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Editor’s Note Starting Over Joey Thomas Happy New Year! My enjoyment of New Year is the sense of renewal, reorganizing, starting over with new habits that are better for me. Some laugh at this, roll their eyes at even the effort. This cynical behavior seems to go along with the mantra that “Life Sucks and we just gotta deal with it!” I honestly believe our life is not out of our control. Positive thinking is placebo thinking, to attract good, light, happy, we have to emit like minded thinking. If you only smile while belittling happy people for being too perky, life may indeed suck for you. It doesn’t have to be that way. At least, that has been my experience. Don’t believe you have any control? Just try analyzing your thoughts, your reactions for a week. Do you say, “My luck...” or “Only me”? Do you say, “I hate...” or “Whatever!” or “What’s in it for me?” Plants respond to kindness because water molecules respond to it. Look it up. Putting out more kindness will bring you back the same, because everything around you reacts to your reactions. Even if you dont’ believe it, what have you got to lose, cool points? Experiment on yourself, on the world around you and how it responds to you. I am invested in being better tomorrow than I was today. I want to act better, speak better, give better to the world around me, because it makes me happy. I am selfish. I do good for others for myself. I also give myself time and money over others if it makes me happy, because I deserve happiness and so do you. Give yourself more time for the things that make you happy this year, invest in your own happiness, your own selfish desire to play more music, dance in line at the post office, fly a kite, read in the middle of the day, whatever feeds your selfish child and I promise you will want to do more for others when the time arises. Smile because you want to, not because others expect you to. Be selfish, happy, and helpful when it suits you... and eventually, it will always suit you. N r the are fo Hair Ce Family Entir
ACCEPTING
NEW PATIENTS
Mahesh Anantha, MD, FACC Cardiology
Dr. Anantha is in practice at WRMC Cardiology. He specializes in Cardiovascular Disease and Interventional Cardiology, and encourages patients to take a proactive approach to their health with regular preventive screenings. His practice utilizes angiography, medications, and/or stents for the treatment and prevention of abnormal heart rhythms, angina, congestive heart failure, heart attack, leg amputation, and/or stroke.
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Studio Salon 141 West Main Street, Batesville, Arkansas
Call (870) 698-9998
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THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED BY: MeadowLand Media, Inc. / 504 Guffey St. / Newport, AR 72112 870.503.1150 / eyeonjoseph@eyeonmag.com. PUBLISHER / ASSOCIATE EDITOR / MANAGING EDITOR / CREATIVE DIRECTOR / AD DESIGN: Joseph Thomas ADVERTISING: Kimberlee Thomas, PROOFING DEPARTMENT: Joseph Thomas, Kimberlee Thomas STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS: Kimberlee Thomas, Joseph Thomas, Robert O. Seat PRINTING COMPANY: Corning Publishing Company Eye On Magazine is a publication of MeadowLand Media, Incorporated. Editorial, advertising and general business information can be obtained by calling (870) 503-1150 or emailing Kimberlee Thomas at kthomas@eyeonmag.com. Mailing address: 504 Guffey Street / Newport, AR 72112. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements, unless otherwise noted, do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher or the staff. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information presented in this issue is accurate and neither MeadowLand Media or it any of its staff is responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Copyright © 2010 MeadowLand Media, Incorporated. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without the permission in writing from the Publisher. All pictorial material reproduced in this book has been accepted on the condition that it is reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer concerned. As such, MeadowLand Media, Incorporated, is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof.
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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.
Custom Eyes Vision Care of Newport 1920 Malcolm Ave
4 Batesville . Newport . Newark . Southside . Sulphur Rock . Swifton . Tuckerman
The Best of Modern Praise and Worship Independence Counties very own local, contemporary worship station
World Wide Live Internet Stream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/kbap-88-1-fm Phone: 501-203-6953
In This Issue 3/ Editor’s Note
18/ Cover Story
Starting Over
Community activist takes on life with armloads of passion
7/ Tasty Talk
21/ In The Field with Randy
A Biblical Diet Inquest
Improved Production Practices
7/ Things To Do 8/ Unity Health Harris
Wellness Screenings
10/ Trending @ ASUN
More than $12,000 Raised
11/ Tales of a Transplanted Fashionista Coffee and Coloring On Tuesdays
12/ Seniors, Can We Talk? So Thankful
13/ Local Faces 17/ Book Review
The Tilted World by Tom Franklin ELEVEN YEARS STRONG
Ethan and Kennadi Pretty says, “Happy New Year!” eyeonmag.com
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January 2022 5
Welcome to BAD BOY COUNTRY
6 Batesville . Newport . Newark . Southside . Sulphur Rock . Swifton . Tuckerman
Tasty Talk
A Biblical Diet Inquest
Hannah Rogers recently returned home after serving 5 years in the U.S. Coast Guard as a cook. She enjoys time with her dog, baking, hiking, and serving others. Hannah is currently in the process of establishing Hananel Bakery in Batesville.
Many of us have lost loved ones or have experienced the fear of almost losing someone because of health complications. One of the best ways to combat health complications is through our eating habits. A poor diet alone can increase the risk of over 40% of all diagnosed cancers, result in poor mental health, low self-esteem and confidence, emotional instability, tooth decay, high blood pressure and cholesterol, shorter lifespan, and much more. This year, we will journey through the Bible to discover just what it means to eat real food in order to have an optimal diet. The Bible teaches us endless things about food. Most people just buy, cook, and eat food, while it teaches us how to use this food and its purpose for our body. I Corinthians 6:19 teaches us that our body is a temple, a very holy, sacred, and precious temple that can be used for the Lord. Temples are known for being strict with rules and cleanliness, so should we also not do the same with our body? Genesis provides us with the answer as to what foods God created us to consume. God stated in Genesis 1:29 that He gave us every seed-bearing plant and every fruit tree for food. Genesis 9:3 expands on food after the flood by stating that everything that lives and moves about (all the animals on the earth, in the sky, and fish in the sea) is given as food, as well as grains and vegetables. However, a thorough study of food in the Bible provides categories for which foods this means exactly. By category, there are spices, fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, oils, nuts, seeds, fish, fowl,
animal meats, and dairy (which we will discuss this year). Taking a look at the nutrition of these Biblical foods, it is very clear that God made food to heal even modernday diseases and illnesses. They all predominantly do the same things for our body, as they are anti-bacterial, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic (prevents cancers and tumors), anti-aging, and provide a ton of essential vitamins and minerals, protein, fat, and fiber, as well as many other healing properties. In addition, they all work in conjunction to release more healing properties in our body. Food is healing through topical application, consumption, and inhalation (or diffusing with oils). Even the bark on trees contains multiple healing properties when used topically. The phytochemicals in these foods can even repair the DNA in a mutated or damaged cell into a healthy cell again, reversing disease and aging. When I mentioned eating real food in the last article, I go back to a Biblical diet. A diet that consists of the foods that God created before factories and farms mass produced food made almost entirely from chemicals and ingredients that we do not know what they even are exactly. A Biblical diet consists of vegetables, fruits, spices, grains, and meat that is naturally grown or raised on the earth without the help of man. N
Things To Do
Mountain View
Batesville
White River Wonderland November 24 - January 2 from 5pm to Midnight; Light dispay, Ferrish Wheel (Dec 10 - 18 Book Your Ride Early whiteriverwonderland.com) Selfies with Santa, Ice Skating, Train Rides & Carriage Rides. UACCB ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification Jan. 28 at 8am, register by Jan 18. 870.612.2082, katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu. UACCB - The Basics of Spanish Jan 31 at 5:30pm, register by Jan 17. 870.612.2082, katrina.stevens@uaccb.edu.
ELEVEN YEARS STRONG
Arkansas Craft School https://arkansascraftschool.org/calendar Learn to Love Your Triloom (Date: Jan. 15, 2022,Time: 10-4, Tuition: $90, Materials fee: included in tuition, Instructor: Jeanette Larson, 101 N. Peabody/ main campus.
Newport
www.facebook.com/newportarchamber newportarcity.org/calendar/ N
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January 2022 7
ATTENTION MEDICAL SUPPLY
“Where you get the ATTENTION You deserve!”
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Michelle Foshee is a wife, mother, dog lover, and Newport native who promotes Unity Health Harris Medical Center to improve the quality of health and well-being for the communities we serve through compassionate care. She is a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and prior to joining Unity Health, she worked in sales and marketing in Little Rock. She challenges herself and others to be Health Centered – physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.
Wellness screenings are an important part of maintaining good health throughout your life and especially as you get older. Many health complications and even death could be prevented if people got simple, regular health screenings as recommended by your doctor. Health screenings can detect problems early, when chances for successful treatment are greatest. Age-appropriate health screenings are a preventative health measure that should be a priority for everyone. Patients often put off wellness visits when they feel fine and consider themselves in good health. But here at Unity Health Newport we understand the importance of these routine wellness exams, and Samantha Anderson, APRN is here to help you support your overall health and help spot potential problems before they start. Samantha will provide routine physicals, risk assessments, and comprehensive wellness exams to our Unity Health patients. Wellness screenings are an important step in living a longer, healthier life. Knowing as much as possible about your health enables you to take steps to prevent and manage diseases that may develop. So, schedule your appointment today and let us help you stay healthy 870.523.0193. N 8 Batesville . Newport . Newark . Southside . Sulphur Rock . Swifton . Tuckerman
Independence County Recycle Center
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#BeyondBanking means doing things a bit differently. This year our plan is the same: go Beyond Banking to put People First. Sometimes that means we have to think a little bit differently. In 2022 we will continue finding new opportunities to go Beyond Banking for you & your family. Follow us on social media to see what the new year brings!
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Mallory Black More than $12,000 Raised Arkansas State University-Newport’s recent giving campaign brought in more than $12,000 for the institution including the chancellor matching a portion of the money raised. In November, ASU-Newport’s Office of Advancement launched the 21 Days of Giving Campaign to encourage employees to give back to the college. The internal giving event featured an email each day to all ASUN employees that highlighted a variety of ways for employees to support a cause they are passionate about or one they may not know exists. Thirty-three employees donated $12,813 over the 21 days. Special video messages were shared in the emails to display some of the causes ASUN supports. Some of those funds included individual scholarships, flower fund, student success fund, diversity and inclusion scholarships, food pantry, and more. One of the 21 days was deemed Chancellor Match Day. Dr. Johnny M. Moore, ASUN’s Chancellor, matched all of the money donated that day. ASUN employees donated $4,435 on Chancellor Match Day, bringing the total to $8,870 raised in a single day of the campaign. Thanks to all of the generosity, ASUN’s Offices of Advancement will have more than $12,000 to put toward
specific funds and scholarships. The campaign focused on internal giving to allow those closest to the college an opportunity to support its continued success. “Whether someone chose to support a specific scholarship or simply put money towards the student success fund, it’s humbling to see such an outpouring of support for the 21 Days of Giving Campaign,” said Teriann Turner, Advancement Officer. “This campaign shines a light on the wonderful and giving employees we have that just want to give back to their colleagues and students. As a community college, we value every single dollar that is given to our institution, and we make sure money is spent supporting students and those in need.” For more information on how you can give to ASUNewport, contact Teriann Turner at teriann_turner@asun.edu or call her at 870-512-7754. N
Teriann Turner, Advancement Officer, pictured with Ace the Aviator, and Chancellor Dr. Johnny M. Moore
10 Batesville . Newport . Newark . Southside . Sulphur Rock . Swifton . Tuckerman
Eric Shoffner, BPhram, P.D. Pharmacist / Owner
1117 Mclain Street Suite 400 Newport, Arkansas 72112 (870) 523-5555 www.iCareRx.com
Kallsnick, Inc. A Hiland Dairy Distributor 423 Lawrence Street, Batesville, AR (870) 793-3924
Serving Batesville and the surrounding area for over 48 years We're your local lender. Which means we know the community you're wanting to live in. You can be confident that we'll find the best loan to fit your financial goals - we've been doing it since 1898!
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Tales of a Transplanted Fashionista Coffee and Coloring On Tuesdays
Leigh Keller is a high school guidance counselor at Batesville High School and the director of the BHS Glass Slipper Project. She lives in Batesville with her son, Cole, and a pack of dogs.
Some of my earliest happy memories are from the public library. My mom would haul my brother and I to the Crawford County Library in Van Buren, and we would check out piles and piles of books to read. We would return them and then check out more, over and over again, all summer. Books have always held such comfort for me, oftentimes I would stay up way too late, just to finish “one more chapter” of a book I simply could not put down. When I had my sweet Cole, I figured the library would be a perfect place to raise him. We began making trips back when he was in a stroller, back when the library was in their old location on Main Street, graduating up to summer story time he loved so much, reveling in the beauty of their new location, and now as a preteen he loves to search the books he also loves so much. So when my mom discovered that there was a group that met on Tuesdays to color, have coffee and just be with like minded book loving people, I urged her to go. Grieving the loss of your spouse is difficult, but grieving during a pandemic with limited interaction with the outside world is something else entirely. She wanted to keep herself at home, but realized the value of getting out and ELEVEN YEARS STRONG
talking to other people. While I was off during Christmas break, she asked me to come along with her one day. The Independence County library never disappoints, with it’s beautiful architecture, wonderful selection for all ages, and this wonderful program for seniors, or really any human craving some interaction with others. We arrived and took the elevator up to the room with a glass wall overlooking the gorgeous main space. Everyone gets their own individual colored pencils, coloring sheet and blending pencil, along with coffee and snacks. My mom has frequently mentioned the young woman who facilitates this group, Sloane, but I had no idea just how amazing she would be. In addition to managing this sweet coloring time, she also is the keeper of the teenagers. You see, as someone who knows personally that teenagers, while hard to love at times, can be just so sweet, I love what she is doing with the teen section upstairs. She has the bathrooms stocked with free hygiene items, and the teen book section stocked with food. Teenagers seem to always be hungry, and if you feed them they will trust you and talk to you, that is a page right out of “being an effective high school counselor” (you just always have snacks and Kleenex on hand). The library is a wonderful safe place for them to gather, eat a snack, and do their homework or cozy up to a good book. I cannot think of a safer place for kids to be, who truly just need somewhere to be after school, when home is not so cozy. Bravo to our wonderful Independence County Library for loving our citizens through each chapter of their lives, with their kids’ section, teen lounge and classes for adults. I hope I get to come back soon N eyeonmag.com
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January 2022 11
Seniors, Can We Talk? So Thankful
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?’.
I don’t know if it is the holidays or being close to the end of the year, but are you finding yourself looking back at 2021 and all the things you are thankful for? I hope so. One thing I told Ruth that I am very thankful for is YOU! I appreciate your reading my column and calling me with your questions and comments. You may call because you have a basic question or a question unique to you and just don’t want to talk to an 800 number. You want to know who you are going to talk with and, if you leave a phone number, that I will call you back. Just some basic/old fashion ways of doing business, right? Be careful who you share your personal information with. Peter called concerned because he talked with a telemarketer who said she had to have his Medicare number to give him any information or answer any questions. So, Peter provided his Medicare number – ouch! Much to Peter’s surprise he was enrolled in a plan he did not want and did not knowingly enroll in. Not only was Peter enrolled in a plan he did not want but that enrollment cancelled his existing plan. Luckily, I was able to help Peter get disenrolled in his “new” plan and get his old plan back. Lesson learned – do not give your Medicare number
to anyone you do not know. Debbie called and said her prescription plan was making her change pharmacies. You may use any pharmacy you want. Some pharmacies are preferred while others are standard. What’s the difference? The copays may be lower at a preferred pharmacy. Debbie said she loves her pharmacy; they go out of their way to help her and are always very informative about new prescriptions. They know her. When you have a good relationship with your pharmacy, continue using them. Do not feel you must change. The pharmacy you select is up to you. When Steve called to review his prescription plan, he also wanted to look at a Medicare Advantage plan. After talking about Medicare Advantage plans available to him, Steve liked his options. I told him there is a network of doctors you need to use to keep your costs down. Steve immediately said he was only interested if all his doctors accepted the plan. He was not going to change doctors even if it cost a little more. We verified that all his doctors accept the plan – a good fit. Be loyal to people you work with. This may be an old fashion way of doing business, but it’s what you are comfortable with. Your health is very important, and you need to feel comfortable and confident with your doctors/providers and pharmacy. As 2021 comes to an end, think about all the people you are thankful for – even insurance agents! I look forward to talking with you. Call me at 501-8686650 and say “Caroline, can we talk?” N
What Does 2022 Hold For You? We're here to help you achieve your financial goals
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Local Faces
Eagle Mountain Fourth Grade Rise Above National Average in Literacy and Writing Pam Baxter
Eagle Mountain Elementary Fourth Grade teacher, Mark Hall, told his fourth grade students last year that if they came in first in the school district in Literacy and Writing that he would shave his head and let them paint his face. So this week he fullfilled his promise to the now fifth grade students. In fact, they were above the National, ELEVEN YEARS STRONG
State, and District averages in both Literacy and Writing. In the picture, Mrs. Kandy Tosh, fellow 4th grade teacher is cutting Mr. Mark Hall’s hair. The students also, each got a chance to write on either his face, arms or shirt before the haircut. N
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January 2022 13
BACC Announces IMPACT Launch Party Date Chris Hill
The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) has announced plans to launch the revised IMPACT Independence County strategic plan at its Annual Meeting serving as the official Impact Launch Party. The event, presented by First Community Bank, will be held at the Batesville Community Center on Friday, January
28, 2022. General admission tickets include dinner and entertainment for a $150 donation. Table reservations are also available and include exclusive VIP service. For reservations or additional information, visit batesvilleareachamber.com or contact the Chamber at 870-793-2378. N
Local Financial Services Professional Earns National Certification Tara Salinas
Josh Brandt, Assistant Vice President and Trust Operations Officer with Merchants and Planters Trust Department, was recently awarded the Certified Trust & Fiduciary Advisor (CTFA) professional certification from the American Bankers Association. The CTFA certification is awarded to those who demonstrate excellence in the field of wealth management and trust. To qualify for the CTFA certification, individuals must have certain levels of experience and education in the trust profession, pass an exam, and agree to abide by a code of ethics. The CTFA exam covers many areas, including fiduciary and trust activities, financial planning, tax law and planning, investment management, and ethics. Josh earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Arkansas State University and began his career with Merchants and Planters Bank in 2011. To prepare for the CTFA exam, Josh has spent several years studying at Cannon Trust School and
graduated with honors this year. To become an honor graduate, a student must score 90% or higher on all course level exams and successfully pass a certification exam. Brandt is one of just a few students to earn this level of academic achievement from Cannon this year. “Earning the CTFA certification validates Josh’s experience and depth of education in the wealth management industry,” says Nate Watson, Senior Vice President and manager of Merchants and Planters Trust Department. “His achievements, both academically and throughout his career, are evidence of his commitment to personal and professional excellence and demonstrate his tremendous work ethic.” Brandt’s office is located at 316 Front Street in downtown Newport. You may also reach him by phone at 870 523-7602. ABA Professional Certifications formally recognize those who meet the highest standards of performance in
the financial services industry as well as professional continuing education and development requirements. For more information, call 202-663-5092 or visit www.aba.com/certifications. N
Thompson’s is proud to be Celebrating 98 years in 2022!
We would like to take a moment and
thank all of our loyal customers for their patronage through the years.
Thompson's Jewelry Taking care of all your
Jewelry needs since 1924.
Thompson’s Jewelry Serving you since 1924
255 E. Main Street / 870-793-7136 - Historic Downtown - Batesville Where your hometown jeweler should be
14 Batesville . Newport . Newark . Southside . Sulphur Rock . Swifton . Tuckerman
First Community Bank Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Angela Connell First Community Bank employees came together again this year to benefit White River Health System Foundation’s “Paint the Town Pink” fundraising efforts for breast cancer awareness month. This is a cause that is nationally recognized every October, with a goal to raise funds for mammography and build awareness around breast cancer screening and detection. “We are honored to align ourselves with White River Health System Foundation’s “Paint the Town Pink” efforts and do what we can to make a difference in the lives of members of the communities where we work and live,” said Boris Dover, president and chief operating officer at First Community Bank. “This year our employees raised $3,625, and First Community has matched that amount for a grand total of $7,250 to present to the foundation.” The First Community Bank “Paint the Town Pink” committee consists of the following employees:
Justin Taylor, Carrie Price, Pat Rutherford, Janie Starnes, Angela Connell, Andrew Lane, Lauren Stott, Eva Henriksen, Danita High, Samantha Buie, Wendy Hurt, Nichole Showalter, Mary Henderson, Mackenzie Reynolds, Ronicia Conyers, Rachael Fisher, Kaitlyn Henderson, and Christina Maple. In addition to employee donations, the First Community Bank “Paint the Town Pink” committee held several events to raise funds for the cause throughout October, including the following: · Blue jean Fridays · Pink ribbon sales · “Cupcake for the Cure’ bake sale · Pink pumpkin decorating contest For more information about First Community Bank, call 870-612-3400 or visit www.firstcommunity. net. N
Citizens Bank, Batesville Schools honor Beth McSpadden for going ‘Above & Beyond’ Sara Doerfler
Beth McSpadden, Food Service Assistant at Batesville School District, was named Monday to receive the November “Citizens Bank Above & Beyond Award.” Fellow team members commented on McSpadden’s commitment to always put Students First: · “Beth is always working and trying to make sure the kids come first. She is always trying to work with her staff to make sure they have everything they need and helps them in any way she can.” · “Beth is always up for any challenge I throw at her! She is willing to step in and do whatever is necessary to make sure we feed the kids safely and kindly. Beth has been a committed member of the Food Service Team for over 17 years, working every day to make it happen, and is always looking out for the best interests of the students.” N
Spelling Bee Winners for Eagle Mountain Elementary Pam Baxter
Morgan Koettel is the 5th grade Spelling Bee winner at Eagle Mountain Elementary. The alternate is Paxton Steele. The Independence County Spelling bee is scheduled for 6 p.m. Jan. 25, 2022 in Independence Hall at UACCB. In the event of inclement weather, the bee will be held Feb. 8, 2022 at 6 p.m N ELEVEN YEARS STRONG
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January 2022 15
522 Push Road, Smithville MLS #21-367 / $99,900
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Williamson Switch, Guion MLS #21-329 / $89,900
Secluded 3 bedroom 2 bath 1994 manufactured home on 2 wooded acres, with the possibility of more acres. This home features a open floor plan with the master bed and bath on one end and rest of bedrooms on the other along with a huge above ground pool with deck and a 2 story storage shed. This is a good solid home but could use some updates to make it the way you want.
Very 8400+SF, well maintained historic building on Main St. Building was being used as a gym. It has had a new roof and new downstairs HVAC within the past few years. The downstairs is 4,100 sq. ft. and the upstairs has an additional 4,100 sq. ft. that has been renovated as well. Seller may consider lease at $3,000/ month.
Beautiful river front 3.78+/- acre lot on White River. Build the home of your dreams or bring your RV and enjoy the river and mountain scenery.
White River Run, Guion MLS #21-331 / $39,900 Beautiful unrestricted 1.12 acre White River lot. Bring your RV or build and enjoy the river life! River in front of you and mountains all around makes a peaceful sitting.
Buying? Selling? Relocating? The Choice is Clear...Choice Realty www.BatesvilleRealEstate.net 513 Batesville Blvd., Batesville, Arkansas
Eye On Magazine 16 Batesville . Newport . Newark . Southside . Sulphur Rock . Swifton . Tuckerman
The Tilted World by Tom Franklin
Terrell Tebbetts has taught English at Lyon College for over 50 years.
ASU Newport-------------------------------- 6 Attention Medical Supply------------------- 8 Autry’s White River Furniture-------------- 10 Bad Boy Mowers---------------------------- 6 Bank of England---------------------------- 11 Citizens Bank-------------------------------- 9 Coldwell Banker Choice Realty------------- 16 CustomEyes Vision Care of Newport------- 4 Delta Medical-------------------------------- 16 First Community Bank---------------------- 2 Hunan chinese Buffet----------------------- 17 iCare Pharmacy----------------------------- 11 Independence County Library-------------- 7 Independence County Recycling Center--- 8 Kallsnick, Inc.------------------------------- 11 KBAP 88.1 FM------------------------------- 5 Kent’s Firestone----------------------------- 13 Merchants and Planters Bank-------------- 12 M & P Insurance and Investment Services-12 Red Tie Meat Shop-------------------------- 21 Southern Tire Mart-------------------------- 5 Studio Salon-------------------------------- 3 The IMAD Village Community Talk Show-- 4 Thompson’s Jewelry------------------------ 14 UACCB--------------------------------------- 22 Unity Health Harris Medical Center-------- 23 White River Health Systems---------------- 24 White River Medical Center----------------- 3 eyeonjoseph@eyeonmag.com
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that low-lying holler with a baby in her arms? Will someone come to her aid? Will it be too late? I won’t answer any of these questions. No spoilers here. But I will assure you that the novel answers them all in fully satisfying ways. And I can tell you this: by the end of the novel, the very end, the setting switches from Mississippi to Arkansas—even to the blessed Ozark Mountains, which novelists Franklin and Fennelly have visited as guest writers at Lyon College. Get your hands on this novel. It’s a real winner! N
CHINESE BUFFET
Tom Franklin writes tense, taut novels we could call thrillers. In Hell at the Breech, he put a county sheriff at odds with a lawless, ruthless community at the far edge of the county, a story he based on real events. In Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter, he set his plot around an unsolved, decade-old disappearance of a pretty young woman and the young man suspected but never charged in the case. But he outdid himself in 2013’s The Tilted World. To write that novel he joined his wife poet Beth Ann Fennelly to produce a tale of moonshine, murder, and true love set before, during, and after the great Mississippi River flood of 1927. You can’t find a novel more gripping right from the start. It seems two FBI agents named Ted Ingersoll and Ham Johnson are heading to little Hobnob, Mississippi, to investigate the disappearance of two revenuers. Prohibition is in full effect, of course. But before they get to Hobnob, a terrible omen warns them of what lies ahead. They stop at and enter a small crossroads store to find the young couple running it shot dead and their newborn baby boy left orphaned. What a sign of the task that faces them! Ingersoll determines to locate a home for the baby. He finds his way to a young woman named Dixie Hollister, who has just lost her own baby, her first. She accepts baby Willy into her home, a prosperouslooking place in a shaded holler on a side road way out from town—a perfect place for an operation you might have some reason to keep secret. Sure enough, Dixie’s husband Jesse is a moonshiner & bootlegger, a guy with a charming surface set off
with a handsome waxed mustache. But what a snake! He leaves his wife in charge of the still while he’s out taking orders and making deliveries. So the baby’s new mother is involved in the crimes that Ingersoll and Johnson are in Hobnob to investigate. How much does she know about her new husband and the full extent of his criminality? Is he deeper into crime than just bootlegging; is he even into the worst of evils? As Ingersoll visits the Hollister place to check on the baby, he finds himself more and more attracted to Dixie. He grew up in an orphanage without a mother, so he finds Dixie’s sweet, nurturing ways attracting his heartstrings. But she’s married— to a fur trader, supposedly, Jesse’s cover for his liquor business. So Ingersoll keeps his attraction at bay. Dixie, of course, sees Ingersoll as an enemy, a federal man, a danger to her husband and herself, one that she must resist and deflect, no matter how gentle he seems, no matter how much he seems to care for baby Willy and herself. After all, she’s married to a charming wolf in sheep’s clothing. Can she come to trust Ingersoll? Can she come to see the difference between him and Jesse? If so, will she ever be free of Jesse? In the meantime the Mississippi is rising, and Hobnob sits right on its banks. Will the levee hold? Will engineers decide to blow the levee here to take pressure off New Orleans downstream? Will rumored saboteurs from New Orleans take it upon themselves to do that? No matter how the flood begins, as all readers know it will begin. So then we’re turning pages even faster. What happens to that little river town? What happens to Ingersoll and Johnson? They get separated, of course. Will both survive? How about the loathsome Jesse? And Dixie—how will she fare, living in
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Book Review
January 2022 17
Jeanni Brosius is the public information officer at the Arkansas Securities Department, freelance writer, voice actor and media consultant. She’s been a journalist for 26 years and her work has appeared in more than 500 publications. Her syndicated column ran nationwide for five years, and she is a former features writer and columnist for the Arkansas Democrat Gazette. Contact her at jbrocommunications@gmail.com.
Cover Story Community activist takes on life with armloads of passion
Brittany Bennett is a wife, mother, business owner, and a community activist. With a bright smile and a confident stride, Brittany Bennett greets almost everyone she passes as she walks down Main Street in Batesville. She has a big presence in this small town, where she sits on several boards as well as the city council. The 35-year-old has a passion for her community, but family is her priority. Brittany manages the day-to-day operations of the family business, Bennett Heating and Air. She pauses to take a phone call, and many times the phone will ring before she can complete a sentence. It’s like that some days. In addition to helping her husband, Charlie, run a business and going to city council meetings, Brittany is a mom to five kids. When she was 22, she met Charlie, and she said it was love at first sight. She knew she would spend the rest of her life with him. But along with marrying Charlie, Brittany instantly became a mom to his three kids. The oldest was 10, and the youngest, three. “I always wanted to be a mom,” she says. “My goal in life was to be a successful woman and mother.” Less than two years later, the Bennetts welcomed
twins, giving them a total of five children. The twins are now 13. Brittany embraced motherhood and never looked back. But it wasn’t always easy. “At first I wasn’t real sure—she was new—I gave her a hard time for years, but she stuck it out.” says Ashley Bennett Bullard, the Bennett’s oldest daughter, who was seven at the time. “The first gift she gave me was a sewing machine, and we made some ugly pillows and bonded over that. She definitely took the role of mom to the next level.” Brittany has always been a caregiver and drawn to helping children. She started babysitting when she was 12 and received an award for her volunteer work at the Boys & Girls Club of Drew County when she was 14. “There was never any doubt in our minds that we couldn’t take care of five kids – It’s a team effort,” she says. Charlie had always done heating and air work in addition to a full-time job. “Charlie would work well past dark on some days, so I could stay home with the twins until they started preschool at Cedar Ridge,” she said. When the twins began preschool, Brittany took a job as the school secretary at the Cord-Charlotte Elementary School. That is where she became friends with Susi Epperson, who was a grant writer for the district and
“She is one of the hardest workers I’ve ever met,” Susi says about Brittany. “And she also has one of the biggest hearts I’ve ever seen. I’ve always thought she should rule the world with a combo like that.” later became principal at the elementary school. “The mental and physical health of the students was a huge priority in my life, and that led me to push and advocate for a school-based health center,” Brittany says. The school-based health center was located on the rural campus at Cord-Charlotte and served the people of the community as well as the students. It was convenient
for them to see a doctor without having to drive 20 or 30 minutes or leave school. At this point, Brittany had moved into the position of tobacco prevention coordinator. She had been so dedicated and worked hard at her job, that she wanted to help build the health center on the school campus. “I was the most unqualified person for that position,” Brittany says about the health center coordinator. “But I got the job and built the health center from the ground up. Charlie helped draw up the plans, and my amazing friend Susi secured the grant.” Susi disagrees and says believes Brittany was the most qualified person for the job. “She is one of the hardest workers I’ve ever met,” Susi says about Brittany. “And she also has one of the biggest hearts I’ve ever seen. I’ve always thought she should rule the world with a combo like that.” For exactly those reasons, Susi said is why Brittany was offered the health center position. “I knew nobody would work harder than her or care as much as she did,” Susi says. “She has a way with people, and even though I knew it would be hard for parents to turn in health records to the center, I knew they would because they trusted her. People just instinctively trust her, and she makes them feel at ease.” Although the health center was successful, it closed its doors after three years when the school campus closed. Just before the center closed, Charlie decided to jump headfirst into his business and run it full time. It’s truly a family business. All the Bennett kids have or do work for the company, even Brittany’s mom worked there for a while. He needed someone to run the office, and it was the perfect opportunity for Brittany to help him build the family business. “He ran the business out of the back of his truck and a little shed in our back yard. He later upgraded and bought a used ambulance for his service rig,” says Brittany. The Bennetts later hired a couple of employees, including their oldest son, Brandon. The company began to grow, so they rented a little abandoned gas station in Newark. That is where Bennett Heating & Air stayed for six years. They purchased the building across the street from the gas station for their metal fabrication shop. Soon, the company outgrew the tiny gas station and fabrication shop. So, in July 2020, the Bennetts purchased the NuWay Cleaners building on White Drive and have spent the last year and a half remodeling the building to suit their needs, as well as remodeling two houses. The company is busier than ever and now runs two installation crews, two service crews and two office people. Charlie and Brittany are always seeking new ways to improve and expand their business. Brittany said she missed helping kids, so she served as the secretary of the School-Based Health Alliance of Arkansas and continued to volunteer for the alliance to help other people open new health centers across the state. She also has served on the board of the Independence Hometown Wellness Coalition for five
“Being appointed to the City Council is an honor and a blessing, because I love our community and the people who live in it.” years. While running the family business and taking kids to ballgames, music lessons and swim meets, she also obtained her contractor’s license and worked to became certified as a prevention specialist through the Community Anti-Drug Coalition of America. She is on the founding board of the Polk Bayou Foundation and helped organize the first Big Fun on the Polk Bayou, which was in September. “She is the hardest working, most passionate woman I have ever known,” Charlie says about his wife. “Brittany cares about her family, her community and her business. We enjoy spending every day together and taking life’s obstacles as they come. I am very proud of Brittany and her accomplishments.” Recently Brittany was appointed to the Batesville City Council to replace Pete Musgrave after he and his wife Helen moved to Texas. “Being appointed to the City Council is an honor and a blessing, because I love our community and the people who live in it,” Brittany says. She says she and her family love to explore Arkansas, especially Independence County. Their dogs, Carson and Fin love to explore with them, too. “We love to travel, and our favorite places involve water. We kayak on the bayou, visit the lake in the summer, and besides Independence County, the ocean is my favorite place. And just because it’s a Tuesday afternoon, it doesn’t mean we can’t go jump in the kayak or go hiking after school. If you’ve never kayaked on the bayou in the spring, you’re missing out. It’s right in our backyard, and it’s kid friendly and beautiful.” The Bennetts are passionate about building memories with their children though adventures and travel. Instead of purchasing a lot of gifts, she believes it’s more important to give someone, especially her kids, an adventure or experience. They also became grandparents during the pandemic, and Brittany says she understands why they call grandchildren grand. Brittany encourages everyone to explore Independence County, because she believes there is so much to see and do. “Go out and build memories!” she says as she flashes that bright smile. N 20 Batesville . Newport . Newark . Southside . Sulphur Rock . Swifton . Tuckerman
In The Field with Randy Improved Production Practices
Randy Chlapecka is an agronomist with Farmers Supply Association, retired from the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture - Cooperative Extension Service where he served as a County Extension Agent for over 32 years. He is an avid ASU Red Wolves fan and has announced Newport Greyhound sporting events since 1996. He also enjoys vegetable gardening.
Before we shut the door on 2021 and get started on what looks to be a challenging 2022, I want to take a quick look back at some of the top stories of 2021. The three things that come to mind right away are good crop yields, not so good rice milling yields, and high input costs staring us in the face for 2022. Most were pleased with their yields for 2021. Rice and corn yields were generally good to excellent. Soybeans were generally good as well, although maybe not quite as consistent as the others due to the variety of production systems and situations that soybeans are grown in around our area. We had good to excellent yields, but why? The first thing that usually comes to mind is weather. Good indicators of these types of yields include relatively dry and warm weather in March and April which allows for early planting and a good start followed by moderate temperatures and plenty of sunshine during the reproductive and grain fill stages. Of course, a few timely rains can be a big help as well. While we had some of these weather conditions, it certainly wasn’t perfect. Planting conditions were kind of sporadic with not a lot of early planting. We had a great week of weather in early August with moderate temperatures and sunshine, and generally quite a bit of sunshine for the remainder of the grain fill period. So while we certainly didn’t have perfect conditions, they certainly weren’t bad. I think decent weather along with continually improving management practices can account for the most part for these good yields. In my opinion, production practices are continuing to improve and farmers are utilizing these more than ever. Some of these practices include: -Improved varieties and hybrids. -Earlier planting dates (although that may not have been much of a factor in 2021). -Better seed treatments that really make a difference including fungicides, insecticides, nematicides, biologicals, nutrients, etc. -Improved fertility across crops including potassium in ELEVEN YEARS STRONG
all of the summer crops and boron in soybeans, especially those grown on our high pH silt loam soils in rice rotation. -Improved weed control with overlapping of residual herbicides and the use of the new herbicide technologies especially in soybeans. -Use of foliar fungicides. I think this can be especially important in rice where it seems we see cases of Cercospora (Narrow Brown Leaf Spot) every year that cause major yield losses and are totally unexpected and can be difficult to catch with normal scouting. These can often be prevented with an application of propiconazole (Tilt) at late booting. -Irrigation management. Irrigation is more efficient than ever due to land leveling, the use of irrigation scheduling techniques such as moisture sensors, and computerized hole selection when furrow irrigating. While rice grain yields were good, milling yields were not. Low milling yields are typically due to hot nighttime temperatures during grain fill and/or wetting and drying of kernels after they mature/dry. It is speculated that the overall delayed maturing of the rice crop in 2021 may have been a big part of this. This extension of the ripening process led to more time for rice stink bug feeding, more time for opportunistic fungi to invade the kernel, and more time for alternate wetting and drying of the kernels which can all negatively affect milling and quality. Finally, the thing on everyone’s mind as we look to 2022 is input costs. Fertilizer costs have risen substantially and other inputs are also expected to be more expensive as well. Management will be critical. I know everyone will be looking to cut costs, but be careful not to cut where yields can be affected significantly. Let me know if I can help you make these decisions. Feel free to contact me through Farmers Supply Association by e-mail at randychlapecka@ gmail.com or by cell at 870-318-0739. N Monday - Friday 10:00 - 6:00
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