Independence County

Forward Arkansas, a nonprofit organization in Little Rock that works with school districts, educational partners and state leaders to improve educational outcomes for Arkansas students, has added three new board members: Mary Elizabeth Eldridge, Deborah Frazier and Anna Strong –…

At a recent meeting in Texarkana, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission celebrated investments made by many of its partnerships with other organizations and agencies that make possible conservation of the state’s fish, wildlife, and their habitats. The meeting followed…

A stand of white oak trees, the work ethic of the area’s residents and the care shown by Independence County leaders lured a barrel manufacturer to build a stave-making plant west of Batesville. The Independent Stave Company will begin production…

Southside Public Water Authority and Southside School District have partnered to implement co-located solar arrays, with the help of Little Rock energy consultant company, Entegrity. By sharing a site and reducing fixed costs, Entegrity reports that the Water Authority and…

Governor Asa Hutchinson has offered his condolences to the family of Independence County Sheriff’s Deputy Frank Ramirez, who died in a one-car accident Thursday Nov. 17 as he responded to an emergency call. According to the Arkansas State Police report,…

Southside, perched atop Ramsey Mountain in Independence County, is a booming area rife with car dealerships, restaurants and new businesses, but despite rapid growth the town maintains its small-town, “Mayberry” sense of community. Threaten that style of life, though, and…

By Jeanni Brosius After taking a moment to swear in a newly elected official, Mayor Rick Elumbaugh returns to his office, smiling and eager to talk about his town. Beginning his 13th year as mayor of Batesville, he says he…

by Curtis Lanning Batesville is Arkansas’ oldest incorporated city, and nearly 200 years later, the town’s economy keeps on tickin’, officials say. The town sits along the White River in Independence County with a population of more than 10,700 people.…