News, Events & Blog

Chamber Announces Shop Local Campaign to Spur Local Economy

26-Nov-08 10:16

• Download - Shop Local Coupons

Batesville AR- The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce is kicking of a Shop Local Campaign to encourage the people of Independence County to spend locally and help keep our local economy going.

The public is invited to go online to www.mybatesville.org where they will find coupons that they can download and redeem at participating businesses, for free. The Shop Local Campaign features several area retailers and will give shoppers some added benefit when they are looking to where they will purchase gifts for this holiday season.

"These coupons feature some great businesses, and they can be used either to purchase gifts, or even great stocking stuffers as well" said Jonah Shumate, President & CEO of the Batesville Area Chamber. Some of the companies that have promotions include Premier Tans, AT&T Apex Communications, Williams Equipment, Hang Up's Custom Frames, Maurices, and much more.

Coupons can also be picked up at the Chamber of Commerce, and are free to the public. "With the challenging economic times that we are faced with, this effort will hopefully provide some incentive to area residents to spend locally, which will in turn help our local economy. We all have friends and neighbors who work at some of these places and spending locally keeps money flowing through our economy and helps everyone" said Shumate.

For more information about the coupons or the promotion, please contact the Chamber at 793-2378.

Chamber Update 11-20-08

20-Nov-08 11:49

November 20, 2008

To Our Valued Chamber Members:

I, along with the Board of Directors, would like to share some thoughts with you concerning the news yesterday about Copeland and their decision to postpone the expansion in to the White-Rodgers site, and what this means for our community going forward. What we are beginning to experience, even here in Batesville, is unprecedented economic times, of which, there appears to be no clear path out of, or a clear idea of when growth will begin again.

But what is apparent is the fortitude of the people of Independence County and our resolve to meet these challenges head on. The only other option is to concede this fight and we do not believe that deep down anyone wants to do that. One of the ways that we can overcome these challenges is by coming together as a community. We have unlimited resources at our disposal in other Chamber members that can aid and assist us in these tough times, and this valuable network can be a priceless resource for you.

Recently, we hosted a seminar about surviving in these tough economic times, and it was presented by Herb Lawrence from the ASU Small Business and Technology Development Center. This was a free seminar for our Chamber members to attend, and we received very positive reviews about that presentation. We are willing to host that again in our area if you would be interested to learn more. We have resources available for all our Chamber members that we want to offer you that can help everyone make it through this extended period of tough times.

Your Board of Directors just yesterday voted to support an urgent effort underway by Pilgrim's Pride to secure funding so they can continue to operate and stay functional. We will work tirelessly on behalf of our Members, and our community, to keep jobs and employment in our area. We are committed to Copeland and believe that they will honor their intentions of being a leading employer in our area once this economic storm subsides.

What has been mentioned in this letter are just a few things that we do on a consistent basis for our Membership, but that also affects our community as well. So as we work on behalf of our membership to secure and keep employment sustainable, our request to you is to consider how you can be a part of the solution by coming together with others as a community to meet these challenges we face. Together we will be successful. Apart, we will fail. We can do so much in our community when we work together to succeed.

Please feel free to contact the Chamber Staff at your convenience about anything that we can do to help you or your company.

At your service-

The Board of Directors of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce
Jonah Shumate, President & CEO

Newsletter 11-17-2008

19-Nov-08 15:53

Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce Weekly Update: November 20 - November 26, 2008

Business after Hours at Batesville Uniform Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 5pm

Batesville Uniform will be hosting a Business after Hours on Thursday, November 20th, from 5pm-6:30pm at their location, 148 W. Main Street in Batesville. Refreshments, door prizes, and networking with other professionals in Batesville are just a few things you will enjoy. Come out, meet other members, and catch up with others you have not talked to in a while!

Attention Chamber Members - Shop & Spend Local Campaign Underway

In an effort to promote our membership to our community, we are undertaking an effort to promote our Chamber Members through coupons that will be available for download on our website! We will make available to visitors of our site coupons that will be available to redeem at participating Chamber Members. These coupons will be made for each participant with your logo and program that you will be offering. The cost of this effort for our Chamber Members is free, and is open to Chamber Members only! If you are interested in being a part of this campaign, please contact Jonah Shumate at 793-2378 or by email at jonah.shumate@mybatesville.org. We want to promote our Chamber Members in our community, and encourage people to shop and spend locally this Christmas Season!

Annual Christmas Brings Hope Project

Christmas Brings Hope has encouraged many families in Independence County by providing the food boxes during the holiday season, when need is keenly felt. To those who have supported this worthwhile and fulfilling project year after year - thank you for your continued support! To those who have not yet participated in this worthwhile project, I extend an invitation to join us in meeting our goal for 2008.

If you would like to contribute to the Christmas Brings Hope project this year, helping us to provide food boxes during the holiday season, please mail your tax-deductible donations to this address.

Christmas Brings Hope
Attention: Greg Shaver
P.O. Box 2156
Batesville, AR 72503-2156

We also invite you to the fairgrounds during the week of December 8th to see how the work of the Christmas Brings Hope project is accomplished. We will deliver boxes on December 13, 2008.

North Arkansas Dance Theater presents "The Nutcracker"

North Arkansas Dance Theater presents "The Nutcracker" on November 21st and 22nd at UACCB Independence Hall. Show times are 7:00 pm, November 21st; 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm, November 22nd. Ticket prices are $12.00 for 12 and over and $6.00 for under 12. Tickets are available at the door, Carlee's Crown Shop, Heritage House, and Schwegman's Office Supplies. For more information please contact Leanne Collins at 870-834-1224.

Christmas Parade Theme & Date Set

This year's Christmas Parade will be a part of the Arkansas Trail of Lights and we are working with the City of Batesville to raise money to make this year's Christmas even more spectacular for our historic downtown area! On Thursday November 6th, The City of Batesville will be serving chili to help raise money for Christmas lights. It will be served from 11am-2pm, and again from 4-6pm.

This year's Christmas Parade will kick off at 530pm with the lighting ceremony at City Hall, and the parade will start at 6pm. The theme for this year's parade is A Normal Rockwell Christmas. We will start accepting parade entrants immediately, and want to make this year's parade even better than last year! We want to double our float entrants from last year and want to encourage every entrant to Light Up Their Floats! In keeping with the Trail of Lights, we want to light it up! To learn more about the Parade, or get your parade entry form, contact the Chamber at 793-2378!

A Season for Seniors provided by Superior Senior Care

"A Season for Seniors" is an opportunity to give a senior citizen a boost during the holiday season by sending them an "Elf" to do "Elf-like" things...a holiday meal, Christmas tree decorating and companionship. Make your own mom or dad's holiday season with a unique gift of cheer or sponsor a senior without family. All proceeds to benefit the Independence County Wellness Coalition. Accepting orders until December 18. Call Superior Senior Care at 870-793-3644 to place an order. Choose from these Christmas gifts: Santa delivery of gift; Holiday meal delivery; Manicure, pedicure, shave or hairstyle; Christmas tree set-up; Christmas Carolers or a Christmas light drive.

Economic Development Tax for Independence County

14-Nov-08 13:58

Dear Valued Chamber Member-

I want to take some of your time and go over some of the issues we are facing as a community in regards to economic development as well as asking for your support for the tax initiative on December 9th to establish an economic development program.

As you may already be aware, in the Spring of this year, your Chamber of Commerce along with the City of Batesville and Independence County commissioned a taskforce, lead by Bill Walmsley, to examine the economic development programs of other areas and to make a recommendation back to each entity about a program that should be established in our area. After several trips and meetings with the taskforce, it was recommended that we seek a county-wide tax that would generate at least $1million a year in funds. The result of all this work is what lies ahead of us on December 9th in a vote to approve or decline a funded economic development program in the form of a ¼ cent (.25%) sales tax for five years that would generate about $1milllion a year, and would sunset after five years. This conclusion was not reached quickly, nor was it reached without a great search of input from leaders inside and outside our community.

Since I have arrived here at the Chamber almost two years ago, I have marveled at the potential and opportunities that our community has in front of her. I have seen the people that make our area, and know that it is the single greatest asset that we have to offer. I have also seen what other communities are doing, that have so much less than we do in terms of assets and resources, that are securing new companies and industry that we are not, and realize we are at a disadvantage when it comes to our efforts. Like many of you know, it takes money to be successful in any business. It takes money to market yourself, to hire the best people you can, and to stay in business. We should view our area like a business, and what we can do to market and ensure future success by having the tools necessary to make that happen.

What we have done, with the recommendations of this taskforce, is put together a group of business people from each JP district in Independence County. We also found people that were from existing business and industry segments that make up our local economy and we also included people from business segments with high growth potential. The result is the following people who have said they are willing to serve on this initial Board of Directors:

• Charlie Wade
• Bob Stroud
• Debbie Frazier
• Denny Gibson
• Dr. Jeff Angel
• John Richardson
• Renee Martin
• Randy Luster
• Ben Ladd
• Ed Mabry
• Ronnie Dowdy

These people make up a great group of positive, community minded leaders who will be a part of this Non Profit Board of Directors. This will be a great compliment to the governmental element present in the Quorum Court. Its important that we have business leaders on this board so that we have people who understand success not only in business, but can work to compliment governmental decisions with business decisions. Since the Quorum Court will make the decisions about the actual expenditures, it will be this group of people who will be responsible for making those recommendations to the Quorum Court.

We will be having public meetings across the County over the next month to discuss this tax as well as handouts of information for everyone in attendance. We will have the taskforce report along with the compilation of information from the visits we took across the state so you can see what we saw. These publications will also be available on our website for download.

Its important for you to know that this was not a knee-jerk reaction to seek a tax increase, especially considering our challenging economic times. The Chamber believes in increasing our tax base without increasing taxes if it is the least bit possible. What we realized in our efforts is that the best programs have a compliment of private and public funds for economic development, and we will duplicate this to our area if approved by voters. But we see this as an investment in our community, in our futures, and in ourselves. These monies will go towards efforts that will enhance, create, or retain jobs in Independence County. It will not be limited to Batesville, and it will not go exclusively to Newark. It will go to where the Board and Court recommend and approve for it to go, but we will look at every corner of this County when projects come to the table. Taxpayers dollars in the County get spent in the County. It will be just as simple as that.

So please consider attending any of the following public meetings that will detail out our efforts, answer questions, and inform the public about what we want to do:

• November 17th, Pleasant Plains HS Cafeteria, 530pm
• November 18th, Bethesda Community Center, 6pm
• November 20th, Newark HS Cafeteria, 530pm
• November 25th, Charlotte Community Center, 6pm
• December 1st, Batesville HS Cafeteria, 6pm
• December 2nd, Southside Middle School Cafeteria, 6pm

The future not only of our economic development efforts lay in this tax, but so does the future of our overall community. Residents of Independence County will have the chance to take a step forward and become a part of the economic development efforts if they cast a vote in favor of this tax. As a resident of our community, you can be assured that every bit of transparency will be applied to your tax dollars, and that they will be utilized wisely. When it comes to tax dollars and economic development, we would want it no other way.

So if you don’t get a chance to attend any of the above mentioned meetings, please consider looking over the information that will be available on our website and casting a vote in favor of this effort. Its an investment you will be making in all of our futures.

Sincerely,

Jonah Shumate
President/CEO
Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce
409 Vine Street
Batesville AR 72501
870-793-2378
Jonah.Shumate@mybatesville.org

Newsletter 11-13-2008

13-Nov-08 10:08

Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce Weekly Update: November 13 - November 19, 2008

Attention Chamber Members - Shop & Spend Local Campaign Underway

In an effort to promote our membership to our community, we are undertaking an effort to promote our Chamber Members through coupons that will be available for download on our website! We will make available to visitors of our site coupons that will be available to redeem at participating Chamber Members. These coupons will be made for each participant with your logo and program that you will be offering. The cost of this effort for our Chamber Members is free, and is open to Chamber Members only! If you are interested in being a part of this campaign, please contact Jonah Shumate at 793-2378 or by email at jonah.shumate@mybatesville.org. We want to promote our Chamber Members in our community, and encourage people to shop and spend locally this Christmas Season!

Annual Christmas Brings Hope Project

Christmas Brings Hope has encouraged many families in Independence County by providing the food boxes during the holiday season, when need is keenly felt. To those who have supported this worthwhile and fulfilling project year after year - thank you for your continued support! To those who have not yet participated in this worthwhile project, I extend an invitation to join us in meeting our goal for 2008.

If you would like to contribute to the Christmas Brings Hope project this year, helping us to provide food boxes during the holiday season, please mail your tax-deductible donations to this address.

Christmas Brings Hope
Attention: Greg Shaver
P.O. Box 2156
Batesville, AR 72503-2156

We also invite you to the fairgrounds during the week of December 8th to see how the work of the Christmas Brings Hope project is accomplished. We will deliver boxes on December 13, 2008.

Business after Hours at Batesville Uniform Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 5pm

Batesville Uniform will be hosting a Business after Hours on Thursday, November 20th, from 5pm-6:30pm at their location, 148 W. Main Street in Batesville. Refreshments, door prizes, and networking with other professionals in Batesville are just a few things you will enjoy. Come out, meet other members, and catch up with others you have not talked to in a while!

North Arkansas Dance Theater presents "The Nutcracker"

North Arkansas Dance Theater presents "The Nutcracker" on November 21st and 22nd at UACCB Independence Hall. Show times are 7:00 pm, November 21st; 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm, November 22nd. Ticket prices are $12.00 for 12 and over and $6.00 for under 12. Tickets are available at the door, Carlee's Crown Shop, Heritage House, and Schwegman's Office Supplies. For more information please contact Leanne Collins at 870-834-1224.

Christmas Parade Theme & Date Set

This year's Christmas Parade will be a part of the Arkansas Trail of Lights and we are working with the City of Batesville to raise money to make this year's Christmas even more spectacular for our historic downtown area! On Thursday November 6th, The City of Batesville will be serving chili to help raise money for Christmas lights. It will be served from 11am-2pm, and again from 4-6pm.

This year's Christmas Parade will kick off at 530pm with the lighting ceremony at City Hall, and the parade will start at 6pm. The theme for this year's parade is A Normal Rockwell Christmas. We will start accepting parade entrants immediately, and want to make this year's parade even better than last year! We want to double our float entrants from last year and want to encourage every entrant to Light Up Their Floats! In keeping with the Trail of Lights, we want to light it up! To learn more about the Parade, or get your parade entry form, contact the Chamber at 793-2378!

A Season for Seniors provided by Superior Senior Care

"A Season for Seniors" is an opportunity to give a senior citizen a boost during the holiday season by sending them an "Elf" to do "Elf-like" things…a holiday meal, Christmas tree decorating and companionship. Make your own mom or dad’s holiday season with a unique gift of cheer or sponsor a senior without family. All proceeds to benefit the Independence County Wellness Coalition. Accepting orders until December 18. Call Superior Senior Care at 870-793-3644 to place an order. Choose from these Christmas gifts: Santa delivery of gift; Holiday meal delivery; Manicure, pedicure, shave or hairstyle; Christmas tree set-up; Christmas Carolers or a Christmas light drive.

Old Independence Regional Museum Chosen for Hands-On Experiential Learning Project (HELP)

Mid-America Arts Alliance, a regional arts organization serving cultural organizations in its member states of Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas, has selected Old Independence Regional Museum of Batesville as one of twenty museums to participate in the Hands-On Experiential Learning Project (HELP). Mid-America Arts Alliance is implementing HELP in Arkansas in partnership with the Arkansas Arts Council and with generous support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and the Arkansas Museum Association through a grant from the Department of Arkansas Heritage. HELP provides museums with on-site, affordable learning opportunities that further skills in areas critical to successful museums today.

Stay tuned to this weekly update as there will be a whole host of events on the day of parade, Saturday December 6th! It promises to include tons of family fun including Christmas Crafts, Historic Family Fun, and a chance to visit with Good Ole Saint Nick!

Newsletter 10-30-2008

29-Oct-08 15:18

Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce Weekly Update: October 30 - November 4, 2008

Fun and Safe Halloween on Main Street; Friday, October 31

This Friday, October 31, 2008 come join us for all TREATS & NO TRICKS on Main Street for a FUN & SAFE HALLOWEEN. You won't want to miss all the GHOULS & GOBLINS. So we will see you there with candy in hand from 5-7pm. HAVE A HAPPY & SAFE HALLOWEEN! For more information you may contact Main Street Batesville at 870-793-4632.

Signature Baskets, Flowers & Gifts Open House

Signature Baskets, Flowers & Gifts is inviting you to Christmas Open House; Sunday, November 2, from 1-4pm. You will get to see the all the latest decorating ideas and tips for this holiday season! We look forward to seeing you at Signature Baskets, Flowers & Gifts at 384 South Broad Street in Batesville.

North Arkansas Dance Theater presents "The Nutcracker"

North Arkansas Dance Theater presents "The Nutcracker" on November 21st and 22nd at UACCB Independence Hall. Show times are 7:00 pm, November 21st; 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm, November 22nd. Ticket prices are $12.00 for 12 and over and $6.00 for under 12. Tickets are available at the door, Carlee's Crown Shop, Heritage House, and Schwegman's Office Supplies. For more information please contact Leanne Collins at 870-834-1224

Christmas Parade Theme & Date Set

This year's Christmas Parade will be a part of the Arkansas Trail of Lights and we are working with the City of Batesville to raise money to make this year's Christmas even more spectacular for our historic downtown area! On Thursday November 6th, The City of Batesville will be serving chili to help raise money for Christmas lights. It will be served from 11am-2pm, and again from 4-6pm.

This year's Christmas Parade will kick off at 530pm with the lighting ceremony at City Hall, and the parade will start at 6pm. The theme for this year's parade is A Normal Rockwell Christmas. We will start accepting parade entrants immediately, and want to make this year's parade even better than last year! We want to double our float entrants from last year and want to encourage every entrant to Light Up Their Floats! In keeping with the Trail of Lights, we want to light it up! To learn more about the Parade, or get your parade entry form, contact the Chamber at 793-2378!

Stay tuned to this weekly update as there will be a whole host of events on the day of parade, Saturday December 6th! It promises to include tons of family fun including Christmas Crafts, Historic Family Fun, and a chance to visit with Good Ole Saint Nick!

Attention Chamber Members - Shop & Spend Local Campaign Underway

In an effort to promote our membership to our community, we are undertaking an effort to promote our Chamber Members through coupons that will be available for download on our website! We will make available to visitors of our site coupons that will be available to redeem at participating Chamber Members. These coupons will be made for each participant with your logo and program that you will be offering. The cost of this effort for our Chamber Members is free, and is open to Chamber Members only! If you are interested in being a part of this campaign, please contact Jonah Shumate at 793-2378 or by email at jonah.shumate@mybatesville.org. We want to promote our Chamber Members in our community, and encourage people to shop and spend locally this Christmas Season!

Annual Christmas Brings Hope Project

Christmas Brings Hope has encouraged many families in Independence County by providing the food boxes during the holiday season, when need is keenly felt. To those who have supported this worthwhile and fulfilling project year after year - thank you for your continued support! To those who have not yet participated in this worthwhile project, I extend an invitation to join us in meeting our goal for 2008.

If you would like to contribute to the Christmas Brings Hope project this year, helping us to provide food boxes during the holiday season, please mail your tax-deductible donations to this address.

Christmas Brings Hope
Attention: Greg Shaver
P.O. Box 2156
Batesville, AR 72503-2156

We also invite you to the fairgrounds during the week of December 8th to see how the work of the Christmas Brings Hope project is accomplished. We will deliver boxes on December 13, 2008.

Check back for where our next Business After Hours will be for November

There will be no Business After Hours this month. But keep reading your weekly update to learn where you can visit with other professionals at our November's Business After Hours!

Go online to view our calendar of events, committee meetings, and important information at www.mybatesville.org!

For more information on the above mentioned events, or if you would like for us to put your community event on our calendar of upcoming events, please contact the Batesville Chamber of Commerce at info@mybatesville.org or at 793-2378. If you would like to be removed or know someone that would like to receive this email, contact Lacy at lacy.tilley@mybatesville.org.

Newsletter 10-23-2008

23-Oct-08 15:25

Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce Weekly Update: October 23 - October 29, 2008

Come to the Chamber October 29th and 30th to learn more about your health

On October 29 and 30, the Chamber of Commerce, along with White River Medical System, will be hosting a health and wellness screening to Chamber members only! This event will allow companies who are members of the Chamber to participate in screenings that will help them make better decisions about their health in a preventive and proactive manner. Test results include cholesterol levels, glucose levels, and much more!

We will also have a representative each day that can discuss how you can possibly negotiate better insurance rates based on the information in these screenings. Last, but not least, there will also be an opportunity for people to get a flu shot in tandem with this event for only $15 more.

The cost to participate in this event is $30, and you will have results and discuss those results with a health educator all in the same visit. It takes about 15 minutes for the screening, and about 15 minutes for the visit with the health educator to learn what you can do to get on a path for better health!

To sign up, please call the Chamber office at 793-2378 and reserve your time for this screening. They are scheduled in 30-minute blocks, and we ask that you call ahead so you can budget your time from work and we can be ready for you here! Employers can also work with their employees and provide a co-pay to encourage employees to attend. One company estimated that through these screenings and working to negotiate better rates with their insurer they have saved over $200,000 over the last three years! It's worth your time to find out if there are easy and simple changes to a better and healthier lifestyle!

Red Ribbon Week October 23rd - October 31st

The Chamber of Commerce, along with the Independence County Hometown Health and Wellness Coalition would like to encourage all our members to observe Red Ribbon week in an effort to promote a healthier and more safe work place by working to eliminate substance abuse. We are working with area schools and other agencies to concentrate our efforts during this week of awareness.

Companies can order their Red Ribbons by calling Joyce Watkins at the Arkansas Department of Health, or by email at Joyce.Watkins@arkansas.gov.

White River Medical Center honored by Governor Beebe in Little Rock

During the 14th Annual Awards Celebration on Wednesday evening, October 15th at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock, more than 250 businesses and civic leaders gathered to honor these eleven organizations.

The awards ceremony included four award levels of Performance Excellence in the order of: the "Governor's Quality Award," the "Achievement Award," the "Commitment Award," and the "Challenge Award." Recipients also received an in-depth evaluation of their management systems and a written report citing their strengths and the areas needing improvement.

This year, the "Governor's Quality Award" was presented to:

Baxter Healthcare Corporation - Mountain Home Plant Potlatch Forest Products Corporation - Cypress Bend Mill The "Achievement Award" was presented to: Tyson Food Safety and Research Laboratory - Springdale Arkansas Department of Information Systems - Little Rock White River Medical Center - Batesville Congratulations White River Medical Center for a job well done!

Downtown Resurgence Continues with Weekly Events in October

This Saturday, October 25, 2008 come join us for more fun on Main Street! We will start the evening at 4pm with the Trike Races they will include celebrity and bank categories, as well as races for the general public. Trikes will be provided or you may bring your own. The Street Dance will kick off at 7pm at the Pocket Park with David Grimes All-Star Band (Costumes Optional). For more information please call Paula Grimes at 870-793-4632.

Old Independence Regional Museum Hosts Speaker Russell Baker !

In conjunction with its current exhibit, "Maps: From Here to There and Then to Now," the Old Independence Regional Museum at Batesville will host Russell Baker, Senior Archivist at the Arkansas History Commission (State Archives) in Little Rock, who will speak on "Surveying the Public Domain: How Our Ancestors Got Their Lands," on Sunday, October 26, at the Museum. The Museum will conduct its annual meeting at 2 p.m. Baker will speak at 2:30 p.m. For more information on this event you may contact Mary Miller Docent at 870-793-2121 or visit www.oirm.org.

Homeschool Day at Museum, October 27, 2008

Old Independence Regional Museum invites area homeschool groups to participate in our first Homeschool Day on Monday, October 27, 9 a.m. - Noon. We are excited to offer an in depth program focusing on Native American culture this fall. Students will visit the Shawnee Room and the Greenbrier Bottoms exhibit in the Honkonen Program Center and will learn about historic and pre-historic Native American groups that called our region home. Through hands-on activities and demonstrations, they will experience work and play. Corn grinding, coil pot making, corn husk doll making and Native American games are planned. A small snack will be provided during the popcorn making demonstration. The cost for this program is $4.00 per participant and space is limited to 50 participants. Pre-registration is required by October 20, 2008. For more information you may contact Amanda Nikkel at 870-793-2121 or visit www.oirm.org.

Annual Christmas Brings Hope Project

Christmas Brings Hope has encouraged many families in Independence County by providing the food boxes during the holiday season, when need is keenly felt. To those who have supported this worthwhile and fulfilling project year after year – thank you for your continued support! To those who have not yet participated in this worthwhile project, I extend an invitation to join us in meeting our goal for 2008.

If you would like to contribute to the Christmas Brings Hope project this year, helping us to provide food boxes during the holiday season, please mail your tax-deductible donations to this address.

Christmas Brings Hope
Attention: Greg Shaver
P.O. Box 2156
Batesville, AR 72503-2156

We also invite you to the fairgrounds during the week of December 8th to see how the work of the Christmas Brings Hope project is accomplished. We will deliver boxes on December 13, 2008.

Check back for where our next Business After Hours will be for November

There will be no Business After Hours this month. But keep reading your weekly update to learn where you can visit with other professionals at our November's Business After Hours!

Go online to view our calendar of events, committee meetings, and important information at www.mybatesville.org!

For more information on the above mentioned events, or if you would like for us to put your community event on our calendar of upcoming events, please contact the Batesville Chamber of Commerce at info@mybatesville.org or at 793-2378. If you would like to be removed or know someone that would like to receive this email, contact Lacy at lacy.tilley@mybatesville.org.

Newsletter 10-16-2008

16-Oct-08 09:40

Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce Weekly Update: October 16 - October 22, 2008

Red Ribbon Week October 23rd – October 31st

The Chamber of Commerce, along with the Independence County Hometown Health and Wellness Coalition would like to encourage all our members to observe Red Ribbon week in an effort to promote a healthier and more safe work place by working to eliminate substance abuse. We are working with area schools and other agencies to concentrate our efforts during this week of awareness.

Companies can order their Red Ribbons by calling Joyce Watkins at the Arkansas Department of Health, or by email at Joyce.Watkins@arkansas.gov.

Save the Date: October 29 & 30 Health and Wellness Screening at the Chamber of Commerce

On October 29 and 30, the Chamber of Commerce, along with White River Medical System, will be hosting a health and wellness screening to Chamber members only! This event will allow companies who are members of the Chamber to participate in screenings that will help them make better decisions about their health in a preventive and proactive manner. Test results include cholesterol levels, glucose levels, and much more!

We will also have a representative each day that can discuss how you can possibly negotiate better insurance rates based on the information in these screenings. Last, but not least, there will also be an opportunity for people to get a flu shot in tandem with this event for only $15 more.

The cost to participate in this event is $30, and you will have results and discuss those results with a health educator all in the same visit. It takes about 15 minutes for the screening, and about 15 minutes for the visit with the health educator to learn what you can do to get on a path for better health!

To sign up, please call the Chamber office at 793-2378 and reserve your time for this screening. They are scheduled in 30-minute blocks, and we ask that you call ahead so you can budget your time from work and we can be ready for you here! Employers can also work with their employees and provide a co-pay to encourage employees to attend. One company estimated that through these screenings and working to negotiate better rates with their insurer they have saved over $200,000 over the last three years! It’s worth your time to find out if there are easy and simple changes to a better and healthier lifestyle!

Oktoberfest Gala Saturday, October 18, 2008 at 7pm

You’re invited to the Oktoberfest Gala Saturday, October 18, 2008 at Elizabeth’s Restaurant 231 East Main Street. Tickets are $25 ($15 tax deductible) and you may get them at these locations: Thompson Jewelry Store, Velma’s Hair Salon, Elizabeth’s Restaurant, Schwegman’s Office Supplies and Main Street Batesville’s Office. For more information please call 870-793-4632. All proceeds benefit Main Street Batesville.

Homeschool Day at Museum, October 27, 2008

Old Independence Regional Museum invites area homeschool groups to participate in our first Homeschool Day on Monday, October 27, 9 a.m. - Noon. We are excited to offer an in depth program focusing on Native American culture this fall. Students will visit the Shawnee Room and the Greenbrier Bottoms exhibit in the Honkonen Program Center and will learn about historic and pre-historic Native American groups that called our region home. Through hands-on activities and demonstrations, they will experience work and play. Corn grinding, coil pot making, corn husk doll making and Native American games are planned. A small snack will be provided during the popcorn making demonstration. The cost for this program is $4.00 per participant and space is limited to 50 participants. Pre-registration is required by October 20, 2008. For more information you may contact Amanda Nikkel at 870-793-2121 or visit www.oirm.org.

Annual Christmas Brings Hope Project

Christmas Brings Hope has encouraged many families in Independence County by providing the food boxes during the holiday season, when need is keenly felt. To those who have supported this worthwhile and fulfilling project year after year – thank you for your continued support! To those who have not yet participated in this worthwhile project, I extend an invitation to join us in meeting our goal for 2008.

If you would like to contribute to the Christmas Brings Hope project this year, helping us to provide food boxes during the holiday season, please mail your tax-deductible donations to this address.

Christmas Brings Hope
Attention: Greg Shaver
P.O. Box 2156
Batesville, AR 72503-2156

We also invite you to the fairgrounds during the week of December 8th to see how the work of the Christmas Brings Hope project is accomplished. We will deliver boxes on December 13, 2008.

Check back for where our next Business After Hours will be for November

There will be no Business After Hours this month. But keep reading your weekly update to learn where you can visit with other professionals at our November’s Business After Hours!

Go online to view our calendar of events, committee meetings, and important information at www.mybatesville.org!

For more information on the above mentioned events, or if you would like for us to put your community event on our calendar of upcoming events, please contact the Batesville Chamber of Commerce at info@mybatesville.org or at 793-2378. If you would like to be removed or know someone that would like to receive this email, contact Lacy at lacy.tilley@mybatesville.org.

Newsletter 10-09-2008

09-Oct-08 14:39

Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce Weekly Update: October 9 - October 15, 2008

Free Seminar about how to Grow Your Business During Difficult Economic Times

Presented by The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce and the ASU Small Business Development Center, there will be a free seminar that will help show you how you can survive and even THRIVE during difficult economic times. Join us and our co-sponsors for this FREE seminar to learn how to GROW YOUR BUSINESS IN DIFFICULT ECONOMIC TIMES on Tuesday, October 14th 6-9:00 p.m. and again on Wednesday, October 15th 1-4:00 p.m.

Small business owners will learn about the basics of recessions and how they affect their markets. Learn how to read the warning signs of coming recessionary periods and what your business can do to survive and even grow and prosper. Topics will include keeping your cash flow healthy, easy marketing techniques to use, and even how to go against the grain to thrive in a recession. Registration is FREE but you must call to register to ensure sufficient hand out material.

FOUR EASY WAYS TO REGISTER:

Online: http://sbdc.astate.edu/
Call: (870) 972-3517
Fax: (870) 972-3678

Mail:
Training Coordinator
ASU SBDC
P.O. Box 2650
State University, AR 72467

Join us on either:
Tuesday, Oct. 14, 6-9:00 p.m. or
Wednesday, Oct 15 1-4:00 pm

LOCATION: UACCB Campus
Tuesday evening: Room MCB 242
Wednesday afternoon: Room MCB 241

Red Ribbon Week October 23rd – October 31st

The Chamber of Commerce, along with the Independence County Hometown Health and Wellness Coalition would like to encourage all our members to observe Red Ribbon week in an effort to promote a healthier and more safe work place by working to eliminate substance abuse. We are working with area schools and other agencies to concentrate our efforts during this week of awareness.

Companies can order their Red Ribbons by calling Joyce Watkins at the Arkansas Department of Health, or by email at Joyce.Watkins@arkansas.gov.

Save the Date: October 29 & 30 Health and Wellness Screening at the Chamber of Commerce

On October 29 and 30, the Chamber of Commerce, along with White River Medical System, will be hosting a health and wellness screening to Chamber members only! This event will allow companies who are members of the Chamber to participate in screenings that will help them make better decisions about their health in a preventive and proactive manner. Test results include cholesterol levels, glucose levels, and much more!

We will also have a representative each day that can discuss how you can possibly negotiate better insurance rates based on the information in these screenings. Last, but not least, there will also be an opportunity for people to get a flu shot in tandem with this event for only $15 more.

The cost to participate in this event is $30, and you will have results and discuss those results with a health educator all in the same visit. It takes about 15 minutes for the screening, and about 15 minutes for the visit with the health educator to learn what you can do to get on a path for better health!

To sign up, please call the Chamber office at 793-2378 and reserve your time for this screening. They are scheduled in 30-minute blocks, and we ask that you call ahead so you can budget your time from work and we can be ready for you here! Employers can also work with their employees and provide a co-pay to encourage employees to attend. One company estimated that through these screenings and working to negotiate better rates with their insurer they have saved over $200,000 over the last three years! It’s worth your time to find out if there are easy and simple changes to a better and healthier lifestyle!

Downtown Resurgence Continues with Weekly Events in October!

This Friday, October 10th mark your calendars for the Downtown Wander and Wonder Walk. You won't want to miss the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville Renaissance Club performing authentic Renaissance dances in costumes at 6pm. The Dance Troupe from Batesville Ballet will perform at 7pm. last but not least Batesville Community Theater will be performing scenes from "Jekyll and Hyde" at 8pm. Don't forget to check out the bargains at the local merchants some will stay open until 8pm. You’ll want stop by The Batesville Area Arts Council as they will be hosting a gallery opening at 5pm to launch a retrospective exhibit by local artist Marie Garvey Fowler. Drop in for more animated fun at MorningSide Coffeehouse. Free live entertainment all over the streets and great entertainment in the Pocket Park! For more information on this event and upcoming events on Main Street, contact Main Street Batesville at 793-4632 or visit downtownbatesville@sbcglobal.net.

Homeschool Day at Museum, October 27, 2008

Old Independence Regional Museum invites area homeschool groups to participate in our first Homeschool Day on Monday, October 27, 9 a.m. - Noon. We are excited to offer an in depth program focusing on Native American culture this fall. Students will visit the Shawnee Room and the Greenbrier Bottoms exhibit in the Honkonen Program Center and will learn about historic and pre-historic Native American groups that called our region home. Through hands-on activities and demonstrations, they will experience work and play. Corn grinding, coil pot making, corn husk doll making and Native American games are planned. A small snack will be provided during the popcorn making demonstration. The cost for this program is $4.00 per participant and space is limited to 50 participants. Pre-registration is required by October 20, 2008. For more information you may contact Amanda Nikkel at 870-793-2121 or visit www.oirm.org.

Check back for where our next Business After Hours will be for November

There will be no Business After Hours this month. But keep reading your weekly update to learn where you can visit with other professionals at our November’s Business After Hours!

Go online to view our calendar of events, committee meetings, and important information at www.mybatesville.org!

For more information on the above mentioned events, or if you would like for us to put your community event on our calendar of upcoming events, please contact the Batesville Chamber of Commerce at info@mybatesville.org or at 793-2378. If you would like to be removed or know someone that would like to receive this email, contact Lacy at lacy.tilley@mybatesville.org.

Newsletter 10-02-2008

01-Oct-08 15:05

Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce Weekly Update: October 2 - October 8, 2008

Free Seminar about how to Grow Your Business During Difficult Economic Times

Presented by The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce and the ASU Small Business Development Center, there will be a free seminar that will help show you how you can survive and even THRIVE during difficult economic times. Join us and our co-sponsors for this FREE seminar to learn how to GROW YOUR BUSINESS IN DIFFICULT ECONOMIC TIMES on Tuesday, October 14th 6-9:00 p.m. and again on Wednesday, October 15th 1-4:00 p.m.

Small business owners will learn about the basics of recessions and how they affect their markets. Learn how to read the warning signs of coming recessionary periods and what your business can do to survive and even grow and prosper. Topics will include keeping your cash flow healthy, easy marketing techniques to use, and even how to go against the grain to thrive in a recession. Registration is FREE but you must call to register to ensure sufficient hand out material.

FOUR EASY WAYS TO REGISTER:

Online: http://sbdc.astate.edu/
Call: (870) 972-3517
Fax: (870) 972-3678

Mail:
Training Coordinator
ASU SBDC
P.O. Box 2650
State University, AR 72467

Join us on either:
Tuesday, Oct. 14, 6-9:00 p.m. or
Wednesday, Oct 15 1-4:00 pm

LOCATION: UACCB Campus
Tuesday evening: Room MCB 242
Wednesday afternoon: Room MCB 241

Save the Date: October 29 & 30 Health and Wellness Screening at the Chamber of Commerce

On October 29 and 30, the Chamber of Commerce, along with White River Medical System, will be hosting a health and wellness screening to Chamber members only! This event will allow companies who are members of the Chamber to participate in screenings that will help them make better decisions about their health in a preventive and proactive manner. Test results include cholesterol levels, glucose levels, and much more!

We will also have a representative each day that can discuss how you can possibly negotiate better insurance rates based on the information in these screenings. Last, but not least, there will also be an opportunity for people to get a flu shot in tandem with this event for only $15 more.

The cost to participate in this event is $30, and you will have results and discuss those results with a health educator all in the same visit. It takes about 15 minutes for the screening, and about 15 minutes for the visit with the health educator to learn what you can do to get on a path for better health!

To sign up, please call the Chamber office at 793-2378 and reserve your time for this screening. They are scheduled in 30-minute blocks, and we ask that you call ahead so you can budget your time from work and we can be ready for you here! Employers can also work with their employees and provide a co-pay to encourage employees to attend. One company estimated that through these screenings and working to negotiate better rates with their insurer they have saved over $200,000 over the last three years! It’s worth your time to find out if there are easy and simple changes to a better and healthier lifestyle!

38 Special to perform Friday night at Riverside Amphitheater!

38 Special, with several number one hits will perform this Friday night at Riverside Amphitheater! Opening for 38 Special will be Further Down beginning at 8:30pm! Gates open at 5pm with Wrestling starting at 6pm. You won't want to miss Hall of Famer and National TV celebrity Jerry "The King" Lawler along with Kamala "The Ugandan Giant" along with several other WWE and WCW wrestlers. This will be a night to remember!! So get your tickets now in Batesville at Hastings, Premiere Tans, Batesville Cold Storage or The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce; in Newport George's Liquor & at the Valiant Arena in Tuckerman. For more information call (870) 698-2288 or go online to www.batesvillepromotions.com.

Red Ribbon Week October 23rd - October 31st

The Chamber of Commerce, along with the Independence County Hometown Health and Wellness Coalition would like to encourage all our members to observe Red Ribbon week in an effort to promote a healthier and more safe work place by working to eliminate substance abuse. We are working with area schools and other agencies to concentrate our efforts during this week of awareness.

Companies can order their Red Ribbons by calling Joyce Watkins at the Arkansas Department of Health, or by email at Joyce.Watkins@arkansas.gov.

Batesville Community Theatre Presents: Jekyll & Hyde, October 3-5 2008!

Batesville Community Theatre presents: Jekyll & Hyde A Play by Leonard H. Caddy. Performance times are as follows: Friday & Saturday, October, 3-4: 7:30pm. Sunday, October 5th at 2pm. Location of performance will be at Lyon College, Brown Chapel. Admission: Adults-$8, children 12 and under & Sr. Citizens-$6. Tickets will be available at the door. This is sponsored in part by Grady & Castleberry Law Firm, Carlee's Hallmark & Candy Bouquet.

Downtown Resurgence Continues with Weekly Events in October!

Make plans to attend Saturday, October 4th (All events on Main Street). The morning will start at 10am with the River City Cruisers Car Show ending at 3pm. Don’t miss the Skate Board Exhibition by RSTB (Revolution Skate Team Batesville) and SAD (Skaters Against Drugs), local teens trying to raise awareness on the need for a clean safe drug free environment to skate. Don’t miss our local Bands Lost Endd and Mayz End performing in the Pocket Park from 5-7pm. Come downtown and enjoy a wonderful historic district with great music & entertainment! For more information on this event and upcoming events on Main Street, contact Main Street Batesville at 793-4632 or visit downtownbatesville@sbcglobal.net.

Check back for where our next Business After Hours will be for November!

There will be no Business After Hours this month. But keep reading your weekly update to learn where you can visit with other professionals at our November's Business After Hours!

Go online to view our calendar of events, committee meetings, and important information at www.mybatesville.org!

For more information on the above mentioned events, or if you would like for us to put your community event on our calendar of upcoming events, please contact the Batesville Chamber of Commerce at info@mybatesville.org or at 793-2378. If you would like to be removed or know someone that would like to receive this email, contact Lacy at lacy.tilley@mybatesville.org.