquito netting to further protect susceptible individuals. Stay in facilities with air conditioning and eliminate mosquito breeding sites like containers of standing water. If someone develops the virus, then symptomatic treatment is offered, e.g. plenty of rest and fluids along with medication to relieve the fever and discomfort. As of now, it is suspected that the virus is primarily spread by infected mosquitoes. These mosquitoes prefer to live near people and are aggressive daytime biters. For now, the most worrisome issue of the Zika virus is its impact on the fetus of pregnant women and the associated microcephaly (small head). Researchers are currently evaluating transmission via blood transfusion or sexual activity. So what should you consider? First and foremost, if you are pregnant, postpone any travel to areas where the Zika virus transmission is occurring. If you are trying to become pregnant, both you and your partner should follow the same guidelines as sexual transmission is thought to be possible. If you must travel to an area,

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strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites during your trip. Pregnant women, or women (and their partner) thinking of becoming pregnant, who have recently traveled to an area of outbreak, should seek the advice of their healthcare provider even if not feeling ill. There’s no evidence to suggest that the Zika virus poses a risk of birth defects on future pregnancies once the virus has cleared the system. If you meet these criteria and must still travel, take the necessary precautions to minimize/limit exposure to mosquitoes. For more information on this and other health related topics, visit www.CDC.gov. N

Alisa R. Lancaster is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences (UAMS) North Central office and serves as faculty for the UAMS College of Nursing. She has been with the UAMS system since 1994. Alisa earned her Master’s and two post Master’s certificates in Advanced Practice Nursing from UAMS. She is passionate about the health and wellness of others and is married to Scott Lancaster. They have four children, two daughter-in-laws, five grandchildren, and two very spoiled puppies.

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Press Releases by Hannah Keller

After a lifetime dedicated to education, Renne Bell retired from the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville having served a little over 21 years in various positions, most recently as faculty secretary.

Zach Jeffery’s experience with the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville began in 1996 when he earned his GED through the college’s adult education program. That first step at UACCB eventually led to Jeffery earning his associate of applied science degree in computer information systems and forging a successful career in computer technology. His success earned him the distinction as UACCB’s Outstanding Alumni for 2015.

Press Releases by Annie Solis

Lyon College has released a third CD of music from the John Quincy Wolf Folklore Collection, which his wife Bess donated to the College in 1981. This time, however, members of the Lyon community recorded the CD: J.D. Spahr, Donia Rachelle Wade, Caitlin Campbell, Jason Lochmann, and Kenton Adler. Doug Deforest and Josh York engineered and mixed the CD, and J.D. Spahr produced it on behalf of the Regional Studies Department of the MabeeSimpson Library. The CDs are available at the Mabee-Simpson Library for $12, or interested buyers may mail a check (add a $2 shipping charge for the first CD, $1 for each additional CD ordered) to the Lyon College Regional Studies Center, P.O. Box 2317, Batesville, AR 72501, including the buyer’s name, shipping address, and quantity of CDs. Please allow four to six weeks for delivery.

Press Releases by Rachel Newell

Ashley Bagwell, APRN, is now accepting patients at the Tuckerman Medical Clinic, located at 102 Elm Street, across the street from T-Ricks Convenience Store in the heart of Tuckerman. The Tuckerman Medical Clinic Staff also includes Deann Smith, LPN, and Romee Benish, receptionist. Clinic staff can be reached and appointments can be made by calling 870.624.2892. Clinic hours are 7:30am-5:00pm Tuesday through Friday. In honor of National Doctors’ Day, which is March 30, White River Health System encourages you to thank the ones who help you get well and stay healthy. Batesville, Independence County, and our region are fortunate to have an exceptional group of physicians and providers. White River Health System would like to say “thank you” to physicians for their service and dedication. The White River Health System Foundation provides an opportunity for donors to honor a physician who has a positive impact on their life and be a part of greater healthier communities by supporting quality medical care. Call 870 2621927 for more information. Press Releases by Hannah Sturch

Dr. Jenn Daniels, Assistant Professor of Psychology and CoDirector of the YearOne program, has been named one of 10 Outstanding First-Year Student Advocates for her work with Lyon freshmen and her positive impact on the College.

Noted writer Daniel Woodrell, 2016 winner of Lyon College’s Leila Lenore Heasley Prize for Fiction, will deliver a public reading at Lyon on the evening of March 1 beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the Bevens Room of Lyon’s Brown Chapel and Fine Arts Building. The event is free and open to the public. Daniel Woodrell, winner of the 2016 Leila Lenore Heasley Prize, will

publicly read from his current fiction on March 1st at Lyon College.

The author of nine novels and a book of short stories, Woodrell has

won numerous awards and wide recognition for his fiction. Three of his novels have been made into award-winning films. This public

reading will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Bevens Music Room of Lyon’s Brown Chapel. The event is free and open to the public.

Luz Roa recently joined the University of Arkansas Community College of Batesville staff as the admissions administrative assistant.

The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville hired Trey White as an academic adviser. White is from Little Rock originally but moved to Batesville in June 2015. Press Releases by Kacee Reynolds

The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville has hired Erica Bledsoe as the new admissions counselor. Press Releases by Tina Paul

Highlighting the critical importance of improving student success in America’s community colleges, the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program has named the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville as one of the nation’s top 150 community colleges eligible to compete for the 2017 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence and $1 million dollars in prize funds, as well as Siemens Technical Scholars Program student scholarships. A full list of the selected colleges and details on the selection process are available at www. aspenprize.org. N March 2016

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Smith’s Verdict ***1/2

Ex Machina

From “2001” to “Blade Runner” to “Her,” artificial intelligence has been a common theme in science-fiction films. I think back to a line in a scene from “Prometheus,” in which an android asks a human he serves why he was made: “We made you because we could.” To say the least, there’s something so enthralling about the ability to play God and create life that the notion of said-life developing a soul is usually glanced over. That notion can pave the way for creative writers to explore its full potential, and with “Ex Machina” writer-director Alex Garland, best known for penning the screenplays for such films as “28 Days Later” and “Never Let Me Go,” explores this idea to create a spellbinding, thought-provoking fable about what it means to be “human.” The film begins as Caleb (played by Domhnall Gleeson) is chosen to participate in a test conducted by reclusive computer-scientist Nathan Bateman (Oscar Isaac), who is CEO of the search-engine company Caleb works for. Caleb is brought to Nathan’s remote estate to stay for a week. Why is he there? Because Nathan has created an A.I. prototype named Ava (Alicia Vikander) and he wants Caleb to interact with Ava for seven daily sessions and see if she can pass for a human. To get this out there right away, the special effects involving Ava are quite outstanding. She’s covered partially in metallic skin with a human-like face, and we can also see through her to see her skeletal structure. It’s really impressive. Ava is self-aware, speaks in a pleasant, robotic tone not unlike Siri, and seems very real, in Caleb’s eyes. He is astonished by how well she can pass as human and even becomes strangely attracted to her. This gets the attention of Nathan, who sees this as a development in the test, while Caleb starts to get suspicious of Nathan’s intentions toward Ava. Who is in control of this experiment? Who is being controlled? Who is manipulating who? Who is being manipulated? The less I say about the story of “Ex Machina,” the better. I walked into this film cold and was constantly intrigued by each direction the complicated story took. Yes, the story is a bit complicated but only in terms of the characters and their incentives. It avoids the usual scientific talk about how Nathan created Ava and instead pushes it into symbolic-dialogue territory, with Nathan telling Caleb his reasoning for creating A.I. and what he plans to do with Ava to make way for more improvements. This has Caleb worried, since he sees her to be as human as he, while Nathan sees her as just a machine that can be replaced. Nathan loves to create life, even if he doesn’t see them as “being” or “unique,” so Caleb sees his meanings as problematic. What I like most about “Ex Machina” is that it’s a little film about grand concepts. It’s kept in this one huge compound with four characters (Caleb, Nathan, Ava, and Nathan’s housekeeper whose identity would be a spoiler

to describe) and we stay there for a majority of the film. The set itself is a suitably-unsettling place to spend an hour and 40 minutes of running time, especially at night, when it feels like a prison, with surveillance, key cards, and emergency shutdowns that happen ever so often, strangely. And the film isn’t an action film with a ton of special effects (the effects, which mostly bring Ava to life, have a purpose and are understated); instead, it’s a film about construction, philosophy, value, and character, and it’s the characters and the script’s brilliant dialogue that help bring these themes across in a very effective way. It also helps that Garland builds an edgy, disquieting tone that keeps the audience unnerved and guessing throughout the film. “Ex Machina” also benefits from strong performances as well. Alicia Vikander provides the strongest performance as Ava, keeping the audience guessing as to whether she’s mimicking human emotions or genuinely feeling them. Oscar Isaac is brilliant as Nathan. He doesn’t play him as a typical mad-scientist type by constantly shouting and spewing exposition; he just plays him as an eccentric, deadpan, alcoholic narcissist who has a brilliant mind but is also kind of insane, especially when it comes to his fascination with playing God. Domhnall Gleeson is fine as the outsider/straight-man who isn’t sure exactly what to believe. With intriguing concepts, smart dialogue, a low-key approach, a contained feeling, and numerous surprises, “Ex Machina” is not a film I will forget anytime soon. Some of the concepts have been explored before but not quite like this. It is one of the best films of the year. N

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.

22 Log onto www.eyeonmag.com to read online and send along any information to eyeonjoseph@eyeonmag.com


The Myopic Life

Don’t Be A Ball Hog Early winter means basketball in our house. Our kids play on Sulphur Rock Magnet’s travel basketball teams. Our children have always been good team players…until recently. Our youngest child is a mere seven years old but is a complete and total ball hog. Maggie is slight enough that a good stiff wind can blow her over. She and some of her fellow second-graders were asked to join the third-grade girls’ team. This team often finds itself playing fourth-graders because most schools don’t have a third grade team. That means that my 48-pound second grader is often matched up against opponents quite literally “twice her size,” as are her teammates. Does this daunt Maggie? Not a bit. Maggie plays point guard, meaning she automatically gets the ball on every play. And more often than not, despite loudlyshouted sideline instructions from Coach Dad, she keeps the ball. Maggie’s favorite play is the one where she alone dribbles and zags until she finds a hole in the defense, and then she makes a break for the basket. If she weren’t so successful at it, she might have stopped doing it by now. It’s really wearing on everyone’s nerves. She says she just likes being in control of the game and she knows she

can score points. However, I wonder how many more points we could score if we could successfully persuade Maggie to PASS THE BALL. As with all sports, there are so many life lessons here. I see this ball hog attitude often in the volunteer world. Either because of poor planning, an unwillingness to delegate, or an attitude like Maggie’s that’s convinced that she alone can do the best work, jobs are often held tightly by one person while the rest of the folks sit around and watch. Certainly, there is something to be said for not everyone wanting to carry their share of the load, or for quality control, but I think it’s imperative that we not be ball hogs on our various teams and committees. What happens when the ball hog is sick or unavailable? What if s(he) moves away from the organization? Organizational success cannot depend on one individual. All team members must be brought into the breadth of the job at hand. Good Leaders should require this kind of team communication. And I’m going to take my own message to heart. Because my Kristi Price is on staff with Fellowship daughter and her ball hog Bible Church of Batesville as Ministry Coordinator. She enjoys conversations tendencies? She comes by about community and connection, them honestly. From her and she loves small town living. Kristi is married and mother to three children. momma. N March 2016

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Things To Do

CRTeam Southside Event The CRTeam will hold a 3 hour program for the Southside graduating seniors on March 2 on the Southside Campus. It will be a safe dating, distracted driving, safety awareness, self defense, not living your life on line, etc. program. Lyon College Opportunity Fair March 18 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Promote your organization, connect with students and faculty, collect resumes and schedule individual interviews during your visit. Lyon’s Celtic poetry contest accepting submissions Lyon College’s 37th annual Arkansas Scottish Festival, which will be held April 8-10, 2016, will once again include a Celtic poetry contest. The poems submitted may be any style or length, as long as they have a Celtic (Scottish, Irish, Welsh, Briton, Galician, etc.) theme or traditional form. There is no entry fee, and the entry deadline is March 31, 2016. The prizes for first, second, and third place are $100, $50, and $25, respectively, and the first place poem will be read (by the author if possible) at the Celtic Concert on Friday night, April 8. The author does not need to be present at the festival to win. Kenton Adler, last year’s first place winner, will judge the entries. To submit, send the poem in the body of an email to james.bell@lyon.edu with “Poetry Entry” in the subject line. Hunter Education Mar 5, 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. FREE Jun 25, 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. FREE Aug 27, 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. FREE Oct 8, 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. FREE

This class, sponsored by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is required for anyone born on or after January 1, 1968. To hunt in Arkansas, you must complete a hunter education course and carry a valid hunter education card. Youth under age 16 may hunt without hunter education as long as they are under the direct supervision of an adult who is 21 years of age. The educational reading material is based on a sixth-grade reading level. Mary Zirkle, instructor. UACCB Nursing Allied Health Bldg, 927/928. Pre-registration is required. To register, contact Mary Zirkle at 501.345.0367. Branding Your Business on eBay Mar 7-14, 6-8 p.m. $35 This class teaches advanced strategies for eBay sellers. Learn set up for the eBay store, branding, to setup newsletter and how to use eBay promotions to grow sales. Kat Simpson, instructor. Mondays, 2 sessions. UACCB Row Johns Bldg, 815. For more information or to register, contact 870.612.2082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu. Boating Education - New! Mar 7-8, 6-9 p.m. FREE Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1986 and of legal age to operate a motorboat or sailboat, must have successfully completed an approved Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Boating Education Course and carry proof while operating a motorboat or sailboat on Arkansas water. To operate a motorboat powered by an engine of 10 horsepower or more, a person must be 12 or older or be under the direct supervision of a person at least 18 years old. To operate a personal watercraft, a person must be 16 or older, be 12 to 15 years old and be under the direct supervision of a person at least 18 years old, or be under 12 and be under the direct supervision of a person at least 21 years old. Denis Dunderdale, North Central Regional Education Coordinator instructor. UACCB Nursing Allied Health Bldg, 902. For more information or to register, contact 870.612.2082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu.

24 Log onto www.eyeonmag.com to read online and send along any information to eyeonjoseph@eyeonmag.com


Organic Gardening Basics Mar 10, 6-8 p.m. $15 Cheryl Anderson, Master Gardener and owner of Garden Girl, teaches you how to prepare soil and start plants from seeds. UACCB Independence Hall, 102. For more information or to register, contact 870.612.2082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu. Defensive Living Mar 15, 6-8 p.m. $20 Self-defense is more than learning physical techniques. It’s about developing a greater sense of situational awareness to protect yourself and your loved ones. Instructor Shihan Don Gregory will teach effective physical techniques, which includes “dirty fighting” and best weapons to use as well as new technologies that can be used for self-defense. UACCB Annex Bldg, 406. For more information or to register, contact 870.612.2082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu. Cake Decorating Course 2 - New! Mar 28-Apr 18, 6-8 p.m. $40+ Julie Gosser, owner of Julie’s Piece of Cake, will teach Cake Decorating Course 2. This class will focus on flowers and cake design, like fondant, gumpaste flowers, ruffle and rose petals. Deadline to register: Mar 14. A book and kit is included in the supply fee of $90, payable to the instructor on first night of class. Mondays, 4 sessions, UACCB Fine Arts Bldg, 603. For more information or to register, contact 870.612.2082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu. ServSafe Food Mar 29, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $30 Food safety training is a non-negotiable activity for all members of the restaurant and food service industry. It is a highly dangerous gamble to cut corners by reducing or eliminating training. To decrease the risk of food borne illness outbreaks, take advantage of the National Restaurant Association’s ServSafe program, which provides value beyond certification and is the industry’s best dayto-day food safety source. Registration deadline is Mar 15. Participants must register two weeks prior to class. Renee Smith, instructor. Fee: $30 (includes 6th edition textbook and exam). UACCB Nursing Allied Health, 902. To register, contact Amy Morehead of the Arkansas Hospitality Association at 501.376.2323.

Crocheting for Beginners Mar 31-Apr 21, 6-8 p.m. $20 Feed your brain, exercise your fingers and discover the art form of crocheting! Thursdays, 4 sessions. UACCB Arts and Science Bldg, 304. For more information or to register, contact 870.612.2082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu. Teen Driving Roadeo Saturday May 7 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the White Rodgers Facility at 2895 Harrison Street in Batesville. All attendees will learn how to be safer drivers and those who attend all booths will receive free vehicle emergency kits while supplies last. Call 501.364.3400 or register online at www. archildrens.org/ipc. Hutchinson Community Center Available The Hutchinson Mountain Community Center at 3370 Camp Tahkodah Road is available for rent by contacting Lea Barber at 870-612-4718. Alzheimer’s Arkansas Caregiver Support Group of Batesville Do you feel overwhelmed or frustrated dealing with someone who lives with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or another memory loss disorder? The Caregiver Support Group of Batesville provides opportunities for you to talk with others who really understand what you are going through. Join us every second Thursday at 5:45 p.m. in the WRMC Josephine Raye Rogers Women’s Center Conference Center. Contact Deanna Green at 443.651.9686 for more information. N

ION T C A S TRAN TROL CON

Beginner Computer Basics Mar 31-Apr 21, 5-7 p.m. $40 Kim Lowry teaches the basics, from turning the computer on to sending and checking emails. Thursdays, 4 sessions. UACCB Main Campus Bldg, 223. For more information or to register, contact 870.612.2082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu. Intro to Photoshop Mar 31-Apr 28, 6:00-8:00 p.m. $60 Discover the power and flexibility of designing and creating in Photoshop. Instructor Jim Krause, co-owner of Deux Bijoux Bijoux of Evening Shade, will teach terminology and tools. Thursdays, 5 sessions, UACCB Main Campus Bldg, 222. For more information or to register, contact 870.612.2082 or email katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu.

Member

FDIC

March 2016

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“GET WELL, STAY WELL.�

(870) 569-4909

Notes from the Clearing

Thanks for the Fish

Joseph Thomas My belief is that the rivers we run are ever twisting and malformed, but only by our bent attitudes. The current can run fast and free and in our respect for it, we can try to prepare and go in knowing things may not go as planned. At the very worst, the river is indifferent and will flow as if we were not there, around us we put ourselves in

the way. We can traverse this wet entity with a realization that we dive into this undertaking with complete awareness and under our own volition, accepting the risks and owning any repercussion and merely thankful for any fish we may have caught in our trousers along the way. I say this with full acceptance of all of my darkest moments being set along paths of my own choosing and I own them all happily. They taught me much and class is still very much in session. N

26 Log onto www.eyeonmag.com to read online and send along any information to eyeonjoseph@eyeonmag.com


Fiddler on the Roof Faith Posey

Batesville High School, in collaboration with Batesville Community Theater, is pleased to announce it's production of Fiddler On The Roof. The play will be presented Friday and Saturday, March 11 and 12 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 13 at 2 p.m. in the Batesville School District Auditorium at 955 Water Street. Tickets will be $5 each. This year marks the 51st anniversary of the debut of the Tony award winning play which follows the life of Tevye, a devout Jew who is the father of five daughters. The common themes of traditions fading, time passing, and life lived are as

meaningful today as they were when the production first found popularity. The music of Bock and Harnick is as stirring and memorable as well. The local production is directed by Sandra Hays, the new speech and drama teacher at Batesville High School. When asked about her directing debut here in Batesville, Ms. Hays stated, “Being a new comer to the area, I could not have done this play without the expert help of the Batesville Community Theater members.” She added, “This play is a great show case for our many talented students, their singing, dancing and acting skills are impressive and I hope many will come to enjoy the play and show their support.” The major role of Tevye is played

by Tanner Doyle, Golde is played by Mary Collins, and Yente will be played by Claire Thomas. Other cast members include: Anna Williams, Macy Davis, Raegan Sikes, Bri Liegel, Alyssa Bartmess, Cody Scaggs, Tim Laurence, Noah Moon, Carson Horton, Jacom England, Glenn Dobry, Seth Hixson, Colin Emery, John Waugh, Zach Waugh, Hannah Reed, Virginia Mohlke, Kayllen Cox, Ryan Jamisson, Paige Wood, and Kaycie Tarpley. N

Seniors, can we talk?

Life Insurance is for Those Left Behind Attending a funeral is never the highlight of anyone’s day. Ruth and I had lunch the other day after attending a funeral and she told me about her cousin, Brad, and his wife Betty. They recently bought life insurance policies. Ruth said they told her that they believe everyone should have a life insurance policy to pay for burial expenses. (In fact this is the primary reason most people buy life insurance – to cover burial and final expenses.) Neither of them had ever had life insurance and now they feel they’re getting older and it’s time. They’re ready to fill that void and have peace of mind. Yes, that peace of mind is greater than the monthly premium they’re paying. We then started talking about life insurance in general. Sometimes we need to be reminded that life insurance is not for the living – it probably won’t help you while you’re alive. Life insurance is intended to help your spouse, children, grandchildren, survivors or beneficiaries. It may help them pay bills you either had when you died or created when you died. Ruth told me she read that 30% of households have NO life insurance

at all. And half of all households feel they need more life insurance. If you are 65 years old and your parents were 30 years old when you were born, that would make your parents 95 years old. If this describes you, then there’s a good chance that, unfortunately, you have had to plan a funeral. Do you wish you had more life insurance? “Quick money” to pay the burial and final expenses? I’ve never heard anyone say there was too much life insurance when someone died and they wanted to give the money back. Life insurance is “quick money”. Most life insurance is paid within ten (10) days after the insurance company receives the claim form and certified death certificate. No concerns over when and if you can sell a piece of real estate or divide a farm, is your business partner really going to buy your interest or is the stock market going to be up or . . . down. If you “think” you have life insurance, make certain you do. Know where your policy is and tell your beneficiary. Make certain it is in effect. When did you pay the last premium? Don’t let your beneficiaries be surprised when you die to find

Kennadi and Ethan Pretty

out that policy is actually worth zero, zippo, because you forgot to pay the premiums. Why are we talking about life insurance? Based on the calls I’ve received recently, you are interested in life insurance. How do you want to be remembered when you die? That you took care of your personal business or you just never got around to it and ended up creating a burden? Is it too late to buy a life insurance policy because of your medical conditions? Some policies are guaranteed. Call me at 501-868-6650 and say “Caroline, can we talk?” N

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?’.

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Citizens Bank “Red Hot Ladies Luncheon” Save the date for the upcoming Red Hot Ladies Luncheon – Friday, April 8 2016. A small group of determined women employees of Citizens Bank banded together 10 years ago to create a popular, annual social outing that would also raise women’s awareness of important health issues and encourage good habits for healthy lifestyles. The event combined a formal luncheon, silent auction and a raffle with a factual presentation to help the women make positive physical changes in their lives. Citizens Bank corporately sponsors the event and handles the planning thanks to their committee of dedicated volunteers. These local ladies spend countless hours securing silent auction items from local businesses, planning the schedule of events, selling tickets and preparing the venue the day before. Female students from both Batesville High School and Southside High School volunteer as ‘Sweethearts’ for the Red Hot luncheon. They help raise money for the event and volunteer their time decorating Independence hall the day before, as well as, serve tables the day of the luncheon. Local business men arrive all decked out in black tuxes and suits and are referred to as the ‘Heartthrobs’. Their role is escorting luncheon attendees to their tables after checking in. Since 2006, hundreds of women throughout North Central Arkansas have made the bank’s “Red Hot Ladies Luncheon” one of the must-attend social events of every year. The 2015 event marked the tenth anniversary of the wellattended affair, which began as the “Go Red for Women” luncheon. Initially, proceeds from the event were contributed to the American Heart Association; however, the ladies behind the luncheon decided the event could have a much more meaningful impact on the local community and the women in it if

the proceeds were instead donated to a local organization. By keeping the proceeds in the local area, the event would help make Batesville a healthier place for all and provide many necessary services to many neighbors who need them most. More than $100,000 has been raised through the series of Citizens Bank Ladies Luncheons to support various non-profit organizations that serve the health-related needs of local women and their families. Past recipients of funding from the Red Hot Ladies Luncheon have included: Ribbons of Hope, which helps meet the immediate needs of cancer patients, provides transportation to appointments and treatments; ensures that patients have access to their prescription medications; and sees to it that no one goes hungry because of the financial burden that cancer can add to someone’s life. Christian Health Center of Batesville, which provides services to uninsured members of the community, including medical care, medicines, and pastoral counseling. Christian Health Center offers comprehensive care not only by providing for physical needs but also for the spiritual and emotional concerns of the people they treat every day. Due to weather conditions, the luncheon was pushed back to April in 2015. The event had such great success the Red Hot Committee decided to continue a new tradition of hosting the luncheon in April and plans have been made for Friday, April 8th, 2016. N

Janelle Shell is the wife of Joe Shell and is stepmother to Hunter, Hannah, Jake and mother to Jet. She has been working with Citizens Bank for over 6 years and is recent co-owner of the Melba Theater. She is extremely active in the community and loves teaching pre-teen Sunday school class at Ruddell Hill Baptist Church.

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Smart Thoughts

4 groups who may need Life insurance Today there are more single mothers, stay-at-home dads, and households with a woman as the primary earner than ever before. People are buying homes later in life than they have historically, which means they may be making mortgage payments well into their 50s and 60s. And many couples are having children at an older age than previous generations which means these parents may face surging college tuition bills at the same time that they’re planning for retirement and helping to care for aging parents. Changing family needs affect day-to-day money matters as well as plans to protect the financial future of loved ones. Having the appropriate amount of life insurance is essential. Here are four groups that may need life insurance the most: Breadwinners If anyone in your life depends on you

financially, you may need life insurance. Increasingly, women are becoming the primary breadwinners in their households, so they will likely need to have more coverage than their husbands or partners. The number of women who are their families’ sole or primary breadwinner has soared to 40 percent today from 11 percent in 1960, according to the Pew Research Center.1 You may get life insurance through your employer, but the coverage is generally lower than individual policies and only in place while you’re employed. The cash value of permanent life insurance from Farmers Life can help meet long-term financial goals, such as funding a college education for a child or grandchild and can provide supplemental income for your retirement. Stay-at-home parents Even if one parent stops working to stay at home with the kids, both parents should have life insurance. It’s important to calculate the cost of services that a stay-at-home parent provides, such as child care, managing the household, transportation, etc., in determining the amount of coverage needed.

Central Magnet School January Star Student Assembly. 1st-3rd grade from left to rightKeydence Esquivel, Alma Vargas, Omairy Campos, Nora Willette, Johan Medel, Esvin Ordonez.

Older couples Does it make sense to pay life insurance premiums in your 50s and 60s? If you have kids in college or adult children living at home, it’s important to make sure they’ll have some financial support if something happens to you. Empty nesters still paying a mortgage may need life insurance to make sure the surviving spouse is not burdened with this expense. Single moms More than 40 percent of babies in the U.S. are born to women who are unmarried.2 Most of these women are in their 20s and 30s and may think they’re too young to buy life insurance, but new parents often need life insurance the most. Although employer group life insurance may be an option, permanent life insurance from Farmers Life can help build a more secure financial future for your kids and retirement. How much insurance is enough? There is no simple answer to how much coverage is enough. Some financial planners say you need enough insurance to replace five to seven years of your salary. Some say if you have young children or significant

http://www.pewresearch.org/facttank/2014/12/22/less-than-half-of-us-kids-today-live-in-a-traditional-family 2 http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/ unmarried-childbearing.htm 1

. Farmers New World Life Insurance Company is not licensed to sell life insurance, accident and health insurance, or annuities in the state of New York. 1215-A 12/15

Janet Smart Agency 870-793-5757 jsmart@farmersagent.com 11 Eagle Mtn Blvd Batesville, AR 72501 Arkansas Insurance Producer License No. 344724

4th-6th grade from left to right- Kia Padan, Cadan White, Kaleb Young, Moriah Beyer, Lizzy Buie, Keeley Brewer.

Local Faces

Your Princess will be Easter Parade worthy! March 27th Easter Sunday

Carlee’s Hallmark HOURS: Monday-Friday 9-6 and Saturday 10-5

debt, you should bump up your coverage so you have enough to replace as much as 10 years of your salary. How much is enough really depends on your individual situation. A valuable service I offer is a Life Farmers Friendly Review®. It is a free, no obligation consultation that allows you to leverage my knowledge and expertise so you can make sure you have the right policy and the right amount of coverage at the right price. Call me now, it’s the smart thing to do.

870-793-8086 / 682 Harrison Street - Batesville


BHS Project Graduation Miss Pioneer Pageant a Success Kate Sanders, BHS Senior 2016

Saturday February 13, 2016 marked the date of the first annual Miss Pioneer Pageant. 48 beautiful young ladies walked across the stage during this all-day event. In addition, 26 contestants entered their photographs into the “Most Photogenic” category. This event raised over $1,300 for Project Graduation, a drug-free and alcohol free environment dedicated to providing the Batesville High School seniors with a fun, safe place to hang out and celebrate on the night of graduation. For over 30 years, the parents of the senior class have organized fundraisers to decorate the venue and purchase door-prizes for the senior attendees. However, the generous support of area businesses and private donors truly makes Project Graduation a night to remember. Community unity was evident in the Miss Pioneer Pageant. Dana Shaw, a senior parent, organized the event: making phone calls, securing a location, and getting applications out to all of the Batesville School District campuses. The Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Harvey Howard, graciously let us use the school auditorium, which Suzanne Magouyrk decorated for the pageant. The finished stage featured glowing heart-shaped wreaths draped elegantly with red, white, and gold materials. The event was staffed entirely by volunteers. Three of our judges were from out of town and one was a local favorite with lots of pageant experience. Miss Independence County, Brittany Green, made a special appearance to crown Miss Pioneer Cassie Taylor and Teen Miss Pioneer Ainsley Walker before she had to dart off to another important engagement. Several senior parents helped keep the event running smoothly. Kelly Dunegan managed the registration table, Shannon Fielder decorated the audience entryway, and Marcia Kelley managed the merchandise table. Pat Sanders assisted Dana Shaw in directing the overall event while Sabrina Conditt and Nicole Driver managed the backstage area. Senior volunteers included the Masters of Ceremonies, Jon Ward and Justin Dutrisac, who provided directions, commentary, and jokes throughout the day. Hutton Grace, Tristen Driver, Chris Robinson, Wendell Williams, Louis Sonnier, John Waugh, Jake Ward, and Josh Ward served as escorts for the stunning young contestants. They provided direction and encouragement to the girls as they walked across the stage. Behind-the scenes help came from Kate Sanders, Katie Fielder, Kayna Shaw, and Cassie Taylor. Local businesses were vital in creating a professional pageant. Divine Studios took pictures of the division winners and provided each contestant with a free 5 x 7 photograph, New Vision Graphics contributed t-shirts and trophies, Deni’s Inspirations donated the winner’s beautiful sashes, and Imagination Events let us borrow

decorations for the foyer. Over the next several months, parents and seniors will be visiting area businesses to ask for donations for the silent auction we will be having April 23, as well as prizes that can be given away at Project Graduation. We will also be holding a Gun Raffle that will run April 1-23. Black river Arms has generously donated a Mossberg International Plinkster Duck Commander SA 22LR 18" 10+1 Max-5 Camo w/Bandana. The drawing will occur at our Trap Shoot on April 23rd. If anyone would like to make a donation, purchase a raffle ticket, or enter a team in the trap shoot, please contact Pat Sanders 870-613-1211 or email projectgraduation@batesvilleschools.org. If you would like to make a monetary contribution you can mail it to: Project Graduation c/o Pat Sanders, 2550 Sunset Ridge, Cave City, AR 72521. Photogenic Winners were: Kate Sanders, Ainsley Walker, Keely Shaw, Olivia Harrington and Raygen Wooten. N

Miss Pioneer - Cassie Taylor 1st Kayna Shaw (left) 2nd Katie Fielder (right)

Junior Miss Poineer- Kennedy Johnson (middle) 1st Gigi Patterson (left) 2nd Keeley Shaw (right)

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Teen Miss Pioneer, Ainsley Walker

Young Miss Pioneer- Addison Livingston 1st Sara Beth Mitchell (left) 2nd Brookelynn New (right)

1st Alexia Hughes

Miss Pre-Teen Pioneer- Scarlett Patterson 1st Kayla Ward (right) 2nd Carley Teague (left)

2nd Georgia Caroline Patterson

Tiny Miss Pioneer - Harper Moran 1st Emma Brokaw (left) 2nd Roslyn Carmona (right)

March 2016

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