The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated two ribbon cuttings in downtown. On May 9, members of the community gathered to celebrate the restoration of the historic Coca-Cola mural located at the intersection of Main Street and Central Avenue.
The century-old mural was restored by art students from Lyon College. Under the direction of art professor Dustyn Bork, the students worked for one month repainting the classic Coca-Cola logo and “Sprite Boy” mascot.
The inspiration for the restoration was a result of the IMPACT strategic community plan.
“The restoration of the iconic Coca-Cola mural was a dream come true for many,” said Kyle Christopher, tourism director and project coordinator. “Community members expressed interest through the planning process of IMPACT. The partnerships behind this project is perhaps the most impressive and inspiring piece of this story.”
Partners include Corinth Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Jonesboro, Home Depot of Batesville, MCS Rentals, Hix Equipment, Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Batesville, and Main Street Batesville.
Visitors are encouraged to find the selfie star, on the sidewalk across from the Pinto Coffee & Comida and use the mural as a backdrop for social media photos using the #experienceindependnece hashtag.
For more information about the project, please contact Christopher at (870) 793-2378 or tourism@batesvilleareachamber.com.
The following day, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held for Holy Cow Burger Company. Owned by Sherry and Cory Majors, Holy Cow Burger Company has created bible-themed burgers, sliders, grilled sandwiches, hand-cut fries, and “ArkanSassy’s” homemade desserts. They are located at The Food Lot, 201 Central Ave in Batesville.
