Eye On Magazine October 2022

Eye On

25 YEARS OF

In 1997, we set out to start a true community bank, a bank that would change the landscape of our communities. Because of you, we’ve forged long-lasting partnerships that have made our communities better. We can all agree that a lot has changed in 25 years, but our promise to always be a true community bank remains the same. Our roots run deep; our commitment to you runs deeper. We’re celebrating 25 years of First Community Bank, and the best is yet to come.

Running On

Joey Thomas

Moments run on, into the next, but so am I. I’ve been (not nearly consistently enough), jumping up at 6:30 and running to the sunrise. It is akin to running at sunset, but the full day yet unfolded is large and brimming with potentional. I hope this summer was well for you, and that this cooler kiss of air will bring you all health, wealth, and happiness!

My second book, HELL BENT, is available now on Amazon.com & BarnesandNoble.com 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

A better

Mammogram.

3D Mammography takes images from different angles to create a clear three-dimensional image. This higher quality image provides better visualization of smaller cancers that may be less visible on traditional equipment.

Women ages 40 and up, or anyone with a family history of breast cancer, should have regular screening mammograms. Talk to your provider about scheduling a Mammogram at a White River Health facility near you.

Caring Beyond Healthcare

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 Photos by Storyteller Images

Cover Design by Joey Thomas 18

Cherri Design

The Essence of Your Home

Cherri Rodgers has a B.S. In Interior Design from UCA. She is active in several local ministries & community projects. Most of all, she values time with her family and grandson. Cherri's Interior Design is available for both residential & commercial design or decorating needs. Cherri owns The Kitchen Shop at 610 Saint Louis Street in Batesville for all your kitchen needs.

After a hard day, our homes should be our havens for peace and comfort. I am so content in my home, yet sadly I know many people who do not like going home to their space. This month, we are discussing the essence of our homes. For starters, how do you feel when you are in your home? And how do your guests feel when they visit your home? In this month’s article, I will refer to my home throughout to help make points, so please bear with me as we explore the essence of your home.

Aroma sets the mood for our home, as scents trigger mood and memories. Oftentimes when people visit my home, they tell me how nice my home smells. A few weeks ago, a friend asked me what that smell was, and I told her it could be any of several essential oils. Several years ago, I got rid of chemicals in my home, as well as my candles, due to their toxicity. I started using food products for cleaning, such as vinegar, baking soda, lemon and orange. This changed the aroma of my home greatly, as well as providing a healthier breathing environment. Diffusers emit wonderful smelling natural essential oils into the air versus all the fake perfumy chemicals. It is difficult for us to smell our home’s aroma, as we are so used to it. Therefore, I suggest you ask a trusted friend or family member what they smell.

Lighting is important in our homes, as we need overhead lighting to provide illumination to the entire room. Lamps provide soft, comforting illumination. If guests are coming, I turn on all lamps to provide a peaceful, inviting environment. Also, use a nightlight in the guest bath, even during daylight hours if guests are coming. My guest bath has a small lamp

that uses a nightlight bulb, but use a plug-in if it works better for your space, as in my small master bath.

When having guests, I put out paper guest towels for individual use, instead of one hand towel. A clean, nice smelling bathroom is pleasing to the senses, and nice smelling soap and hand cream shows care for your guests.

When visiting other people in their homes, I am very aware of sounds or background noise in their environment. I always appreciate when people turn off the television or radio, as this makes me, the guest, feel welcome and important. When people visit your home, be conscious of the noise level in your home.

Beautiful fabrics add to the essence of your home. Color and texture can both be added through fabrics. Textures can be pleasing both to our sense of touch and sight. Add this essence to your space in rugs, throws, pillows, bedding, towels and window coverings.

Your home should reflect you and your family. Set an essence in your home that is pleasing and peaceful to all who enter. Next article, we will explore adding textural contrast throughout your home. N

Studio Salon

Things To Do

Batesville

THE RIVER HAUNT OCT 1, 2022, Open October 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29, 31 from 7pm-10:30pm / mainstreetbatesville. org / 870-569-1572 / mainstreetbatesville@gmail.com

Steady Steve 5k, Saturday, Oct 1 @ 8am. boakley59@hotmail. com

Arkansas Hospice Volunteer Training, Oct 1 @ 9am. If you would like to make a difference in Independence County, please join Arkansas Hospice for a volunteer training session in Batesville on Saturday, Oct. 1. All who would like to learn about the nonprofit organization and its volunteer opportunities are invited to register for this free training. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. in the Arkansas Hospice office at 3000 Jennings Lane, Suite C, and lunch will be provided. 870.793.1938 / crichardson@arkansashospice.org

Arkansas Sheriff’s Youth Ranch Pumpkin Patch, Oct 6 @ noon. $10 per person, pumpkin and all events included. 100 St. Vincent Place in Batesville, 870.793.6841, Kirsten@ youthranches.com.

White River Health 5k, Oct 8 @ 9am. afinster@wrmc.com. Citizens Bank Fall Festival, Oct 8 @ 1pm at Citizens Bank Pocket Park. 870.698.6386, chelsey.dockins@thecitizensbank. net.

42nd Arkansas Scotsfest, Oct 14 @ 8am. 870.307.7075, Carol. Langston@lyon.edu.

WR Pageant Winners

Alicia Ritchie

Our new Miss Historic Batesville’s Outstanding teen 2023 is Kennedy Johnson. Kennedy is the daughter of Leon and Constance Johnson. She is 15 years old and currently attends Batesville Charter High School. She will be a sophomore this fall.

This year as Miss Historic Batesville’s Outstanding Teen, she plans to promote her crucial issue of bridging the gap that technology has caused in today’s society. She will perform her community service at schools, nursing homes, assisted living centers, etc. Kennedy will compete next year at Miss Arkansas’ Outstanding Teen in Little Rock representing the White River Scholarship Competition

Our new Miss White River 2022 is Kaelin Clay. Kaelin is the daughter of Victor & Karla of Idabel. Kaelin is 19 years old and currently attends Ouachita Baptist University. She will be a Sophomore this fall. She plans to pursue a career in journalism following graduation.

This year as Miss White River she plans to promote her Critical Issue of The Confidence Blueprint and perform

HSIC Trivia Night, Oct 15 @ 5pm. 870.793.0090, Office@ HSICShelter.org.

First Baptist Church Batesville 175th Anniversary, Oct 16 @ 10am. 870.793.9859, gene@fbcbatesville.org.

Lyon College: Sesquicentennial Parade, Oct 17 @ 6pm. Poetry In Motion: 1800’s poetry to rap, Oct 18 @ 6pm. Opening of Time Capsule, Oct 19 @ 11am (Couch Garden). www.lyon.edu/150.

Gravel Yard Benefit Concert, Oct 18 @ 7pm. 870.307.7527, cindy.barber@lyon.edu.

Nightmare On Main Street, Oct 22 @ noon, 870.569.1572, mainstreetbatesville@gmail.com.

Free Family Fall Festival, Oct 29 @ 11am, Ruddell Hill Baptist Church, 870.793.6416, ruddellhillbaptist@outlook.com Fun and Safe Halloween, Oct 29 @ 4pm. Meet, greet, and candy. 870.751.0598, mainstreetbatesville@gmail.com

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.

community service with students of all ages across the state of Arkansas. Kaelin will compete next year at Miss Arkansas in Little Rock representing The White River Scholarship Competition.

Our new Miss Historic Batesville 2022 is Camille Cathey. She is the daughter of Crystal & Dr. Jake Cathey of Wynne. Camille is 20 years old and currently attends The University of Alabama. She will be a Junior this fall. She plans to continue pursuing her degree in Communication Studies with a minor in Public Relations on the Pre-Law track as well as continue her involvement in numerous organizations on campus.

This year as Miss Historic Batesville she plans to promote her Critical Issue of Proudly Volunteer and perform community service in not only her hometown and the community of Batesville, but in various communities around the state of Arkansas.

Camille will compete next year at Miss Arkansas in Little Rock representing The White River Scholarship Competition.

Our new Miss White River’s Outstanding Teen 2023 is Rylee Smith. Rylee is the daughter of Jeremy Smith &

Kristen Grubbs of Conway. Rylee is 14 years old and currently attends Conway Junior High. She will be a Freshman this fall . She plans to major in pediatric nursing and cheer in college.

This year as Miss White River’s Outstanding Teen she plans to promote her Critical Issue of Hope Is Where It’s AT - AT Awareness and preform community service at schools and events across Batesville, Conway and the state of Arkansas.

Rylee will compete next year at Miss Arkansas (OT) in Little Rock representing The White River Scholarship Competition.

Unity Health Harris Batesville Newport Newark Southside Sulphur Rock Swifton Tuckerman

Tales of a Transplanted Fashionista

At the end of September, when we are all just so tired of being hot all the time, I always feel like I need to pause and take a moment to appreciate all of the happy memories those longer days of sunshine brought into our lives.

This summer we:

-spent so much time in the water, really any water -spent so much time with friends we love so much and our family

-spent so much time in a car getting places -spent so much time in a gym playing basketball (and soccer because of the rain)

-Cole learned how to use the dishwasher, and earned his keep x 1000 around the house with chores and dog chores

-Got my mom finally moved after a summer of cleaning out, with a lot of time crying out of frustration in a shop or in a car -lost several people we loved so much -spent so much time together, our favorite place to still be

Unfortunately the weird, too-much-rain, then not-enough-rain and too much crazy-hot-weather was not great for my summer garden, and the only thing I grew that managed to thrive were the mosquitoes (survivors! How can they live through everything??).

Living in Batesville always brings so many exciting fall memories each year, with visits to the local pumpkin patches, trick or treating on Main Street (my child has officially outgrown trick or treating, but wants to wear that inflatable dinosaur one more time, so maybe you will catch us there in some form), and slightly cooler weather so we can all enjoy being outside a little more. We always miss the summer, but life goes on, and I learned long ago to enjoy the season that we’re in, figuratively and literally. Happy fall! N

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.

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?’.

“Why doesn’t every Medicare beneficiary have a Medicare Supplement plan? Why do some have a Medicare Advantage plan instead?“ I told Ruth I’ve received several calls this month asking these questions. You may wonder this also, so let’s talk.

Debbie is new to Medicare and wanted to talk about her options. First, we talked about Medicare Supplement plans including the benefits and premiums. Debbie liked the idea of being able to go to any provider (doctor or hospital) that accepted Medicare instead of having a network of providers. She also liked knowing the maximum she could be out of pocket for medical expenses was low and very manageable.

Debbie said her cousin has a Medicare Advantage plan and does not like it; no provider he wants to go to accepts his plan. Debbie liked the

Medicare Advantage lower premium and did not really mind paying co-pays when she had something done. But she did not like the maximum she could be out-ofpocket in a year. Debbie also did not like having a network of doctors she had to use.

“Why would my cousin want that plan?” Debbie asked.

It is always important to look at the benefits you get as well as the monthly premium fitting in your budget. When I told her about Medicare Supplement premiums for someone on Social Security disability, she understood why Medicare Advantage plan worked.

Debbie said she thinks her cousin just does not understand his plan and how to find out who accepts it. I suggested he contact his agent. Oops! He does not have an agent in Arkansas; he enrolled through an 800 number. Debbie asked if he could change agents so he would have someone to help him. Yes, he can.

It is very important that you understand how your policy works, which providers accept your plan and what costs you should expect to pay. A certified, professional agent can help you.

Debbie signed up for a Medicare Supplement and Prescription plan. The monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs fit in her budget, and she liked not having, as she said, “any moving parts.”

Henry called about a Medicare Advantage plan and was particularly interested in dental benefits. After looking at the plans available in his area, he found out that his dentist does not accept any of those plans. Make sure you check that your providers accept the plan before you sign up. Do not just sign up for a plan that looks like it has great benefits then to find out those benefits will not help you with your providers or you need to change providers. Everything you hear or read in ads may not apply to you.

Start getting ready. Every January 1 all Medicare Prescription and Medicare Advantage plans change. Contact a certified, professional agent to help you review your plan and what’s new in 2023. Information is available AFTER October 1.

Confused? Need help? Call 501-8686650 and say “Caroline, can we talk?” N

The Tuckerman Cross Country team recently competed in the Melbourne Invitational Meet. The Jr Boys won the meet, out of a field of over 14 teams! Eighth grader Zeke Church finished 5th, with a PR time of 9:45, and 9th grader Christian Ashley finished 7th with a time of 9:56. Hayden Reed (19th place, 10:23) , Bronx Holland (28th place, 10:53), and Avery Brunner (30th place, 10:53) rounded out the top 5 team finishers to secure the win for the Jr Bulldogs.

In the Sr Girls 5K, senior Kaydence Slagley ran an excellent race to medal in 14th place with a time of 27:49. N

In early July, Investigators from Batesville Police Department stopped by to drop off some quilts for our kiddos to use during medical exams. Thankful for their support and hard work each day to keep kids in our community safe. And thank you to the wonderful ladies that made these quilts. We appreciate you more than you know!

On July 29, we received night lights from Lisowe’s Lights. Thank you for thinking of us and our kiddos!! These night lights will be given to clients in hope it comforts them and shines a little light in the darkness.

We would like to give a giant thanks to FutureFuel Chemical Company employees for their generosity! Mechelle Lovell, HR and Kyle Gaither, General Manager, stopped by with a donation of over $5,000.00 collected at a recent company picnic. These funds will go to help provide much needed services for the kids that we serve in our 5 County area! #forthekids #empower #protect #heal #communitysupport. N

Children’s Advocacy Center of Independence County

The City of Batesville

We would like to take a minute to congratulate Fire Chief Brent Gleghorn and Lieutenant Bill Johnson on their recent retirement. Chief Gleghorn retires with more that 36 years of service and Lt. Johnson retires with more than 24 years of service to the Batesville Fire Department. Each are leaving fire service but will still be serving the citizens of Batesville and Independence County with new positions. Congratulations Guys on a job well done and best wishes in your new ventures. N

Support

ASU

ScotsFest 42, Lyon

Carol Langston

Lyon College will kick off the celebration of its 150th anniversary with ScotsFest, the 42nd Arkansas Scottish Festival and Lyon College Homecoming, from Oct. 14 to Oct. 16 on the Batesville campus.

General admission to the festival is free, though some individual and alumni events require a registration fee.

The Arkansas Scottish Festival began in 1979 as a small fair on the campus’ intramural field as a way to pay homage to the Scottish heritage of the college’s Presbyterian founders. It has grown into one of the premier festivals in Arkansas and one of the most prominent festivals in the United States for honoring Scottish heritage and traditions. This is the second year the festival will be combined with the Lyon College Homecoming.

Presented by Lyon College and lead partners White River Health and Experience Independence, ScotsFest will feature a variety of activities in celebration of Lyon College’s sesquicentennial, including special musical performances, alumni and friends gatherings, Highland dancing, sheepdog demonstrations, a dog show, children’s activities, a bonniest knees contest, and a feast and ceilidh.

“While every ScotsFest is a great festival, this year represents something special in the life of our community: an opportunity to come together, alumni and friends alike, from every corner of Arkansas and from across the country to celebrate 150 years of history and tradition at Lyon College,” said Dr. David Hutchison, Vice President for Advancement.

“The whole weekend is really a huge kickoff for 10 straight days of special events and activities that

showcase our unique story as a pioneer college in the foothills of the Ozarks, our journey to a national liberal arts college today, and looking forward to what great things are in store not just for Lyon College, but for Arkansas.”

Cindy Barber, Executive Director of Alumni Engagement, said, “There’s always an air of excitement on campus during ScotsFest, and we love seeing so many alumni and friends come home to Lyon. This year, you do not want to miss it. We look forward to celebrating our Scottish heritage, homecoming, the sesquicentennial, and Lyon’s exciting future together with you.”

John 3:16 Ministries provides outstanding support in helping to set up and take down the festival.

ScotsFest begins Friday, Oct. 14, with open classes, a president’s reception, alumni awards celebration and social, and the Kilted Mile race/walk at 12th and Main Street in downtown Batesville at 6 p.m. Registration for the race/walk is available at arscottishfest.com.

“This year we will have several pipe bands from around the region and great opening ceremonies with all the favorites: Amazing Grace, Scotland the Brave and others,” said Jimmy Bell, Director of the Scottish Heritage Program. “Come see or enter yourself in the heavy athletics. You’ll have an opportunity to throw stones and weights for distance or height and throw some telephone poles.”

Festival gates open at 8 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, with a nod to history and reenactments by MacLachlan’s Jacobite Highlanders and Colonel Munro’s 37th Regiment of Foot, followed by a Highland athletics competition, rocket demonstrations, pipe band exhibitions, Highland dancing, softball alumni game, Black Student Association reunion, homecoming tailgate, a British car show, Li’l Highlanders Fun Zone,

The Lyon College Pipe Band will perform at the 42nd Arkansas Scottish Festival Oct. 14-16 in Batesville. Pipers, drummers, dancers, athletes, Scottish clans and vendors travel from all corners of the country to attend the Arkansas Scottish Festival. The festival is free and open to the public.

Highland dancing, baseball alumni game and a Lyon volleyball game.

There will be a band and clan march-past followed by opening ceremonies at 12 p.m. with a mass pipe band concert in the Couch Garden. Afternoon activities include a dog show, homecoming pep rally and homecoming football game. A feast and ceilidh begin at 6 p.m., followed by a young alumni social.

“There is nothing more exciting than the colorful parade of clans, unless it’s the soul-stirring soundtrack provided by the pipe bands as the clans march past,” said Kenton Adler, Director of Advancement for Scottish Heritage. “And when the massed bands play together, it really can’t be beat.”

Sunday’s lineup includes a Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan worship service at 10 a.m. in the entertainment tent with tea and scones provided, as well as sheepdog demonstrations, Highland dancing and a bonniest knees contest. A Club 50 celebration for those who have been alumni for over 50 years is set for noon in the Maxfield Room of Edwards Common, with the class of 1972’s induction into Club 50. The festival closes at 2 p.m.

“Lyon College welcomes everyone to come to this momentous occasion. ScotsFest is always one of the most, if not the most, diverse and entertaining events in Independence County. There is something for everyone of all ages. Forty-two years of practice made perfect,” said Pam Palermo, Director of Institutional Events.

In conjunction with the sesquicentennial, Founders’ Week celebrations will continue with daily activities the following week and will culminate Oct. 22 with the inauguration of Dr. Melissa Taverner, Lyon College President.

“Our 150th birthday is going to be a bash. We have a week full of events that will end with our 19th Presidential Inauguration and Sesquicentennial Black-Tie Gala,” Palermo said.

For the complete ScotsFest schedule of events, visit arscottishfest.com. For Lyon College’s sesquicentennial celebrations, visit lyon.edu/150. N

Family Violence Prevention

Karin Huffman is native to Independence County and will celebrate five years of marriage to Nathan October 3. Together they have three children, Kaden, Grace and Stella.

Imagine being so scared for your own safety that you stay.

Imagine being so scared for your children’s safety that you are quiet, and you stay.

Imagine being so scared that you quietly pack a bag one evening.

Imagine being so scared that you quietly pack the children’s bags one evening.

Imagine being so scared that you make a plan.

Imagine that you have a thirty minute window to turn that plan into action.

Imagine turning that fear into bravery, and you make a hotline call that changes the entire outlook of your future.

“When I get that initial call from a potential client, my heart starts racing,” Safe Haven Women’s Shelter Manager Taylor Jones stated. “All I can think about is the ‘who, what, when where and how’ am I going to get this girl to us. I am immediately thinking about placement in the shelter, where will the kids sleep, how will the client get to us, and then I just spring into action.”

Once a client gets to Safe Haven, Jones and her team start working on case management, and finding the correct resources to help them get back on their feet.

“We give them some time to get comfortable, and adjust to their new surroundings,” Jones explained. “From there, we will work with them on finding a job, getting the kids enrolled into school and anything else they may want to start working toward. Some of these women have never made decisions on their own before, and some are starting over from nothing. That’s where we step in and help them make these vital choices.”

Family Violence Prevention, Incorporated (FVP) was established in the Spring of 1987 after a group of concerned citizens researched problems that involved domestic violence situations in Independence County.

Because those citizens took the time and effort to look into these issues, this organization has been able to help hundreds of victims yearly.

According to Executive Director Billie Grady, FVP has been able to help over 500 individuals in 2022.

“The services that we offer go above and beyond our shelters,” Grady explained. “Our organization’s

umbrella of services are vast. We have the men’s shelter, women’s shelter, the Fresh Start Resale Shop, Batesville Rape Crisis Center, our two outreach offices and our Anti-Human Trafficking office are all right here in this county.”

“FVP is able to house 15 clients at our women’s shelter and 9 at our men’s shelter, countless individuals are helped throughout the year at our resale store,” Grady continued. “Our outreach offices offer domestic violence classes, and orders of protection. We are also very lucky to have the Batesville Rape Crisis Center as another resource for those who have been sexually assaulted.”

Sexual Assault Coordinator Bethany Allison and Anti-Human Trafficking Coordinator Marilee House are located in the BRCC office at 2026 Byers Street, and are able to help victims from the moment they make a hotline until the process is finalized.

“Being an advocate for those in need is something I have always wanted to do,” Allison stated. “This is one of the most delicate times in a person’s life, and it can be so traumatizing. It’s my job to believe them first, and to be there for them along the way.”

House has a unique position within the organization as she is the first person to take on our newest role as a Human Trafficking advocate.

“Most people think that human trafficking can’t happen in small towns, but I am here to tell you, it can,” House stated. “I want to help educate people in the area about these issues and hope to shed some light on the resources we can offer as well.

By the fall of 2015, the organization opened the first men’s domestic violence shelter in the state of Arkansas.

“We are so proud of the fact that we were the first of its kind to be registered with the state coalition,” Grady stated.

The three-bedroom home that has become The Taylor House was donated to FVP by the late Dr. Charles Taylor and Rachel Taylor. The house was empty and their son Dr. David Taylor approached Independence County Judge Robert Griffin about what could be done with the house.

Since the Taylor’s wanted to give back to their community, the idea of a men’s shelter was the best solution.

“This is the only place for men in domestic violence situations to go and be safe,” Taylor House Shelter Manager Noel Sims stated. “Even though the house is considered temporary, it’s still a place for them to stay, get their minds right and form a plan for the future.”

Sims has been affiliated with the Taylor House first as an advocate, and now as shelter manager.

“I do this type of work because I like to help and be

of service to these men,” Sims stated. “We don’t do this for the pay, we do it because we want to make a difference and help these men get back on their feet. I like being able to get them the resources they need, and knowing that we are the only place for men in the state and the United States makes the job even more worthwhile.”

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and FVP is staying busy trying to promote, educate and give out as many resources as possible for the surrounding areas.

“Our board members are working hard for our big fundraiser of the year, Karaoke for a Cause,” Grady explained. “We are so lucky to have a working board who go out of their way to raise awareness for what we stand for. Karaoke for a Cause is October 8, and it’s a fun way for the community to help raise money for our organization, and our board members help plan the entire thing.”

Board President Tham Dayberry and her team have been working hard to make sure the event runs smoothly, and are a great asset for the organization.

“Growing up in a domestic violence home as a child,” Dayberry explained. “I truly appreciate the services that FVP offers. Those were much needed when I was growing up. I am honored to do my part in stopping the generational and cultural gap.”

Contestants can register to sing through FVP’s

Facebook page and they can raise money throughout the evening, and whoever raises the most money will win prizes at the end of the night. Tickets can also be purchased at the event which will be located at the Scottish Heritage Building on the Lyon College Campus or at out Outreach Office at 159 West Main Street.

The rest of the month will be filled with a social media campaign in order to educate about domestic violence, and lists of resources if you should find yourself in need of a safety plan or help.

FVP will be closing out the month with a Candlelight Vigil at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Tuesday, October 25.

“It’s going to be a very moving and powerful event,” Grady stated. “We will being in cut out silhouttes with victim’s impact stories and a clothesline project as well. Our goal is to tell the stories of those who can’t anymore. We want the community to know that we are here for them, and if we can help save lives in the process, that’s what we hope to do.”

If you or anyone you know, is in a situation where they need help, please don’t hesitate to contact our organization.

FVP is always in need of supplies, and if you would like to donate, contact The Fresh Start Resale Store located at 1280 N. St. Louis Street or call 870-698-0010.

For more information, contact FVP at 870-793-4011 or 870-569-4467. N

First Community Bank Celebrates 25 Years

Angela Connell

Throughout the month of August, First Community Bank celebrated its 25th anniversary. Friends of the bank, including customers, shareholders, employees and leadership gathered for anniversary celebrations in each of the financial institution’s branch lobbies across Arkansas and Missouri on Tuesday, August 30, 2022, to commemorate the milestone occasion.

Additionally, the financial institution announced that they would be giving away $25,000 to local nonprofits across all 30 of their markets. Finalists have

been selected, and an announcement will be made soon to acknowledge the lucky winners.

First Community Bank was formed in 1997 on August 4 when the vision of 153 local investors came together to open a true community bank in Batesville, Arkansas, with 14 employees and $3,452,300 in capital. Today, First Community Bank has grown to more than 560 employees and is proud to be the ninth largest bank chartered in Arkansas with $195 million in capital and, as of the end of June, $2.13 billion in total assets. N

Fran Troy, Melanie Garner, Leann Siler, Denise Edwards, Dale Cole, Kenny Gerhardt, Katy Smythe, Troy Henley, Adelene Bearden, Cheryl Smith, Boris Dover, Michelle Reesor; 12 of the 14 original employees. Sulphur Rock

In The Field with Randy

Wheat Planting

Wheat planting season is upon us. There has been a little more interest expressed in planting wheat over the past several months due to the increase in wheat prices this year although some of that is offset by higher input costs. Most have gotten used to not having wheat and kind of like it that way and most like the advantages of early planted soybeans. While there may be some farmers get back into wheat this year, much of the acreage will still be tied to those who have success with the corn/wheat/soybean rotation and those who are farming dryland sand and wheat is about the only consistent option.

The recommended planting date range for our part of the state is basically the month of October. I prefer a window of roughly October 10 through November 1. Planting earlier can lead to excess growth and the increased potential for freeze damage. There are also several insects more active in the warmer temperatures of earlier planting including fall armyworms, Hessian fly, and aphids. Aphids can transmit Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus. On the other hand, planting later

can lead to less tillering and generally lower yield potential.

The recommended seeding rate for drilled wheat planted during the recommended planting timeframe is 26 seeds per square foot. The poundage can vary considerably depending on seed size but on average will be around 90 pounds per acre. If planting in November, planting into a rough seedbed, broadcasting, or planting no-till then you probably need to increase your seeding rate by 20 percent or so.

One good thing about wheat is that fertilizer requirements are not high at planting time. I generally like seeing a hundred pounds of a phosphorus source such as triple superphosphate applied anytime from preplant to just after emergence. Fall nitrogen is only recommended if wheat is following rice or if it is being planted late (after the first of November).

In most wheat fields, ryegrass is the primary weed concern. The best control is to keep it from ever emerging with the use of a preemergence herbicide and hopefully getting quick activation of that herbicide with a timely rain or the use of a center pivot. Zidua or Anthem Flex are rated a 9 on ryegrass and are the best options. They also have excellent activity on annual bluegrass, cheat, little barley, and horseweed, among other weeds. They should be applied delayed preemergence (after the wheat seed has imbibed the moisture needed for germination). Any emerged ryegrass must be destroyed, typically by tillage, before planting of the wheat.

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

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.