Eye On Magazine NOVEMBER 2022

Eye On Magazine at 150

You Are Awesome

Joey Thomas

Welcome to our November issue for 2022, stay warm, give thanks, and treat yourself for being awesome.

My second book, HELL BENT, is available now on Amazon.com & BarnesandNoble.com. Asleep at the Wheel is the sequel to Twisted, Turned, and Bent: Charlie Slater Parker is lost to a tragic automobile wreck and husband, Joe, is dealing with her loss and his own demons, as he tries to keep their daughter’s struggling head above water. Along the way, the grief, and anger, Joe finds himself dreaming of her. He begins experimenting with manifesting real changes through his dreams, which sets daughter, Delanie, and her father on a quest to pull their Sweet Charlie back home.

Next, is The Last Broadcast, which is Bobbie Slater’s manuscript from Bent. It tells the story of a young man, Carpenter Waite, who finds himself alone in the world with no explanation of where everyone has gone. Strange things are afoot and it only gets worse in this desperate attempt at reaching out to anyone that just might be left. Twisted, Turned, and Bent / Hell Bent at Amazon. com or BarnesandNoble.com N

THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED BY: MeadowLand Media, Inc. / 504 Guffey St. / Newport, AR 72112 870.503.1150 / eyeonjoseph@eyeonmag.com. ASSOCIATE

EDITOR / CREATIVE DIRECTOR / AD DESIGN: Joey Thomas ADVERTISING / PUBLISHER / MANAGING EDITOR: Kimberlee Thomas, PROOFING DEPARTMENT: Joey Thomas, Kimberlee Thomas STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS: Kimberlee Thomas, Joey Thomas, Robert O. Seat PRINTING COMPANY: MAGNA PUBLISHING COMPANY

Eye On Magazine is a publication of MeadowLand Media, Incorporated. Edito rial, 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 informa tion that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Copyright © 2010 Meadow Land Media, Incorporated. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without the permission in writing from the Publisher.

All pictorial material reproduced in this book has been accepted on the condition that it is reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer concerned. As such, MeadowLand Media, Incorporated, is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof.

For advertising, distribution, or editorial contribution, contact Joey Thomas, 870.503.2226 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.

Cover

Photo submitted by Storyteller Photography

Cover Design by Joey Thomas

Rock

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.

The Bible mentions grains quite a bit in relation to making breads and in times of famine and hardships. During this time period, societies were agriculturally based, in which grains were a staple for survival or population growth. However, people also argue that the Bible mentions negative references to consuming grains. For example, after sin, Adam was told that he would get bread to eat by the sweat of his brow and Abel’s animal offering was preferred to Cain’s grain offering.

When considering a diet that contains grains, it is important to understand what exactly is a whole grain. Whole grains are defined as being a grain that contains the endosperm, germ and bran of a grain. This is known as the whole unprocessed grain, whereas refined grains retain only the endosperm

and fortified grains contain added vitamins and minerals. Convenience foods, such as pasta and breads, are made with refined or processed grains. However, it is the whole grains that are shown to be more beneficial for the body.

Common whole grains include oats, quinoa, brown rice, popcorn, buckwheat, barley, sorghum, whole rye, and more. Oats are one of the healthiest whole grains to consume, due to their nutritional contents. Whole grains are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, protein, antioxidants, supports healthy digestion, and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, obesity, type 2 diabetes, cancer, premature death, and chronic inflammation. It is cautioned that consuming only whole grains needs to be supplemented with folic acid and a B vitamin to help properly digest the grains.

In addition, bread, cakes, and wafers were often made with and anointed with oil, predominantly olive oil, but there are also references to flax oil. Proverbs 21:20, mentions that the wise store up choice food and olive oil, showing how important oil is in the Bible. Oftentimes, oil is mentioned in the Bible as being used as an anointing

ritual, so to “anoint” or serve flourmade foods with it has a spiritual context of cleansing the food. So, perhaps the arguments are true, and we really should not be consuming grains very often, except in times of famine and hardships.

Regardless, olive oil is a staple in the Mediterranean diet, due to its beneficial nutritional properties. It is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, has strong antiinflammatory properties, may help prevent strokes, protects against heart disease, fights against Alzheimer’s disease, reduces type 2 diabetes, has anti-cancer properties, can treat rheumatoid arthritis, and has antibacterial properties. Research also shows that olive oil is not associated with weight gain and obesity, despite its high fat content.

It is important to read the ingredient list, as labels like “whole grain” and “extra virgin” are not always accurate. The ingredient list will tell you if it is truly whole grain. For olive oil, make sure it has not been diluted with other refined oils and is cold pressed. Ancient grains and oils have many nutritional benefits and are proven good for the body. N

Batesville

Day of the Dead Fiesta, Sat, Nov. 5 @ 6pm. Join El Centro Hispano in celebrating El Dia de los Muertos and our 25th anniversary with delicious latin food, drinks, and tradition. Contact Gina Gomez @ ginag@jhcsi.org / 870-926-1118

NADT’s 18th Nutcracker, Nov. 18, 19 @ 7pm/2:30pm/& 7pm respectively. $15 adults, $10 for 11 and under. cindy@nadt.info or 866.468.6238

Hope for the Holidays 5k and Half Marathon, Nov. 19 @ 8am. Held in honor of Garrett Yeager, beloved friend, son, and father. All proceeds donated to Special Olympics of Batesville and New Hope Refuge. From Eagle Mountain to Lyon College and back. Yeagerhopefortheholdiay@ yahoo.com.

Small Business Saturday, Nov. 26 @ noon. 870.569.1572, mainstreetbatesville@gmail.com. HSIC Claus n’ Paws Holiday Market, Nov. 26 @ 9am.

Join the Humane Society of Independence County for our Holiday Market. 870-793-0090 \ director@hsicshelter.org.

Mountain View

Arkansas Craft School

https://arkansascraftschool.org/calendar Sept 6, 2022: 16 Week Training Program 870.269.8397

Newport

www.facebook.com/newportarchamber Also see newportarcity.org/calendar/

Fraud Prevention Class Newport High School Adult Education hosts, Nov. 7 @ 6pm.

Small Business Automation Class Newport High School Adult Education, Nov. 8 @ 6pm.

Art Up The Port featuring Artist Catherine Burton, Nov. 15, adult acrylicsart. N

Unity Health Harris

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.

The Unity Health Board of Directors announced the appointment of Mark Amox, FACHE, as President and Chief Executive Officer effective November 1st.

Amox brings over two decades of healthcare leadership and executive experience to his new role, most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer at Regional Medical Center in San Jose, CA, part of the HCA Healthcare family of hospitals. While at Regional Medical Center, Amox focused on developing strategic partnerships, enhancing key service lines, and overseeing campus expansion and enhancement projects totaling over $200 million dollars.

Prior to his role with Regional Medical Center, he served as Chief Operating Officer of Sunrise Children’s Hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada; President

Unity Health Appoints Mark Amox as President and Ceo

and Chief Executive Officer of El Paso Children’s Hospital in Texas; and Administrator of Shands Children’s Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. Locally, Amox served for eight years as Administrator of Pediatrics at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock.

“Mark Amox is a great fit for Unity Health because of his expertise in strategic planning, focus on patient safety and quality care, and his experience successfully leading a variety of healthcare organizations,” said Janet Hines, Chair of the Unity Health Board of Directors. “Amox is the right leader to take Unity Health into the next season of growth. Mark has the right mix of executive experience and heartfelt commitment to Arkansas. We are excited he will be at the helm of Unity Health as we exit the pandemic and continue our commitment to provide compassionate care.”

“As an Arkansan I am honored at the opportunity to return home to join the Unity Health family of

associates,” said Amox. “Unity Health is a remarkable organization dedicated to providing the highest quality of care, close to home. I look forward to building upon this rich tradition of excellence by focusing on our people, our patients and the communities we serve.”

Amox received his Master of Healthcare Administration and Master of Business Administration from the University of Houston at Clear Lake, Texas, and his Bachelor of Arts from Henderson State University in Arkadelphia. He is board-certified with the American College of Medical Practice Executives (CMPE) and is a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE). -Jennifer Skinner

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Welcome to BAD BOY COUNTRY

Local Faces

SCENERY STEALS SHOW DURING TRAVEL CLUB TOUR OF COLORADO, UTAH Angela Connell

Twenty-nine members of the Adventure First Travel Club had a spectacular time on a recent tour through the Colorado Rockies and parts of Utah.

The scenery was glorious and just became more spectacular with every passing day! Each photo was worthy of being converted into a postcard.

The Travel Club will soon announce its complete schedule of monthly tours and trips for 2023. The major trips for next year will include “Exploring Greece and Its Islands” on May 4-19; the “Southern Belles” of Charleston, Savannah and Jekyll Island on Sept. 22-28; and “Spotlight on New York City Holiday,” in December 2023.

For additional information, please contact Chuck Jones at First Community Bank, (870) 612-3400, or email chuck. jones@firstcommunty.net. N

Wanda Petree of Batesville pauses for a view of the Cliff Palace at Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado.

The

held

Jedediah

"We are so

member Kay Sutherland. "Without the efforts of Nelson Barnett, John Boykin, all of our

Statue," said BHS Pioneer Statue

we could not have completed the project."

Scenery was the star of the show onboard a 1880s era train operated by the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad..

Susan and Max McElmurry of Batesville enjoy the sandstone landscapes at Arches National Park near Moab, Utah.

Dick Gregg of Sulphur Rock watches a rock climber rappel down a rock formation at Garden of the Gods near Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Batesville

Seniors, Can We Talk?

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

I don’t think Ruth was prepared to hear everything I shared with her at lunch. As Ruth’s mouth dropped open, I told her about the new “rules/ regulations” required by CMS (Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services) for all phone calls and communication related to 2023 Medicare prescription and Medicare Advantage plans.

Beginning October 1, all phone calls with Medicare beneficiaries talking about Prescription or Medicare Advantage plans that will be effective January 1, 2023, or later, must be recorded. At the start of the call, I must tell you that the call is being recorded. If that’s ok with you (you consent that the call is recorded), I will have to call you back on a recorded line.

If you are unwilling to have the call recorded, I’ll tell you that “new government regulations require certain calls with Medicare beneficiaries to be

recorded. The purpose is to maintain quality and help ensure that the information you receive is accurate”. If you are still unwilling to have the call recorded, I must politely tell you that we cannot continue the call. Recording does not apply toward email or meeting in person.

Then there’s the disclaimer. Within the fist minute (60 seconds) of a phone call or when communicating electronically by email, a disclaimer must be given. The disclaimer states “I do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information I provide is limited to those plans I do offer in your area.

Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-Medicare to get information on all of your options.”

The Annual Election Period is October 15 through December 7. This is the time when you can review your current plan and compare it to the 2023 plans. You may make changes without being turned down. Any change you make will be effective January 1, 2023. If you want to keep your current plan, you don’t need to do anything.

January 1? Your premium, co-pays, the drugs that are covered, your provider network or your plan may no longer be offered in 2023.

It is in your best interest to review your plan. Reviewing does not mean you must change anything. Reviewing means you are checking that your current prescription plan fits your needs at the lowest cost in 2023. And also checking that your Medicare Advantage network fits your needs with the lowest copays, lowest maximum out of pocket and your doctors are still in the network.

Where and how can you review plans? You can go to Medicare.gov. Hopefully you’re comfortable with what is shown (and where to click) and understand the information provided.

You can contact a certified, professional agent who can walk you through options specific to you and your situation. If you need help or have questions, feel free to call me at 501-8686650 and say “Caroline, can we talk? Yes, it’s ok to record our call” or email me at Caroline@mpinsureme.com

We can walk and work through this

Batesville . Newport . Newark . Southside . Sulphur Rock . Swifton . Tuckerman

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Independence Firearms and Training, recently.

Independence Firearms and Training, located at 305 Circle Drive in Cord, is a newly-opened facility featuring a 300yard outdoor shooting range, an indoor laser range, self-defense and firearms training classes, private events, and firearm and ammo sales. N

Operation Christmas Child

Fatih Posey

It’s here! It’s Operation Christmas Child Shoe Box Season once again. This is the opportunity to pack shoe boxes with small toys, hygiene items, and school supplies to be sent to children in impoverished and war torn areas. Operation Christmas Child is a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse which has sent these tangible gifts of love to millions of children for over 25 years. This is a great hands on project for families, church, and civic organizations.

Anyone can join in and bless these children who have so little. Simply start with a shoe box and decide to pack for a boy or girl, ages 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14. Then fill the box with simple fun and useful items for this child. Do not add liquid items, toothpaste, candy, or war related items. After packing your box, be sure to add a $10 gift for shipping. For ideas and information, go to samaritanspurse.org.

National Collection week is November 14th-21st. Local drop off areas are staffed by friendly volunteers who will send your box on to the first part of it’s journey toward that special child who will be blessed by your generosity. Drop off locations and hours are as follows:

Batesville, AR —Calvary Baptist Church, 1775 Lyon Street

Mon, Nov. 14th, 10:00am-4:00pm

Tues, Nov. 15th, 10:00am-2:00pm

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribboncutting ceremony for Gentiva on Thursday.

Kindred Hospice announced its acquisition and will continue to provide hospice, palliative, and personal care under its new name, Gentiva Hospice. The dedicated, compassionate caregivers you know and trust will continue to provide the support patients and families need to make the most of every moment.

Wed, Nov, 16th, 10:00am-2:00pm

Thur, Nov. 17th, 10:00am-2:00pm

Fri, Nov. 18th, 10:00am-2:00pm

Sat, Nov, 19th, 11:00am-1:00pm

Sun. Nov. 20th, 1:00pm-4:00pm

Mon. Nov. 21st, 8:00am-10:00am

Jacksonport, AR—Jacksonport Baptist Church, 300 Dillard Street

Mon. Nov14th 9:00am-12:00pm

Tue. Nov 15th 2:00pm-4:00pm

Wed. Nov 16th 9:00am-12:00pm

Thu. Nov 17th 2:00pm-4:00pm

Fri. Nov 18th 9:00am-12:00pm

Sat. Nov 19th 10:00ma-1:00pm

Sun. Nov 20th 12:00pm-2:00pm

Mon. Nov 21st 8:00am-10:00am N

Lyon College names Micah Beard to Board of Visitors

Carole Langston

Lyon College recently announced the appointment of Micah Beard of Batesville to the Lyon College Board of Visitors.

“We are excited to welcome Micah to the Lyon College Board of Visitors,” said President Dr. Melissa Taverner. “The College is facing an important year ahead, and Micah will be adding experience and talent to an exceptional board that is having a positive impact on the College and our students.”

Beard serves as regional president of Citizens Bank, a $1.2B bank headquartered in Batesville, Arkansas. With more than 27 years of experience in the banking industry, he is an expert in financial services and executive leadership.

Beard joined the bank in 2008 and currently serves the North Central and Southeast Arkansas markets. Although specialized in lending, he is passionate about business development and the Bank’s mission to Put People First through community involvement.

A Monticello native, Beard attended the University of Arkansas at Monticello and received a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. He also holds graduate degrees from the Graduate School of Banking

at Louisiana State University and the ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Beard serves on multiple community advisory boards and is currently the board chairman for the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce. He also serves on several other boards, including White River Health, Vital Link EMS and Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches.

He, his wife Jennifer and their daughter Avri proudly call Batesville home.

“Micah is a powerful advocate for the Batesville community and our region, including supporting partnerships between Citizens Bank and our many great educational institutions,” said Vice President for Advancement Dr. David Hutchison. “As we celebrate our 150th year of providing excellence in education here in North Central Arkansas, we're excited for the leadership that Micah and others on the Board of Visitors are bringing to the table.”

Composed of business leaders, alumni, friends and community advocates, the Lyon College Board of Visitors is an important channel of involvement and networking among distinguished citizens and leaders who advance the College mission. Board members help communicate Lyon College’s message, increase community and corporate engagement, assist with philanthropic support, and mentor Lyon College students as they navigate their Lyon College experience and transition into the workforce. N

BACC Announces Upcoming Chamber University Session

Chris Hill

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) proudly announces the next Chamber University session, presented by Bad Boy Mowers. BACC’s Chamber University program brings relevant information to members in a quick and engaging format.

Join us on Thursday, November 10, at 9:00 a.m. to hear Mike Davidson’s “Creating a Team Culture” keynote focused on how managers empower employees to become leaders. Davidson is a certified Maxwell Leadership teacher, speaker, and coach, and the founder of LeaderShift, a training program assisting leaders in developing leaders within their organization.

He is an Arkansas native with over 25 years of leadership experience and builds leaders who grow leaders. Mike speaks nationally on leadership, helps organizations establish a vision, and provides an application of principles that put clients on a journey of

leadership excellence.

Davidson will share strategies for employee retention and how to create vision makers within your organization that creates vision carriers for the organization. Leadershift is based on the core belief that employees should take responsibility for the business, no matter their position.

“As we all settle into what is being known as “The Great Shift,” there is no better time for managers to re-examine their leadership style. While we know employee retention is highly dependent on culture and management, we rarely invest resources in proper professional growth opportunities for managers. Most managers are managers because they produced good outcomes in previous positions, but that often does not translate to leading others to produce good outcomes,” said BACC COO Jamie Rayford.

Batesville Area Chamber of

National Safe Sleep Hospital CertificationProgram Recognizes White River Health

Jerrika Davis

White River Health, White River Medical Center is recognized as a Gold Safe Sleep Hospital, the highest designation, by the National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program for their commitment to infant safe sleep best practices and education. The National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program was created by Cribs for Kids®, a national infant safe sleep organization.

Commerce members can enjoy free admission to this event to learn directly from Mike’s expertise. Admission is $40 for non-members. All attendees should register by October 28th at batesvilleareachamber.com

The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville has named Alejandro (Alex) Vanegas as it’s new Community Liaison. In this role, he will assist the college in developing programming and support structures for Hispanic students, parents and community members. The college has similar roles through its workforce and high school partners. Vanegas currently resides in Independence County with his wife and two daughters. He began his role October 1, 2022.

UACCB Sees Enrollment Increase for Fall Jodie Hightower

Students continue to complete programs at a high rate.

The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville reported an increase in Fall 2022 enrollment. According to the preliminary college enrollment report from the Arkansas Division of Higher Education (ADHE), UACCB enrollment grew 2.5% from the previous year. Community colleges throughout the state saw an average enrollment increase of 1.6%.

“We are dedicated to serving our students through quality instruction and positive support programs,” said Dr. Shonk, chancellor. “This increase is proof of the continued hard work of our great faculty and staff.”

For the past two years UACCB has been successful in improving student outcomes. The data showed UACCB as having the highest gains in productivity of all two-year institutions in Arkansas for the current year of the productivity model. The model ensures colleges focus on quality instruction and student support for retention and graduation.

“It’s rewarding to see our commitment to student success pay off,” said Dr. Zach Perrine, vice chancellor for student affairs. “We are focused on providing a quality experience to our students.”

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Book Review

The Sentence

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

Louise Erdrich has quite a record of successful novels. A Native American from Minnesota, Erdrich has won the National Book Critics Circle Award for Fiction twice, for Love Medicine and LaRose, and she has garnered both a National Book Award for Fiction for The Round House and a Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for The Night Watchman. I particularly enjoyed The Round House, finding it an engaging crime novel, yet her new novel The Sentence disappointed me. I call it an ambitious failure, a Rube Goldberg contraption with too many moving parts.

One part is the family story of husband and wife Pollux and Tookie, Native Americans living in Minneapolis. Pollux is a retired native police officer active in Native American ceremonies, history, and social services, and Tookie is an ex-con working in a small independent bookstore (one very much like the bookstore Erdrich owns). Pollux had arrested Tookie during her misspent youth, and she served ten years for transporting drugs across state lines, an act “friends” tricked her into doing unaware. They married after her early release prompted by her friends’ confessions that they’d duped her.

The couple have a close relationship, but it’s complicated by that arrest. Then it’s further complicated when Pollux’s grown daughter from his first marriage shows up with a baby but no husband. Tookie, childless, has always had a strained relationship with her stepdaughter, but she really takes to the baby. You can see that Erdrich had plenty of room in this family story to build a strong and engaging plot, but she fails to provide that, creating no significant tension or build or climax.

Things just chug along.

A second part of the novel is its ghost story. It seems the bookstore where Tookie works has a ghost, a former customer named Flora who’d been a Native-American wannabe. Tookie hears her and sometimes feels her but never sees her, and other workers there come to hear her too, so it’s clear that Erdrich intends readers to take the haunting as “real,” not something Tookie imagines. Flora’s ghost is particularly interested in Tookie and even tries to “enter” her, while Tookie becomes so fearful that she won’t work alone in the store.

Again, you see Erdrich had plenty of room to develop a riveting plot with this haunting, but like the family story it just chugs along until the big revelation at the end when Erdrich finally reveals the reason for the haunting and then ends it.

A third part of the novel is the pandemic. Erdrich has set it in 20192020, just before Covid-19 hit and during its pre-vaccine onslaught. Minneapolis closes down, and the bookstore operates by mail and curbside hand-offs of online orders, while workers there wear masks and socially distance from one another.

So Erdrich had plenty of room here to build a riveting plot: will this family survive? Will the baby end up motherless? Will Tookie lose her job and the family’s main income? But Erdrich fails to focus on such issues, and when one person catches Covid19 and is hospitalized, it comes suddenly almost at the end of the novel and is resolved in just a few pages. So the pandemic just chugs along too.

A final part of the plot is the death of George Floyd and the following protests and riots that shook Minneapolis to the core. Erdrich’s Native American characters identify with the Black folks at the center of the response, feeling themselves to be an equally abused minority, so they go participate in the protests. Again, then, Erdrich had

a chance to build the novel around the Native-American/Black drive for equal justice with a plot made tense by the threats from bigots on one side and rioting looters on the other. But she doesn’t do so. The riots burn much of the city, but the bookstore survives and life chugs along.

This novel embodies a warning. Writers should not try for too much. Yes, Tolstoy managed to tell family stories in the midst of Russia’s Napoleonic war, but he took over 1200 pages to do so. Erdrich is a powerful writer at her best, but if this novel was to be her “War and Peace,” she needed about 800 more pages to give each part the full development it needed. N

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Rebranding as Weichert, Realtors - The Property Shoppe

Chris Hill

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Weichert, RealtorsThe Property Shoppe.

The Property Shoppe, a real estate company in our community for over 40 years, has franchised with national real estate leader Weichert, Realtors; which is a nationally-recognized brand with a people-first reputation.

"The Property Shoppe has built a reputation for focusing on our community," said BACC President and CEO Crystal Johnson.

"We're very excited at this opportunity to bring a new look to an existing façade of our company," said Weichert, Realtors - The Property Shoppe Owner and Realtor Bill Olson. "For over 40 years, we've been able to work hard for our clients and customers. The future with Weichert brings a whole new set of tools and marketing ideas. This change will help our agents, and especially our clients. I think they're going to see a huge benefit from the training and the tools we offer."

"I've had the opportunity to watch the Olsons work and support this community for many years, and look forward to their continued success," concluded Johnson.

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

A better world. Starting in Arkansas.

Lyon College Celebrates 150th Anniversary in Service to Arkansas and the Community

Submitted by Lyon College

Lyon College has been changing lives and building a better world through education since its founding 150 years ago in Batesville by Arkansas Presbyterians as Arkansas College.

Lyon graduates have gone on to heal patients, teach in classrooms, conduct cutting-edge research, perform on stage, and make an impact in communities around the globe.

In October, Lyon College kicked off its sesquicentennial celebrations with nine days of events and activities that included ScotsFest, the 42nd Arkansas Scottish Festival and Homecoming, Founders’ Week, the new college president’s inauguration, and a 150th Celebration Gala.

“The founding of Arkansas College in 1872 was the embodiment of the hopes and dreams of the original founders who saw both a need and an opportunity to bring higher education to what at the time was the American frontier,” said Lyon College’s 19th president, Dr. Melissa P. Taverner, in her inauguration speech.

“A grounding in religion and philosophy, arts and letters, classical studies, science and mathematics was deemed critical preparation for the families who would extend the American experiment to the west coast. The creation of an educated and informed citizenry, both men and women, capable of engaging thoughtfully the questions of the day with a critical eye to the future of the nation was and still remains an overarching goal of this institution. The foundational relationship with the Presbyterian Church was an important part of the equation, providing the spiritual compass that gave purpose and meaning to the complex tapestry of Arkansas College. As the oldest college in Arkansas still operating under its original charter, located in the oldest city in the state, it would seem that the founders hit upon a recipe for success.”

Originally located on the downtown block the First Presbyterian Church of Batesville now occupies, the college remained under the leadership of the Rev. Isaac J. Long family for much of its first four decades. Rev. Long served as president from the college’s founding until his death in 1891, and his son, Eugene R. Long, served two terms as president from 1891 to 1895 and 1897 to 1913.

From its beginning, Lyon College was co-educational. In 1876, the first graduating class of eight students included three women, the first in Arkansas to receive the same bachelor’s degree awarded to men. The college remained dedicated to a classical

course of study and maintained its own preparatory academy into the early 20th century.

After World War I, the college expanded when administrators purchased land in the East End Heights section of town, later known as the middle campus. The boom years of the 1920s faded quickly, however, as the Arkansas economy sank into depression. By the early 1930s, the very survival of the college was in jeopardy. Through the untiring efforts of a group of Batesville supporters, alumni, and the generosity of Arkansas Presbyterian families, the college recovered in time to participate in the post-World War II G.I. boom that filled the nation’s classrooms.

In 1952, Dr. Paul M. McCain succeeded the Rev. John D. Spragins as president of the college. McCain’s 17-year tenure as president saw steady progress including the move to the current campus in 1954; accreditation by the North Central Association (NCA) in 1959; physical expansion during the 1960s; and the geographic and racial diversification of the student body.

During the 1970s and 1980s, President Dr. Dan C. West oversaw the implementation of significant curricular reforms, the introduction of innovative fundraising techniques, and the development of the Scottish heritage program. A bequest in 1981 of more than $14 million by Miss Jean Brown of Hot Springs launched a drive that paved the way for a significant expansion of scholarship support for students and endowed faculty positions.

In the 1990s, President Dr. John V. Griffith led a strategic planning process that placed the college on the path to distinction as a national liberal arts institution. During Griffith’s tenure, the College changed its curriculum and built or expanded several buildings, including the Holloway Theatre (1991); the Lyon Business and Economics Building (1993); and the upper-division residence hall, Young House (1993). The college created the state’s only student-run honor system in 1992. In 1994, Arkansas College adopted the name Lyon College to honor a family that had served it with distinction for more than half a century.

Dr. Walter Roettger became the 16th president of Lyon in 1998 and continued the transformation that his predecessor had put into motion. The Derby Center for Science and Mathematics opened in 2003 and the Kelley Baseball Complex in 2004.

In 2009, Dr. Donald Weatherman, a former Lyon professor of political philosophy, became the 17th president of Lyon. That fall, Lyon launched the Lyon

Education and Adventure Program (LEAP), an outdoor program that takes advantage of the College’s location in the Ozark foothills and its close proximity to rivers, lakes, caves, and other natural attractions.

On October 26, 2010, a fire destroyed Edwards Commons, which included the dining hall, student center, and student life offices. A new campus center, also named Edwards Commons, opened in August 2012. In fall 2012, the College began an assessment of all academic and administrative programs, a process designed to position the College for sustainability and growth. The year 2015 saw the grand opening of Lyon College’s two newest residence halls, Whiteside and Wilson, and the return of varsity football for the first time in 65 years. A five-year strategic plan was developed that included a revised core curriculum.

Dr. W. Joseph King succeeded Weatherman as the 18th president of Lyon College in 2017. The ROTC military science concentration and the exercise science major and minor were approved by the Faculty Assembly and affirmed by the Board of Trustees in spring 2019. Lyon also became the first pet-friendly campus in the state that year, and established the state’s first program for esports endorsed by the National Association of Collegiate Esports in 2019.

Like institutions and people around the world, Lyon

College has adapted to the challenges posed by COVID since spring 2020, but progress continues. In recent years the Faculty Assembly and Board of Trustees have approved new majors in data science and anthropology and a new major and minor in communications studies.

In spring 2022, Lyon College announced its boldest initiatives to date. The Faculty Assembly and Board of Trustees approved plans for select graduate programs, as well as a proposed RN-to-BSN nursing program in partnership with White River Health. Even more ambitious and game-changing is Lyon College’s initiative to collaborate with Little Rock-based OneHealth Education Group in the proposed creation of schools of dentistry and veterinary medicine, with the proposed launch as early as 2024.

“Like clockwork, the world continues to change, bringing new challenges and new opportunities: that is the immutable truth. The power of Lyon is that by teaching individuals to think, to communicate, to collaborate, to investigate, to be curious, to be brave, and to be authentic as they confront their own personal challenges, we prepare them to turn their gaze and purpose outward to the world,” Dr. Taverner said. “There is a lot of work to be done, and we will continue to make a difference.” N

“In 1876, the first graduating class of eight students included three women, the first in Arkansas to receive the same bachelor’s degree awarded to men.”

Batesville . Newport . Newark . Southside . Sulphur Rock . Swifton . Tuckerman

In The Field with Randy

In the Midst of Harvest

Although harvest isn’t complete by any means as I write this article on October 23rd, I can’t remember a stretch of good harvest weather like we’ve seen up to now. Between August 18th and October 14th, much of our area only received around an inch of rain total. This dry stretch meant excellent harvest weather for crops that were ready. Many are finished with harvest.

One issue we did see is that a significant amount of rice was slow to dry down. I started getting calls early on (early to mid-September) and was getting calls as late as October 13th. Fields would visually look dry enough to cut but when they tried it the grain moisture would be in the low to mid 20s. I was asked more than once by rice farmers if they were the only ones having this problem and no they weren’t. The issue was addressed in the October 7th edition of the Arkansas Rice Update.

You would think the dry weather I mentioned earlier would actually enhance drydown, but it actually worked in the opposite way. If there is free moisture on the grain from either rain or dew, when that moisture evaporates it actually pulls moisture from within the grain thereby lowering grain moisture. With the lack of rain, we had dry soil depending on

when fields were drained in relation to drydown/beginning of harvest. With dry soil, there is less dew and with less rain that translated into less evaporation from the surface of the grain and moisture was not pulled from that grain as it would have been in wetter conditions.

Looking at yields, rice and soybean yields have generally been good but not top end. This almost certainly goes back to the temperature and moisture conditions we dealt with at times during the season. We were very dry from May 26th through July 17th, a little bit too wet from July 17th through August 17th, and then dry again for the rest of the growing season. Temperatures were above normal for much of June and July, turning mostly below normal from July 27th through much of the remainder of the growing season. Those dry periods along with the hot period didn’t allow yields to be maximized. A grassier than normal rice crop was also a contributor. I had an interesting conversation with one rice farmer who described how his yield monitor would go down every time he hit one of those grassier areas or an area that didn’t water well.

Corn yields were a different story with a lot more low yields. Although I did hear of a few 220-240 bushel yields, I heard way too many in the lower 100s. Those hot, dry conditions were too much for a lot of the corn. I’m sure planting date and hybrid were factors in some situations, but the inability/impossibility to irrigate adequately was the overriding factor. If you irrigated like you do in most (normal) years, it wasn’t enough this year.

For more information on wheat production, feel free to contact me through Farmers Supply Association at randychlapecka@gmail.com or by cell at 870-318-0739 N

Notes from the Clearing

Joey Thomas

And, as if it were spoken by the very Universe, the lightening struck. The boy didn’t hold any certainty that he had commanded it, but it felt as if there were the slightest possibility; that this one time he was given validation for his potential. He tried again and again, with the arrogance that he wished to drop and leave behind, but the Universe had more lessons to teach; such as modesty, patience, hope, and acceptance in the not knowing. Conducting lightening, even once, even with no proof or witnesses to hold him in reverence, even for a moment, still allowed him the hope that he could be anything; that he could one day know more; one day know everything worth knowing. N

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.

White River Health recently wrapped up the annual 5K Run/Walk. The event brought 174 registered runners and walkers, 60 virtual participants, and raised over $20,000 to support local schools’ food pantries.

Thyme Enough

Nelson and Sandy Barnett met in college. They have been happily married for 58 years and are still having fun cooking and living! Find Sandy’s newly published thriller Dead in the Shadow of Doubt on Amazon.com.

Recipe & Notes Shared by Lindley Barnett

Before Georgia and David married and while he was still a student at the U of A, he had to have his wisdom teeth removed. His mama was out of town, and Georgia was at Hendrix, so I had the pleasure of doting on him myself. I made him this bisque for lunch while he recuperated.

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon minced bacon (about 1/2 ounce)

1 Spanish onion, chopped

1 carrot, chopped

1 stalk celery, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

5 tablespoons all-purpose flour

5 cups chicken broth, homemade or low-sodium canned

1 (28-ounce) can whole, peeled tomatoes (with liquid), roughly chopped

3 parsley sprigs

3 fresh thyme sprigs

1 bay leaf

1 cup heavy cream

1 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

Heat the butter in a large soup pot over mediumhigh heat. Add the bacon and cook, stirring, until crisp and most of the fat has rendered, about 1 minute. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside. Lower the heat to medium, add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic and cook, covered, stirring occasionally, until soft and fragrant, about 8 minutes.

Stir in the flour and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes. Pour in the broth and tomatoes and bring to a boil while whisking constantly. Tie the parsley sprigs, thyme, and bay leaf together with a piece of kitchen twine and add to the pot. Lower the heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to cool.

When the soup base is cool, remove and discard the herb bundle. Working in batches, transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth. Using a sieve over a large bowl, strain the tomato puree. Return the puree to the pot and reheat over medium heat.

Whisk the heavy cream and salt into the soup and season with pepper to taste. Divide among warm soup bowls, garnish with the crispy bacon, and serve immediately.

Note: I think I found this recipe on the Food Network site. I don’t recall that I tied the herbs with twine, and I typically use my immersion hand blender as I am prone to shoot hot liquids onto the kitchen ceiling if I use a blender. If I’m feeling particularly domestic, I might actually strain in through a sieve. It all depends on the day.

N

David’s Tomato Bisque

TIS THE SEASON OF

This season, as you think about how to honor or remember your loved ones, consider making a gi in their name to the 2022 White River Health Foundation Life Lights campaign.

This year, different tribute packages are being offered. All levels of giving include publicly acknowledging the names of those honored or remembered on White River Health’s website and social media pages, the monitors in the lobbies at White River Medical Center, and in local news publications. Acknowledgement cards will be mailed to individuals honored or families of those remembered.

Other levels of giving include a commemorative keepsake ornament that will go to your honoree or their family, and/or an acknowledgement in a special tribute video that will go on the WRH Foundation Facebook page.

For more information on packages, or to give to Life Lights in someone’s honor or memory, scan the QR code, visit our website, or call (870) 262-1834. All Life Lights gi s support White River Health Cancer Detection and Treatment Services.